Ratios — Blog — The Novel Tree Medical | Bellevue's Best Medical Marijuana

Understanding Cannabis Ratios

Historically, cannabis naturally had varying ratios of CBD:THC. Even before the legalization of cannabis, breeders were focused on maximizing the amount of THC in their plants as the focus became more recreational. However, as we explore the emerging awareness around CBD, and as CBD grows in popularity across the country, more breeders are now creating strains with diverse CBD:THC ratios to meet the demand. So what is a ratio, and how will I know what ratio is best for my needs? 1

THC and CBD: The two primary cannabinoids

Our body has a system called the Endocannabinoid system that is responsible for regulating other systems throughout the body. So, when something is out of balance, either over stimulated or under stimulated, the endocannabinoid system is responsible for bringing it back to homeostasis. THC stimulates receptors primarily in the central nervous system; the brain, the spinal column, and the gut. CBD modulates receptors in the central & peripheral nervous systems, and the immune system.

What is a CBD:THC Ratio?

Simply put, a CBD:THC ratio shows the amount of CBD in relation to the amount of THC in a cannabis product. You can have a CBD:THC ratio in any form of cannabis, including flower, concentrates, edibles, topicals, tinctures, and capsules. Finding your ideal ratio will depend on your personal tolerance and the experience you’re seeking. 2

Every product at The Novel Tree Medical will be labeled with a breakdown the CBD:THC ratio.

How to Read Ratios and Doses

Anytime you see a product that features a ratio, the first number will reflect the amount of CBD in a product. The second number featured shows the amount of THC in the same product. For example, a 10:1 Ratio tincture has 10x the amount of CBD as THC. It is important to know that CBD comes first, as you may come across ratios that have more THC than CBD. Each ratio has its own range of effects, so it’s best to talk with a medical consultant to find the ratio that best suits your needs.

Let’s Explore a 5:1 Ratio Cannabis Product

The Potency on the far left-hand column shows the amount of THC and CBD in the packaging. The suggested serving of 0.6ml will contain 11mg CBD and 2.4mg of THC in a 5:1 ratio.

The potency in the 5:1 is a total (TTL) of 200mg, however you can see that there is approximately five times the amount of CBD in relation to the amount of THC. Many guests will start with .3 ml (1/2 of a standard serving). Because all producers are required to list the potency, tinctures and edibles make it easy to control your serving.

While it can be difficult to gauge an exact serving from flower or a vaporizer, knowing the potency of your product in advance can help you anticipate the effects to come. Fairwinds lists the average potency as well as the terpenes featured in their products. A terpene profile can provide additional insight to the experience you can expect from said product.

Common Ratios

1:1 Ratio – Having equal parts CBD and THC seems to be the most effective in tackling pain management. The goal of utilizing a 1:1 product is to induce a gentle buzz while allowing the consumer to function and focus throughout the day. While CBD affects inflammation throughout the body, THC regulates neurotransmitters and how the brain perceives pain. The 1:1 ratio provides both mental and physical relief from pain. While this ratio is not considered “recreational”, 1:1 products can be easily found at most dispensaries. 2

2:1 Ratio – Having twice the amount of CBD as THC can still provide a slight buzz, but it should be minimal compared to 1:1 strains and recreational products. This ratio might be ideal for those looking to combat autoimmune disorders, anxiety, depression, or general aches and pains.

5:1 Ratio – This ratio is an excellent place to start for those who are new to cannabis, or experienced consumers who are looking for products that will allow them to function without intoxication. Fairwinds 5:1 Ratio Tincture offers an invigorating blend of terpenes to accentuate the therapeutic benefits of the CBD. 3

1:2 Ratio – This ratio allows you to enjoy the psychoactive effects of THC, with an enhanced body high from the CBD. Often recommended as a sleep aid, this ratio can be more sedative depending on the terpene profile of the product. 4

We’re Here to Answer Your Questions About CBD and THC

It can be a challenge navigating the available products on the market, especially when you’re seeking relief. If you have any questions about what ratio may best suit your needs, we encourage you to reach out or stop in for a visit with our consultants. We are happy to take the time with you to make sure you’re comfortable and confident with the products you choose to take home.

Sources and acknowledgements:

Cancer, the big C. This disease will afflict 1,762,450 people in the United States alone in 2019, according to an article by the American Cancer Society*. While people are seeking a healthy alternative lifestyle to combat the disease people are also seeking relief from the symptoms caused by the cancers, and its traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy and radiation are meant to attack rapidly dividing cells and cancer is one of those cells. Other cells in our bodies are also affected, like the lining in your stomach and the ones that grow hair on your head. Since chemotherapy drugs can affect your entire body, you’re likely to feel worse after a round treatment.

Cancer is daunting enough without adding insult to injury in the form of additional physical issues. Many of our guests have found certain medical cannabis products aid in alleviating symptoms related to their cancer treatment. Please understand that a given product may not have the same effect from one person or another, and we always suggest starting with low, controlled doses.

Nausea

Nausea and vomiting seem to be at the forefront of symptoms that occur not just from certain cancers, but from the treatment. Trying to maintain good health will be a challenge if proper foods and fluids can’t make it into your system. Consuming cannabis products high in Delta 8, preferably in inhalation for quicker relief, seem to show great benefits for increasing appetite and reducing nausea and vomiting. Tinctures high in terpenes like peppermint, ginger and bergamot also have anti-nausea effects. Products like Fairwinds’ Digestify are fortified with these terpenes and could have a potential benefit to heading off these symptoms if used before the onset.

Fatigue

Fatigue is second on our list of items to combat while undergoing treatment. Chemotherapy can deplete your red blood cell supply which carry oxygen throughout the body. Dizziness, shortness of breath and irritable mood can also be the result of this depletion. Consuming sativa-dominant products like Moxy’s 1:1 Peppermint Energizing Mints may effectively combat fatigue, and nausea together. Sativa dominant strains and terpenes like Pinene, and Limonene have uplifting mind and body effects to counteract the fatigue, not to mention the peppermint to help abate nausea.

Pain

Pain is last but certainly not least. It’s just as hindering to optimal healing as the other symptoms. Pain can range from muscular to nerve pain and some patients have localized pain due to their specific cancers, or general body pain from the treatment. In any case, equal amounts of THC and CBD ratios are effective for severe pain, items like CBD Ratio 1:1 tinctures or candies can be very effective. Having terpenes like Linalool and Myrcene can also really help relax the body and mind for pain to start to subside. These ratios can cause some intoxication, so for more daytime use a 5:1 ratio can be as effective for mild to moderate pain, with little to no intoxicating effects. Edibles have the benefit of longer lasting relief throughout the day, yet if you find yourself in crisis and needing immediate relief, having a vaping option may come in handy.

By Sandra E. Stroud

* Scholarly Resources:

https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/cancer-facts-figures-2019.html

CBD:THC Ratios, What Does it All Mean?