What is tac in weed?

TAC in Weed: Understanding Total Active Cannabinoids

TAC stands for Total Active Cannabinoids. It represents the total percentage of all cannabinoids present in a cannabis product that have psychoactive or therapeutic effects. This is different from THC percentage alone, which only focuses on delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component.

What Does TAC Include?

TAC typically includes:

  • THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The most well-known psychoactive cannabinoid. Learn more about THC: THC
  • CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits. Learn more about CBD: CBD
  • Other Cannabinoids: This can include cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, THCV, CBC, and more. These cannabinoids contribute to the overall effect of the cannabis product. For example:
    • CBG (Cannabigerol): CBG
    • CBN (Cannabinol): CBN

Why is TAC Important?

Understanding TAC is important for several reasons:

  • More Complete Picture: TAC provides a more comprehensive understanding of the overall potency and potential effects of a cannabis product compared to just looking at THC percentage.
  • Entourage Effect: The "entourage effect" suggests that the various cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work synergistically to enhance each other's effects. TAC considers this broader spectrum of compounds.
  • Accurate Dosing: TAC can help consumers better understand the strength of a product and adjust their dosage accordingly.
  • Product Selection: Knowing the TAC allows consumers to choose products based on the specific cannabinoid profile they are seeking.

How is TAC Calculated?

The calculation of TAC can vary slightly depending on the lab and the specific cannabinoids being measured. However, it generally involves adding the percentages of all identified active cannabinoids present in the product. It may involve accounting for potential conversion of cannabinoid acids (e.g., THCA) into their active forms (e.g., THC) during consumption.

  • TAC Formula Example: TAC = THC + CBD + CBG + CBN + other active cannabinoids

Reading Product Labels

When examining cannabis product labels, look for both THC percentage and TAC percentage to get a more complete understanding of the product's potency and potential effects. Remember that effects can vary widely from person to person, so starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed is always recommended.