When we talk about high-THC marijuana, we usually refer to strains that contain at least 30% of the psychoactive substance. However, this does not mean that the highest strains will have over 40%. A strain will usually never go over 35%. This is the sweet spot for high-THC cannabis. This level is predicted to increase in the future, but we must remember that biological limitations will likely limit the amount of THC a marijuana plant can produce.
Increased Demand for High-THC Weed
Cannabis consumers increasingly seek strains with a high THC concentration like that of THC concentrates California. This is due to a variety of reasons. Cannabis with a high THC content can make a person feel more euphoric than a low-THC variety. Others want to use cannabis for medical purposes or to manage discomfort.
According to a European Monitoring Centre for Drugs report, the number of people seeking treatment for cannabis addiction increased by 76% over the last decade. At the same time, the THC content of the plant rose by 2.9 milligrams per gram. While cannabis has many medicinal benefits, it is not without risk.
In a meta-analysis of studies of cannabis consumption, the results were mixed. In most cases, marijuana demand was inelastic, but in some cases, there was heterogeneity based on the population studied and the timeframe in which the data were collected. In addition, Reinarman et al. (2009) found that the price was inelastic for experienced users. However, they found that demand was inelastic for consumers in the age group under 30.
Higher THC Levels
Higher THC levels in the blood concern drivers because they can cause impaired driving. Fortunately, blood tests can help determine if a driver is impaired. However, the relationship between THC and human performance is complicated, and the effects of cannabis depend on the individual. For example, the high from cannabis lasts about four hours, though it lasts longer if consumed orally. In addition, higher THC levels can lead to significant performance deficits associated with higher crash risk.
The problem is that producer are incentivized to manipulate their products’ THC levels. They want to make sure their products are sold for the highest price. They will often engage in “lab shopping,” where they send samples to multiple labs to get the highest THC values. The results of these tests may differ dramatically, and producers will flock to the lab that gives the highest percentage.
While there are no guidelines for how much THC is too much, higher levels can significantly affect treatment and intervention effectiveness. Higher THC levels make it important for clinicians to intervene early, targeting use patterns and types of cannabis. For example, individuals who regularly use 15% THC have greater acute harms, such as a faster onset of symptoms of chronic use disorder (CUD) and impairment.
Effects of High THC on Mental Health
Cannabis is a substance that can affect mental health in various ways. For example, it can make users feel relaxed and happy or make them anxious or paranoid. It is a psychoactive plant that contains a chemical known as THC. High doses of marijuana may lead users to lose contact with reality.
Recent studies suggest that cannabis may improve cognitive function in patients with certain mental illnesses. These studies involve long-term follow-up of the participants. These studies also reveal that cannabis users improve their mental health and reduce their use of conventional medicines. It’s unclear if cannabis is a cure for schizophrenia, but many patients who suffer from these conditions have reported better mental health outcomes after using cannabis.
Anecdotal evidence has also linked cannabis use to depression and anxiety. However, there are still unclear links between cannabis potency and other mental health issues. The Economic and Social Research Council and the University of Bath funded the study. This article is based on materials provided by the University of Bath. The researchers may have changed the content for length and style.
Effects of High THC on Pain
Marijuana is a powerful drug with various effects, including reducing pain. Studies have shown that patients who take a high dose of the psychoactive component THC feel less pain after using marijuana. However, THC has some adverse side effects, including impaired thinking and coordination. Hence, it is not recommended for those who need to drive or work. However, many patients have found ways to use cannabis without the risk of impairment.
The most popular marijuana strains are those with high THC concentrations. These strains are also associated with higher medicinal potency. Marijuana websites promote these strains. However, they may not be based on scientific evidence and may be orientated toward recreational users. The most effective strains for reducing pain will vary from person to person, so it is important to speak with a medical professional to determine which product is best for you.
Some studies claim that high-THC cannabis can help people with chronic pain, but they are inconclusive. Many people use cannabis to treat moderate or severe pain. However, the cognitively impairing nature of THC makes cannabis unsuitable as a daily painkiller. Fortunately, researchers have found that CBD, a component of cannabis, may have an anti-inflammatory effect. And unlike THC, CBD is less likely to lead to abuse.
