When you embark on your cannabis journey, one of the fascinating aspects you’ll discover is the diverse range of strains available.

Not only can you choose from relaxing indica, uplifting sativa, and hybrid blends, but there are endless strains within these categories, each featuring unique combinations of aromatic terpenes and cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

In truth, there are around a hundred identified cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but THC and CBD are among the best-known and most studied. They’re powerful chemical compounds on their own, but when they work together, they create an entourage effect that’s much more than the sum of its parts.

This brings us to an important question: what does 1:1 CBD/THC mean, and what are the benefits of choosing this particular combination? Will you get more bang for your buck with a balanced THC-CBD ratio than with whole plant products? Here’s what you need to know about this popular pairing to make the best decisions for your overall wellness.

What is the 1:1 THC:CBD Ratio?

THC and CBD have both been studied to understand how they interact with the human endocannabinoid system and what benefits they might offer. While each operates uniquely, extracting and combining the two can enhance efficacy and even create new therapeutic results.

The 1:1 CBD to THC ratio appears in products with equal parts THC and CBD. One particular product, Nabiximols (more commonly known by the brand name Sativex), has gained notice and legal approval as a prescription medication in many countries thanks to its application as a treatment for unresponsive spasticity intended for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Studies have shown that this combination of cannabinoids may be helpful in treating a range of symptoms related to MS, such as pain, tremors, bladder symptoms, and sleep disruption.

Although Sativex may cause some side effects, one study found that about 8 in 10 subjects saw improvement with treatment, while only about 3 in 10 stopped treatment due to side effects or lack of efficacy.

Does 1:1 THC Get You High?

Before you try this combination of cannabinoids, you’d probably be interested to know more about its effects. So what does 1:1 THC/CBD 100mg feel like? As you may know, THC is the chemical compound in the cannabis plant known for producing psychoactive effects, or the euphoric sensation of being high.

That said, your experience will depend on a couple of essential factors. First is the amount of THC present. If, for example, your 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD is just a couple of milligrams of each, you may experience only negligible psychotropic effects or none at all.

If, on the other hand, you consume a dose that contains 100 milligrams of each, you might experience a significant high. For reference, a gummy product might contain 10 milligrams of THC per dose, while 0.5 grams of 10% THC flower (enough for a joint) would have about 50 milligrams.

The other main factor is your relative tolerance. Your metabolism and sensitivity to chemical compounds may impact the efficacy and outcomes of any cannabis product you consume.

1:1 THC:CBD Ratio Benefits

THC and CBD are well-known for their beneficial effects, mainly centering on the relief of discomfort and swelling, respectively. When paired with other cannabinoids, these effects can be enhanced and expanded upon. So, what happens with 1:1 THC strains with CBD?

As Sativex has shown, the results can be beneficial for patients dealing with muscle spasm disorders, notably in the area of tremors but also with associated symptoms. That said, the general pairing of THC and CBD in equal amounts has the potential to ease a wide range of symptoms, including stress and worry, discomfort, swelling, and sleep disruption.

Worry/Stress Relief

One of the most common side effects of consuming marijuana with high THC content is paranoia; feelings like anxiety and panic could also result. Conversely, CBD has been anecdotally found to reduce worry, leading to a number of studies and clinical trials on the subject.

What does this mean for products like 1:1 THC edibles that deliver equal parts THC and CBD? It may depend on the serving size.

Adding CBD in equal measure can help balance out some of the effects of THC. This includes decreasing psychoactive effects and anxiety commonly experienced in higher doses. While this will depend on your personal chemistry, opting for lower-dose products is probably the best way to achieve stress-relieving results. In the case of this combination, a little balance goes a long way.

Discomfort Management

Pain management is rarely a one-size-fits-all affair. It depends on factors like the cause of pain and the patient’s constitution. Consider that the same dosage of painkillers provided after someone undergoes surgery could knock one person out but merely dull the pain for another.

The great thing about different blends of THC and CBD is that they can be somewhat tailored to elicit targeted effects, including relieving discomfort. While compounds higher in THC are likely better suited to relieving severe pain, 1:1 THC tincture effects might be better for lower-grade, chronic discomfort, particularly involving swelling.

