Limit of THC-containing cannabis

Cannabis with THC has a variety of effects on the body that are due to the activation of cannabinoid receptors. Especially in relation to the upcoming legalization, after which cannabis can be purchased legally , raising awareness about the effects of cannabis with THC is a very important topic. THC binds to these receptors and changes the way the nervous system and brain function . As a result, it can trigger a variety of effects, including an increased release of dopamine in the brain, which can lead to a feeling of euphoria and relaxation . It can also change the perception of time and space, influence mood, and promote creativity. Cannabis with THC is also used medicinally, among other things, as it has pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nausea effects. However, it can also cause unwanted effects such as anxiety, paranoia, confusion, and memory problems, especially at high doses or in people with little use experience and a low tolerance.

What is the limit of THC while driving?

The limit of THC in the blood was increased from 1.0 nanograms to 3.5 nanograms as part of the THC legalization . This was decided on Thursday, March 28, 2024. According to the current state of science, a road safety-relevant effect when driving a motor vehicle is not unlikely as soon as this value is reached. This means that cannabis is still a criminal offense while driving. In addition, the penalties for a blood limit that is too high have even been increased . The value of 3.5 nanograms of THC in the blood is comparable to 0.2 per mille alcohol. In addition to a three-month driving ban and two points in Flensburg, a fine of up to €3,000 can be imposed. Exceptions only apply if cannabis has been prescribed by a doctor.

Can I have THC and alcohol in my blood at the same time?

The expert commission set up by the Ministry of Transport is much stricter when it comes to the simultaneous consumption of cannabis and alcohol than when it comes to setting a limit. The commission is in favor of people who consume cannabis abstaining from drinking alcohol while driving. This combined consumption poses an increased risk in road traffic and is therefore classified as particularly dangerous.

How does a high THC level affect the body?

The THC level in cannabis mainly affects the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in our body, which is responsible for maintaining balance. THC binds to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain and nervous system, and to CB2 receptors, which are mainly found in the immune system. This releases neurotransmitters and hormones that can trigger various effects in the body.

Why does the THC level make you tired?

THC can have a very calming and sedative effect, which is why one of the most common effects of THC is relaxation and drowsiness . This is because THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as GABA and dopamine, which helps reduce brain activity. In addition, THC can also increase melatonin production, which shortens the time it takes to fall asleep, as well as increasing the duration of deep sleep, which can lead to more restful sleep. However, it is important to note that the effects can vary from body to body and depend on a variety of factors, such as dosage, tolerance, and individual metabolic processes.

Where does THC dock?

THC mainly binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system . These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system in the body and play a major role in regulating various processes such as pain perception, appetite and mood . When THC binds to CB1 receptors, various neurotransmitters and hormones are released, which can trigger a variety of effects in the body.

Why doesn't the THC level work for me?

It can happen that THC does not work or no longer works for some people. The reasons for this can vary depending on the user's experience. Here are some possible explanations and solutions. For first-time users: If THC does not work the first time you use it, it may be because there are not enough cannabinoid receptors in the body. The endocannabinoid system must first adjust to the new substance and form additional receptors so that the effects of THC can develop properly. In this case, it is advisable to increase the dose slowly and simply be patient. It may also be that the chosen method of consumption is not effective enough or is carried out incorrectly, for example if the smoke is not really drawn into the lungs. In this case, it can help to change the method of consumption, for example by vaporizing or consuming edible products.

For experienced smokers: Experienced users can develop a tolerance to THC , meaning that higher doses are needed to get the same effect as previous times. If THC stops working, taking a break and using a lower dose can help to reduce tolerance. It is always important to make sure that consumption is controlled and safe to avoid unpleasant side effects.

When does THC tea work?

THC tea can work at different speeds depending on how it is prepared and how much is dosed. For example, if the tea is prepared with fatty ingredients such as milk or butter, this can bind significantly more THC, which also improves the absorption of THC by the body, ultimately leading to a faster effect. In general, however, it can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects of THC taken orally to take hold.

