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For years, THC percentages have dominated the conversation around cannabis. For many, high-THC cannabis strains, generally perceived as those with 25%+ THC, are seen as the gold standard. However, a growing number of cannabis users are discovering (or rediscovering) moderate-THC cannabis strains.
There are several reasons why home growers and end users are making the switch to lower levels of THC, will be considered in this article. Moderate-THC cannabis (also referred to as Mid-Strength cannabis) is a term generally used for strains which have 15 – 22% THC.
One of the basic arguments for cannabis legalization has always been that it would means that the consumer would have more choice over the product that they could buy. From the early 1970s in Holland for example, the traditional Dutch coffeeshop operated much like a bar selling booze – with products that not only ranged in price, but were also ranked in potency.
It makes sense. Times have changed since the days of the Wild West when everyone in the saloon is getting blind drunk on whisky because that’s all that’s for sale! If you want a couple of beers and a light buzz for your evening in a bar, that’s a completely acceptable option.
Why High-THC Strains Are So Popular
In recent years the THC content has been rising and this is a cannabis industry trend driven by several factors. A big driver has been the popularity of US strains driven by hype which have dominated cannabis trends. Enhanced terps have been accompanied by rocketing potency with the THC percentages creeping higher and higher.
The emerging medical market has also been a driver for change. In addition to demand from pharmaceutical cannabis providers for more potent cannabis products, many medical cannabis users seek higher THC strains. The extra potency helps with the management of chronic medical conditions related to pain, neuropathy and nausea induced by chemotherapy.
In the recreational market high THC strains inevitably provide potency and ‘this ‘strength’ has always been one of the benchmarks for product quality. For many recreational consumers, more potency makes economic sense; strains which act fast and hit hard provide good value for money. Alongside this, as tolerances increase for regular users, so too does the need for higher levels of THC.
Why Moderate-THC Cannabis Strains Are Becoming More Popular
The goal of stoners to get “as high as ***k!” has been caricatured to great effect by comics over the years – from Paradise Seeds collaborator Tommy Chong to Dave Chapelle, Seth Rogen and Sarah Silverman.
However, it’s not just comedians like Cole Garrett and cannabis ‘old timers’ who are complaining about weed being too strong these days. Research in Colorado, one of the first states to legalize cannabis in the USA, suggests that “demand for low potency pot” is one of the new trends being identified.
The attractions of moderate-THC cannabis strains include more nuanced experiences for the user and more balance (with a higher CBD/THC ratio) which translates as less anxiety. For those choosing moderate strength weed strains, the focus is on having a more chilled rather than high intensity experience.
Moderate-THC cannabis strains are also being embraced by Gen Z (born between 1997 – 2012), whose different outlook is well-documented. Unlike their parents’ generation their consumption patterns are generally less hedonistic. Just as they are drinking less alcohol, their lifestyle choices show an awareness of health – both physical and mental. Trends being discussed around how Gen Z is using cannabis are acknowledging a ‘wellness’ factor in the way weed products are being consumed.
In the past, strains with lower THC levels may have been dismissed as being ‘weak’, but research has shown that the psychoactive cannabinoid in the plant is not the only indicator of an enhanced cannabis experience, as relatively recent research around the entourage effect has illustrated.
Cannabis is a chemically complex plant and research shows that cannabinoids and terpenes work together to shape the overall experience, therefore a 15–20% THC bud which is rich in Myrcene or Limonene can often feel stronger (and more pleasant) than a sterile 30% strain which is lacking in terpene complexity.
The Paradise Seeds Library: Zero/Moderate/High THC Options
Paradise Seeds has an extensive range of cannabis seeds to grow plants which cover all levels of potency. At the top end of the THC scale are high-THC weed strains which are characterized by the varieties found in the Californian Collection. At the bottom end of the potency spectrum, Paradise offers zero-THC CBD cannabis seeds.
In the middle are a number of moderate-THC cannabis strains which (ironically) in their time were at the higher end of the potency spectrum. Many of these cannabis varieties sit in the ‘legacy’ or classic strains category. While the THC percentages are lower, a moderate-THC plant will still provide potency and depth of experience due to the entourage effect.
5 Moderate-THC Cannabis Strains to Try
Acid (White Widow x NYC Diesel): This 50/50 indica/sativa hybrid has a THC range of 16 – 22%. The effect is cerebral and relaxing and while it’s a very old school strain, the strong fuel taste, tinged with a metallic edge, is very much in keeping with the gassy notes of newer generation Cali strains.
Durga Mata (White Widow x #16 – a cross between Afghani and Himalayan Indica parents): With a THC count of 18 – 22%, this strain has lots of history and a reputation which goes back to the early days after release when it became a go-to strain for those seeking relaxation and a meditative calm. The high is ‘smooth and tranquil.’
Nebula (Afghan x Skunk x Nebula Cut – 5004): One of the original Paradise ‘happy’ strains, this variety has been upgraded but retains the qualities which made it so popular back in the 2000s. Its 18 – 22% THC levels are complemented by honey-sweet terps. Known for its energetic uplift with a relaxing indica follow through.
White Berry (White Widow x Blueberry): The 18 – 22% THC count is accompanied by excellent resin production and a sweet berry bouquet. Its effect is balanced and multi-purpose – energetic in smaller doses and sedative with a heavier intake. As such, it has a reputation as a good all day strain.
Vertigo Auto (Afghan Landrace x AK 47 8th Gen x Ruderalis): Autoflowers are traditionally lower in THC percentages and this classic auto from the Paradise collection clocks in with 16 – 20% THC. This mostly indica hybrid is known for its combination of clarity of mind and relaxation with a citrus flavor profile.
Closing Thoughts
While high THC strains are here to stay and have both their market and their dedicated audience, alternative options are available. With more legalization comes less pressure to go for the strongest weed in order to maximize budget and effect. For this reason there will be more demand for moderate-THC cannabis plants – after all, not all cannabis users are the same and there are different tastes, tolerances and expectations for what the ‘ideal’ cannabis effect should be.
In the same way wine drinkers don’t shop by alcohol percentage, cannabis consumers are beginning to look beyond THC alone. Flavor, aroma, balance, and overall feel matter more than ever, and for many that means embracing the sweet spot of moderate strength cannabis.