The Truth About High-Testing Flower: Why 40% THCA Isn’t Everything

We’ve all seen the hype: “40% THCA!” splashed across menus, labels, and online ads. At first glance, it sounds like the holy grail—who wouldn’t want the strongest flower on the shelf? But here’s the reality: chasing numbers alone is one of the quickest ways to overlook truly great cannabis.

High percentages can grab attention, but they don’t always tell the full story of how a strain smokes, tastes, or feels. Let’s break down why terpenes, genetics, and cure matter just as much—if not more—than raw THCA numbers.

Why Potency Numbers Get So Much Attention

THCA percentage is easy to print on a label. For some buyers, it’s a quick shorthand for “strong.” But cannabis is more complex than a single number.

• Labs measure potency on a tiny sample—sometimes not representative of the whole batch.

• Different testing methods can vary by a few points.

• 35% on paper may not feel much different than 28% in practice.

In other words: the label isn’t the high.

Terpenes: The Real Flavor and Effect Drivers

The entourage effect—when cannabinoids and terpenes work together—is what truly shapes your session. A flower testing at 25% THCA with a 3% terpene profile can deliver a richer, more layered effect than a “40% strain” with weak terp presence.

For example:

• Myrcene-heavy strains tend to feel more relaxing.

• Limonene-forward strains often bring bright, citrusy energy.

• Caryophyllene adds spicy depth and may balance heavier highs.

When you shop, ask about terpene profiles, not just THC numbers.

Genetics: The Blueprint of Every Bud

Behind every top-shelf jar is the strain’s lineage. A well-bred cultivar is designed to express certain aromas, colors, and effects. Chasing “highest testing” often overlooks strains bred for flavor, complexity, and balance.

That’s why legendary cultivars like Gelato or OG Kush remain classics—they’re consistent in expression, not just spikes in lab results.

Cure: The Unsung Hero

Even the frostiest flower can disappoint if it’s not properly cured. Cure time influences:

• Smoothness: Harsh hits usually mean rushed drying or poor storage.

• Aroma: Slow cure preserves terpenes and prevents “grassy” notes.

• Burn quality: Properly cured bud burns evenly and clean.

A well-cured 28% strain will smoke circles around a rushed 38% one.

Why 40% Isn’t the Goal

• Lab results are a snapshot, not the full experience.

• Terpenes, genetics, and cure create the quality you actually feel.

• Chasing the biggest number often leads to missing out on better-tasting, smoother, more enjoyable flower.

At thisthat CBD, we curate based on flavor, craft, and authenticity—not just raw percentages. Our indoor premium jars are proof: you don’t need “40%” on a label for the flower to hit like top shelf.

FAQ

Q: Are high-THCA strains bad?
Not at all. But without strong terpenes or a good cure, they often underdeliver.

Q: Does a lower THCA percentage mean weak flower?
No. A well-grown 25–28% strain with rich terps can feel stronger and more enjoyable than a flat 35–40% one.

Q: Should I only buy based on lab results?
Lab tests are important for safety and transparency, but look at the whole picture: terpenes, genetics, and how the flower was handled.

👉 Want to taste the difference for yourself? Browse our THCA Flower Collection and explore strains curated for flavor, freshness, and craft—not just numbers.