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The Best CBD to THC Ratio for Pain Relief

Cannabis is often touted as a safe and effective treatment for pain, but finding the right product can be challenging. One decision in particular that many people struggle with is choosing a product with the best CBD to THC ratio.

Let's look at what research says about THC and CBD for pain management and relief and how this information can help you find the best CBD to THC ratio for your needs. 

What Is the CBD:THC Ratio?

When it comes to cannabis, the CBD to THC ratio (CBD:THC) refers to the amount of each cannabinoid in a given product. For example, a product with a CBD:THC ratio of 40:1 has forty parts CBD to one part THC. 

By looking at a product’s CBD:THC ratio, you can anticipate how it will make you feel and how powerful its psychoactive effects will be. The higher the THC ratio is, the more intoxicating the formulation is. 

THC vs. CBD: What's the Difference?

Cannabis is a complex plant with dozens of active compounds known as cannabinoids. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

THC is responsible for getting people “high” and is the primary cannabinoid in marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, typically comes from hemp and does not produce these same effects. In fact, certain studies suggest CBD may even counteract many of the effects of THC.

Potential Benefits of CBD and THC for Pain

For centuries, people have used cannabis to treat pain all over the world. And now both anecdotal evidence and research suggest that it may be incredibly effective. In fact, several recent studies show that THC and CBD may effectively reduce chronic pain in those with rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Additionally, CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can greatly help those with chronic and acute pain since inflammation can cause pain and discomfort. 

A 2022 review also discovered that products with a higher THC to CBD content were more beneficial for reducing pain severity associated with chronic pain. 

Although more research is needed, studies like these suggest that both THC and CBD may help with pain management, and they seem to work better together. This is likely because of a theory called the entourage effect.

What is the the Entourage Effect?

You may wonder why you need to use both cannabinoids for pain relief. This is where the entourage effect comes in.

The entourage effect is a theory suggesting cannabinoids work better when they are in conjunction with one another. In other words, when THC and CBD are together, they have a greater effect than when separated and used alone.

So, if you need pain relief, a product with both THC and CBD is your best bet.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a CBD:THC Ratio for Pain Relief

When choosing a CBD to THC ratio, it's important to understand that everyone responds to cannabis differently. Therefore, the perfect ratio for one person may not be the same for another. 

Although there is no "right" answer when choosing a CBD:THC ratio, a few general considerations can help you find the proper ratio.

1. Your Body's Individual Response to Cannabinoids

We all have different genetics and characteristics that impact how our bodies respond to cannabis. For example, your body fat percentage can significantly impact your response to cannabinoids. People with higher fat content will generally require a higher THC dose to feel the same effects as someone with less.
Other individual body considerations include:
    • Metabolism
    • Age
    • Health conditions
    • Tolerance level

2. The Delivery Method

Your delivery method can also impact your body's response to THC and CBD. The most common delivery methods are vaping, smoking, edibles, and topical creams and salves.
Edibles like Cacao Keto Bites and 1:1 Olive Oil are great because they’re long-lasting and ideal for managing chronic pain. However, they may be slower to take effect because your stomach has to digest them before they’re absorbed into the bloodstream.
If you're looking for immediate pain relief, smoking or vaporizing cannabis can provide quick relief, but it doesn't last as long. This may not be ideal for people with chronic pain since you'll need to smoke or vape constantly throughout the day for consistent relief.
Topical products are another option, and they can be very effective for localized, acute pain relief. However, they don't provide the same full-body relief that smoking or vaporizing can provide.

3. Your Preferences, Goals and the Root Cause of the Pain

In addition to how your body responds to THC and CBD, consider your preferences and goals. 
For example, if you suffer from chronic pain and inflammation, you may find that a higher CBD ratio is more effective. A higher CBD ratio is also ideal if you're looking for pain relief without strong psychoactive effects.
On the other hand, if you have acute pain from an injury or high pain levels and want quick relief, you may find that a higher THC ratio is more effective.

Why Finding the Right CBD to THC Ratio for Pain Relief is Important

If you have chronic or acute pain, finding a suitable CBD:THC ratio is essential for managing your symptoms. Not only will the perfect ratio provide potential relief, but it can also keep you from wasting money on a product that doesn’t fit your lifestyle or fulfill your needs.

For example, if you have to manage your pain while at work, you might want a product with a much higher CBD content. Purchasing one with high THC levels can keep you from using it throughout the day when you need it most.

And, if you're unsure how your body will respond, always consult a doctor or cannabis specialist before using cannabis for pain management.

Final Thoughts

THC and CBD are the most recognized cannabinoids, and both have potential pain-relieving properties. Finding the correct CBD to THC ratio is essential for achieving the most benefit. 

High CBD dosages like 10:1 or 20:1 may be helpful if you’re looking for pain and inflammation relief without getting high.

However, the perfect ratio will depend on your individual characteristics, preferences, and goals. Start with a lower THC dose and increase as needed until you find the ratio that works best for you. And always consult with a doctor or cannabis specialist before using cannabis for pain relief.

At Pantry Food Co., we know that everyone is different, and that's why we offer a variety of ratios to choose from. So whether you're looking for a higher THC ratio or a higher CBD ratio, we have what you need. Check out our edibles today to start your wellness journey.

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