THC: More Than Just a High
Understanding THC is about more than just chasing the highest percentage.
For most people, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is synonymous with getting high. It’s the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis, the reason people have been rolling joints and baking brownies for decades. But to think THC alone defines the cannabis experience is missing the bigger picture. Whether you're in a hemp state like North Carolina or a marijuana state like California, cannabis is cannabis—and how it affects you depends on much more than just THC percentage.
The Entourage Effect: Why More Than THC Matters
Ever wonder why two strains with the same THC percentage can feel wildly different? That’s because cannabis isn’t just THC—it’s a complex mix of cannabinoids and terpenes working together in what’s known as the entourage effect. Think of it like a band: THC might be the lead singer, but without the rest of the group, the music doesn’t hit quite the same.
CBD, CBG, CBN, and other cannabinoids all play supporting roles, influencing the high and potential therapeutic effects. Some cannabinoids mellow the psychoactive intensity, while others enhance focus, relaxation, or euphoria. And then there are terpenes—the aromatic compounds responsible for a strain’s flavor and scent. But terpenes do more than make cannabis smell like pine, citrus, or diesel; they also impact how THC interacts with your body.
Myrcene, for example, is known for its sedative properties, while limonene can provide an uplifting, energetic buzz. This is why choosing a strain based solely on THC percentage is a rookie mistake.
Smoking? Pay Attention to Terpenes
If you’re smoking cannabis, your experience is going to be heavily influenced by the terpenes present in the strain. High-THC flower without a balanced terpene profile might just leave you feeling anxious or overwhelmed instead of pleasantly euphoric. Strains with a strong presence of myrcene or linalool, for example, are better for relaxation, while those heavy in pinene or limonene might be more stimulating. The next time you shop for flower, don’t just ask for the highest THC—look at the terpene profile and consider how you want to feel.
Edibles: The Potency Difference in Hemp States
When it comes to edibles, the THC story gets even more interesting—especially in a hemp state. While legal marijuana states often cap the amount of THC per package (usually at 100mg), hemp state edibles don’t face the same restrictions. That means you can often find legal edibles in North Carolina with significantly more THC than what’s available in California or Colorado.
But just because you can buy a high potency gummy doesn’t mean you should pop the whole thing at once. Edible THC is metabolized differently than smoked THC, converting into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver, which is significantly more potent and longer-lasting. Overdoing it on edibles is the fastest way to turn a fun evening into a six-hour couch-locked marathon of “why did I do this to myself?” The key is understanding your tolerance and dosing properly.
The Bottom Line: Cannabis is Cannabis
If you think products in a hemp state aren’t the real deal, think again. The cannabis you’re buying in North Carolina is chemically identical to what’s sold in California. The only difference is the legal terminology used to sell it. A high-THC product in a hemp state can be just as strong—if not stronger—than what’s available in a marijuana state, particularly when it comes to edibles.
Understanding THC is about more than just chasing the highest percentage. It’s about appreciating how cannabinoids and terpenes shape the experience. Whether you're smoking flower or eating an edible, knowledge is the key to getting the most out of cannabis. So next time you’re making a purchase, look beyond just THC and consider the full symphony of compounds at play.
