I often hear stories about a friend’s dad or grandma who visits Colorado and tries cannabis. It’s the first time they’ve smoked since 1966 and they get alarmingly high, to the point where it becomes an unpleasant experience. “Wow, cannabis has really changed since the 60’s” they say. Has it gotten stronger and if so, how much stronger? Let’s take a look at how marijuana has changed over the last 50 years and some facts you might consider before selecting a medical marijuana strain at a dispensary.
Understanding Potency
As a quick mention for those who may not know, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive chemical found in cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD), another canabinoind found in the plant, naturally helps to balance the psychoactive effects of THC. When there’s significant disparity between these two cannabinoids, the mental and physical effects of cannabis will be rather profound. Lower CBD levels combined with higher THC levels, leads to more intense psychoactive effects a.k.a the more stoned you’ll feel. Alternatively, strains with higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC tend to produce less of a “stoned” feeling and more mellow highs so, the less THC, the less potent the “high” will be. With that said, let’s dive into the numbers to review THC/CBD ratios over time.
Is cannabis stronger than it used to be?
Yes, cannabis is probably stronger than it used to be According to one study, Changes in Cannabis Potency over the Last Two Decades, on average THC potency rose 8% from 1995 to 2014. The same study showed that while THC levels were climbing, CBD levels were falling. The approximate THC to CBD ratio in 1995 was 14:1 and in 2014 it was 80:1.
According to another study published by, National Center for Natural Products Research, cannabis potency has nearly doubled from 1998-2009. The highest percentage of THC the NCNPR found was 37.20%. A significant increase from the estimated 4% THC average in the 90s. One other factor to consider; cannabis research is severely lacking, and these numbers were produced by random samples taken from seizures and government agencies. Comparing cheap seed filled “ditch weed” to carefully grown “sensimellia” is not apples to apples.
Why the change in THC: CBD ratios?
It’s difficult to determine just how accurate this data could be. Growing conditions alone can affect the potency of cannabis by orders magnitude, not to mention the selective breeding that has been going on since medical cannabis became legal in California in the 1990’s. The longer cannabis sits and whether it’s exposed to air- also contribute to the potency. One theory is that the reason THC levels were so low in the past is that the cannabis had to travel rather far to make it to the states. During the 60s and 70s nearly half of cannabis consumed in the US was grown and shipped from Colombia. That long travel time likely played a role in reducing THC content.
We also know a lot more about breeding cannabis plants for specific effects, aromas, flavors, and potency levels. The science behind growing cannabis has grown exponentially since the 60’s, even since the 90s. Because the cannabis market has been driven primarily by the black market for the last 5 decades, the growers and breeders have been trying to meet that market’s demands: make it stronger. This has led to an arms race amongst breeders to create the highest THC content plants on earth, and because the plant only has a limited ability to produce cannabinoids, the push for more THC has diminished CBD levels in almost all the popular strains you will find available today. It is not uncommon to see something like this on a dispensary label: 26.5% THC 0.00% CBD.
How to select cannabis strains by THC/CBD ratio
Every patient is unique with varying medical needs and will respond differently. A general rule of thumb for selecting an appropriate THC/CBD ratio is to start with an equal 1:1. The idea here is to find a harmonious balance of two forces so you receive enough benefit of THC and CBD. Not enough THC and you may not get giggly, sleepy, euphoric or talkative-depending on the strain. Too little CBD and you may get way too much psychoactive effects, to the point where you’re uncomfortable.
For a balanced cannabis strain, give our Harle-ghost cannabis a try.
Dosing suggestions for beginners
First consider the method of consumption. Edibles produce a significantly more potent reaction in the body and require a much smaller dose. Please be very conservative and patient when consuming edibles, as the effects can take a few hours to appear. In Colorado the maximum THC limit in one edible dose is 0.5mg. Try half a serving size and wait to see how you feel.
One puff from a vape pen, pipe or pre-roll may be plenty. Start with one inhale and wait 15-20 minutes before determining if you need another. Remember, it’s easier to increase dosing than it is to retract it. Experts suggest if you’ve consumed too much, try drinking orange juice to raise your blood sugar.
Please note we are not in the business of providing medical advice and consider asking your physician for her recommendation. Every medical marijuana patient is different and will respond to cannabis differently.
What are your favorite balanced cannabis strains? Let us know in the comments below!