High-Potency Cannabis
What Is “High-Potency” Cannabis?
THC
is the main mind-altering chemical in cannabis that makes you feel “high.”
High-potency cannabis products contain large amounts of THC, but high potency
is different from high quality. As THC content goes up, you miss out on the
benefits of other active ingredients.
High-potency
cannabis generally is considered to be flower or manufactured products above
20% THC or 10+mg of THC per serving. And the amount of THC in a cannabis
product is typically how the product’s strength (or potency) is described.
Isn’t All Cannabis High-Potency?
Not
necessarily. While scientific growing practices have greatly improved over the
last few decades and legacy smokers have found that less consumption currently
equals more psychoactive effect, the variances by product are great. To
confound matters, there’s a wide range for what’s considered “high-potency”
cannabis – especially brand-to-brand and product-to-product. Some cannabis
products – like concentrates – can have a potency of 95% THC or more.
Finally, high THC doesn’t mean the best overall effect. Other cannabinoids
(CBD, CBN, CBG, etc.), as well as terpenes, play a role in the overall effect
of any cannabis that is consumed for a particular use.
Benefits and Cautions of High-Potency Cannabis
Note: cannabis of any potency should always be consumed with
caution whether the user is new to consuming it or in a situation where its
psychoactive effects can place them in harm’s way (driving, operating
equipment, other safety protocols that require focus and clear-headedness).
- High-potency
cannabis may allow consumers to save money. While high- potency products
are often more expensive, less is required to achieve the desired effect.
Also, these effects may appear more quickly and with more ferocity.
- High-potency
cannabis may be a better choice for certain users especially if they
metabolize the cannabis faster and require higher doses to feel the
effects.
- Medical
patients may also prefer high-potency products to take advantage of THC’s
analgesic (pain-relieving), sleep-inducing, or appetite-stimulating
effects. This is especially true for severe and chronic pain management
and require high doses to treat symptoms. Lower doses may not offer the
relief they need (cancer patients, joint/skeletal ailments, etc.).
While
high-potency cannabis products may offer stronger therapeutic effects for
medical users, they also increase the risk of adverse reactions, especially for
inexperienced users or those sensitive to THC. Caution is crucial to prevent
overconsumption, potential anxiety, paranoia, or other adverse effects.
Finally, Consuming large amounts of THC can have both short – and long-term
negative effects. It may even make your body numb to THC over time.
Strains and Products that May Be Considered High-Potency
- High THC Flower Strains: Look for strains with high
THC levels above 20%. The effects are usually felt quickly, but the
duration is relatively short. High- potency strains have higher THC
levels, which can lead to more intense effects. A good starting strain is
American Weed Co. Infused Flower Bombed Buzz – a veteran owned company
specializing high-potency flower. Elyon Preroll Race Fuel is a flavorful
potent starter in an easy to smoke preroll.
- Vape cartridges contain potent concentrated
THC oil (distillate, live resin, etc.) that is vaporized and inhaled. They
offer a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. High-potency
cartridges may have stronger effects, so beginners should start with lower
THC concentrations – though most cartridges contain 60%+ THC (up to the
high 90s). An all-time favorite loaded with THC is Heavy Hitters Northern
Lights.
- Concentrates like shatter, wax, diamonds,
live resin and oils have high THC content. They are used with dab rigs,
vaporizers or added to joints. High- potency concentrates require careful
dosing to avoid overwhelming effects, but if you want a top shelf experience,
go with Lime Diamond Runtz.
- Cannabis-infused edibles are food products like
gummies, candies, drinks, or chocolates. They have a delayed onset, and
the effects can be more potent and last longer than other consumption
methods. Some edibles can have high potency due to concentrated THC. Start
with low doses to avoid overconsumption: accurate dosing is crucial, as
high-potency edibles can lead to intense experiences, especially for
inexperienced users. St. Ides Watermelon Shot is a mini drink but fully
loaded with 100mg of THC. A wise person would swirl this in smaller doses
rather than the entire bottle.
Remember, individual responses to cannabis can vary. High potency products aren’t suitable for everyone and may cause stronger effects, so always start with small doses and be mindful of your tolerance. Additionally, it’s essential to comply to only purchase cannabis products from a licensed retailer or delivery company, as these products are lab-tested for safety.