Why THC Might Not Be The Best Metric For Cannabis Quality

For as long as I can remember, I was always told that higher THC percentages automatically meant a better buzz. It has become the determining factor for most consumers, refusing to settle for anything less than the most potent chronic. And I can see why people would lean that way - In their minds, they probably equate it to alcohol, assuming a 40% whiskey will kick more than a 5% beer. However, cannabis is far different from booze, and possibly even more complex.

So, is THC really the best way to judge cannabis quality? Well, despite what your grow-it-all buddy down the road says, the research points to - No. As research into cannabis chemistry evolves, it's becoming pretty clear that THC is just one piece of the whole pot puzzle. 

The true quality of cannabis is influenced by a range of factors and combinations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and even lesser-known compounds that shape the overall experience. So let’s dive in and see what this weed’s really made of. 

TL;DR:

THC percentage is a poor way to judge cannabis quality. A strain’s effects, flavor, and overall experience come from how cannabinoids, terpenes, and aroma compounds like VSCs work together—what some call the “synergy effect.”

Minor cannabinoids like CBG and THCV can dramatically shape the high, while terpenes like myrcene or limonene can mimic or modify how THC feels. Add in proper curing, rich aroma, and visual appeal, and you’ve got a much more complete picture of quality than a lab number alone can offer.

Forget THC hunting—start looking for balance, depth, and complexity.

Redefining What Makes us High: The Teamwork of Cannabis Compounds

One of the most compelling reasons why THC alone doesn't get the final say is the interrelationship between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds such as VSCs (Volatile Sulfur Compounds). All these underappreciated compounds work together to create a unique, diverse, and overall enhanced experience. Research by Gerhard Nahler (2019) found that non-cannabinoid compounds like thymol and eugenol can significantly influence the effects of THC. This evidence suggests that a strain’s punch isn't just about how much THC it contains, but also about what else is in the mix.

The term "entourage effect" has been widely used to describe this interaction; however, some researchers argue that the science behind it is still in development. Instead, many scientists often refer to this inter-compound relationship as the “Synergistic Effect”, or simply, the synergy.

This means that even though a strain may contain 25% THC, it may not be as enjoyable an experience as a mid-level strain that is rich in terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and minor cannabinoids like CBG and CBC. It's like seeing a band with the most incredible singer, but the rest of the musicians lack the skill to keep up. That wouldn't be a band worth watching. Just like a high THC level isn't going to get me to enjoy a strain that tastes like dust and dried leaves.

Minor Cannabinoids Play a Bigger Role Than You Think

Beyond THC, the so-called star of the show, there are over 100 other cannabinoids that influence how a strain makes you feel. Studies conducted by McPartland and Russo (2001) were presented in the Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, providing compelling evidence of this. They were able to demonstrate how cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBN interact with THC to either amplify or moderate its effects.

Some minor cannabinoids, like THCV, are known to have energetic, uplifting effects, while others, like CBN, contribute to sedation. This means that two strains with the same THC percentage can have wildly different effects depending on their minor cannabinoid content. The problem with modern-day strains is that many breeders are so hyper-focused on elevating their THC counts that they are letting crucial cannabinoids like CBD fall to the wayside.

Terpenes: The Real MVPs of Flavor and Effects

Terpenes are more than just one of the many aromatic compounds that give cannabis its yummy scents and flavors. They play an integral part in interacting with cannabinoids, which could ultimately influence the high you experience. Researcher, Justin E LaVigne (2021), found that specific terpenes, such as myrcene, limonene, and pinene, can mimic cannabinoids by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors, enhancing or altering THC’s effects. This means that a citrus-scented strain rich in limonene might feel more uplifting, while a strain with high myrcene levels may feel more sedative—even if both contain the same THC percentage.

This is another example of how cannabis compounds other than THC play a vital role in the type of buzz a strain can produce. Beyond their psychoactive influence, terpenes and VSCs also shape the overall sensory quality of cannabis. A strain that smells rich, complex, and fresh is often more enjoyable than one that is bland or harsh, reinforcing that THC alone doesn’t determine quality.