Reduced Swelling

Swelling discomfort can range from a dull ache to an acute, intense sensation. Swelling could result from an injury or surgery or, alternately, a chronic or autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease.

Because the combination of THC and CBD can relieve discomfort and swelling, it may be a great option for patients suffering from conditions that cause significant swelling.

Sleep Improvement

About 50-70 million Americans are estimated to suffer from chronic or ongoing sleep disorders, while over 30% of adults report a daily sleep deficit.

Sleep disruption could range from difficulties falling asleep to trouble staying asleep to full-blown insomnia. Causes might include chronic pain or sleep apnea, diseases like diabetes or heart disease, mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, medications, or even shift work that messes with circadian rhythms.

Many strains of cannabis, particularly indica strains, are known for inducing whole-body relaxation, which could aid disordered sleep. Studies also show that CBD may help with falling asleep and staying asleep. In other words, consuming 1:1 CBD/THC gummies could enhance sedative properties.

Best Practices for Using 1:1 THC:CBD Ratio

Marijuana has been known to produce minimal and often minor side effects, such as altered senses or sense of time, mood changes, memory issues, and sometimes hallucinations. THC, specifically, is known for psychoactive effects, so a 1:1 THC tincture high is likely to be more intense than taking a pure CBD product, for example. Rarely, more severe side effects may occur.

As previously noted, the pairing of THC and CBD in equal amounts has primarily been studied in relation to Sativex, with potential side effects including:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Memory/concentration problems
• Motility issues (constipation/diarrhea)

Side effects were found to affect a small portion of patients and frequently tapered off within a few days of starting treatment. That said, there have been rare reports of more serious side effects, such as significant behavioral changes, typically tied to drug interactions with other muscle relaxants or antispasmodic medications.

However, when you follow best practices for use, the chances of severe side effects seem to be minimal.

Safety Measures to Follow

First and foremost, you should always speak with a trusted medical professional before adding new substances to your personal care regimen. This is particularly important if you’re already taking medications that may increase risks for drug interaction or if you have a preexisting medical condition that could lead to known side effects.

Sativex, for example, is not recommended for patients with a history of psychotic disorders, nor is it recommended for pregnant women or children under the age of 18. When you start a new health regimen, it’s always best to understand potential side effects.

Since a 1:1 THC:CBD product could cause dizziness or drowsiness, driving or operating heavy machinery is not recommended until you’re sure you aren’t suffering from these side effects.

Recommended Conditions for Use

Different ratios of THC and CBD can be used for various purposes. A 1:1 THC:CBD mixture should be well-suited to anyone dealing with discomfort and swelling or discomfort caused by swelling. CBD is well-known for its anti-swelling and antioxidant effects.

When THC binds with cannabinoid receptors in the body, it has been found to help relieve discomfort. Pairing these two powerful cannabinoids could increase the efficacy of both. That said, elevating the level of CBD relative to THC might simultaneously help mitigate some psychoactive effects.

Tips for Maximizing Benefits

Depending on your condition and the effects you hope to achieve (or avoid), you may or may not be an ideal candidate for products containing THC and CBD in equal measure.

Patients dealing with severe or chronic discomfort may prefer the elevated relief of products with more THC, especially if they don’t mind the accompanying psychoactive effects.

Those coping with worry or swelling may opt for products with more CBD and little to no THC, particularly if they’re concerned about impairment. Maximizing the benefits of any wellness product requires considering your condition and the anticipated effects of treatment. It’s always best to discuss changes to your regimen with a medical professional.

Are THC-CBD Products Right for You?

As with any wellness product, you want to find what best meets your needs and preferences. When it comes to THC and CBD, you’ll want to learn all you can about anticipated effects, especially when blended in different ratios.

If you want to get your hands on the best organic cannabinoid products that are safe, natural, and effective, look no further than The Hemp Doctor! Our collection is vast and full of choices for every need. Whether you’re searching for CBD, Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, or the newest cannabinoid products, we promise you won’t find a better selection. Contact us today to learn more.