Flower, waxes, and edibles, oh my! With the legalization of marijuana, many different strains and types of cannabis have become available to the public. Everyone’s looking for something unique, something different. Some people want to blast off while others just take a little edge off. Is higher % THC better? Here’s what we say...

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol is the chemical responsible for the psychological effects of marijuana. THC acts like the cannabinoid chemicals that your body creates.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that marijuana is the most commonly used psychotropic drug. THC is the component responsible for its effect.

THC attaches itself to the body’s cannabinoid receptors. These are the parts of the brain associated with such perceptions as thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination, and time.

THC Concentrations

THC concentration is measured in weight compared to the product. THC concentration depends on several factors. Exposure to air degrades THC. Its concentration also is affected by the cultivation of the marijuana plant, the soil, and the plants.

The hemp plant has a minimal amount of THC. It is used for industrial and medical purposes—not for recreational use. Hemp THC could be only 0.5 percent. 

Some cannabis strains can have as little as 0.3 percent THC by weight. Other strains may have as high as 20 percent THC by the weight in a sample. Some unusual varieties have tested over 30 percent THC!

According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the average % THC concentration in marijuana is between one and five percent. THC in recreational marijuana is widely variable.

How Has % THC Increased?

A new study by Alice Walton sheds light on changes in THC concentration.

Part of this increased THC concentration is the result of a shift in the production of cannabis plant material away from marijuana to sinsemilla. Sinsemilla is the female cannabis plant that has not been pollinated. Sinsemilla plants are grown from cuttings or seed. 

The History of % THC Rise

Marijuana plants have been around for the past several hundred years. They were first grown in Asia in 500 BC for medicinal purposes. The THC percentage wasn’t even a consideration in those days. However, some ancient cultures knew about the psychoactive properties of cannabis. They grew these specific varieties because of their higher levels of THC. These were used in both religious ceremonies and healing rituals.

The cultivation of marijuana in America dates back to the early colonists. They grew hemp for ropes, sails, and clothing. Early hemp plants had low levels of THC. The psychotropic properties of the plant were not a consideration in the cultivation of hemp.

By the early 1900s, scientists discovered that THC was what gave cannabis its medicinal properties. Researchers learned that THC interacted with areas of the brain to lessen nausea and promote appetite.

Between 1960 and 1980, marijuana’s THC content was less than 2%. There were no clear governmental guidelines or regulations over the cannabis industry. So, producers took a page from the tobacco and alcohol industries. Through improved production and plant generation, they developed strains of marijuana with a significantly higher concentration of THC.

As American Mary notes there has been a concerted effort to increase the THC percentage. Since the early 1980s, the average THC content has shown an increase from a modest two percent to between ten and twelve percent. Some even tested as high as twenty to thirty percent THC by weight! 

Is Higher % THC Better?

Is a higher concentration of THC in marijuana better? Some would argue that the more potent the product the better value for your expenditure. Others disagree.

Pros

Those who use marijuana with a higher concentration of THC are convinced that they get a greater rush with a smaller amount of products. They also argue that they need less to get the desired effect. Hence, they think they get better value for their cannabis dollar.

Cons

But, the writers of American Mary disagree. Their point is that it doesn’t take much THC to get most people feeling high. So why seek marijuana with astronomical amounts of THC? It’s like bringing a cannon to a duel. 

Others contend that THC isn’t the only consideration. When you purchase wine, you look for one whose taste you like. You don’t shop for the one with the highest alcohol content. Writer Mike Pizzo suggests that is how marijuana purchasers should choose the product they want.

Researcher Dr. Elizabeth Stuyt points out the dangers of high potency marijuana. Her study indicates that the psychoactive component of marijuana with higher concentrations of THC causes higher levels of addiction. The higher potency of any drug raises the possibility of addiction. It also increases return buyer frequency and his purchasing amounts.

Why Some Prefer a Lesser % THC

Substance contends that not all buyers make high THC a priority. For some, looking only at high THC overlooks other important factors. Searching for high THC fails to take into consideration other traits that enhance the experience.

Further, the writer contends that higher THC concentration does not translate to the most potent experience. He cites smoking Jamaican marijuana with a concentration of only 12% as being his ultimate euphoria. The THC content alone cannot explain the experience.

Other factors are worth considering! Writers of American Mary encourage buyers to try different strains of cannabis with a variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. In doing so, buyers will discover the flavor profiles and experiences they will enjoy the most.

 Just like with fine Scotch, choosing the best product for you is a matter of trial and error. There are over four hundred and thirty compounds in a cannabis plant. The way in which these components interact will result in a wide range of reactions from the user. Add to that the wide range of user traits and the number of expected reactions is mind-boggling.

So how do you choose? Like with any other product, consider THC as only one of the many factors in your favorite cannabis. 

