On cartridges, tinctures, topicals, and edibles packaging, you may see numbers separated by a colon (e.g., 1:1, 2:1, 18:1), a ratio. These numbers tell you what the ratio of CBD to THC is in the product.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and will get you high. CBD (cannabidiol) will not get you high, but it can change your state of mind, make you feel more at ease, and a reduction in pain symptoms.1

Cannabis consumers use CBD and THC together because THC can enhance the effects of CBD (calming effect, pain reduction). At the same time, CBD mitigates adverse effects (dizziness, feeling anxious) associated with THC. Also, studies exploring CBD as an alternative therapy for PTSD suggest that a combination of CBD and THC reduces PTSD symptoms.2

Products with higher CBD levels (e.g., 18:1, 40:1) provide more options for people new to cannabis or those seeking the benefits of THC without feeling high. Start low. Go slow.

What's the best CBD to THC ratio for you?

18:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don't want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

8:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don't want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

4:1

High CBD, medium THC. Considered mid-range and best for people who have some tolerance for THC.

2:1

More balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

1:1

More balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

18:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don't want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

8:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don't want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

4:1

High CBD, medium THC. Considered mid-range and best for people who have some tolerance for THC.

2:1

More balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

1:1

More balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

18:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don’t want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

8:1

High CBD, low THC. For novice cannabis users or those who don’t want to get high. Rarely psychoactive.

4:1

High CBD, medium THC. Considered mid-range and best for people who have some tolerance for THC.

2:1

More balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

1:1

Balanced. For people who can tolerate THC. Can be psychoactive at moderate doses.

Understanding a Label

Most manufacturers list CBD first, followed by THC. However, not all of them follow this order, especially if the product contains more than two cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, CBN) or doesn’t contain CBD at all (THC:CBG). You may see this on products containing CBN, the mildly psychoactive cannabinoid associated with supporting restful sleep.

This low-THC sleep aid gummy contains the cannabinoids THC, CBD and CBN.

How ratios are represented may vary, so be sure to read the label carefully. 

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