One of the most prevalent trends in the cannabis industry is the experimentation with the breeding and growing of high-THC strains. Cultivators around the world are constantly trying to outdo themselves and each other, so much so that enthusiasts now determine the quality of a strain based on its THC percentage, whether they use marijuana recreationally or for medicinal purposes.
THC and the other active ingredients
Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is one of the active ingredients in marijuana. It’s responsible for that elated or “high” feeling familiar to many users. It produces a euphoric effect as it enters the bloodstream. It will then bind to cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system. Given its similarity to a naturally-produced neurotransmitter called anandamide, which is known to impact mood and emotions.
THC, however, is not the only ingredient in cannabis. There is CBD, which is known for its importance in medicinal marijuana. It is characterised by its calming and soothing effects, which have now come in use in FDA-approved seizure medications for people with epilepsy. It has also seen great use in people suffering from anxiety, aches, pains, and insomnia.
Additionally, there are terpenes. Terpenes are a group of chemicals with a wide range of effects. Some are known to counteract the effects of THC while others enhance it. They have also been seen to work in tandem with many other compounds in cannabis, which is partly why different strains often have different effects.
Microdosing and its benefits
The percentage of THC in cannabis has increased from 2 per cent in the 1980s to around 12 per cent in the last decade. Some strains have also been known to reach up to 20 or even 30 per cent. If you plan on using marijuana for medical reasons, microdosing might be the better path.
Microdosing is simply a method of consuming cannabis in small doses to prevent getting the ‘high’ feeling, yet still benefit from it’s therapeutic properties.
Low doses can provide a good high—a balanced euphoric state. High doses, especially when taken by someone inexperienced, can induce feelings of anxiety and paranoia. It is often possible for it to impair memory and reduce the medicinal benefits.
As with anything, it is best to start small. Microdosing allows you to control the effects of your medicinal marijuana. After all, it is better to raise the dosage rather than regret taking too much.
Consider your current tolerance
Your experience with THC will determine what microdosing actually means for you. If you’re a habitual user, experienced with stronger strains, you might need bigger doses when using medicinal marijuana. If you’ve only ever used it rarely (or have never used it), try to start as small as possible. You would not need the strains with 30% THC at all for that; you could start with an average or even light intensity.
If you are a habitual user and you’ve noticed that your foray into medicinal marijuana has little to no effect on you, it might be time to consider a break. This break can lower your tolerance for THC, giving you a chance to enjoy the positive effects on your health.
Final thoughts
The stigma surrounding cannabis is ebbing away with each passing day, giving many people a chance to enjoy its benefits, both medicinal and recreational. More and more studies are showing that the negative image of cannabis is unfounded, revealing its many uses.
Should you wish to enjoy the benefits of medicinal marijuana in the UK, contact us at Coffee Shop Seeds. We have the best weed seeds and cannabis products, as developed by expert cultivators.
