The Science Behind Cannabis Potency (What Makes Some Strains Stronger?)

We’ve all smoked weed that practically knocked us out.

As well as weed that did virtually nothing.

That’s because cannabis potency can vary considerably.

But what is the science behind cannabis potency?

Why are some strains so much stronger than others?

That’s what we are going to discuss today. We will also give you a list of some of the most potent strains available, both in terms of THC content and CBD content.

 

What Is Cannabis Potency?

A cannabis strain’s potency is a measure of its strength, or how strong its effects are. Cannabis potency primarily depends on the plant’s cannabinoid content, mainly THC and CBD.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a psychoactive cannabinoid that makes you feel high. CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that makes you feel calm. The higher the strain’s potency, the stronger its effects.

 

What Factors Influence Cannabis Potency?

There are a number of factors that affect how potent a strain is. Let’s take a look at each one. If you’re wondering how to grow more potent weed, read this article for some tips.

 

Genetics

Cannabis potency is greatly influenced by genetic factors and the strain’s specific genetic makeup. Some strains are genetically predisposed to have higher levels of THC, while others may have higher CBD levels, offering more therapeutic benefits.

Breeding practices also play a crucial role in enhancing the plant’s potency. Breeders selectively cross-pollinate plants to produce hybrid strains with desired traits. This careful selection and cultivation lead to potent strains with consistently strong effects.

 

Cultivation Methods

The cannabis plant’s cultivation or growing methods also play a role in its potency. Nutrient management is critical, as the plant needs balanced nutrition throughout its growth cycle.

Growers often use LED lights to promote photosynthesis and increase cannabinoid production. The plants must also be trimmed and cured at the right time. These steps are necessary to ensure that the cannabinoids mature and stabilize.

Similarly, harvesting the buds at the optimal point is important. Harvesting too early or late can result in underdeveloped or degraded cannabinoid levels and decrease the strain’s potency.

Trimming the leaves off your buds after harvest also increases potency, because you are removing the parts with the lowest concentration of THC. Learn how to trim cannabis buds correctly in this article.

 

Environmental Conditions

Environmental factors significantly impact cannabis potency. The plants need optimal growing conditions for cultivating potent cannabis with strong, consistent effects.

Air quality affects the plants’ health. Generally, a well-ventilated environment promotes healthier plants free from mold and mildew.

The growing medium, whether soil, aeroponics, or hydroponics, also influences nutrient absorption, impacting the plant’s nutrient absorption and, subsequently, its THC and CBD levels.

Temperature and humidity must be carefully controlled; too high or too low levels can stress the plants and reduce their potency. Environmental stressors like pests, diseases, and inadequate light can also hinder cannabinoid production, resulting in weaker strains.

 

Role Of Terpenes And Other Compounds In Cannabis Potency

Terpenes are natural compounds found in cannabis that give the plant its unique smell and taste. They play an indirect role in cannabis potency by working with cannabinoids like THC and CBD in what’s known as the “entourage effect.”

This means that terpenes can enhance or alter the effects of THC and CBD, making the overall experience stronger or different.

CBN, or cannabinol, is another compound in cannabis that can affect potency. It is known for its sedative effects, which can make a strain feel more potent in terms of inducing relaxation or sleepiness.

However, the main factors that determine a weed’s potency are the levels of THC and CBD in it.

 

Most Popular High-Potency Cannabis Strains

The obvious question at this point is: which strains are the most potent? Let’s take a look at some popular strains with a high THC content, and then some strains with a high CBD content.

 

High THC Strains

The highest potency strains contain more than 30% THC. From time to time, breeders develop strains with 35% to 40% THC. On average, the THC percentages in cannabis range from 10% to 30%, with the average THC content being 20%.

You can go to a dispensary and check out their weed menu, which usually lists the THC percentage for each strain. If your doctor has prescribed a certain range for your health issues, you can choose accordingly.

Here are some strains with high THC content:

• Sour Diesel: Sour Diesel is a Sativa strain containing between 18% and 25% THC. It produces a euphoric high.
• Girl Scout Cookies (GSC): GSC contains 60% cannabis indica and 40% cannabis sativa genetics. Its THC content is 19% to 20%.
• Godfather OG: Godfather OG’s THC content sometimes reaches up to 34%, making it one of the strongest Indica strains. Its effects are deeply relaxing and sedative, perfect for easing stress and promoting sleep.
• Gorilla Glue #4: Gorilla Glue #4 is a member of the Gorilla Glue family known for its potent THC levels. GG #4’s THC levels often reach 30%. It can provide pain relief and mental and physical relaxation.

 

High CBD Strains

High CBD and low THC strains are better for patients looking for anxiety relief while keeping a clear head. Strains with potent CBD content (where the THC: CBD ratio is 1:1) also provide relief from stress, chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and more.

Any cannabis strain with over 4% CBD is considered CBD-rich. These are some such strains:

• Cannatonic: Cannatonic is an award-winning hybrid strain with 50% Sativa and 50% Indica genetics. Some plants have a 1:1 THC: CBD ratio.
• CBD Therapy: Medicinal users can use CBD Therapy without getting that ‘stoned’ effect. It contains THC: CBD in the ratio of 1:20+ and some flowers are even known to contain a CBD content of over 10%.
• ACDC: This CBD-rich sativa dominant strain contains CBD up to 20%. The CBD: THC ratio is 20:1.
• Harlequin: this is a famous CBD-potent strain with CBD: THC ratio of 5:2 (CBD amounts of 10%).

 

What Is The Potency Of Cannabis Extracts?

Cannabis extracts are concentrated forms of cannabis, derived from the plant using various extraction methods. These extracts are commonly sold in forms such as hash, dabs, pollen, wax, and more. They are also available as sprays for people to use under their tongues.

Cannabis extracts tend to have very high levels of THC. Some even reach up to 99%, in stark contrast to the 10% to 25% THC typically found in dried cannabis buds.

This significant potency means that high-strength cannabis extracts can lead to intense intoxication quickly. The high concentration of THC significantly increases the risk of over-intoxication symptoms, which include severe anxiety, vomiting, and psychosis such as paranoia.

 

What Are The Highest Potency Indica And Sativa Strains?

In 2024, the highest potency Indica strain was Girl Scout Cookies. The hybrid strains Granddaddy Purple and Hindu Kush are also known for their high potency. Godfather OG’s THC levels were known to reach 27%.

Among Sativa strains, the highest potency was found to be in Strawberry Cough, Ghost Train Haze, and Super Silver Haze. Some of these contain more than 25% THC.

These strains are renowned for their intense effects and are highly sought after by experienced cannabis connoisseurs.

 

The Potency Of Cannabis: Final Thoughts

Cannabis potency is a multifaceted attribute influenced by various factors, including genetic makeup, cultivation methods, and environmental conditions.

The primary determinants of a strain’s potency are its levels of THC and CBD, with THC responsible for the psychoactive effects and CBD offering therapeutic benefits.

Effective breeding practices and optimal growing conditions are crucial in enhancing the potency of cannabis strains. Additionally, compounds like terpenes and CBN play significant roles in modulating the effects of THC and CBD through the entourage effect.

High-potency strains, whether rich in THC or CBD, cater to different user needs, from recreational highs to medical relief. Understanding these factors can help consumers and growers make informed choices about cannabis products and their desired effects.