The cannabis industry has undergone a period of significant transformation over the past decade. As legalization has spread across the United States and other parts of the world, the market for cannabis products has grown rapidly. This growth has been accompanied by changes in the prices and potency of cannabis products.

A comprehensive analysis of data regarding the price and potency of cannabis, specifically between the ten-year span of 2011 to 2021, unearths some fascinating trends and patterns. This period was marked by significant changes in the global cannabis market, influenced by evolving societal attitudes, changes in legal frameworks, as well as the advent of more advanced cultivation and processing techniques. The price of cannabis resin, a concentrated form of cannabis that contains high levels of THC, exhibited a moderate increase over the stated decade. This is likely due to factors such as increased production costs, changes in supply and demand, as well as the legalization and subsequent regulation of cannabis in various regions. The rise in prices could also be attributed to the enhanced quality and potency of resin products available in the market. In contrast, the prices of cannabis herbal products, which include buds, leaves, and flowers of the cannabis plant, remained relatively stable throughout the decade. With a more saturated market and diverse product offerings, the pricing for herbal cannabis products has been kept in check. The growth of home-growing options, facilitated by the legalization of cannabis in certain regions, may have also played a role in maintaining price stability. However, while there were notable differences in the pricing trends of resin and herbal products, the potency of both types of cannabis experienced a substantial surge. Potency, usually measured by the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), saw a dramatic increase. It is interesting to note that in some instances, the strength of the cannabis products more than doubled over the ten-year period. The escalation in potency can be attributed to multiple factors. Advances in cultivation techniques have led to the production of cannabis plants with higher THC and CBD levels. Breeders have been able to develop new strains of cannabis with increased potency by selectively breeding plants with high THC or CBD levels. Moreover, the growing market competition has spurred cannabis producers to focus on enhancing potency as a unique selling proposition. Also, with more educated and discerning consumers, there has been a noticeable shift towards demand for higher potency products. This consumer preference, combined with advancements in cultivation, likely drove the significant increase in the potency of both cannabis resin and herbal products. In conclusion, the last decade has witnessed a moderate increase in the price of cannabis resin, stability in the price of cannabis herbal products, and a significant rise in the potency of both product types. These trends not only reflect changes in the cannabis market but also represent wider societal and legal shifts towards the acceptance and regulation of cannabis. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the face of continued developments in the global cannabis industry.

The amplified potency of cannabis products has been a significant trend in recent years, a phenomenon that can be attributed to several factors. The key among these factors are advancements in cultivation and extraction techniques, both of which have dramatically increased the concentration of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. Firstly, the arena of cannabis cultivation has been revolutionized by leaps in technological and horticultural innovations. Growers and cultivators, with their increased knowledge and sophisticated techniques, have significantly improved their ability to produce cannabis plants with higher potency. This has not been the result of a whimsical trial and error process but a structured, scientific approach based on a deep understanding of plant genetics and advanced cultivation methodologies. The cultivation techniques have drastically evolved over the years, with growers now having a better understanding of the optimal environmental conditions for enhancing the yield and potency of cannabis plants. These conditions include everything from the appropriate levels of light and heat to the right nutrient mix and watering schedules. By meticulously controlling these variables and leveraging the right genetic strains of cannabis, growers have been able to coax their plants into producing higher levels of THC. This has resulted in cannabis products with significantly increased potency. In addition to the strides made in cultivation, the development of new and more efficient extraction methods has further contributed to the increased potency of cannabis products. Extraction techniques have evolved, enabling the production of concentrated forms of cannabis that are far more potent than the traditional cannabis flower. Cannabis concentrates, such as shatter and wax, have emerged as prime examples of this trend. Shatter and wax are highly concentrated cannabis extracts that offer a more potent and potentially more effective alternative for medicinal and recreational users alike. These products are created by using solvents like butane or carbon dioxide to extract the psychoactive compounds from the cannabis plant. The resulting product is a concentrated form of cannabis that contains a much higher proportion of THC than traditional cannabis flower. Moreover, these extraction techniques not only increase the potency but also allow for the removal of harmful impurities and unwanted plant matter. This results in a purer, more potent form of cannabis that delivers a more intense effect and arguably, a better user experience. In conclusion, the rise in the potency of cannabis products is a complex phenomenon, born out of advancements in both the cultivation and extraction of cannabis. Growers, through their enlightened understanding of plant genetics and optimal cultivation conditions, have been able to grow cannabis plants with higher THC levels. Concurrently, new extraction methods have resulted in the production of concentrated cannabis products, such as shatter and wax, that deliver a far more potent punch than traditional cannabis flower, setting a new standard in the cannabis industry.

