If you choose your cannabis strains based on THC content alone, you’re probably missing out. While an important indicator of a strain or product’s potency, the concentration of the psychedelic compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is not the sole indicator of the quality of the overall experience delivered by cannabis consumption. Yet, many cannabis enthusiasts regularly seek out strains with the highest THC content they can get for their dollar, ignoring the other cannabis compounds present in the versatile buds that are also important contributors in generating the pleasurable and therapeutic effects of cannabis.
We’re here to help consumers make more informed decisions regarding THC strain potency, so this article is meant to act as a guide to tips on what other factors and compounds are important to a great cannabis experience, providing information on the other critical compounds, besides THC, that make a strain and the effects it produces stand out. This guide will also spotlight several lower-level THC strains that you may want to try for yourself instead of going for another heavy hitter on your next trip to the dispensary.
The most researched and most famous cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This compound, known as THC, is largely responsible for the characteristic psychoactive, intoxicating, or “high” feelings most commonly associated with cannabis.
Potency (e.g., concentration or strength) is a measurement of the amount of THC contained in a given cannabis product. This measurement is often expressed as a percentage, indicating how much of the product’s weight is made up of THC in milligrams per gram (mg/g for flower) or volume in milligrams per milliliter (mg/mL for oils, tinctures, and concentrates). For example, cannabis flower displaying a 20% THC potency would contain approximately 200 milligrams of THC per gram of dried flower. THC levels are determined by putting a random sample through laboratory tests using methods like gas or liquid chromatography to get an average potency estimate for the whole batch.
Dry flower generally contains a high level of THC when its potency exceeds 15%-20%. Other products, like concentrates, can be significantly stronger and are considered high potency at strengths exceeding 60% THC. However, as we will elaborate on in this article, high-THC products aren’t necessarily superior in quality or effects, as factors like terpene profiles, a consumer’s biology, and the entourage effect also influence the overall experience offered by a cannabis product.
Regarding today’s legal cannabis market, many users and researchers are coming to a similar conclusion: the weed is too damn strong. Over the past several decades, the average THC levels found in both regulated and unregulated cannabis flowers have risen significantly due to advancements in cultivation techniques and selective breeding, along with consumer demand for growers to create more potent products at lower prices. THC potency in dried cannabis flower has increased from an average of 3% in the 1980s to levels over 15% in our current decade, with some modern strains containing an average THC potency as high as 30%.
This increase has raised concerns about potential risks associated with excessive THC consumption, particularly for inexperienced or younger users, as well as for individuals with a predisposition for psychiatric conditions that increase the likelihood of adverse effects.
Many assume that the THC percentage of a strain of cannabis acts the same as the ABV (alcohol by volume) percentage of a wine, beer, or liquor. But with cannabis, this is not the case. A higher THC level in your weed is not necessarily going to get you “more high” than a strain with lower THC content. Plus, higher THC levels in weed are detrimental to your tolerance for cannabis products in general.
While THC provides certain therapeutic effects, the cannabinoid can also produce unpleasant or even harmful effects when consumed in excess. The likelihood and intensity of these effects can be potentially greater at higher levels of THC strength. Negative side effects of THC include:
Keep in mind that THC overdoses can happen but are not directly fatal. This is because, unlike opioid receptors, there are no cannabinoid receptors in our breathing centers.
The entourage effect refers to the complementary interaction of various compounds in cannabis, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. As different compounds react with bodily systems in a variety of ways, they work together to enhance or modify the overall effects produced when someone consumes a certain cannabis product or strain. This phenomenon suggests that cannabis’s therapeutic and psychoactive properties are not solely determined by THC levels alone, and many other enjoyable aspects of a cannabis high are instead attributable to the combined influence of numerous cannabis compounds.
For example, cannabidiol (CBD) is a different cannabinoid with different binding affinities in the body, meaning the presence of CBD—along with other lesser-known cannabinoids like cannabinol (CBN) or cannabigerol (CBG)—results in unique effects that wouldn’t emerge through a THC-only experience.
