Potency testing will assist patients in determining the strain of cannabis that will be best for their health needs. It allows the patient to make informed choices regarding the medical cannabis that they consume. Potency testing educates patients on the different strengths of THC, CBD and CBN’s for a particular strain.  This will inform patients in making choices that will benefit their health requirements and ensure that they are taking the medicine that best fits their needs.

Cannabis contains hundreds of compounds which include cannabinoids, glycoproteins, alkaloids, terpinoids and flavonoids, among many others. Over 100 active compounds with different properties are collectively called cannabinoids.

Research has shown that some of the active components in cannabis affect our bodies similarly to a class of molecules called endocannabinoids. These bind to the receptors in parts of a patient’s brain and body. This receptor binding influences a patient’s immune system, influences a patient’s mood, memory, sleep, appetite, movement, and can even protect nerve cells from premature death.

While we believe that these compounds interact in a variety of ways that affect each patient differently, we analyze the three major active compounds present in the medical cannabis and give you the information in an easy to read format based on percentages. The three major compounds that we test for are:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the compound that most people are familiar with in marijuana.  It is the main psychoactive compound in medical cannabis. Research has shown that THC binds to the receptor located mainly in the central nervous system. THC is known for its psychoactive qualities which can create a feeling of euphoria. It is also thought to have antioxidant activity.

Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is a non-psychoactive compound which is most known for its pain relief. Research shows that it can help relieve convulsions, inflammation, nausea, anxiety, and inhibit cancer cell growth.  Because of its non-psychoactive properties it may reduce the euphoric effects of THC.

Cannabinol (CBN): CBN is a compound that is produced from the degradation of THC. Fresh plants often have a low percentage of CBN.