Debunking Two Of The Cannabis Industries Biggest Myths

Debunking Two Of The Cannabis Industries Biggest Myths

Simplistic classifications of Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid strains and the overemphasis on THC percentages as a measure of quality are two of the biggest myths that pervade the cannabis industry today. It's time to address these fallacies and provide a clear understanding of what truly matters when selecting strains that work best for you.

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The Indica-Sativa-Hybrid Myth

The idea that Sativas universally provide uplifting effects while Indicas offer sedative effects is a widespread misconception. The way cannabis affects an individual is much more complex. There are a multitude of cannabinoids and terpenes present within and unique to every cannabis strain that interacts with our endocannabinoid systems. Every person possesses a unique endocannabinoid system; one person’s miracle strain may have an entirely different effect on another. 

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What truly determines the effects of a strain are the unique combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes it contains. Understanding these compounds and how they interact with your own endocannabinoid system is crucial. This process often involves some trial and error to find what works best for you.

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Traditional classification is not completely invalid. Physically, Sativa and Indica have distinct growth patterns. Sativa plants are typically tall with thin leaves, while Indica plants are shorter and bushier. However, these physical differences do not dictate the effects of the strains. For example, AltSol’s Fuel Biscuits, which grows like a typical Indica with short and dense structures, possess a heavy fruity profile that delivers stimulating effects often associated with Sativas. 

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The THC Percentage Fallacy

Another common fallacy in the cannabis industry is the belief that higher THC percentages correlate with better quality or more potent effects. In reality, the relationship between THC content and the quality of the experience is minimal at best. The cannabis plant contains hundreds of compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, all of which contribute to the overall effect of the strain.

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While THC is the primary psychoactive compound, the entourage effect—the synergistic interaction between all the compounds in the plant—plays a much more significant role in determining the overall experience. Factors such as harvest date, terpene content, and individual differences in endocannabinoid systems also influence how one responds to different strains.

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Moreover, the cannabis industry is still developing consistent and accurate testing methods. We have experienced significant variations in THC results from different labs, with discrepancies as high as 20%. Some producers may also manipulate their products to achieve higher THC percentages at the cost of terpene content, resulting in less flavorful and less effective cannabis.

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The truth is, a higher THC percentage does not necessarily mean a better or more intense high. What matters most is the genetics of the plant, how it was grown, how it was cured, and the freshness of the batch. That's why these factors are paramount to AltSol’s cultivation ethos; we prioritize your experience over arbitrary metrics.

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Final Thoughts

It's essential to move beyond traditional and overly simplistic views of cannabis classification and potency. Exploring the intricate dynamics of cannabinoids and terpenes, along with their unique interactions with our endocannabinoid systems, empowers us to make informed and personalized choices about the cannabis products we consume.

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