There are also aromatic compounds present in cannabis known as terpenes that potentially alter the overall effect of a cannabis product. One terpene called limonene, found in the peels of citrus fruit, produces anxiety-reducing effects when combined with THC. New research shows that several terpenes, including limonene, may activate CB1 receptors with up to 10-50% the strength of THC and synergize with THC at CB1 receptors, likely increasing the high.
Since many consumers equate more intense, intoxicating effects with a superior cannabis experience, popular belief seems to be that high-THC weed is better. The reasoning behind this idea is that THC, being the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, taken in greater amounts should produce stronger, and therefore more desirable, effects. Furthermore, the misconception is propagated by the competitive marketing, lab shopping, and labeling practices in the cannabis industry that often emphasize strains with high THC percentages as having greater value, which reinforces consumers’ belief that high potency equals high quality.
This relatively common way of thinking about cannabis quality and THC content ignores the fascinating additional factors, like terpene profiles and the presence of various other cannabinoids, that contribute significantly to the enjoyable or therapeutic effects of consuming cannabis. Choosing high-THC cannabis isn’t necessarily better because potency alone doesn’t determine the quality of the overall experience. The effects of cannabis are influenced by multiple factors, including the balance of a product’s cannabinoids and terpenes, as well as the user’s individual medical history and personal biology.
High-THC strains may lack the complexity that can be enjoyed from products with moderate THC levels alongside rich terpene and cannabinoid profiles, which can offer more enjoyable or therapeutic effects. Moreover, high-THC products can increase the risk of adverse effects like anxiety, paranoia, or even psychotic episodes for individuals with certain conditions or sensitivities, making lower-THC options a better fit for many consumers.
With high-THC strains dominating the market, it’s no wonder that many people fail to appreciate how low-THC options offer balanced, enjoyable cannabis experiences. Low-THC strains are especially enjoyable for those looking for effects without so much psychoactive intensity or those who do not want to risk experiencing overwhelming side effects.
If you are interested in trying out strains that deliver a more balanced high and also if you are interested in experimenting with the nuanced variations available through the entourage effect, here are 7 low-THC options that offer milder experiences of relaxation, creativity, and euphoria without sending you into orbit.
Lifter is at the lowest end of our spectrum of low-THC strains. As primarily a CBD hemp cultivar, this strain is unique insofar as it has a relatively high level of CBD. Lifter is an award-winning breed that comes from the crossing of two different CBD-dominant Oregon-based breeds, known as Suver Haze and Early Resin Berry. These buds are reported to have a milder aroma that has been described as woody with a hint of fuel.
With one of the highest CBD potencies of any other bud, Lifter has become a sought-after newcomer in the CBD/hemp market. This strain’s strong CBD concentration, along with its minimal THC content, means that this strain can best benefit cannabis enthusiasts seeking relaxation and mood enhancement without the more intoxicating and potentially anxiety-provoking effects of THC.
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Cannatonic is another CBD-dominant cannabis strain that comes from a cross between the MK Ultra and G13 Haze breeds. Cannatonic has been reported to produce a relatively short-lived, mild high that offers both uplifting and deeply relaxing effects. Although a cross between two high-THC strains, Cannatonic weighs more heavily in CBD content than THC. Thus, this weed strain is generally considered more desirable for medical cannabis users than for recreational users, as the effects will not produce an intense high or get somebody profoundly stoned.
Medical marijuana patients often choose Cannatonic to treat pain, anxiety, or migraines. With its balanced THC/CBD profile, Cannatonic allows users to find relief from symptoms associated with anxiety or pain while maintaining clarity of mind and focus. The strain has a slightly earthy odor with woody undertones, as well as a sweet citrus flavor.