The ongoing surge in the strength of cannabis products has caused a significant rise in apprehensions regarding the potential for adverse health effects. This increase in potency is not merely a minor increment but a substantial magnification of the drug’s psychoactive component, leading to a consequent escalation in its impact on human health. The problem is acute, and it brings under the spotlight the alarming possibility of inflicting considerable harm on users, particularly those who are young or inexperienced. High-potency cannabis, characterized by an elevated concentration of the psychoactive compound, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), can indeed heighten the likelihood of developing an addiction. It is important to note that the more potent the cannabis, the more likely it is to alter the brain’s reward system, compelling the user to seek out the drug compulsively, despite the negative repercussions. This dependence can spiral into a serious addiction, causing users to prioritize the drug over essential life activities, thus negatively impacting their quality of life. Furthermore, the use of potent cannabis is not only associated with the risk of addiction but it has also been linked to an increased risk of psychosis among consumers, notably young people. The relationship between cannabis use and psychosis, a severe mental disorder characterized by a disconnection from reality, has been extensively researched and well documented. Young individuals, whose brains are still developing, are particularly vulnerable to the psychoactive effects of cannabis. The high potency of today’s cannabis products can trigger more intense reactions, leading to confusion, hallucinations, and potentially, the onset of psychotic disorders. In addition to these concerns, the ingestion of high-potency cannabis can amplify the risk of impaired driving and a host of other accidents. THC affects areas of the brain that control body movements, balance, coordination, memory, and judgment – abilities that are essential for safe driving. When someone drives under the influence of cannabis, they are more likely to be involved in an accident because their reaction times and coordination may be impaired. The risks extend beyond driving, as the use of potent cannabis can also lead to mishaps in day-to-day activities, potentially causing physical harm or even fatalities. In summary, the rise in the potency of cannabis products is a public health issue that needs to be addressed urgently. The increased likelihood of developing an addiction, the potential onset of psychosis, particularly among young people, and the heightened risk of impaired driving and other accidents, are all significant concerns that society must face. As the popularity of these potent products continues to grow, it becomes even more critical to spread awareness about their potential risks and promote regulatory measures to ensure public safety.

• European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). (2021). Cannabis price and potency in the European Union (updated June 2021). Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30597667/
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2021). World Drug Report 2021. Retrieved from https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/data-and-analysis/wdr2021.html
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2022). Marijuana Research Report. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/marijuana/nih-research-cannabis-cannabinoids

The potency of cannabis has increased significantly over the past few decades. This is due to a number of factors, including:

• Advances in cultivation techniques: Growers have developed new methods for breeding and cultivating cannabis plants that produce higher levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. For example, growers can use selective breeding to create plants with desired genetic traits, such as high THC content. They can also use techniques such as hydroponics and aeroponics to provide plants with optimal growing conditions.
• Development of new extraction methods: New extraction methods have been developed that can be used to create concentrated forms of cannabis, such as shatter, wax, and dabs. These concentrates can have THC levels of 90% or higher.
• Consumer demand for high-potency cannabis: Consumers are increasingly demanding high-potency cannabis products. This is likely due to a number of factors, such as the desire for a more intense experience and the belief that high-potency cannabis is more effective for medical purposes.

As a result of these factors, the average THC content of cannabis has increased significantly over the past few decades. For example, in the 1970s, the average THC content of cannabis was around 3%. Today, the average THC content of cannabis is around 15%. In some cases, THC levels can be as high as 30% or more.

The increase in the potency of cannabis has raised concerns about the potential for negative health effects. High-potency cannabis can be more likely to lead to addiction and psychosis, particularly among young people. Additionally, the use of high-potency cannabis can increase the risk of impaired driving and other accidents.

If you are concerned about the potential risks of high-potency cannabis, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of cannabis use and can provide guidance on how to use cannabis safely.

As the strength or potency of cannabis products has increased internationally over the years, so have rates of people being treated for cannabis addiction, say the authors of a new study.

