THC vs. Terpenes: What Gets You High?

If you know anything about cannabis, you know that THC is the main psychoactive ingredient that gets you high. However, if you know two things, you’ll also know that there are hundreds of unique strains out there, and each one can affect your body and mind differently.

But if they’re all using THC to help you feel good, why is there so much variation from one plant to the next? Well, while there are several factors at play (including the type of plant it is, such as Sativa or Indica), one secret ingredient may be terpenes.

In fact, the terpene discussion has become so widespread that it begs the question: THC or terpenes: what gets you high? Let’s find out.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are chemical compounds found in most plants (and some animals). Typically, terpenes are what give a particular plant a specific aroma or taste. For example, myrcene is a dominant terpene found in some cannabis plants, and it’s also found in hops and lemongrass. Myrcene has a natural peppery and spicy aroma, which can affect the overall sensory experience of weed strains that have it.

Science isn’t particularly clear as to why plants create terpenes, but one guess is that they protect plants from animals and the elements. Even less is known regarding how they interact with the human body.

How Do Terpenes Affect You?

One of the prevailing theories in the terpene discussion is that they interact with the different cannabinoids (like THC) to alter the overall effect of the plant. For example, you could have two nearly identical strains with similar THC potencies, and yet they can deliver remarkably different feelings in the brain and body.

Terpenes can also have health benefits. Research suggests some terpenes (like myrcene) can help with inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia. However, each plant has a combination of terpenes, and there are slight variations from one plant (or crop) to the next. That’s also what drives the “entourage effect.” All the different elements inside the plant work together to create a unique experience.

Which is More Important: THC or Terpenes?

Rather than thinking of THC and terpenes as opposite sides of a coin, think of them like this. THC is the vehicle that gets you high, and terpenes determine the route. Some strains take a more direct approach, hitting hard and fast. Other strains may take a more leisurely and scenic route, giving you a pleasant head high that sneaks up on you.

It’s also almost impossible to tell how exactly a set of terpenes will affect your body and mind. Basically, if you come across a strain that you particularly like, pay attention to the terpene profile and look for strains with a similar blend.

Get the Best Weed Strains From Foothill Wellness

No matter how you like to take your cannabis, Foothill Wellness Center has everything you need. We work with the top growers and manufacturers in California to deliver top-tier strains that combine the highest THC potencies with the best terpene profiles. Browse our selection online today!