Why Do CBD:THC Ratios Matter?

We’ve all seen the rise in popularity of cannabis products in the last few years.

Brands are continually developing new cannabis and cannabis-infused products to add to their portfolio, resulting in a market that’s much more than just flower and pre-rolls.

Nowadays, there’s a myriad of different products filling the shelves of dispensaries. From edibles to vape cartridges, there’s something for everyone.

Through research and innovation, brands have created entirely new product lines and formulations for their products.

It’s common to see products that say 1:1, 2:1, 8:1, or 18:1 on their labels, numbers that reflect the product’s CBD to THC ratio.

Ratios are an important matter to consider when choosing what product to buy.

The ratio refers to the volume of cannabinoids present in a product.

Each cannabis product has a unique cannabinoid content, usually determined by the strain’s genetics, with THC and CBD being the most prominent ones.

Some strains are high THC, others have higher CBD, and then many fall in the middle and have varying levels of both.

It’s as simple as this: a 2:1 ratio means that for every two parts of CBD, there is one part of THC.

Ratios do not give the exact amount of cannabinoids, so a product with a 1:1 ratio can have 10 mg of THC and 10 mg of CBD or 150 mg of THC and 150 mg of CBD.

Now that you understand what cannabis ratios mean, you might wonder why they’re important.

The answer? The effect. Every ratio delivers a different effect, which depends primarily on its cannabinoid content. CBD and THC are very similar components and have an almost exact molecular structure; still, our body interacts differently with each one.

While CBD and THC both produce sensations of relaxation, drowsiness, and pain relief, THC delivers a more psychoactive effect, the classic high, and CBD produces a feeling of calm and clear-headedness without any cerebral alterations.

This does not mean they shouldn’t go together. Instead, research says they should because they can complement each other and enhance their effects.

This term, coined by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in 1998, is a theory that says cannabinoids have a more beneficial effect when taken with other natural components of cannabis, such as:

• Terpenes
• Flavonoids
• Other cannabinoids

Basically, the entourage effect states that the effects of cannabis have more to do with the product’s wholeness and not with the sum of each component.

In other words, cannabinoids and terpenes work better together, complementing and regulating your experience.

Before choosing your product, be sure to read the label carefully.

You should always use products that clearly state the quantity and ratio of CBD and THC per dose and that have been lab-tested for safety, potency, and quality.

Higher CBD ratios with low THC deliver the pleasant, beneficial effects of cannabis with minimal psychoactive sensation. The higher the CBD, the less of a high you’ll get from the THC.

These products are better for new or inexperienced cannabis consumers and those who only consume cannabis for its therapeutic properties.

Higher THC ratios have a psychoactive and brain-altering effect, delivering a very uplifting and elevated experience. Products with higher THC content are more suitable for seasoned cannabis users, anyone who wants substantial pain relief or enjoys the sensation of being high.

When choosing a ratio, the best way to approach it is by experimenting and seeing your body’s reaction. There’s no formula or test to know what ratio or product is more suitable for you.

No ratio is right for everyone because we all react differently to cannabis. You have to find an adequate balance of THC and CBD that works for you, considering factors such as your;

• THC sensitivity
• Tolerance level
• Preferred experience and what you aim to achieve with the product

Here’s a list of common CBD:THC ratios that you’ll likely see on cannabis products.

1:1 — the most balanced effect. Recommended for people who can tolerate THC since it can be mildly psychoactive.

2:1 — a balanced, well-rounded effect. Better suited for users with experience with THC. It can be psychoactive at low concentrations.

4:1 — a mid-range ratio that doesn’t come off as too psychoactive.

8:1 — high CBD, low THC. Great for anyone who does not want to get high since it is rarely psychoactive.

18:1 — highest CBD concentration with almost no psychoactive effects. Ideal for inexperienced users since it won’t get you high.

It’s a great time to be a cannabis enthusiast.

Technology, science, and innovation have paved the way for new and improved products designed to bring cannabis-powered wellness to everyone.

Care By Design is a brand that sets the highest standard with premium products and multiple ratios to meet the needs of any user. With a portfolio that includes tinctures, capsules, gummies, vape cartridges, and topicals with six different ratios: 1:1, 2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 18:1, and the all-new 40:1, Care By Design has something perfect for you.

Go with Care By Design if you want premium, science-backed products that deliver pure cannabis-powered wellness.