History of THC

Who invented THC?

There is no such thing as an invention of THC, as THC is a naturally occurring chemical compound produced in the cannabis plant. Therefore, it was not invented, but discovered and isolated. THC was first publicly identified and isolated in the 1960s. There are a number of scientists who were involved in the discovery, but the main credit goes to Raphael Mechoulam and his research team at the Weizmann Institute near Tel Aviv. This research has helped to reveal many of the mysteries and myths about cannabis. However, THC was probably isolated for the very first time in 1940 by Roger Adams. Adams, a chemist who was commissioned by the US Prohibition Authority to study the chemical compounds in cannabis that were responsible for the already known "mind-altering" and "harmful" effects. This he did and also developed a system for measuring the potency of THC, which is still used by scientists today. Although Adams made important contributions to cannabis research, the La Guardia report on cannabis was rejected for political reasons, resulting in a delay in scientific research.

Who discovered THC?

Cannabis has a very long history as a medicine and narcotic, but unfortunately this history is not fully understood. Despite the high rate of consumption, the most important milestones in history are only documented to a limited extent. What is certain, however, is that archaeological finds have shown that cannabis and the THC it contained, which was still undiscovered at the time, were used for medicinal purposes around 2500 years ago. The first finds come from China, where the Chinese emperor Shen-Nung is said to have recommended the use of cannabis to treat various ailments such as constipation, gynecological problems, gout, malaria and rheumatism. He also described hundreds of medicinal remedies and is considered the discoverer of tea. The industrial use of cannabis as a crop in China even goes back 6000 years. Around 1400 BC, cannabis reached India from China and from there spread over time to the entire world.

Since when has THC been around?

Archaeological finds prove that cannabis and the THC it contains were used for medicinal purposes around 2,500 years ago. The first isolated THC sample was taken in 1940 by Roger Adams, a chemist commissioned by the US Prohibition Authority.

Why is THC so popular?

THC is very popular among users due to its psychoactive effects and is often used for recreational purposes . THC is also becoming increasingly popular in medicine and is used to relieve pain, increase appetite and help with certain diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cancer and epilepsy.

Where is THC found?

THC is mainly found in the flowers and leaves of the female cannabis plant . It can also be found in various cannabis products such as oils, tinctures, edibles and concentrates. The concentration of THC can vary depending on the strain, growing conditions and time of harvest.

The THC content

How can the THC content be measured?

The THC content can be measured using various methods. When it comes to the THC content of the flowers, the most accurate result can only be obtained from the laboratory, where gas chromatography or high-performance liquid chromatography is carried out. There are also test kits for home use that allow a rough estimate of the THC content. The most common method for measuring the THC in our body is probably the classic urine test. It is important to know that THC can be detected in urine for much longer than in blood, for example. Otherwise, there is also blood sampling, saliva samples and hair samples.

What are the ways to take THC?

There are many different ways to consume THC and ultimately get high. These include smoking, vaping, eating THC-containing foods (edibles) or taking capsules that contain THC oil. Each method has a different impact on the effects and duration of the high.

What is high THC?

A high THC content is usually considered to be one of 20% or more. Such high THC content can lead to strong psychoactive effects and is in many cases preferred by recreational users.

Which THC content is legal in Germany?

In Germany, a THC content of up to 0.3% in hemp plants is legal. This low content is not sufficient to cause a psychoactive effect, which means that abuse for intoxication purposes is ruled out. Products containing THC with <0.3% are mainly only legal in Germany if they come from certified industrial hemp Cannabis Sativa from the EU variety catalogue .

Which hemp has a THC content?

There are different types of hemp that are suitable for cultivation. Some varieties are specifically designed for growing CBD (cannabidiol), while other varieties have a higher THC content. It is important to note that THC and CBD are mainly found in the flowers of female marijuana plants, with the male plant usually containing only very small amounts of the substances mentioned.