When it comes to cannabis, one size definitely doesn’t fit all.
In New Jersey, the adult-use cannabis market is packed with options—flowers, edibles, vapes, concentrates—all with wildly different potency levels. If you’ve ever stared blankly at a product label wondering, “Wait… is 30% THC a little or a lot?”—this guide is for you.
Whether you’re looking to chill, create, sleep, laugh, vibe, or just feel a little more human—understanding product strength is key to a good experience.
THC vs. CBD: Who Does What?
First up, the basics. Cannabis is full of cannabinoids, but the big two are:
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): The stuff that gets you high.
CBD (cannabidiol): The stuff that doesn’t.
You’ll find products in three general categories:
High-THC: More psychoactive, often used recreationally or for deeper relief.
High-CBD: No high, just chill. Great for managing stress, inflammation, or tension.
Balanced: A little of both, for those who like their cannabis with a side of clarity.
Decoding Product Strengths
Now, let’s break it down by product type—because a 5mg gummy and a 70% concentrate are not the same ride.
🌿 Dried Flower
Low Strength (5–10% THC): Good for new users or folks who want a mellow mood boost.
Medium (10–20% THC): A solid, balanced high. Great for daytime use or creative sessions.
High (20%+ THC): Strong and fast-hitting. Proceed with intention.
💨 Vape Cartridges
Low (100–300mg THC): A few puffs for a light lift.
Medium (300–500mg THC): Steady and predictable—good for regular users.
High (500mg+ THC): Not for the faint of lung. Potent, fast, and not subtle.
🍬 Edibles
Low Dose (1–5mg THC): Microdosing heaven. Just a whisper of a high.
Medium (5–10mg THC): Relaxed but functional. You’ll feel it.
High (10–50mg+ THC): Buckle up. You’re in it for hours.
🔥 Concentrates
Low (30–50% THC): Still strong. Great for experienced users who want punch without overkill.
Medium (50–70% THC): Quick and powerful. You’ll feel this almost immediately.
High (70–90% THC): Rocket fuel. Handle with care and purpose.
Why the Same Product Feels Different to Everyone
Even if two people use the same product, their experience can be wildly different. Why? Because:
Tolerance: If you’re new, small doses will hit harder. Daily users need more for the same effect.
Consumption Method: Smoking and vaping = faster onset, shorter ride. Edibles = slow start, long trip.
Your Body: Weight, metabolism, hormones, even hydration levels can affect how cannabis works for you.
Tips to Find Your Goldilocks Dose
✔ Start low, go slow — The golden rule for new products or methods.
✔ Ask the budtenders — We love helping you find the right fit. No judgment, just guidance.
✔ Read the label — Potency, serving size, THC/CBD ratio. It’s all there for a reason.
✔ Know your why — Want to wind down after work? Crush anxiety before a social event? Your goals shape your dose.
Final Word from Salt Air
You don’t need to go full throttle to enjoy cannabis. In fact, some of the best experiences are subtle and sweet. By understanding the strength spectrum, you can skip the guesswork and get right to the good part: feeling your best.
No matter where you fall on the cannabis experience scale, Salt Air Botanicals has something tailored just for you. And yes, we’ll happily walk you through the numbers so you feel totally confident about your choice.
Buy micro. Support local. Feel good.
For more info straight from the source, check out the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission.