Cannabis consumers often shop based on one number: THC percentage. In many cases, flower that doesn’t test above 20% THC doesn’t make it on the shelf, and shoppers will often pay a premium for flower that tests above 25% THC.
But here’s a little industry secret… Higher THC doesn’t automatically mean higher quality bud or a better, stronger high. That’s a misconception about cannabis that has been hard to break. The truth is that THC percentage has very little to do with the quality of cannabis and is not the best indicator of potency or effects. That is actually the strain’s terpene profile.
There’s been a slow shift in the cannabis industry to educate consumers and budtenders alike on the myriad of benefits terpenes and other cannabinoids hold, but the majority of consumers still see THC as the No. 1 indicator of quality and value.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to better understand potency, why you should focus on terpenes and other factors that could affect your experience with cannabis, as well as how to determine what products and experiences are best for you.
“Stronger” Doesn’t Mean “Better”
There are more than 140 chemical compounds unique to cannabis plants. THC is one of the most common. It’s the psychoactive chemical in cannabis that defines how users feel. It’s easy to assume that more THC in cannabis equals more psychoactive effects. But, that’s not necessarily true.
There are quite a few additional factors at play when it comes to effects and their potency. Unfortunately, the cannabis industry often perpetuates this misconception of higher THC being “better.” This myth has a big influence on pricing — strains over 20% are often priced higher than those with lower percentages. And oversimplified marketing doesn’t do enough to communicate what’s in the plant. This issue is based mostly on supply and demand, not science — which could impact a consumer’s experience with cannabis.
People who are new to cannabis or don’t have much THC tolerance may have negative experiences if they consume highly potent cannabis. Without taking into account all the other factors that can impact the psychoactive and physical effects, consumers are being robbed of a full spectrum experience.
Let’s Talk Terpenes
So if higher THC doesn’t guarantee a “better” high, what does? Terpenes.
Terpenes are the organic compounds responsible for the unique aroma and flavor of cannabis, along with a myriad of other plants. There are hundreds of terpenes and when they are combined, they play a huge role in the therapeutic effects of a strain. This is called the “Entourage Effect.” Researchers are still working to understand terpene’s effects when used in conjunction with other compounds, but we know that terpenes and cannabinoids can either exaggerate or suppress one another’s effects, depending on their combination and how someone might respond to it.
Why Do Terpenes Matter?
Terpenes are crucial in determining the quality of flower and the way the body will respond to it. When choosing a strain, some terpenes are better suited to alleviate pain and others for inflammation. It really just depends on what kind of experience or medicinal benefits you’re looking for. You can get a dozen distinct highs from a dozen different strains with the same level of THC. It’s all about the terpenes!
For instance, a 2020 paper found that myrcene is a terpene that will result in a “couch lock” effect if a strain has over 0.5% myrcene. Strains will less than 0.5% myrcene were found to produce a more “energetic high.” This is why understanding terpenes are essential to understanding cannabis’ effects. But it’s also important to note that terpenes alone won’t garner psychoactive effects. Researchers do believe they can slightly alter sensations you might experience.
The problem is that it’s not easy to enhance terpene production in cannabis. They are a much more nuanced and subtle factor in growing cannabis. According to this 2021 study, it often takes high-quality genetics, soil, light exposure, stress training, harvesting at the right time, and careful handling and curing procedures. The entire process can be long and complex. Several factors, that can’t always be controlled, can contribute to successful or unsuccessful terpene production. This can include weather conditions, location, plant age, fertilizer usage, and more. It all boils down to whether a grower has the time and capability to explore these nuances and whether terpene profile production can be recreated.
The Takeaway
Focusing solely on a strain’s THC percentage not only doesn’t guarantee you’ll experience a better high, but you might miss out on a full, well-rounded experience. It’s more important to find strains that best suit your lifestyle and needs.
Check out various terpenes to see which have the benefits and therapeutic effects that you’re looking for, then look for combinations that you enjoy. Here are three common terpenes you are likely to see often:
- Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis products. It is believed to have a calming effect and tends to have a spicy or peppery flavor and smell. You can find it in other plants, too, like Hops!
- Caryophyllene is the second most common. is more along the lines of basil and oregano, and tends to smell and feel like cinnamon when you pick up the scent. This one will be spicy and musky.
- Limonene comes in third, and shows up in a lot of strains. It has a fruity and citrusy aroma, and is believed to provide relief from stress and anxiety.
At MJ Verdant we do grow a lot of strains with a variety of profiles. Pink Cookies (also known as Garlic Cookies) has a strong terpene profile. It creates a euphoric and relaxed experience. You could also try Cherry Garcia, which is a popular strain, too. You might find yourself smiling and giggling after you try this one. These two strains, though, show how you can take different terpenes, mix them up differently, and come out with a completely different experience. For more information you will find a COA and detailed descriptions of all our products so you can pick strains which create the experience you want.
Above all, trust your senses. If you can smell before you buy, sniff out pungent and complex aromas that match your preferred flavor profile. Plus, be sure to check out any reviews or descriptions of strains you’re interested in for more insight into flavor, intensity, and effects.