THC and CBD are the two best-known compounds in cannabis, but they do something very different. Want to know what the difference is, what the THC content means and which strains are the strongest? In this article we explain it calmly. Afterwards you’ll have a better understanding of what THC and CBD do and how strong different strains can be.
What is THC?
THC is the compound that causes the psychoactive effect of cannabis: the high you feel. The higher the THC content, the stronger that effect generally is. In most strains, the percentage lies between 15 and 25 percent.
The THC therefore determines for a large part how strong a strain feels. If you're not used to it, start with a milder strain.
What is CBD?
CBD is the counterpart of THC and is not psychoactive. It therefore does not produce a high. CBD is known for its calming, soothing effect and is often mentioned in connection with relaxation.
In most classic cannabis strains the CBD content is low. The ratio between THC and CBD also determines how a strain affects you.
What does the THC content mean?
The THC content, expressed as a percentage, indicates how potent a strain is. A strain with 20 percent THC is generally stronger than a strain with 15 percent. The exact content varies by harvest.
Use the percentage as a guideline, not as an absolute measure. Flavor, terpenes, and your own experience also influence how strong something feels.
The strongest weed strains
Are you really looking for something strong? Then you end up with premium buds and concentrates. Cali weed belongs with 25 percent or more to the strongest regular strains.
One step further is the Moonrock, a cannabis bud covered with hash oil and kief, with a THC level that is far above that of regular weed. Both are primarily intended for experienced users.
Strong is not always better
A misconception is that a higher THC content automatically provides a better experience. For those who are not accustomed to it, a very strong strain can actually be too intense.
Choose a potency that suits you and build up gradually. A milder strain that feels pleasant and enjoyable is often better than the strongest strain that exists.
Which strength do you choose?
If you're just starting out, choose a strain with a moderate THC content. If you have experience and are looking for a strong effect, then stronger strains and concentrates are more suitable for you.
View the THC content and effect per strain in our weed collection, compare strains in the strain overview or view powerful products in our cannabis specials.
THC and CBD together with terpenes
THC and CBD are not the only compounds that determine the effect. Terpenes, the substances that provide aroma and flavor, also play a role. Together they influence how a strain comes across to you, something often referred to as the synergy or entourage effect.
Therefore, two strains with the same THC level can still feel very different. So don’t just look at the percentage, but also at the description of the flavor and the effect per strain. In our strain guides you will find more information per strain about potency, flavor and effects.
What does a high THC content do?
A high THC content usually produces a stronger and more quickly felt effect. For experienced users this can be pleasant, but those who are not accustomed to it may feel uneasy or dizzy. More is therefore not always better.
Therefore start with a small amount of a strain with a moderate percentage and wait calmly to see how it feels. You can always take a little more, but once you have taken too much it cannot be undone.
Remember above all: THC largely determines the potency, CBD does not produce a high, and together with the terpenes they form the character of a strain. Choose based on what you are looking for and how much experience you have. Feel free to start with a moderate percentage, as you can always build up later. A conscious choice is ultimately more pleasant than just grabbing the strongest packs, and this way you will almost always find a strain that feels pleasant and suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions about THC and CBD
THC is psychoactive and causes the high, CBD does not. CBD is known for its calming effect. The ratio also influences the effect of a strain.
The percentage indicates how potent a strain is. Higher generally means stronger. In most strains, it lies between 15 and 25 percent.
Premium varieties such as Cali weed with 25 percent or more and concentrates like Moonrock belong to the strongest options. They are primarily intended for experienced users.
Not necessarily. For those who aren't used to it, a very strong strain can be too intense. Choose a potency that suits you and build up gradually.
No, CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a high. It is actually noted for its calming, soothing effect.