The Science of Aroma and Flavor

While terpenes play a role in how cannabis smells and tastes, they’re not the only compounds at work. Recent studies by Abstrax have identified up to 500 distinct compounds that contribute to a strain's fragrance, possibly even more than terpenes.  Lian Oswald (2023) identified volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) as key players in the pungent aromas of certain strains. So we can thank VSCs for the "dank", “skunky” or “gassy” scent that is often associated with premium cannabis, further reinforcing that aroma complexity is more than just terpenes.

Further research has found that different drying and curing methods affect the preservation of these aromatic compounds. Strains with identical THC content can have drastically different flavor and aroma experiences based on how well (or badly) they were processed. This is another reason to always dry and cure your bud properly. 

The Role of Moisture, Color, and Overall Presentation

Beyond the technical jargon and complex chemistry, there's a little thing known as "bag appeal". Physical characteristics such as color vibrancy, trichome density, and moisture content play a big role in a weed's visual quality. These are often the first things a consumer should look for when stocking up on some green. 

The appearance of the flower can be a clear indicator of how well a strain was grown and cured. Researchers, Ravindra B. Malabadi (2025), found that vibrant coloration, particularly rich greens, purples, and oranges, are linked to higher consumer appeal and reflects optimal chlorophyll breakdown. In other words, the prettier a weed looks, the greater consumer appeal it will have. 

Moisture content is another crucial factor. Studies have shown that ideal water activity levels, ranging from 0.55 to 0.65, help preserve cannabinoids and terpenes. While at the same time preventing microbial contamination. Properly cured cannabis with the right moisture balance tends to burn more smoothly, thus enhancing flavor and ensuring the best possible experience—regardless of THC percentage. 

A More Holistic Approach to Cannabis Quality

So, if THC isn’t the best way to judge cannabis quality, what is? Well, the best cannabis experiences come from strains that offer a well-rounded profile. Instead of chasing high THC numbers, seek out strains that have a good balance between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other volatile compounds. This also applies to growers who are out seed shopping – strains with more diverse profiles are likely to grow better and stronger than those bred purely for high THC production. Proper curing and handling after harvest  will also contribute greatly to the final quality of a strain.

Here are a couple of things to consider next time you're on a weed run: 

• Aroma and Flavor: Does the flower have a strong, pleasant scent? Does it taste smooth and enjoyable?

• Cannabinoid Diversity: Does it contain minor cannabinoids that enhance or balance the experience? Often displayed as “Total Cannabinoid Content”. 

• Terpene Profile: Does it have a rich and complex terpene composition that contributes to its high effects?

• Visual and Physical Quality: Is the flower well-cured, properly trimmed, and free from signs of poor processing?

By looking beyond THC and considering the synergy of cannabinoids, terpene complexity, and overall flower quality, consumers can make more informed choices and find strains that truly match their desired experience. 

So next time you’re out shopping for a tasty new cannabis strain to grow, don’t just settle for the strain with the highest THC—go for the best overall quality. It'll make the high considerably better, and I mean, isn't that what we’re after anyway?  

Until next time - Happy growing and stay buzzed. 

Research referenced for this article: 

• Nahler, G. (2019). Cannabidiol and Contributions of Major Hemp Phytocompounds to the “Entourage Effect”; Possible Mechanisms. Alternative, Complementary & Integrative Medicine.

• McPartland, J. M., & Russo, E. B. (2001). Cannabis and Cannabis Extracts: Greater Than the Sum of Their Parts? Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 1(3–4), 103–132. https://doi.org/10.1300/J175v01n03_08

• "Determination of Terpenoid Profile in Dry Cannabis Flowers and Extracts Obtained from Different Cannabis Varieties" Authors: T. Serafimovska, M. Darkovska Serafimovska, et al. Year: 2021. Published on: Academia.edu

• “Identification of a New Family of Prenylated Volatile Sulfur Compounds in Cannabis Revealed by Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography”

• Iain W. H. Oswald, Marcos A. Ojeda, Ryan J. Pobanz, Kevin A. Koby, Anthony J. Buchanan, Josh Del Rosso, Mario A. Guzman, and Thomas J. Martin

• ACS Omega 2021 6 (47), 31667-31676 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c04196

• Ravindra B. Malabadi, Kiran P. Kolkar, Karen Viviana Castaño Coronado and Raju K. Chalannavar. Cannabis sativa: Quality control testing measures and guidelines: An update. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 2025, 14(01), 110-129. Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjaets.2025.14.1.0008.