How Has the Strength of Cannabis Changed Over the Past 25 Years?

The strength and potency of cannabis have undergone significant changes over the past 25 years, with notable increases in the levels of THC, the main psychoactive component in marijuana. This transformation has been influenced by advances in growing techniques, selective breeding, and a better understanding of plant strains.

Background on Cannabis Potency

Today, it is common to find cannabis with THC levels exceeding 20%, although this trend is not exclusive to the U.S. Health Canada, responsible for Canada's health policy, reports that the average THC potency of dried cannabis increased from 3% in the 1980s to around 15% today. Several studies have demonstrated a significant rise in THC potency over the years, suggesting that similar trends have likely occurred globally.

Factors Contributing to Increased Potency

Several factors contribute to the increased potency of cannabis:

Growing Techniques: Advances in growing techniques have led to the production of stronger and more potent strains. Growers have developed methods such as cloning and selective breeding to enhance the potency of their crops. Selective Breeding: Breeders have selectively chosen and crossed the most potent strains to create new, stronger varieties. This process can involve cloning plants before flowering to ensure consistency and breeding potent plants with promising males. Better Understanding of Plant Strains: Knowledge about the effects of different cannabis strains has improved, allowing growers to create more potent and desired products.

Comparative Analysis

The difference in cannabis composition and strength between today and the 1970s is significant.

70s Marijuana: THC levels in marijuana from the 1970s ranged from 1% to 3%, which was substantially lower than the modern averages. Current Cannabis: Today, the average THC level in marijuana buds is around 17%, with some strains reaching up to 30% THC. Extracts: Extracts, which can contain THC levels up to 98%, did not exist in the 1970s. Advances in extraction methods have led to these high-potency products. Edibles and Vaping: Edibles and vaping systems, which allow for precise dosing, did not exist in the 1970s and are now widely used in modern cannabis consumption.

Personal Experience vs. Modern Cannabis

Any personal experience more than five years old with marijuana is irrelevant to today's cannabis, as the plant has undergone significant changes. The advent of better growing techniques, selective breeding, and a better understanding of plant strains has produced a much stronger and more potent product.

Conclusion

The increase in cannabis potency over the past 25 years is a result of advancements in growing, breeding, and understanding the effects of different strains. Today's cannabis is far more potent, making it crucial for users to be aware of the differences and to use cannabis responsibly.