How to Tell if Your Marijuana is Too Strong

When we say “cannabis is too strong,” this is more than just a product that has a high THC level. A product that is comfortable for one person might be too intense for others. This depends on many factors including THC levels, amount consumed, tolerance to cannabis and individual sensitivity.

Would you like to gain a better understanding of cannabis potency and make better decisions? Subscribe to the Canna City telegram channel for informative guides on using cannabis, product reviews, and interesting information regarding THC levels, types of cannabis Products and the overall effect of cannabis.

THC Percentage Is the Most Important Clue

For dry flower cannabis, the THC concentration is typically reported as a percent (or mg/g). Dry flower cannabis can range up to 30% THC while extracts/concentrates can have significantly more.

It doesn’t matter if a product has a high THC level. Someone who uses cannabis frequently may be able to handle a relatively moderate THC level where someone less experienced could feel overwhelmed.

Labels are also helpful when trying to judge the Strength of a product, but don’t solely rely on the visual aspect, scent, or strain reputation. Labels regulated by government agencies show total THC and CBD by weight/serving/unit based on the type of cannabis product being sold.

Signs That Your Marijuana Is Too Strong for You

A strong high isn’t always bad. A sign of trouble occurs when your experience exceeds what you had planned for and is no longer manageable/uncomfortable.

According to the CDC some common symptoms people may experience after consuming too much cannabis include:

If you continue to experience any of these reactions with the same product, it may be due to either a high THC concentration in the product or the amount of product you’re consuming may be exceeding your tolerance.

Strong Flowers and Concentrates Are Not the Same!

The way a product provides THC makes a huge difference. While dry cannabis may contain around 30% THC, extracts (hash/shatter/wax etc.) can contain much higher levels. Health Canada has specifically advised new or casual users to be extremely careful when using extracts due to the increased risk of impairment and adverse reactions due to higher THC concentrations. Thus, a small amount of an extract can create an entirely different experience than the same volume of dry cannabis.

Edibles May Feel “Too Strong” Due to Timing of Dosing

While most issues related to edibles relate to dosing time (it takes anywhere from 30 min -2 hours+ to start feeling effects and sometimes longer until peak), there is also a risk of taking another dose too quickly which can lead to a substantial increase in THC consumption.

Therefore, it is possible for an edible that was once perceived as having minimal potency to develop into a very intense high shortly thereafter.

Can You Judge the Strength by Visual Appeal/Scent?

No! Even though a bud may look dense/resinous/heavy smelling, it is impossible to accurately assess the THCs present within. As well, two seemingly identical products can have vastly different cannabinoid profiles.

If accurate potency information is available use the cannabinoid labeling as your best gauge; otherwise color/aroma/visible trichome count are unreliable indicators.

Determining Your Desired Level of Strength Is Based on Your Reaction

There isn’t a universal THC % that is considered “too strong”. What determines whether a product is acceptable to you, is if it creates an experience you enjoy. If you are experiencing anxiety/dizziness/confusion/extremely impeded after using cannabis – perhaps it would be wise to assess your desired amount/potency level instead of becoming accustomed to the feeling. More THC does not equal better quality.

Explore Canna City to compare cannabis flower, high quality THC vapes, edibles and other formats by potency and cannabinoid profile, and learn more about what separates a balanced experience from one that may be stronger than expected.