The cannabis plant can produce over 500 different chemical constituents, yet all the good stuff happens when these numerous natural compounds interact with each other and with the human body.
If the current theories are worth their weight, it's the combination and interaction of different cannabis compounds that grant varietals their own unique properties. So, what does this mean for you as a consumer? Can THC:CBD ratios help guide your cannabis selections?
THC is the compound typically attributed with delivering the psychoactive “high” that comes from cannabis consumption.
Yet, THC is just one of two primary cannabinoids in the plant. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds unique to cannabis. THC is the most famous, but CBD is a rising star among cannabis enthusiasts and the canna-curious alike.
Both cannabinoids interact with cells throughout the brain and body to produce active effects. In the case of THC, the interaction produces a notable psychoactive high. In the case of CBD, consumers are more often report effects on their mood and other non-intoxicating sensation. Here’s the thing, though—it’s all relative.
The proportions of THC to CBD are important. In general, it is believed that the larger the proportion of THC to CBD, the stronger the high. For example, a product that contains 15 percent THC and five percent CBD may deliver more potent sensations of psychoactivity than a product with 15 percent THC and 15 percent CBD.
The two cannabinoids work in tandem to produce specific effects. Like a loud relative, THC will dominate the experience when it’s present in high proportions. As you add more and more CBD, however, the THC experience may become more subtle.
The majority of research suggests CBD may “block” some of the active effects of THC. This blocking is most effective when THC and CBD are present in an equal ratio to one another. Using information about interactions between the two cannabinoids, we can offer some broad guidance about the effects of different cannabis varieties.
Our Intent system exists to help point you in the direction of cannabis that’s aligned with how you want to feel and what you want to do. Ratios underpin the system, allowing you to get the general idea of a plant’s stats before making a purchase.
1:0
Get up and Go. Our Gointent contains sativa-dominant varietals. These flowers contain a 1:0 ratio of THC to CBD, giving them a noticeable psychoactive experience.
2:1
Everything’s on the up and up. The THC in these varietals is medium to high, while CBD levels are low.
1:1
The Equalizeintent features a series of balanced varietals that contain a roughly 1-to-1 ratio of THC to CBD. As most research suggests, the equal portion of CBD may counteract some of the intoxicating effects of THC.
0:1
The Easeintent features a collection of high-CBD varietals. These plants and products contain large proportions of CBD and very little THC. Ease products have a subtle quality in comparison to cannabis products with a larger THC content.
1:0
Our Pauseintent features indica-dominant varietals that are high in THC. Like Go, Pause varietals contain a 1:0 ratio of THC to CBD.
You Do You
Picking your varietal is a personal business. Regardless of your intent, your cannabis experience is unique to you. Some people may find just what they need in a lower potency product, while others may seek out the highest THC available on the shelf. Ultimately, how you react to cannabis, regardless of CBD or THC content, will be different than your friend sitting next to you. Whatever you choose, however, we always suggest that you start low and go slow.