Star Tonic is another high-CBD strain bred from the previously mentioned Cannatonic strain crossed with Death Star. This hybrid is appreciated by medical patients for its relaxing effects that reduce stress and pain. Star Tonic’s exceptional balance of approximately 2:1 CBD to THC levels means this strain often provides satisfying relief without impairing focus.
Star Tonic is a gently psychoactive cultivar that offers benefits to medical patients struggling with anxiety, migraines, or inflammation. The strain is also enjoyed by recreational users for delivering a bright and euphoric, yet manageable, high. You can expect aromas that are bright and citrusy, presenting underlying notes of pine and skunk, along with flavors reminiscent of overripe citrus.
Midnight is a sativa-dominant variety of cannabis initially developed to treat nausea. This high-CBD strain can control pain, inflammation, and indigestion. The high delivered by this strain is described as uplifting but not so energizing as to create feelings of anxiety.
By providing users with increased focus and creativity, Midnight is contrary to what its name would imply. Now, it’s seen as being ideal for daytime consumption. The breed’s distinctive aroma features berry and floral notes, providing similar flavors to match, such as blueberry and grape.
Pennywise is another high-CBD strain bred from crossing the Harlequin and Jack the Ripper breeds, giving this strain its killer clown name. As an indica-type rich in therapeutic CBD, Pennywise is especially effective for treating symptoms like pain, poor sleep, and appetite loss.
With an approximately 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD content, this strain’s psychoactive effects are milder and promote euphoria combined with relaxation over activation. Flowers produce aromas reported as reminiscent of coffee and pepper, with undertones of lemon and bubblegum.
Harlequin is an activating sativa strain that provides energizing, focused effects balanced with relaxing properties that allow the user to remain clear-headed without experiencing sedation or intoxication. Harlequin is a descendant of the sativa strain Colombian Gold crossed with Thai and Swiss landrace strains.
Harlequin’s notably high levels of CBD make this an ideal strain for the treatment of pain and anxiety. With a moderately potent range of THC content, the strain additionally delivers more of the relaxing bodily experiences associated with THC, while its sativa qualities also provide energizing and mood-lifting benefits. With its blend of terpenes, Harlequin is characterized by flavors that include earthy musk and sweet mango.
At the higher end of our spectrum of low-THC strains, we have Sour Blueberry, which is different from many of our list’s other featured strains insofar as it contains only THC and no CBD. Created by crossing the strains Blueberry and Sour Diesel #2, Sour Blueberry is a sativa-dominant hybrid that delivers a high that users often describe as cerebral and energetic.
Consumers also report that this strain comes with euphoric effects and tingling bodily sensations. The breed is characterized by tastes and aromas associated with wild berries and citrus fruit.
It is important to remember that cannabis’s therapeutic and enjoyable properties are not solely determined by THC levels alone. Rather, the quality of a cannabis strain’s effects can be greatly influenced by the combined effect of a variety of whole-plant cannabis compounds, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids like CBD.
There is more to cannabis than THC, so maybe try out one of these low-THC strains sometime for a balanced and perhaps even more nuanced cannabis experience.
For the cannabis flower, THC levels above 15%-20% are generally considered high. In concentrates, THC levels over 60% are considered high.
High-THC cannabis isn’t necessarily better because THC is one of many active compounds found in cannabis products. THC potency alone is not the only determinant of the product’s quality or the overall experience it offers. The effects of cannabis are modulated by a variety of factors, such as the balance of other cannabinoids and terpenes, as well as the individual user’s tolerance or other reactions to THC.
Low-THC strains potentially offer a different experience that may be described as more balanced and less intense, which can provide other enjoyable cannabis effects overall. Strains with lower levels of THC also come with a reduced risk of the user experiencing overwhelming side effects, such as paranoia or rapid heartbeat. These are best recommended for beginners and people who wish to keep tolerance and side effects at bay.
Excessive levels of THC have been associated with a range of negative side effects, including anxiety, paranoia, memory difficulties, risk of psychotic symptoms, dry mouth, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, pregnancy complications, and increased tolerance along with risk of dependency.
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