What Does THC Stand For?

No matter what you think of cannabis (or whether or not you use it), there’s no question that cannabis is one fascinating plant. This once-wild-growing plant could at times in history be found in almost every corner of our planet. Different cultures from all over the world have relied on the plant’s therapeutic value for centuries. The unique thing about cannabis is this: this plant can be used for so many different reasons and has been found to be effective for so many purposes. The secret to such diversity is cannabinoids, and THC just happens to be one of the most prominent.

So, what does THC stand for exactly?

THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. The chemical name of this cannabinoid is even longer: trans-delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol. During the cannabis plant’s life cycle, it will produce around 400 unique chemical compounds— an estimated 113 of those compounds are cannabinoids like THC & CBD (cannabidiol). What most people don’t know is that the THC associated with that euphoric feeling is not the only type of THC found in cannabis; there is actually a handful:

• THCA – (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
• THCV – (tetrahydrocannabivarin)
• Delta-8 THC – (trans-delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol)
• Delta-9 THC (trans-delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol)
• Delta-10 THC (trans-delta 10-tetrahydrocannabinol)

For the sake of clarity, here we will be looking at delta-9 THC—the primary cannabinoid related to the euphoric effects of cannabis.

How much THC is in cannabis?

The level of THC can vary depending on the strain. The general range is anywhere from 0.5 percent to 20 percent THC. However, cannabis today can be found with THC levels up to 35%. Any cannabis with less than 0.3 percent THC is now legally categorized as hemp. This cannabinoid can be found in high concentrations in a lot of the carefully curated strains you find today, but some research suggests that many of the wild varieties of cannabis had lower THC levels.THC content is thought to be the cause of the cannabis plant’s desirable euphoric effects, and while research is ongoing, it’s a big reason why high THC strains are so popular.

What are the therapeutic benefits of THC?

THC is most often associated with its trademark, high-inducing abilities because of how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the human body. This is why most general cannabis users are well aware of THC and how it affects them. However, THC has a long history for its medicinal use than for recreation (3,000 years). And, thankfully, even modern governments have set forth on a path to accepting cannabis as medicine, which is why the plant has been legalized in several states for medicinal purposes only.

• THC may be valuable for:
• Pain management
• Nausea prevention
• Increasing appetite
• Supporting memory

Here’s a look at the best strains for pain & inflammation.

Find Out How Valuable THC Can Be to Your Health

Whether you’re into the recreational effects of cannabis or looking for the therapeutic value of this interesting plant, THC is one cannabinoid well worth getting to know. To make sure you have a good experience with THC, always get your cannabis and cannabis-infused products from a reliable dispensary. Take a look at our menu at Uma Flowers to find a THC-containing product or fresh flower to try for yourself.

You may also like: How to Vape Weed