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1:1 THC:CBD Ratio – Why Cannabinoid Ratios Matter

The 1:1 THC:CBD ratio is one of the most sought-after cannabinoid combinations. But does the balanced ratio really have any valuable properties?   

Known as “the golden ratio,” this cannabinoid blend has produced some of the best therapeutic benefits of any ratio. In my experience, the effects are often far superior to using CBD or THC alone. 

While 1:1 THC:CBD is not the most common ratio found in cannabis products available today, it’s becoming more sought after.

Keep reading to find out why combining cannabis compounds like this is a gamechanger for not just medical cannabis patients but also those who also enjoy the plant recreationally.

cannabis microscope

1:1 THC:CBD Ratio Meaning

A 1:1 CBD:THC ratio simply means the cannabis has equal amounts of THC and CBD. 

Such products are often referred to as “balanced” products. Whereas a 20:1 CBD:THC ratio means that there are 20 parts CBD for every 1 part THC.

So how much THC and CBD are in a product with a 1:1 ratio? 

Let’s use a 1:1 CBD:THC edible as an example. 

If it has a total of 100 mg cannabinoids per package and 10 servings, each dose will have the same amount of each cannabinoid: 10 mg CBD and 10 mg THC.

THC ratios should not be confused with Delta 8 or D-9 THC. This is because it doesn’t specifically refer to the ratio of these Isomers. 

It refers to THC as a whole, and you’ll need to read the product packaging or ask your budtender to find out the exact isomer a product is referring to.

How do THC and CBD differ?

You can call these two primary cannabinoids. 

THC and CBD are the most commonly found active ingredients in cannabis. THC is the cannabinoid with psychotropic effects. Yup. The one that gets you high!

Whereas CBD is the cannabinoid considered to provide benefits without psychoactive effects. But, this is generally incorrect – CBD is not psychotropic, but it is psychoactive. 

The former refers to the fact it doesn’t get you high, but as it causes changes in your brain, it is psychoactive. At least technically!

1:3 releaf cream

Why 1:1 CBD THC Ratios Matter?

When combined, these two cannabinoids have unique effects. 

Different ratios have been shown to have distinct beneficial effects like reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. In comparison, higher doses of CBD appear to have the most therapeutic effects.

Research, though limited, suggests that THC works with CBD to create optimal medical benefits because of how they interact in our bodies. 

When taken together, we experience what is known as the “entourage effect.”

Cannabinoid & Terpene Synergies 

The 1:1 ratio is partially responsible for igniting the entourage effect.

Related Read: Synergies of cannabis 

It basically means they work synergistically in our bodies via the endocannabinoid system

This aids us in receiving the full benefits of THC (relief from nerve and muscle pain) and CBD (reduced inflammation and immune support). 

Some research suggests that other cannabinoids and terpenes are needed to reach the full effect. But overall, the data varies. 

Nonetheless, there is a chemical process that occurs at the cellular level when we consume THC and CBD together:

THC partially binds to CB1 receptors in our brain which gives us the psychoactive high. CBD binds very slightly to CB2 receptors only if THC is available and modifies the way THC interacts with the receptor. 

Without the interaction with THC, CBD cannot reach its full therapeutic potential. So even on a molecular level, the chemical compounds are working together.

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Studies on 1:1 Ratios

There are many peer review studies to support the beneficial effects of mixing both cannabinoids. 

One study published in 2018 compared the effects THC and CBD had on anxiety when taken separately and together (Boggs, Nguyen, et al).

It discovered that there was no profound reduction of anxiety when used separately. However, when CBD and THC were taken together, it mitigated the effects of THC-induced anxiety.

However, other research exhibits conflicting results, including research looking at four different studies on THC and CBD’s effect on pain relief. 

One of those studies suggested that combined ratios of CBD and THC provided superior benefits to being administered alone.

Of the test groups, the patients using different CBD:THC ratios had a 30%+ reduction in pain compared to 20% for the group only using THC (Perry, Ton, Allan).

Since research on the subject is limited, further studies need to be done to reach more conclusive evidence. 

Nonetheless, the few case studies and reviews to date suggest that the 1:1 THC:CBD ratio can offer promising results.

1:1 Cannabis Cannabinoids Ratio Benefits

Currently, there is little peer reviewed evidence for the science behind the benefits of this equal ratio. 

Nonetheless, studies are currently being done on the efficacy of 1:1 THC:CBD for medical use. 

One of their most agreed-upon benefits is CBD’s ability to combat adverse effects associated with THC. Namely, THC-induced anxiety.

As a result, some people prefer an equal amount of THC:CBD. A balanced ratio results in a more balanced set of effects. 

While little is known about how this combination truly works in our bodies, some science holds promising results for using THC and CBD at the same time.

