Increase in the Potency of Cannabis

Over the past few years there has been an increase in the potency of cannabis. It has recently been legalized in many American states, and dispensaries have the legal obligation to analyze the material that they’re going to be selling.

20 years ago, the cannabis that our parents and grandparents smoked cannabis that had around 10% of THC in it, however the samples that have been analyzed recently give around 20% on average, and the most powerful strains are now at a staggering 30%! As you can see, this increased quality is found in buds and growers, as well as the information we now have that allows for more experienced growing.

Cannabis contains many different cannabinoids; THC being the main one as it causes the psychoactive effect which is also the reason cannabis is still prohibited in many places around the world. This cannabinoid, one that is capable of relaxing and calming as well as energizing and euphoric is the reason this amazing plant is banned all over the world.

Apart from THC, cannabis also contains the famous CBD, which is in charge of the narcotic, medicinal effect that weed has. This cannabinoid is present in large quantities in hemp plants and some cannabis strains that have been crossed to get higher levels of CBD; some varieties have the same amount of THC or even higher.

Analysis done in dispensaries tells us that modern weed has 200% more THC in it than it did 20 years ago, and CBD used to be much higher, around 10%, and now the average is just 0.3%.

This means that marijuana grown over the past few years is designed for mostly recreational use, which is probably the more widespread use of this plant. However, more and more strains are being created with high levels of CBD to be used as an alternative medicine that is currently helping many people lead normal lives, which means that the amount of medicinal users is increasing significantly. You can now find strains that are indicated for medicinal use as well as strains designed for having a good time with some friends.

Many different seed banks have started including CBD strains in their catalogues thanks to the amazing benefits CBD has shown since legalization in the United States of America. Another benefit is that those that need medicine can enjoy cannabis without having to deal with any psychoactive effects.

We’re pretty sure that if we could travel in time and hand Bob Marley a 30% THC joint he’d be absolutely gobsmacked.

Author: Javier Chinesta
Translator: Ciara Murphy