HIGHLIGHTS
- Cannabis affects everyone differently and may potentially have harmful effects.
- Many factors contribute to the effects cannabis may produce.
- Start with a small amount and consume slowly.
YOU are the most important factor when Choosing Cannabis.
Because everyone’s physiology and Endocannabinoid System is different, the effects of cannabis are highly individualized. Your experience will depend on many personal factors, such as your previous experience with cannabis, your age, sex, and your overall mental and physical health.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the Cannabinoid most associated with the psychoactive and intoxicating effects of cannabis. When Choosing Cannabis Understanding THC potency can be helpful in gauging the level of psychoactive sensation you may experience.
A product’s THC potency is expressed as a percentage. For instance, a product that is labelled 15% THC means that THC makes up 15% (or 150 milligrams per gram) of the total cannabis content. To better Understand Cannabinoid Content, click here.
Note that 20% THC content is considered to be “very strong,” and 33% is the highest potency level currently available. Many cannabis strains in Canada fall between 15% and 20% THC.
THC is a complex and important element in shaping the experience you’ll have with cannabis. You can refer to our THC chart to understand the potency potential of products you’re considering. To shop for products by potency, use the search tool and filters on our site.
CBD
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is another of the cannabis plant’s active cannabinoids.
Consumed on its own, CBD generally has no intoxicating effect.
When present in a product with at least a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, CBD may negate some of the psychoactive effects of THC. If you prefer a minimally psychoactive experience, choose CBD-only products or those with a high ratio of CBD to THC.
Remember when choosing cannabis that , the definition of “high CBD concentration” in dried cannabis can vary from 4% to 9% and beyond. CBD concentrations vary in oil and capsule formats and by manufacturer.
Terpenes
Terpenes are the chemical compounds found in the fragrant oils of many plants that influence their scents and flavours.
Cannabis strains typically have a dominant terpene and may contain several others. Some believe cannabis terpenes may also contribute to the effect of a strain beyond their influence on aroma and flavour. However, there is no current scientific evidence linking terpenes to any health benefits or specific effects. Terpenes may, however, affect your aromatic or taste experience with a cannabis strain.
Choosing Cannabis based on the method of consumption.
How you choose to consume cannabis may have an effect on the experience you have, mostly in regards to the timing of the onset and the duration of the effect.
Inhalation (smoking or vaping) and ingestion (eating or drinking) produce different effects because of the way in which the cannabinoids enter your bloodstream.
Inhalation can produce an effect within seconds, so waiting at least five minutes before inhaling a second time will help control your experience. Be mindful of the potential effects inhalation can have on lung health.
The effects of ingesting cannabis will take longer to experience and may last longer than inhaling it. Be sure to wait about one hour to gauge the level of effect after ingesting cannabis.
How to choose cannabis based on the Amount of consumption.
The amount of cannabis you consume may directly affect the experience you have. Even if you choose a lower-potency product, if you over consume, you are more likely to experience unpleasant, negative or harmful effects. This is why it is advisable to start with a very small amount and consume it slowly.