Is CBD More Effective When Combined With THC?

Cannabidiol, commonly known as 'CBD', has become a pervasive presence. You can now find it in many forms at dispensaries, as well as in grocery stores, coffee shops, bars, and a variety of businesses eager to tap into the growing trend.

While there is still limited scientific evidence supporting the buzz, many users swear by its soothing benefits, with some even preferring it over THC-based products.

Is THC even necessary?

In a conversation via email with Cami Noecker, the founder of Serra dispensaries, she shared how the two key compounds in cannabis, THC and CBD, can have distinct effects. She explained, "THC and CBD are the two most important cannabinoids found in cannabis." She went on to highlight the most significant difference between them: CBD, when used alone, does not produce the 'high' commonly associated with cannabis. THC, however, is the main psychoactive compound responsible for the traditional 'high' that cannabis is known for.

Noecker also noted that CBD becomes much more effective when paired with THC, thanks to a phenomenon called the 'entourage effect.' She elaborated, "The two compounds interact within the body in a way that enhances their effects when used together. When you consume CBD along with a small amount of THC, the CBD works more efficiently in your system, producing enhanced benefits."

CBD can also complement THC in improving the overall experience, especially for those who struggle with anxiety. Andrea Sparr-Jaswa, Director of Education at Farma, mentioned in an email exchange that CBD can benefit anxiety sufferers in two ways. "CBD can either mitigate negative effects from THC, reducing cerebral anxiety while keeping the high more physically focused, or a CBD-heavy product with minimal THC might be ideal for those wanting symptom relief without feeling intoxicated. A small amount of THC helps CBD work more effectively at lower doses, and the goal is always to find the minimal effective dose for the necessary medicinal effect."

Now, let’s delve into some numbers.

When you browse through the variety of CBD inhalants and edibles at a dispensary, you’ve likely come across ratios like '1:1,' '2:1,' '3:1,' and even '10:1' on the packaging. These ratios represent the relative quantities of CBD and THC, with the first number typically indicating the amount of CBD. However, Noecker cautioned that these ratios are not standardized across all brands, so it’s essential to double-check the labeling for accuracy.

In a follow-up email, Sparr-Jaswa shared her thoughts on the issue of standardization, emphasizing that 'THC should always be listed first.' She elaborated, saying, 'Even if it’s in a smaller quantity than CBD, it should be listed first. Otherwise, it creates confusion and inconsistency. If CBD is listed first only when it’s more dominant, you end up having to clarify that each time, which is a hassle for both businesses and customers. Unfortunately, I don’t think this mislabeling issue will be resolved anytime soon.'

As expected, a higher CBD content generally means a less psychoactive experience. Sparr-Jaswa explained that 'CBD may help reduce negative effects by preventing THC from binding too strongly to receptors, leading to a more body-focused high rather than one that’s cerebrally stimulating.' One budtender shared that he could handle a 2:1 (CBD:THC) ratio and still manage to get things done, but anecdotal feedback from some cannabis enthusiasts suggests that this isn’t true for everyone. A 1:1 ratio offers equal amounts of both compounds, which can provide a traditional, though milder, high with less anxiety or paranoia that some users usually experience when consuming cannabis.

When trying out CBD, especially in combination with THC, it’s crucial to start slowly. Despite CBD being considered 'non-psychoactive,' it’s possible you may not enjoy how it affects you. Sparr-Jaswa stressed, 'The 'start low and go slow' approach is key, as what feels like a low dose to one person could be a high dose for another. Even a seasoned user of inhalants might find edibles affect them differently, so it’s important to take a cautious approach when adjusting your cannabis use.'

What about those CBD lattes?

Living in Portland, Oregon, I’ve seen CBD added to nearly every edible and drinkable product imaginable, from kombucha to cocktails. However, the CBD you find outside of dispensaries is not the same as the one sold in them. As Doeckner pointed out, 'CBD outside dispensaries doesn't come from the marijuana plant. Instead, it’s typically sourced from hemp or created synthetically in a lab. While CBD itself isn't psychoactive, it’s crucial to know where your CBD comes from, as the quality can vary significantly.'

If you're unsure about the source of the CBD, don’t hesitate to ask. Doeckner pointed out, "There are some fantastic hemp-derived products available in the mainstream market, but it's crucial to know where the CBD in your latte comes from and what its concentration is to avoid being misled." So, go ahead and enjoy that CBD-infused cocktail if it tempts you, but don’t be surprised if you feel just like you do after a regular, hemp-free drink. (Though, let’s be honest, a classic cocktail is still pretty enjoyable.)

Edited 4/20/19 at 3:24 EST: The post has been updated to clarify Andrea Sparr-Jaswa’s position at Farma and to include additional information on how THC:CBD ratios may be labeled on product packaging.