Comparing cannabis: how to do it?

How do you choose the right cannabis? The range is vast: from recreational strains to medicinal varieties, and from traditional flowers to modern CBD edibles. Each choice has its own effects, price and quality. That’s why it’s important to compare cannabis carefully before making a decision.

In this article, you will read step by step what to look for: from product type and strength to origin, price and user experience.

Cannabis is not a standard product. The quality, strength and perception vary greatly from strain to strain. The provider also plays a role in this. If you don’t compare strains properly, you can quickly pay too much or get a product that doesn’t match your expectations.

In addition, safety comes into play: not all products are as carefully tested or monitored. Comparing cannabis helps you to:

• Find a product that suits your purpose, such as relaxation, pain relief or creativity.
• Get value for money by balancing price and quality.
• Choose healthier, by paying attention to provenance and test results.

1. The type of product

Cannabis comes in different forms, each with its own properties and benefits:

• Dried flowers: Traditional form of cannabis, still the most widely used. Quality depends on cultivation method, drying process and strain (indica, sativa, hybrid).
• Hash: Compressed resin from the cannabis plant. Often stronger than dried flowers, but highly variable in quality.
• Oils: Popular for medicinal use because they are easier and more accurate to dose.
• Edibles: food products containing cannabis extract. Effects come on later, but usually last longer.
• Concentrates: Think wax, shatter and live resin. They are very potent and especially suitable for experienced users.

2. Strengths and effects

The potency of cannabis is indicated in percentages of THC and CBD:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): provides the psychoactive effects[source: PubMed].
• CBD (cannabidiol): does not give a high, but is associated with relaxing and analgesic properties in some studies [source: PubMed].

Note: While some studies suggest that CBD may be relaxing or analgesic, this is not medical advice. The effects may vary from person to person. Use of CBD or other cannabis products for health purposes should always be discussed with a physician.

Therefore, always look at the ratio of THC to CBD. A product with a high THC content can be intense, while more CBD can balance out the effects.

For inspiration on how different substances can work together, also read our blog on combining microdosing with other substances.

3. Quality and origin

When comparing cannabis, quality is key. In doing so, note:

• Growing method: Organically grown produce typically contains less pesticides and chemical residues.
• Provenance: Find out where and how the cannabis was produced. Products from regulated markets are usually safer.
• Testing: Reliable providers have their products tested for cannabinoids, terpenes and harmful substances. Check these results.

For comparison, also read our article on Why it’s a good idea to test your drugs?

4. Price and value

The price of cannabis varies widely. Therefore, pay attention:

• Calculate the price per gram or per milligram of active ingredient (THC and/or CBD).
• Be critical of extremely cheap offers: often this means inferior quality.
• Premium products can be expensive without actually being better.
• Find the right balance between what you pay and what you get in return.

5. User experiences and reviews

When comparing cannabis products, it can be helpful to read others’ experiences. Online reviews and forums often give an impression of:

• Effects
• Taste
• Reliability of providers

Be critical here: not all reviews are objective. Use reviews primarily as additional information to hard data such as laboratory tests and product information.

Want to learn more about safe use of psychoactive substances? Then check out our guide to 10 tips for responsible tripping – many principles apply to cannabis as well.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Cannabis use carries risks and can be addictive [source: PubMed]. Always consult a physician before using cannabis for medical purposes.

In addition, check local laws and regulations before purchasing or using products. Use cannabis responsibly and in moderation.

For reliable information on the health risks and effects of cannabis, see the page Cannabis (Marijuana) of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH).

See also the Trimbos Institute for education on cannabis use in the Netherlands.

Written by Elke Folkersma – content developer at Elke Media.
As a professional blog writer, Elke focuses on accessible and well-researched content about health, wellness and responsible consumption. For specialized blogs, she collaborates with trusted sources and recognized professional literature.