1:1 Ratio Therapeutic Benefits In Medical Marijuana 

Some of the potential benefits of using a 1:1 CBD:THC ratio are:

  • Relieving stress
  • Easing anxiety
  • Treating insomnia
  • Reducing muscle spasms in MS patients
  • Relieving chronic pain

Related Reads: Medical Marijuana advantages, MMJ VS Weed

THC & CBD Ratios In Cannabis Products

Different ratios have varied effects and different therapeutic properties. Let’s take a look at other common ratios of THC and CBD found in the cannabis plant and related products:

1:0 THC CBD

This ratio is pure THC. The “0” indicates that no CBD is present in the cannabis or hemp product. With this proportion, you would have intoxicating effects absent of therapeutic effects from CBD.

In short, you’ll feel the hallmark euphoric high that we’ve come to love and expect from THC.

5:1 CBD THC

A 5:1 ratio means that there is roughly 5 times as much CBD than THC present. Or for every 5 parts of CBD, there is 1 part THC. 

This ratio is a good jumping-off point for newbies who want to relax but not feel overwhelmed by the effects of high THC cannabis. 

You can expect mild euphoric effects and mild pain relief from the THC ratio. As well as the anti-inflammatory and tranquility from the CBD ratio.

20:1 CBD THC

This ratio means each dose will have 20 parts CBD for every 1 part THC. Thus, the cannabis product will contain about 20 times more CBD than THC.

Higher doses of CBD are typically used for their medical properties such as anxiety relief.

Many patients claim that a 20:1 ratio produces little to no intoxicating effects. Since it is heavily CBD dominant, a product with this ratio will be largely non-psychoactive.

A good option for beginners, this ratio is great for daytime use. It should help reduce inflammation, pain, and anxiety.

It’s also preferred by pet owners seeking pain or anxiety relief for their furry friends.

33:1 CBD THC

A 33:1 CBD:THC ratio is perhaps the most desired by medical patients wanting benefits with a nonexistent high. 

This is the ratio found in CBD hemp products. It means that for every 1 part THC there are 33 parts CBD. Products with such ratios are almost pure CBD.

This ratio can potentially offer pain and stress relief. In my experience, you can expect it to have anti-inflammatory effects as well as mental and physical relaxation without the psychoactive high.

marijuana bud ready for harvest

1:1 THC CBD Strains

Certain cannabis strains are known to be CBD dominant. 

Since CBD is the second most common active ingredient in cannabis, products with higher CBD levels are somewhat harder to find in both recreational and medical marijuana. 

These are the most well-known cannabis strains that contain 1:1 ratios of THC to CBD:

1. Argyle

This strain is prized for its medicinal properties that include relaxation and easing body pain. It’s a favorite for users seeking a medical marijuana strain.

Strain type: Indica-dominant hybrid

Genetics: Afghani x Sensi Star

Aroma & Terpenes: Its dominant terpene is myrcene. This gives the strain an earthy aroma that smells of garlic and mangoes with fruity and spicy undertones.

Effects: Pain relief, stress relief, anti-inflammatory, drowsiness, decrease in muscle spasms.

2. Dancehall

Dancehall is a rare strain that’s popular with medical users for treating pain and social anxiety. Though it’s newer to the Cannabis/Hemp scene, it has already won a few awards.

Strain Type: Sativa-dominant hybrid

Genetics: Juanita La Lagrimosa x Kalijah

Aroma & Terpenes: It has myrcene terps. The aroma is tropical and spicy, with hints of earthiness.

Effects: euphoria, reduces stress, uplifting

3. Shark Shock

Shark Shock is known for producing intense highs combined with sedative effects. It’s an in-demand strain in the medical cannabis community.

Strain Type: Indica-dominant hybrid

Genetics: White widow x Skunk #1

Aroma & Terpenes: Its dominant terpenes are pinene and myrcene. This gives the strain a woodsy aroma and a skunk smell.

Effects: relaxation, anxiety, stress-relief, tranquility

4. Hurkle

Hurkle produces multiple medicinal effects making it ideal for treating various conditions, including pain and anxiety.

Strain Type: Hybrid

Genetics: Harlequin x Querkle

Aroma & Terpenes: Dominant terpenes are caryophyllene, pinene, and myrcene. This strain emits strong aromas of coffee with flavors of grape and chocolate.

Effects: minimizing stress, pain, and anxiety, promoting major relaxation

5. Royal Highness

An award-winning strain, Royal Highness is ideal for treating anxiety and chronic stress without lulling you to sleep.

Strain Type: Hybrid

Genetics: Respect x Dancehall

Aroma & Terpenes: Dominant terpenes are carene and myrcene. They combine to create a sweet pear aroma mixed with menthol flavors.

Effects: high energy, attentiveness, alleviating pain, calming anxiety

Wrapping Up CBD and THC Proportions

Combining cannabinoid ratios can yield positive therapeutic effects. 

Though evidence is contentious, 1:1 THC:CBD has been shown to offer some of the most sought-after benefits without feeling zoned out from high THC medical cannabis. 

While certain ratios may be harder to find in recreational products, they should become more accessible as they gain popularity.

We always recommend consulting your doctor before using cannabis ratios to treat medical conditions or symptoms.