The potency of today’s weed? This isn’t your father’s marijuana.

The increasing legalization and commercialization of marijuana has opened the door to new opportunities for innovation and research, leading to one of the most significant developments in the cannabis world: the increased potency of marijuana.

During the 1960s and 1970s, marijuana use was associated with the counterculture movement, characterized by peace signs, tie-dye shirts, and long-haired hippies. The mellow marijuana of that era, however, was a far cry from the supercharged products that users can find in the 2020s.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported in 2022 that, in samples seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), average levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the psychoactive compound in weed that produces the high), had more than tripled compared with 25 years earlier, from 5% to 16%. But that data greatly understates how powerful weed has become.

Back in the Woodstock era, the average THC content of marijuana was around 2% to 5%. Weed was generally mild.

Today, with advancements in cultivation techniques and a deeper understanding of the plant’s biology, the THC content of some strains can exceed 20% or even 30%. That’s quite a jump in potency and the effects vary greatly (see chart):

While many users appreciate the stronger effects of modern marijuana, there are growing concerns about the health and safety risks. Critics argue that today’s potent strains can lead to surprisingly negative experiences, particularly for novice users who might not be aware of just how powerful these new forms of cannabis can be.

Overconsuming cannabis can cause psychological and physical discomfort. It can also be scary, sometimes requiring emergency medical attention. The symptoms may include nausea, anxiety, panic, paranoia, hallucinations, and even psychotic episodes. Not fun!

But this increase in potency is not accidental, either. As marijuana became legal in various states, it moved into the realm of commercial agriculture. Growers, no longer operating in the shadows, were able to use scientific methods and state-of-the-art technology to optimize their crops.

Selective breeding, hydroponic systems, and precise control of light and nutrients have all contributed to a new generation of cannabis that is much more powerful than its predecessors.

Advances in laboratory techniques allow for the extraction of highly concentrated THC, leading to products such as oils, waxes, and edibles that deliver a much more potent high.

One of the biggest concerns revolves around edibles. These products, which can range from gummies and chocolates to cookies and brownies, often contain high concentrations of THC.

THC levels in edibles are denoted in milligrams, and anything above 25mg is considered high. The problem with edibles is twofold.

First, the effects take longer to kick in compared to smoking or vaping. A novice user might consume a piece of a THC-infused brownie, not feel anything immediately, and then decide to eat more. By the time the THC kicks in, they could have ingested much more than they can handle.

Second, the dosage is often difficult to measure accurately. Unlike smoking, where the user can stop once they feel the effects, edibles can lead to overconsumption, resulting in a high that is too intense or lasts too long. Keep all of this in mind, the next time a relative starts to pass around THC-infused edibles at a family gathering.

Emergency rooms have reported a rise in admissions due to THC overconsumption, particularly involving edibles. Edible-induced cases of severe anxiety, rapid heart rate, and confusion are becoming more common.

These incidents provide ammunition to those who oppose the legalization of marijuana, reinforcing the argument that cannabis is a dangerous substance that can lead to public health issues. When a user ends up in the ER because of ingesting too much THC, marijuana suddenly seems to live up to its old derogatory nickname, The Devil’s Weed.

The marijuana overdose myth…

However, despite concerns about the increasing potency of marijuana, it’s important to put these risks in perspective. One fact remains unchallenged: there has never been a recorded case of death from a marijuana overdose.

Unlike opioids, alcohol, or nicotine, THC does not interact with the brainstem areas that control vital functions like breathing. This makes it virtually impossible to consume a lethal dose of marijuana.

In comparison to alcohol and tobacco, which are responsible for thousands of deaths each year, marijuana remains a much safer alternative. Indeed, clinical studies have shown that marijuana can be used by health professionals to help wean addicts away from tobacco, booze, painkillers, and other dangerous substances.

However, safety is not just about the absence of fatal overdoses. Even if marijuana does not kill, extremely high doses of THC can lead to severe discomfort and mental distress.

For this reason, some regulators are calling for better regulation of THC content in cannabis products, clearer labeling, and more public education about the effects of high-potency marijuana.

The rise in emergency room visits related to marijuana, especially those linked to high-potency strains and edibles, raises the question of whether the public might start to push back against the cannabis industry.

Legalization advocates have long argued that marijuana is a safer alternative to other substances, but the stories of bad trips and emergency room visits could start to sway public opinion in the opposite direction.

The ramifications for the marijuana industry…

For the cannabis companies, the trend toward ever-stronger pot presents both opportunities and challenges.

On one hand, high-potency products are popular among seasoned users and can command higher prices, driving profits for growers and dispensaries. On the other hand, the health concerns associated with these products could lead to tighter regulations, which might increase costs and limit the market.

In response to these concerns, some cannabis companies are already taking proactive steps. They are investing in research to better understand the effects of different levels of THC and CBD (cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis that can counteract some of THC’s negative effects).

Some companies are also developing lower-THC strains and products aimed at new users or those seeking a milder experience. These initiatives can help the industry maintain its growth while addressing safety concerns.

As Sly Stone sang at Woodstock in 1969: “I want to take you higher!” But the legal marijuana industry is coming around to recognize that there’s such a thing as getting too high. This recognition is good for society…and for business.

WATCH THIS VIDEO: Takin’ Care of Business: 10 Traits of Profitable Pot Firms

Editor’s Note: Marijuana equities have been rebounding so far in 2024. You can reap enormous investment gains in the fast-growing, global marijuana industry. However, when picking a pot stock, you need to be especially careful.

I’m the editorial director of Investing Daily. I’m also the chief investment strategist of our premium trading service Marijuana Profit Alert.

For Marijuana Profit Alert, I’ve put together a portfolio of the best-of-breed marijuana equities. These holdings are poised to soar during this political season, as a slew of states consider ballot initiatives to legalize weed. Want to learn about my money-making marijuana trades? Click here.

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