It’s not just the THC content that’s important. Rather, it is how the THC combines with other characteristics of the whole plant.

So, is higher % THC better?

The answer is not necessarily.

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What is THCV, you ask yourself as you look at the back of your typical plastic dispensary jar. 

If you're anything like us, the surprise of finding out about yet another cannabinoid related to THC always puts a smile on the face as well as a little confusion. "Well, I like THC, so will I like THCV?"

As states continue to legalize the beautiful flower, we learn more and more about different aspects of cannabis all the time. The magical plant never ceases to amaze. THCV is a little known, extremely understated cannabinoid amongst the ranks of THC and CBD. This compound could replace different types of medicine. You begin thinking, what are you missing out on? How is it different from THC?

Well, you want to know what THCV is? Want to impress your snobby weed friend with your absolute cannabis knowledge? Put your jar down and let’s take a peek at THCV.

THCV Like A G

THCV was discovered in the early 1970s. It was known as a minor cannabinoid due to being found in lesser concentrations within a marijuana plant. The cannabinoid affects receptors in your brain associated with different parts of your body. 

THCV won’t really get you high. It is only psychoactive when ingested in high doses. When stoned in high doses, it’s known to feel stimulating with a sense of clarity and euphoria. THCV has a fast on-set time with a fast off-set time. If you are someone who suffers paranoia or anxiety when smoking weed, you may benefit from trying THCV for the speed through one’s body. In low doses, THCV shines as a great way to gain a medley of health benefits.

For those vaporizer users out there, THCV handles high temperatures much better than THC. THCV is typically found in African sativas.

The most common strains are:

• Durban Poison
• Willie Nelson
• Jack the Ripper
• Skunk #1
• Durban Cheese
• GSC

Health Benefits of THCV

Cannabinoids have many different benefits on your body. Low doses of THCV have been known to show results in areas of healthcare. In higher doses, THCV is converted to THC. This action nullifies any benefit of the THCV. 

THCV doesn’t affect you like being stoned except at high doses. For some people, this is exactly what they’ve been looking for. THCV is known to be a treatment for a variety of human ailments. It's even being looked at as an alternative to certain medications.

THCV and Bones

The cannabinoid slows/prevents degenerative bone diseases like osteoporosis. THCV achieves this by promoting brain growth. It binds to receptors in your brain in which regulate bone mass/growth. THCV also has the added benefit of our cannabinoid receptors being found throughout our skeletal system. A perfect match.

No More Panic Attacks

Strains with high levels of THCV are being looked for by those who seek relief from continuing panic attacks. These sativas and hybrids are known to knock-out an oncoming panic attack. In individuals with PTSD and various stress disorders, THCV helps these patients mentally while maintaining themselves without feeling they are suppressing any emotions. The cannabinoid inhibits any ability to feel panic while other emotions remain "open."

THCV Against the Munchies

If you’ve ever found yourself with the munchies far too often, try THCV. Trust us, we’ve been there and gotten that T-shirt. THCV is an appetite suppressant, the anti-munchies if you will. THCV is good for people worried about gaining weight from munchies or gaining weight in general. The cannabinoid blocks the receptor in your brain that triggers the body’s hormones for hunger. Typically, a good choice to combat any obesity worries.THCV isn’t just some substitute either. THCV burns more calories with the output of energy it provides. THCV has no known side effects. Obesity medications can cause side effects like depression, anxiety, and other disorders.

Diabetes Relief with THCV

Type 2 diabetes can be tamed with THCV, this may be very important to some of you out there. The cannabinoid has the ability to regulate blood sugar levels. It also reduces insulin resistance in the body. This keeps your medicine only needed for emergencies. THCV provides insulin level stabilization. Keeping sugar levels in their place. Blood sugar levels are important to regulate and maintain. 

The Brain and THCV

THCV has been known to be effective in brain conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia. The cannabinoid is known to keep convulsions from happening as convulsions are common. The antioxidant properties of the chemical have been studied showing a slowing in these brain conditions. It also hydrates the brain, allowing some protection from degrading further. This provides unbelievable relief for those with such ailments.

THCV appears to reduce tremors, decrease the effects of brain lesions, and improve some motor control. Unfortunately, Studies have only just started to gain momentum into just how beneficial THCV is in treating Alzheimer's patients. 

THCV vs. THC

THCV and THC are similar as seen through their names but are a little bit different from one another than you’d think. Their similarity being that they will both get you high, but with THCV you can only achieve this effect with really high doses. Otherwise, they have different outcomes. THCV is a fairly heavy appetite suppressant whereas THC is known to create munchies. Someone with cancer would benefit from having an appetite and thus, THC is often recommended. Someone with obesity and weight problems benefits from THCV and its appetite suppressant effects. THCV can be used as a day to day medicine for certain conditions where THC provides pain relief. Both have their place and are highly respected in their own right.

