THC

Definition

THC levels in particular cannabis strains are often touted as being the most important factor when choosing your medication. But what is THC, and what effect does THC have on humans?

THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. When THC is consumed, it binds to certain specific receptors in the brain and throughout the body known as cannabinoid receptors. There is much research still to be done in order to understand the full extent to which THC affects the human body. Some of the effects reported by consumers of THC in it’s isolated form include antidepressant-like responses, sedation, appetite stimulation, and memory/cognitive impairment.

Cannabis growers often select the seeds they breed with an eye toward higher levels of THC. An unofficial threshold for strains considered as ‘high-strength’ is around 20% THC. However, it is important to note that levels of THC in a certain strain will vary widely dependant on several factors including the specific growing environment and conditions. This is the reason that the Gorilla Glue you tried when on holiday in Amsterdam has different effects than the same strain you bought when you got home.

In terms of specific high-potency strains, Gorilla Glue is known for having THC levels around 20-25%, making it one of the more potent commonly-found strains. Other typically high-THC strains include Girl Scout Cookies, Kosher Kush, and Death Star.