A team of researchers from the Addiction and Mental Health Group at the noted University of Bath in the United Kingdom embarked on an enlightening journey to delve into the intricate relationship between different types of cannabis usage and the consequential effects on mental health and addiction. The team’s dedication to their work is evident in the methodical and comprehensive analysis they have conducted. The University of Bath has a long-standing reputation as a reputable institution, with its Addiction and Mental Health Group renowned for their rigorous research on substance abuse and its psychological implications. In this particular project, they sought to explore the hidden correlations between various types of cannabis consumption and their potential harm to mental health. The researchers were not just probing the surface; they were making a systematic dissection of the available data to uncover new insights. What set this study apart is the sheer scale of the analysis, where the research cross-examined a host of studies from around the world, amassing to a total of 20 independent papers. These studies are not recent but span over several years, thereby providing a more comprehensive and holistic viewpoint. What was even more impressive was the size of the sample they were dealing with. The researchers examined data from almost 120,000 individuals, an impressive number that significantly boosts the robustness and validity of their findings. This diverse base allowed them to examine a wide array of cannabis users, in terms of age, gender, geographical locations, and cultural backgrounds, thus providing a more in-depth understanding of the issues at hand. The researchers’ meticulous work has resulted in an intricate tapestry that weaves together various threads of information on the complex relationship between cannabis use and mental health issues. It sheds light on the potential risks and repercussions of using different types of cannabis, taking into account factors such as potency and frequency of usage. Their findings are expected to be instrumental in influencing policies related to cannabis consumption and mental health care, potentially paving the way for improved treatments and preventive measures. The team’s work is an exemplification of the impact that thorough, systematic research can have in demystifying complex issues related to mental health and addiction. They provide a beacon of knowledge in an area that’s often shrouded in misconception and stigma. In conclusion, the research conducted by the Addiction and Mental Health Group at the University of Bath is a testament to the power of rigorous and systematic scientific investigation. By peeling back the layers of understanding on a complex issue like cannabis use and its impact on mental health, they are helping to pave the way for more informed choices, better policies, and improved health outcomes.

After alcohol and nicotine, cannabis is the most widely used drug globally. Latest estimates from the UK suggest that over the last year around one in five 16-24 year olds had used cannabis.

Cannabis potency refers to the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis – the key psychoactive drug it contains. Recent studies from the same team at Bath have found that the concentration of THC in cannabis has increased significantly over time meaning that cannabis used today is typically much stronger than previously.

A groundbreaking research recently published in the esteemed scientific journal, The Lancet Psychiatry, has put forth significant evidence indicating that the use of high-potency cannabis has potential to lead to more cases of addiction compared to the use of low potency counterparts. The study also suggests a strong correlation between the prolonged use of high-potency cannabis and an increased likelihood of experiencing psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. The study, a thorough examination of cannabis use and its potential risks, has been hailed as a significant contribution to the ongoing debate surrounding cannabis legalization and regulation. The findings offer considerable insights into the differentiated risks associated with cannabis usage based on its potency. High-potency cannabis, often referred to as skunk due to its strong smell, contains a higher concentration of the psychoactive substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the compound responsible for the ‘high’ experienced by users and, in stronger concentrations, has now been linked to a significant increase in the risk of addiction. The research also shed light on the potential psychological consequences of frequent high-potency cannabis use, showing a heightened risk of developing serious mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a severe, long-term mental health condition that can cause a range of different psychological symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, muddled thoughts, and changes in behaviour. The study’s findings reveal a concerning association between high-potency cannabis use and the onset of such symptoms, propelling the need for further scientific exploration in this domain. It’s crucial to mention that the study doesn’t definitively establish that high-potency cannabis causes addiction or mental health disorders, but rather, it highlights a strong correlation. The researchers have urged caution, underscoring the urgency of comprehensive regulatory measures to control the availability and use of high-potency cannabis, while also emphasizing the need for public education about the potential risks associated with its use. The revelations of this study have major implications for public health policy, as well as for individuals who use cannabis, either recreationally or medicinally. For policymakers, these findings necessitate a review of current laws and regulations surrounding cannabis, particularly those pertaining to the potency of cannabis products available on the market. For individual users, this study underscores the need for greater awareness of the potential risks associated with high-potency cannabis use, from addiction to serious mental health disorders. In conclusion, the new study serves as a stark reminder that while cannabis can indeed have therapeutic applications, it’s far from benign. The researchers contend that there’s a pressing need for further studies to fully understand the long-term effects of high-potency cannabis use on mental health, with an aim to inform future legislation and public health initiatives. Until then, users should exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with high-potency cannabis.

These findings may help to explain why more people have received treatment for cannabis problems over recent years. Data from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction show a 76% increase in people entering treatment for cannabis addiction in the past decade.

Based on these new results, the authors argue that public health guidelines and policies to help make cannabis use safer should be encouraged.

