THC Percentage vs. Terpenes and Cannabinoids: What Really Matters
When picking out cannabis, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the higher the THC percentage, the better the product. After all, THC is the main compound that gets you high, right? While that’s true, it’s not the whole picture. There’s so much more that goes into how a strain makes you feel, and limiting your choice to just the THC percentage means you could be missing out on an incredible experience.
Think of cannabis like a gourmet dish—sure, the main ingredient is important, but it’s the combination of flavors, textures, and spices that make the meal memorable. Similarly, other factors in cannabis like terpenes and cannabinoids play a huge role in the effects you feel.
The Entourage Effect: More Than Just THC
Cannabis is made up of many compounds, including THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, as well as aromatic oils called terpenes. These components don’t act alone. In fact, they work together in something called the entourage effect to create the unique high each strain offers. This synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes means that even a strain with moderate THC can deliver powerful effects when balanced with the right blend of terpenes and other cannabinoids.
For example, a strain with a moderate THC level but rich in the terpene myrcene (which has sedating effects) can feel much stronger than a strain with higher THC but lacking myrcene. So, by focusing only on the THC number, you might miss out on a strain that could offer the exact experience you’re after—whether that’s relaxation, creativity, or energy.
Terpenes and Cannabinoids: The Full Experience
Terpenes are the natural compounds responsible for the flavors and aromas of your favorite strains, but they also play a big role in how cannabis affects you. These compounds work alongside cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance or balance the overall experience. For instance, terpenes like limonene provide an uplifting effect, while linalool can help with relaxation. And cannabinoids like CBD help balance out THC’s psychoactive effects, giving you a smoother, more balanced high.
By focusing on the whole picture—THC, terpenes, and cannabinoids—you’ll find strains that match your desired effects, rather than just chasing the highest THC percentage.
At the end of the day, choosing cannabis is about more than just chasing high THC percentages. The best experience comes from looking at the whole picture—terpenes, cannabinoids, and the effects they create together. So, next time you’re picking out a strain, ask about the other factors at play. You might just find a new favorite that has nothing to do with THC percentage!
Be sure to explore our daily deals page and check out our menu for strains that offer the full spectrum of effects. There’s a whole world beyond the THC number—let us help you discover it!
