How did cannabis get so strong?
The trend was first discovered as far back as 2009, when the DEA discovered higher THC concentrations in the weed they confiscated after drug busts. Then as the industry moved towards adult use legalization, the high potency trend picked up momentum. In 2017, it was reported that the main reason behind this shift was that industry doubled down on its production of Sinsemilla, which is the top of the female cannabis plant with the highest concentration of THC.
In addition, growers now prioritize cross pollinating strong strains with one another to create potent new combinations.
But why would a user want their cannabis to be so strong, anyway? What can they do with it?
A user may want such high potency weed if they suffer from severe nausea, the need to increase their appetite, or the need to reduce severe pain. For those experiencing advanced forms of cancer, those going through chemo, or similar chronic health conditions may find ingesting 30% THC cannabis to be a huge relief. Users will experience strong psychoactive effects, so at the very least, such a high level of THC will provide a distraction.
Just know what you’re getting into if you’re considering trying such high potency cannabis on a recreational basis. If you’re not used to it, there’s a good chance you’ll experience major paranoia and anxiety and need to wait at least a few days until the THC is out of your system. It may take you out of commission till then. Something so strong may be best suited for those who truly need it for medical usage only.
Sources: Healthline, High Times, WebMD
