Mixing CBD and THC - How the Two Cannabinoids Interact

Over the past couple of decades, cannabis has become more and more potent, which is especially true for the states that legalized it allowing for a more professional cultivation. THC levels have gone up from around 4% in the 1990’s to 20% with some strains almost reaching 30%. And there is nothing wrong with that except that another cannabinoid – CBD – has been kind of left out. THC is responsible for that “high” many are looking for but CBD is also an integral part of the plant, especially if you are after its medicinal properties, of which there are many – it can help with pain, muscle spasms, heart diseases, opioid addiction and was even used for the first FDA approved cannabis drug – Epidolex, which helps manage seizures. It has no psychoactive properties but its health benefits are well studied. We definitely do want to underestimate the health properties of Tetrahydrocannabinol either, which helps with pain management, sleep regulation, weight loss and much more. Having said all that, let us take a closer look at these two cannabinoids.

So how do CBD and THC affect each other?

One thing that CBD when consumed in cannabis flower, edibles or other marijuana infused products is that it counteracts the psychoactive effects of THC which is great for people using it for medical purposes. Especially those who need to consume large amounts of THC. At the same time, CBD interacts with THC and enhances many of its properties and some studies have shown that consuming CBD only products may lead to the benefits wearing off after a while. The same way most THC products, especially those meant for medical marijuana patients contain some or a lot of CBD.

When we talk about combining THC and CBD, one thing to keep in mind is the “entourage effect, meaning that THC and CBD compliment and enhance each other’s positive effects. For example, a lot of pure THC can cause anxiety and stress, however, add CBD to the mix and its relaxing effects will mellow you out. On the other hand, CBD is known to improve the pain management properties of THC.

For instance, in cancer research, a combination THC and CBD has provided better results in preclinical research than either cannabinoid alone in some forms of cancer. In glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, adding CBD to a high-THC treatment enhanced the anti-proliferative effects of THC in cell cultures. In breast cancer, CBD was more effective in animals.

All in all, the most common ratio of THC and CBD in comprehensive medical marijuana products is 1:1, though you can opt for 20:1 (just a bit of THC) or even pure CBD.

Silver Stem even offers a very special strain for those who prefer smoking – Incredible Power. This Indica dominant hybrid tests around 12% THC and 12% CBD making it rather unique. The three way cross, bred and grown strictly to provide the highest amounts of CBD possible provides far ranging, outstanding medicinal benefits. And, of course, there is plenty of edibles, topicals, vape cartridges and more with any combination you may need.

It is always a good idea to consult on the dosage and proportion of THC and CBD with your physician and always consume responsibly.