We know what you’re thinking: another weed-related acronym for me to learn? Well, the cannabis community is full of them — so, what is TAC in weed?
If you haven’t heard of TAC yet, it’s important to understand it now. Today, we’re taking a closer look into this new cannabis terminology and seeing what it means to the world of weed.
Let’s get started.
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What Does TAC Mean in Weed Terms?
What is TAC in weed? In marijuana terminology, TAC stands for Total Active Cannabinoids and it’s exactly what it sounds like!
You’ll find this acronym on your weed label (by the THC and THCA levels, typically) to show you how many active cannabinoids are within the flower.
Active cannabinoids themselves are the chemical compounds found in the plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, producing various effects.
The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD, but there are many others, including CBG CBN), and CBC. All of these little compounds help to create the cannabis experience that you know and love.
Plus, seeing TAC levels can help you better understand the potential potency levels of the flower (or the product) you’re about to enjoy.
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How is TAC Calculated?
You know what TAC is in weed, but how do professionals calculate these levels in the first place?
In case you’re interested, to calculate TAC, laboratories use a specific formula that incorporates the concentrations of each cannabinoid.
The formula generally looks like this:
TAC = (%THC + %THCA * 0.877) + (%CBD + %CBDA * 0.877) + (%CBG + %CBGA * 0.877) + (%CBN + …)
Here’s what the components mean:
- %THC: The percentage of THC present in its active form.
- %THCA: The percentage of THCA, the acidic precursor to THC. The factor 0.877 accounts for the molecular weight difference between THCA and THC after decarboxylation.
- %CBD, %CBDA, %CBG, %CBGA, %CBN, etc.: Similar calculations are made for other cannabinoids.
Once they calculate the percentages for each cannabinoid, cannabis professionals sum it up to provide the final TAC levels.
TAC vs. THC
Now, it’s important not to get TAC and THC confused, despite them sounding quite similar. Again, TAC is the level of cannabinoids in the product, while THC is an actual cannabinoid itself.
If you’re looking to understand pure psychoactivity levels only, looking at THC percentages can be helpful.
However, the holistic nature of TAC helps you better understand the nature of the product as a whole.
Other Active Cannabinoids in Weed
While THC is the most well-known cannabinoid, the cannabis plant contains many other active cannabinoids that contribute to its effects and potential health benefits.
These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in unique ways, offering a variety of therapeutic properties.
- CBD (Cannabidiol):
- CBD is non-psychoactive and is widely recognized for its potential to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and pain. It is also used in the treatment of epilepsy, particularly in the form of the FDA-approved drug Epidiolex.
- CBG (Cannabigerol):
- Often called the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG is the precursor to other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. It is believed to have potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and may support eye health by reducing intraocular pressure.
- CBN (Cannabinol):
- CBN is mildly psychoactive and is typically found in aged cannabis. It is often associated with sedative effects, making it a cannabinoid of interest for those seeking help with sleep disorders. CBN also has potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-stimulating properties.
- CBC (Cannabichromene):
- CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects. It is also being studied for its potential to support brain health by promoting neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells.
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin):
- THCV is similar to THC in structure but offers different effects. It is known for its potential to suppress appetite and is being researched for its role in managing obesity and diabetes. THCV may also produce more clear-headed and stimulating effects compared to THC.
- CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid):
- CBDA is the acidic precursor to CBD and is found in raw cannabis. It has shown potential in early studies for its anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and anti-cancer properties, though it is less commonly used than CBD itself.
- CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid):
- CBGA is the acidic precursor to CBG and plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of other cannabinoids. While research is still in early stages, CBGA is being studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and metabolic properties.
And these are just the start! There are so many more active cannabinoids that contribute to the all-encompassing effects of cannabis.
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Learning Your Cannabis Labels
Here’s a quick way to break down your cannabis product’s label. This way, you don’t have to ask yourself, “What is TAC in weed?” anymore.
Label Section | Description |
Cannabinoid Content | Indicates the levels of various cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBG, and others, either in percentage (for flower) or milligrams (for edibles and concentrates). Helps gauge potency and effects. |
Terpene Profile | Lists dominant terpenes like myrcene, limonene, or pinene, which influence the product’s smell, flavor, and effects. Understanding the terpene profile can guide your choice of product based on desired effects. |
Strain Information and Product Type | Provides the strain name, usually categorized as Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid, along with the product type (flower, concentrate, edible, etc.). Helps in selecting based on lineage and expected effects. |
Testing Information | Includes details on lab testing for potency and safety, such as levels of pesticides, residual solvents, and microbial contaminants. Ensures product safety and compliance. |
Usage Instructions and Warnings | Offers dosage recommendations, usage instructions, and important warnings. Crucial for understanding potency, especially in edibles and concentrates, and ensuring safe consumption. |
Get an MMJ Card and Get High TAC Weed
Having a medical marijuana card grants you access not only to high-quality weed with high TAC levels, but you get it at lower prices.
That’s right: medical marijuana patients don’t pay as much in taxes as recreational consumers, and you also get medical-only discounts at various dispensaries.
At Elevate Holistics, we can help you get your medical marijuana card entirely online in minutes. Then, we’ll work with you to get registered with the state and on your way to shopping for high-TAC (or high-THC) weed.
Book your online appointment now using the button below.