The lead author of a groundbreaking new study, Kat Petrilli, from the well-respected University of Bath’s Department of Psychology, has recently shared some eye-opening insights. Petrilli’s research offers comprehensive findings, potentially reshaping our understanding of cannabis use and its associated risks. Petrilli’s study deeply delves into the effects of cannabis potency on users. Cannabis, a highly debated topic globally, has a wide range of potencies, which is a metric often overlooked in discussions about its impacts on health. However, Petrilli’s research has shed light on this significant aspect of cannabis use, bringing to the forefront the potential risks associated with higher potency variants of the drug. At the core of Petrilli’s enlightening research is a systematic review of existing literature. Through careful examination of numerous studies, she has been able to identify a worrying pattern. People who consume higher potency cannabis appear to be at a greater risk of addiction as well as psychosis when compared to their counterparts who use cannabis products of lower potencies. This finding is a significant contribution to the pool of knowledge about cannabis, its variants, and the potential risks associated with its use. In the words of Petrilli, “Our systematic review found that people who use higher potency cannabis could be at increased risks of addiction as well as psychosis when compared to people who use cannabis products with lower potencies.” This statement, succinctly summarizing the results of the comprehensive review, serves as a stark warning about the implications of using high-potency cannabis. Given the ongoing debates about the legalization of cannabis in numerous countries, these findings are especially pertinent. The research conducted by Petrilli and her team at the University of Bath’s Department of Psychology underscores the importance of considering potency when discussing potential risks and regulations around cannabis use. This study also raises essential questions about how we understand cannabis use. If higher potency cannabis increases the risk of addiction and psychosis, what does this mean for the users and the societies in which they live? What should the response be from policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities? Petrilli’s research does not just contribute to academic discourse but calls for practical applications and responses to manage these identified risks effectively. In summary, the research led by Kat Petrilli has brought forth the potential dangers of high-potency cannabis, calling for a more nuanced approach in dealing with this controversial substance. There’s much more to cannabis than its controversial status, and studies like Petrilli’s are instrumental in helping us navigate its complexities. As we continue to debate and explore the issue of cannabis use, insights such as these will prove invaluable in shaping our understanding and response to this multi-faceted phenomenon.

“These results are important in the context of harm reduction which aims to minimise the negative consequences associated with drug use. While the safest level of use for cannabis is of course ‘no use’, it is important to acknowledge that a significant number of people across the world use cannabis regularly and to ensure they can make informed decisions that could reduce any possible harms associated with it.”

The authors point out that strategies to make cannabis use safer could inform how the drug is regulated in the UK and internationally. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in the UK, but cannabis products are now legally sold for recreational use in Canada, Uruguay, and parts of the USA.

Several other countries appear set to follow this trend, including Germany. In the UK, the Liberal Democrats have argued that a legal regulated market could make cannabis use safer by enforcing a limit on the potency of cannabis products, and investing the revenue and savings from this into education and treatment for cannabis problems.

The senior author of the study, Dr Tom Freeman, whose research work can be found on Bath University’s research portal, has elucidated his team’s findings in his recent interview, shedding light on the potential of mitigating harm associated with cannabis usage. Dr Freeman begins by highlighting their core discovery: “Our findings suggest that people who use cannabis could reduce their risk of harm by using lower potency products.” This assertion is based on the comprehensive research conducted by Dr Freeman and his team, which involved the study of various cannabis users and the effects of the drug on them over a substantial duration. The research team meticulously observed and recorded the impacts of different cannabis potencies on the users, ultimately establishing a correlation between the product’s strength and the consequent harm it could inflict. Their findings indicated that the negative effects were considerably lower among users who opted for products with less potent effects. These effects range from mental health issues like anxiety and depression to physical problems such as respiratory complications and dependency issues. Lower potency cannabis products seemed to present less risk of these potential hazards, thus lending credence to Dr Freeman’s assertion. Delving deeper into the implications of their findings, Dr Freeman emphasizes the role of consumer education and product transparency in minimizing cannabis-related harm. He states, “In places where cannabis is legally sold, providing consumers with accurate information on product content and access to lower potency products could help people to use cannabis more safely.” Dr Freeman suggests that disseminating precise and detailed product contents to consumers can help them make informed decisions regarding their cannabis usage. Having access to thorough information about the potency of the product they are consuming allows users to choose lower strength variants, thereby reducing the potential risk associated with their cannabis usage. Moreover, ensuring easy and legal access to lower potency cannabis products can play a vital role in promoting safe usage. Dr Freeman believes that legal establishments selling cannabis should not only stock these less potent options but also actively promote them as a safer alternative to their higher strength counterparts. In essence, Dr Tom Freeman’s research stresses the importance of potency in determining the risk levels of cannabis usage. His findings advocate for a more educated and cautious approach towards the consumption of cannabis, emphasizing the need for accurate product content information and access to lower potency products. The adoption of these measures could potentially redefine the way people use cannabis, shifting the focus towards safety and harm reduction.

Despite anecdotal evidence of links between cannabis and anxiety and depression, the authors note that the links between cannabis potency and other mental health problems are unclear.

This research was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council.

The full paper ‘Association of cannabis potency with mental ill health and addiction: a systematic review’ is available via https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(22)00161-4/fulltext.