Here it is folks, the cannabinoid you’ve all been waiting for: THC. It’s the most well-known cannabinoid. It’s the fun one; the one that will get you The Most High.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is not only the most well known, it’s also the most prevalent cannabinoid. It’s the reason cannabis gets such a bad--and good--rap. It’s the main psychoactive component of cannabis and what causes you to get high after consuming. It’s not the sole perpetrator, though. It often depends on other cannabinoids, and how THC interacts with those cannabinoids. It’s also based on your own body and how you and your endocannabinoid system react to THC. Most commonly, THC causes euphoria, giddiness, relaxation, impaired perception and sensory awareness. It can also cause hunger, anxiety, increased heart rate and memory impairment. The first list sounds great, the second less so. That’s where CBD and other cannabinoids come in. THC is at its finest when working in conjunction with others. It’s called the entourage effect. CBD, specifically, is a great partner. It not only enhances THC’s therapeutic effects, it also helps mitigate some of it’s less desirable side effects, like anxiety and paranoia.
While many cannabis consumers only want to get The Most High (great!), many more use the plant for its therapeutic benefits (also great!). While CBD gets a lot of the credit for that side of the spectrum, THC plays a big part in it too. It’s probably most well known as a pain reliever and appetite stimulant. Yes, I know I listed hunger in the bad list above. But for many people, including cancer patients and those fighting eating disorders, it’s critical care. It’s also anti-emetic, meaning it helps relieve nausea and reduces vomiting--another big bonus in cancer treatments. In fact, many cancer patients take THC in a pharmaceutical form called dronabinol (consumed as a resin in capsules). THC can also be used to treat insomnia, PTSD, migraines, inflammation and even substance abuse among other conditions.
You’ve probably heard your parents say that weed was different when they were young. And that’s true. Strains are more potent and THC levels are higher than ever. But don’t get lured by the siren call of high percentages. Or shall we say not only by high percentages; THC will get you The Most High but how you experience that high depends on the mixture of other cannabinoids, terpenes and your own body. Speaking of your own body, did we mention THC is great for sex? Just wanted to make sure you knew before we ended this little article…
