The Real Reason Marijuana Is Stronger Than It Used To Be
By RHIANNON FAITH IRELAND
History - Science
Aside from marijuana's increasing popularity, the drug has been associated with an increase in potency in the last few years, which has been caused by several factors.
A 2018 paper published at the National Library of Medicine revealed that between 1995 and 2015 there was a 212% jump in THC content found in cannabis being sold.
According to the Timber Cannabis Co., this is due to improved cultivation techniques, a better understanding of the plant, and the fact it is grown in controlled environments.
Since marijuana isn't being imported as much as it was in the 1970s, the flowers aren't being compressed into bricks, which would dry them out.
Factors like light and heat further reduced the potency of these marijuana bricks, meaning that what most people ended up smoking contained very little THC.
Unregulated marijuana bags once contained a mix of compressed stems, seeds, flowers, and leaves. However, today's growers know a lot more about getting the best out of the plant.
Most of what is sold today is known as sinsemilla, the most potent part of the plant whose flower does not produce seeds. It has the highest levels of THC.
Cultivating techniques are also more advanced than ever. Hydroponic systems give growers greater control over growing conditions, allowing them to focus on potency.
As cannabis gets stronger, so does the risk of addiction because of higher THC levels. Therefore, it's important to always check the plant's source for more information.