If you’re new to the world of medical cannabis, all the acronyms, terms, numbers, and percentages can get confusing. One of these potentially confusing numbers is the CBD to THC ratio. What do the numbers actually mean?
To add to the confusion, different brands often write this measurement slightly differently. Some labels might say “2:1 CBD to THC,” and others might say “2:1 CBD/THC.” Don’t worry if math or numbers aren’t your strong suit, this article will shed some light on this measurement and what it means when it’s on the label of a CBD product.
Table of Contents
What Is CBD To THC Ratio?
First, a quick review: CBD (short for cannabidiol) and THC (short for tetrahydrocannabinol) are two chemical compounds found in cannabis, each with its own set of benefits and effects. CBD is known for its calming effects, while THC is known for its psychoactive effects producing the “high” feeling. The amount of CBD and THC in product ultimately determines its legality in your state.
CBD to THC ratio is the amount of CBD compared to the amount of THC in a cannabis product. This ratio determines if a product is CBD dominant, THC dominant, or something in between.
Here are some examples of how this ratio might be displayed:
- 1:1 CBD to THC: For every milligram of CBD, there is a milligram of THC. Another way to put it is for every 1% CBD, there is 1% THC.
- 20:1 CBD to THC: For every 20 milligrams of CBD, there is 1 milligram of THC. This is a CBD product and not intended to get you high.
- 1:0 CBD to THC: This is a THC-free product; there is only CBD.
Quick note: Don’t worry about the word “to” in-between CBD and THC because sometimes it might be a “/” or even nothing at all. Just pay attention to the order THC and CBD are displayed. The first number corresponds with the first listed compound, and the second number corresponds with the second listed compound.
What is THC To CBD Ratio?
THC to CBD ratio is the same thing, just flipped! If you see this ratio (THC to CBD, not the other way around), it’s usually on a product that is meant to produce psychoactive effects and give you a high feeling.
For example, 2:1 THC to CBD means that for every 2 milligrams of THC, there is 1 milligram of CBD. This is a THC dominant product, meaning you’ll experience the euphoric effects of THC prominently.
Which CBD Products Are Legal?
Most! Though this is a tricky question because the answer varies depending on where you live.
After the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD products made from hemp are federally legal. Hemp, by definition, must contain 0.3% THC or less, which is not enough to get you high. Therefore, as long as a CBD product is made from hemp, it can be sold in all 50 states and online. Some popular CBD products include CBD gummies, CBD tinctures, and CBD flowers.
In states that allow recreational and medical marijuana, you’ll find CBD products that have higher than 0.3% THC content . In these states (15 states and counting), it’s completely legal to have CBD products made from marijuana, not hemp. These products will give you the calming effects of CBD along with the psychoactive effects of THC .
It’s important to know the legality of cannabis products in your state, so make sure to double-check your state and local laws before seeking out a CBD product.
Do All CBD Products list a CBD to THC Ratio?
Nope, most CBD products do not list a CBD to THC ratio. CBD products typically list the percentage of CBD and THC in their product. For example, a CBD hemp flower might have 17% CBD and <0.3% THC.
If the CBD company is a reputable company, they will have a Certificate of Analysis (COA) of the hemp they make their products from. A COA shows that a third-party lab has tested the product to ensure an accurate cannabinoid profile, essentially revealing the exact amount of CBD and THC present in the product.
What Are the Benefits Of CBD With THC?
So, why have both CBD and THC in a product? If you’re not looking to get high, shouldn’t you get a product with zero THC (like a 1:0 CBD to THC ratio product)?
Not necessarily! While zero THC is fine, when CBD is present along with THC, it produces something called the “entourage” effect.
The entourage effect occurs when CBD is combined with all the other natural cannabinoids found in hemp (including a small amount of THC), thus, boosting the effectiveness of the CBD. People have found that when some THC in a product, the calming effects of CBD are enhanced and more potent, especially when compared to a zero THC product with the same amount of CBD.
It’s because of the entourage effect that full-spectrum CBD products are so popular. Full-spectrum CBD includes all the terpenes and cannabinoids found in hemp. With these combined properties, people can increase a feeling of calm and relaxation.
What are the Potential Side Effects of CBD?
In general, CBD is well tolerated by most people. However, in some cases, there are some mild side effects.
Some of these potential side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Slight fatigue or drowsiness
- Mild diarrhea or nausea
These side effects are typically not a problem if you take the correct dosage of CBD recommended for your weight. If you’re new to CBD, it’s better to ease in with smaller amounts of CBD. As your body gets used to it, the side effects will dampen.
What are the Potential Side Effects of THC?
THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the “high” feeling. Higher THC intake might have severe effects. Resultantly, the use of THC dominant products may alter your mood and mind, so make sure you consume THC responsibly.
Some potential side effects of THC include:
- Increased heart rate
- Intoxicating Effects
- Laughter or giggling
- Stimulated appetite
- Mood change
- Chronic Pain
- Lethargy
- Dry mouth
- Worried and nervous thoughts
Some people love THC, others don’t. Choose a product with CBD : THC ratios that fits your needs and desires. If you want less of a high, a higher amount of CBD and a lower amount of THC should reduce the psychoactive effects, and vice versa.
Final Thoughts – CBD To THC Ratio
CBD to THC ratio isn’t all that complicated. It’s the amount of CBD to THC in CBD Hemp products , which gives you an idea of not only its legality but the effect the product will have on your body.
Whether you prefer a 20:1 ratio, 2:1 ratio, or even a 1:1 ratio, just know what you’re getting into before lighting up a CBD pre-roll or popping a CBD gummy into your mouth — it may make for a weird night if the ratios are off.