Next time someone says, what is THCV? You’ll be able to tell them just what they’ve been missing out on. With so many different benefits, THCV is definitely something you should ask your budtender about next time you are in the dispensary. You just might like it.

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There are many health benefits of THCV, but for those wanting to consume cannabis in other ways, edibles are a good option. Here, we break down what THCV is and we talk about how THCV edibles might be the perfect option you're looking for.

What is THCV?

THCV is a cannabinoid. 

THC and CBD are also cannabinoids but if you’re like most people, you may have never heard of this specific cannabinoid. 

While it is similar in chemical structure to THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol, the effects it can have on the body are much different. 

THCV has a less psychoactive release in the brain than THC. 

People who use THCV report having more energy, less appetite, and feeling less lethargic than consuming something with higher THC. 

This is because the way our bodies are able to process cannabinoids is through our own Endocannabinoid system or (ECS). 

THCV, THC, and CBD all innervate with receptors in the ECS differently which produces the different reactions we have to consume them.  The ECS helps to regulate our physical and mental well-being, appetites, sleep schedules, even hormones can be affected.

Where is THCV Found?

Certain strains have more THCV than others. 

Most of those strains that possess this unique Cannabinoid come from long-grown, native or landrace, sativa strains found near and around Africa and the Middle East. 

Through strain selective breeding and more advanced growing techniques, growers today have been able to isolate and enhance the levels of THCV in plants today. 

This is great news for weed science and those that can use THCV for health benefits!! 

By being able to isolate individual compounds such as THCV we are able to better explore the different health benefits they can offer from one another.

Here's a list of some strains to check out with potent levels of THCV:

• Durban Poison
• Doug’s Varin
• Pineapple Purps
• Durban Cheese
• Skunk #1

What Are the Health Benefits of THCV?

THCV is being explored to help treat many different treatments for different health issues. 

THCV has different effects on the body than those of other members of the cannabinoid family.

Decreased Appetite

Unlike THC, THCV is proven to suppress one's appetite. When taken in small doses (5-10 mg) THCV has been shown to decrease the want to eat food.

In one study by the Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology the results showed a consistent decrease in appetite.  This could be used for people trying to lose weight or control urges to eat.

Diabetes and Glucose Control

THCV has also been shown in early tests to help with the body’s ability to control and manage glucose absorption through a study done on mice with Type Diabetes 2. 

Seizures and Epilepsy

With the wider acceptance of Cannabis use to treat serious medical issues in the recent decades, one prominent use has been the treatment of tremors and seizures due to diseases such as ALS, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. 

THCV has also been shown to help reduce and control seizures associated with epilepsy.  In this study THCV was looked at independently to treat seizures. There has been much promising research in the field in the past 10 years. 

Here is another study on cannabinoids that looks at multiple cannabinoids working together to treat seizures and uncontrolled tremors.

Inflammation

The list just keeps growing in positive medical benefits with THCV.  This study shows how THCV can be effective in relieving inflammation in mice. 

With the health benefits of THCV, add those to some of the healthiest ways to consume marijuana and you're set!

Options for Consuming THCV 

As mentioned earlier in the blog, there are certain strains that have higher levels of THCV than others. 

But what if you aren’t able to find those stains at your local dispensary or your local grower decided to grow a different crop this run than your favorite THCV strain? 

Fear not! There are other methods for consuming THCV!

One of our favorites is through edibles. Yes, THCV EDIBLES!

We love this method because the effects you’ll experience will last longer and be more sustained than just smoking. 

Check out our deals on edibles in your area on our homepage.  

If you want to check out THCV in its purest form, we recommend a full THCV exclusive extract.  

While THCV is much more expensive to extract due to lower levels of it found in plant biomass, the process is largely the same.

Like other cannabinoids, THCV is extracted through a chromatography process that uses superfluid liquid solvents such as CO2 or ethanol to separate the compounds from the plant.

The solution is then evaporated with heat under a vacuum to remove all the gas and leave a high-purity THCV concentrate behind. Once extracted, THCV products should be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight to preserve potency.

THCV Edibles

While it may take more flower to extract a good amount of THCV, the process of isolating this cannabinoid for edibles has a great perk. 

The boiling point of THCV is 428 degrees F with the boiling point of THC being 315 degrees F.  That’s a full 113 degrees F difference between the two cannabinoids. 

Essentially, you just have to boil off your unwanted THC and you’ll be left with a higher THCV end result. 

The downside to this is that most terpenes are boiled off at far lower levels than either THC or THCV so you won’t really be left with any of those tasty treats. 

If what you’re after is pure THCV though, you’re in luck.

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