It’s hard to walk in a dispensary these days without noticing a bunch of ratios spread across various product labels. What do they mean? And why so many? We get that it’s a little overwhelming, so we wanted to clear up any confusion. If you’ve been wondering what CBD THC ratio is best for you, keep reading.
The Difference Between THC vs CBD
You probably already know that THC and CBD are the most prominent of the 85 known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and that they produce different effects. But it might come as a surprise to hear that CBD and THC have the same exact chemical makeup composing of 2 oxygen atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 21 carbon atoms.
What makes these two compounds unique is how their atoms are arranged. While they both provide a lot of benefits for the body and the mind, their molecular structures interact with the CB1 and the CB2 receptors in very different ways.
THC and CBD both bind with the CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the central nervous system and immune system. But only THC has the right molecular structure to bind directly with CB1, which is found in parts of the brain that are responsible for mental processes like cognition, memory, emotion, and motor control.
THC binds to CB1 and produces the high that many cannabis users know and love. While CBD can’t directly bind with CB1, it can alter the way THC interacts with CB1 receptors. And when CBD is taken along with THC, the psychoactive effects of THC are changed.
So how much does CBD affect your high, and what are the different ratios all about? Here’s a breakdown of the basic ratios and what you can expect:
Higher THC Ratios
A ratio with mostly THC and a small about of CBD will be very psychoactive and provide an intense elevated experience. This is the type of ratio designed for the seasoned cannabis user, those who need strong pain relief, or those that like feeling really high.
You might be wondering why you should bother with CBD if you just want the intoxicating effects of cannabis, right? The reason is, a little CBD can improve your session. You’d be surprised at how well a small amount of CBD can activate the entourage effect in high THC strains, boosting the euphoric experience.
Balanced THC and CBD Ratios
If you want the psychoactive effects of cannabis without feeling totally ripped, a balanced ratio might be the best choice. CBD has the power to diminish THC’s ability to activate the CB1 receptor and reduce the anxiety-producing effects of THC. It can also activate serotonin receptors in the brain to further ease anxious feelings. Amazing!
Another benefit of using a balanced ratio is that it can help reduce the short -term memory impairment that is often associated with high THC cannabis. This makes it a great choice when you need to stay focused and alert. CBD can also help curb the munchies for those who’d rather not be tempted to overeat.
Higher CBD Ratios
High CBD with low to no THC ratios provide the health benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects.
So why not just use a CBD isolate without any THC at all? Again, it comes down to the entourage effect. All the health benefits of CBD are boosted when it’s combined with other cannabinoids, especially THC. It’s how nature intended it to be, and they all work better when they’re together.
Final Thoughts
From seasoned smokers to cannabis newbies, everyone can benefit from giving some consideration to your ideal CBD THC ratio (aka THC:CBD ratio). While it might take a little experimentation, there is a ratio that’s right for you no matter what your goals are with cannabis. If you’re a new user, try ratios with low to moderate amounts of THC and more CBD. Everyone reacts to cannabis differently, but balanced strains are less likely to cause unwanted side effects. Happy hunting!
Whether you’re a fan of high-THC strains, high-CBD strains, or those in between, you’ll find your perfect match at Have a Heart! Locate your nearest dispensary below!
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