The cannabis plant is remarkable in its ability to create what is known as cannabinoids. These are the psychotropic substances that give weed its “high.” The most well known are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is mostly associated with ganja and hash-producing strains while CBD is more commonly found in hemp strains.

Modern cannabis breeders have begun to cross THC and CBD-producing cannabis genetics to create plants that grow buds with near equal amounts of both compounds. This is known as a one to one (1:1) ratio plant, as it has an equal ratio of THC and CBD present.

Cannabis consumers have reported that when consumed at this ratio, CBD seems to mellow out some of the negative effects of the THC, such as raciness and paranoia. It also adds more of a soothing body relaxation to the experience that many consumers find pleasant.

The CBD cannabinoid shares the same receptor that captures THC, so CBD limits how much THC can attach when consuming a 1:1 strain. photo credit

Inside the brain, when THC and CBD are both present, CBD has a capping effect on how high THC can get you. CBD is a “non-competitive negative allosteric modulator” to THC, this means CBD “weakly” binds to the same receptors in the brain, blocking some THC from being uptaken. In other words, CBD puts a hard limit on how high THC can get you. You can still get high from a 1:1 strain, but only to a point. The effect is much more subtle compared to a typical high THC strain.

Why Would You Use a 1:1 Strain?

This effect could be preferred by those looking to get the therapeutic effects of higher doses of THC but without the unwanted side effects. In a situation where the sedating properties of THC are needed but paranoia might be a concern, a 1:1 strain would be a good option.

A 1:1 strain can benefit recovery after a workout. photo credit

Some folks prefer the THC/CBD combo before working out to help with focus, pain management and endurance, all without THC taking the reins of the experience. 1:1 strains work well post workout too, with the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD working with the THC to help the body relax and heal.

Common 1:1 Strains

Harlequin x Super Sour Diesel

Combining the undeniably strong sativa Super Sour Diesel with the well known, high-CBD cultivar Harlequin, this cross packs amazing flavor, uplifting effects balanced out by a healthy dose of CBD to help aid the body. The THC and CBD average about 10% each, but can change slightly from phenotype to phenotype. Created by Lineage Genetics.

CBD Hash Plant

CBD Hash Plant can grow in colder climates.

This 1:1 strain averages about 6% THC and 6% CBD, perfect for a very tolerable, lower-range dose of both cannabinoids. The hearty Hash Plant genetics, which have been selected for increased resin production at high altitudes, creates a rugged plant suitable for outdoor growth. Expect more of a sedating indica effect, perfect for pain management.

Big Crack Tsunami

This is another indica-dominant CBD cross, though Big Crack Tsunami has a slightly higher THC percentage than CBD. This hybrid contains from the famous Sour Tsunami, which is itself a 1:1 staring known for it’s delicious, bright and tropical bouquet. This would be a good option for those looking for a little more bang from the THC, albeit a more subdued THC effect. Those that need a good post workout strain should look into getting seeds of this one.

Critical Mass CBD

Critical Mass CBD is greatly favored by beginners.

Bred by Dinafem, this is a go-to 1:1 strain with heavy yields. Critical Mass creates some massive colas, and this trait is inherited by all its progeny. Averaging about 5% THC and 5% CBD (though some presentations have different presentations of each), this is another easy and mild cultivar, perfect for beginners that just want to feel a little of the effects.

CBD Mango Haze

If you are looking for a potent 1:1 strain, but don’t want to sacrifice flavor look no further. CBD Mango Haze from CBD Crew provides all the therapeutic benefits of a 1:1 cross, and coats it in a deliciously sweet herbal, spiced-mango flavor. Bred with a superior genetic lineage, the ratio of THC to CBD can vary slightly from seed to seed, but usually lands in the 1:1 to 1:2 range.

Making Your Own 1:1 Strain

In terms of breeding your own 1:1 cultivar, it's really quite easy. By crossing a strain that has a high THC potency and produces no CBD, with a strain that produces CBD and no THC, the offspring will all have around a 1:1 ratio.

Creating your own 1:1 strain can be easily made with a strong THC male plant's pollen and a CBD female plant. photo credit

For example, if you took the high THC strain Runtz, and crossed it with a purebred hemp strain, you’d end up with seeds that produce plants with around a 1:1 CBD:THC ratio.

1:1 ratio strains offer a glimpse of what cannabinoid combinations can offer us, and are just starting to be understood by science. So if you like the effects of cannabis but high THC strains stress you out, try a 1:1 CBD:THC mix. Pick-up some of the strains suggested, or try your luck at making your own.

Keep Your Eyes Out

Check your local dispensaries and other online retailers for 1:1 strains that are in stock. Breeders are releasing new strains all the time, so it is always good to keep checking back with them to see what's new.

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