WHY CANNABINOIDS MATTER: WHY WE LOVE LOW POTENCY

Over the decades cannabis has become a mainstay of American culture. From California growers hiding their farms deep in forests, to New Yorkers growing covert in warehouses, the proliferation of cannabis genetics has been impressive. Seeds have traveled all over the world into the hands of cultivators. Many new strains have been created by legacy growers as heirloom genetics were cross-bred over the years. 

The main focus of much of this genetic modification/breeding has been to specifically create higher levels of THC in cannabis. THC is the compound that we typically refer to when we refer to cannabis’ psychoactive effects. However, many of the cannabinoids in the plant have psychoactive, physiological, or psychological effects. CBD, CBN, CBG, CBDA, THCV, and many more all have their own effects on the body and brain. Many of these cannabinoids have been forgotten in an effort to make both non-regulated and regulated cannabis as THC-potent as possible.

All of this to say, the product that younger people are smoking today is not the same product their parents were smoking at Woodstock or passing around a party in the 1970’s. Typically, cannabis that was available for consumption to Americans in the 1970s, 1980s, and even into the 1990s hovered around an average of 5% THC. The cannabis plants in their native habitat in the mountains of Central and South Asia, where they grow wild, have a diverse array of cannabinoids and generally lower THC percentages. The average THC percentage at most recreational dispensaries in 2023 is around 20%. This gap in potency creates a significantly different experience for the average user. This isn’t your parent’s (or grandparent’s) cannabis. 

Lower potency THC options are important for many reasons. One is promoting genetic diversity, as diversity in cannabis growing means stronger and more resilient strains. Second, when you lower THC potency and increase cannabinoid diversity (think cannabis with CBD, CBN, and THCV) you decrease the potential negative psychoactive side effects for the user.

More CBD in a strain helps lessen paranoia, anxiety, and panic in users who may want to use cannabis to simply relax or unwind. CBD has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects along with anti-inflammatory effects. CBN has been shown to aid in sleep quality. There is evidence that THCV can curb hunger (the anti-munchie cannabinoid, if you will) compared to the hunger-inducing THC. CBG may act as a buffer against the sometimes problematic effects of THC as well and potentially aid in intestinal health. Lower potency cannabis also allows for a more social and casual use. It’s less likely that anyone at your dinner party is going to get too high if you pass around a joint with lower potency. These products also allow the user a finer tuning of their experience. Instead of taking a shot you might sip a beer. We like to apply the same concept to consuming cannabis. 

For adults who are curious about cannabis, who are sensitive to drugs, or who previously consumed cannabis when they were younger, low potency products can be a great way to consciously consume without getting overwhelmed. Building up to your ideal high instead of getting hit with a strong wave all at once can make a big difference for new or nervous users. In addition, cannabis with an array of cannabinoids can help ease a variety of issues. From aiding in creative endeavors, to helping people sleep, or working to ease anxiety, a full spectrum of cannabinoids can help tackle many concerns for those seeking out cannabis.