When browsing dispensary shelves or ordering cannabis online, one of the most common terms shoppers encounter is “potency.” But what exactly does cannabis potency mean, and how can consumers use this information to choose the right product? According to trusted dispensary budtenders, understanding potency is key to having a safe, satisfying, and personalized cannabis experience.
What Is Cannabis Potency?
Cannabis potency refers to the strength or concentration of cannabinoids—primarily THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—found in a product. THC is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” feeling, while CBD is non-intoxicating and often associated with calming or therapeutic effects.
Potency is typically expressed as a percentage. For flower, this indicates how much of the product’s dry weight is made up of THC or CBD. For example, a strain with 20% THC contains 200 milligrams of THC per gram of cannabis. In concentrates, edibles, and tinctures, potency is usually labeled in milligrams per serving or package.
What Makes a Product Strong or Potent?
Several factors contribute to the overall strength of a cannabis product:
- THC or CBD Content: Products with higher THC percentages (20% or more) are considered more potent. Concentrates such as wax, shatter, and distillate can exceed 70–90% THC.
- Consumption Method: Smoking or vaping delivers cannabinoids quickly, with effects felt within minutes. Edibles take longer to kick in but often feel more intense and last longer due to how THC is metabolized in the liver.
- Strain Type and Terpenes: Indicas, sativas, and hybrids all interact differently with the body. Terpenes—aromatic compounds—can also enhance or alter the intensity of effects through the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabis compounds work together synergistically.
- Tolerance: Regular consumers often need more potent products to achieve the same effects as new users.
How to Choose the Right Potency
Choosing the right potency depends on your individual goals, experience level, and comfort with cannabis. Budtenders recommend the following tips:
- Start Low, Go Slow: Especially for new consumers, start with products containing lower THC levels (5–10%) or a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio.
- Consider Your Intentions: Are you looking to relax, relieve pain, sleep better, or enjoy a euphoric buzz? Your goal should guide your potency choice.
- Review Lab Testing Results: Always purchase from licensed dispensaries that provide lab results. These reports confirm THC/CBD content and screen for harmful contaminants.
- Talk to a Budtender: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Budtenders are trained to match products to each individual’s needs and tolerance.
- Track Your Experience: Keep a journal of what you tried, how much you used, and how it made you feel. This helps refine your product choices over time.
In Review
Cannabis potency plays a crucial role in shaping your experience. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding what makes a product strong and how to select the right potency for your goals ensures you get the most from your purchase. With the help of knowledgeable dispensary staff, clear labeling, and personal awareness, you can shop with confidence and enjoy cannabis in a way that’s right for you.
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