How Much THC is in CBD flower?

What is CBD Flower? 

CBD flower (AKA CBD hemp flower) is often referred to as hemp buds or simply buds. These are the dried and harvested flowers of the female hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa Plant). 

Simply put, CBD flower is focused on CBD (Cannabidiol), a type of cannabinoid found in the cannabis plants. Unlike THC flowers, CBD hemp flowers contain high levels of CBD and minimal tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

Do note that according to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is defined as any cannabis plant or any part of the plant including the seeds with no more than 0.3 percent THC [1]. 

To follow the legal guidelines, all the reputed CBD manufacturers that produce a variety of CBD products such as CBD gummies, CBD oil, or CBD body rubs ensure they are derived from hemp plants and contain less than 0.3 percent THC.  

However, the unprocessed dried CBD flowers that we’re discussing can be used to smoke or vape. Manufacturers also extract CBD flower oil from the buds. This CBD bud oil is then infused into tinctures, edibles, and topical products. 

Related: CBD Flower Vs THC Flower 

Drying and Curing of CBD Flowers

To sell and distribute CBD flowers, manufacturers prepare them through a drying and curing process. 

•    After harvesting, the freshly cut CBD flowers have a bit too much moisture.

•    To fix this, they are hung upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated space. 

•    Depending on the factors like humidity and temperature, this process usually takes a few days to a few weeks.  

•    Once the flowers are dry, they go through curing.  

•    In this step, the dried flowers are stored in airtight containers.  

•    During this time, flowers continue to release moisture and develop their full potential in terms of flavor, aroma, and potency.

•    This process can last from a few weeks to a few months. 

Lastly, before packaging, farmers trim the buds using shears to remove any remaining leaves or stem bits. 

What Is in CBD Flower?

Apart from cannabidiol and THC, CBD flowers contain other important compounds that make them unique.  
 
Here is a list of compounds of cannabidiol flowers:  

•    Cannabinoids — CBG (Cannabigerol), CBC (Cannabichromene) 
•    Terpenes — Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene, Pinene, Humulene, Linalool, Terpinolene (These are highly aromatic compounds)  
•    Flavonoids 
•    Phytocannabinoid acid — CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)  

Most of these cannabinoid compounds provide anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic effects. Terpenes contains earthly aroma and gives floral and fruity characteristics. 

How Much THC Is in CBD Flower

The THC content in CBD flowers varies based on factors such as the specific strain, cultivation practices, and processing methods.  
 
According to the Hemp Farming Act of 2018, hemp flowers must possess 0.3 percent THC or less to be legally classified as hemp. THC levels above this percentage will be considered marijuana [2].  

However, cannabidiol flowers can have up to 5% THC which obviously exceeds the legal limits. Generally, THC levels in CBD buds fall within a range of 0.05% to 0.35%. This is well below the legal limit. 
 
Of note, CBD flower is mostly taken by its users keeping in mind that it will provide all the therapeutic benefits without inducing any psychoactive effects. 

Related: CBD Vs THC 

How To Check THC Levels In CBD Flowers? 

To check cannabidiol flower THC concentration, first, you need to review the lab testing results provided by reputable CBD flower sellers.  
 
Here are some important steps to understand and verify CBD hemp flower THC percentage: 
1.    Choose a reputable supplier or manufacturer known for transparency and quality. 

2.    Reputable CBD online store often provide detailed information about their products, including lab testing results. 

3.    Look for third-party lab reports or certificates of analysis (CoA) that disclose the percentage of THC in CBD flowers.

4.    You’ll be more likely to find it in the cannabinoid profile section.

5.    Confirm that the CBD flower product complies with legal requirements. To learn about your state laws regarding CBD and THC products, check out CBD laws by state. 

6.    As cannabinoid levels can vary between batches, make sure the date of testing is recent. 

7.    If you cannot find the reports about THC levels, contact the suppliers. 

The Effects of THC-Contained CBD Flowers

The effects of CBD flowers are subjective and vary among individuals. It can be influenced by many factors such as consumption timing and personal sensitivity.  
 
Here are some effects of THC-infused cannabidiol flowers: 

•    Initially, you might feel a mild “buzz” similar to post-exercise. 
•    This sensation contributes to notable benefits including “increased focus”, and “potential body high.” 
•    Different strains of cannabis flower (e.g., indica, sativa, hybrid) may influence how you feel, for instance, they can induce motivation, energy levels, or relaxation. 
•    These flowers can also help you feel less anxious and stressed, sleep better, ease pain, and keep your skin healthy. 
•    Taking too much CBD flower may reduce immediate effects due to the adaptation of the endocannabinoid system.  
•    CBD itself isn’t psychoactive, any “mild high” is due to trace amounts of THC. 

To sum up, CBD flower effects typically include subtle relaxation, increased focus, mild high, and energetic. However, certain strains and the inclusion of other ingredients may cause excessive sleepiness or drowsiness as well. 
 
Do note CBD flowers are also available in a variety of forms including edibles, tea, smoking, and vaping. Smoking and vaping of CBD hemp flower have the highest bioavailability rate. So, smoking or vaping these buds can provide quick relief. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

People who searched for "How much THC is in CBD flower?" also asked the following questions. To help you understand better, we've answered these questions below. 

Does CBD Flowers Expire?

Ans: Yes. Typically, CBD hemp flower can expire within six months to a year. To extend its lifespan, you can store it in a cool, and dark place. In addition, moisture, air, and light exposure can impact its freshness. Whether the flowers have degraded over time or not can be checked by observing their color, scent, or flavor. 

Does CBD Flower Get You High?

Ans: CBD alone can not make you high. However, if the CBD flowers you’ve taken are enriched with too much THC, it may get you high. Note that, these flowers generally contain a low amount of THC, which is not enough to make you stoned. 

Is CBD hemp Flower Legal?

Ans: Yes. CBD flowers that come from hemp are legal in the U.S.A. A big thanks to the 2018 Farm bill that legalized hemp and hemp-derived products nationwide. However, to align with legal compliance, no cannabidiol flower can contain more than 0.3 percent THC. 

How Much THC Is in CBD Buds?

Ans:  Full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD buds can legally contain up to 0.3% THC. CBD products, however, are not regulated by the FDA. While shopping you might encounter products that have more than 0.3 percent THC. 

The Bottom Line

Hope you have got the answer to “How much THC is in CBD flower”. To recapitulate, CBD hemp flowers or hemp buds are collected directly from the hemp plants and preserved through drying and curing. Apart from CBD, these buds contain other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that are safe to consume and have many beneficiary properties. 

In addition, when hemp buds are industrially manufactured, they adhere to federal guidelines and contain only 0.3 percent THC. However, different strains of CBD flowers may possess up to 5% THC and make its user feel a “mild high”. Therefore, always check the lab test report before purchasing CBD hemp flowers. 

Reference: 

1.    Admin. (2019, May 18). The legalization of hemp. Food and Drug Law Institute (FDLI). https://www.fdli.org/2019/02/the-legalization-of-hemp/

2.    Wikipedia contributors. (2023, May 4). Hemp Farming Act of 2018. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp_Farming_Act_of_2018 

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