TAC vs THC: Why Total Active Cannabinoids Matter

If you’ve ever looked at a cannabis product label, you likely noticed that it is VERY different from anything you’d find on food packaging. That’s because there are hundreds of different compounds present in the cannabis plant, each with its own potential experiences. However, one of the most confusing percentages found on marijuana labels is “TAC.”  

We get plenty of questions about this number–specifically how it relates to THC. In this guide, we’ll explain:

• Total Active Cannabinoids (TAC): Everything You Need to Know
• Differences Between TAC and THC
• Impact of TAC on the Entourage Effect
• Frequently Asked Questions
  
  

TAC

Also: Total Active Cannabinoids

TAC indicates the total number of active cannabinoids present in the product. The term “active” refers to the cannabinoids in the product that have already undergone decarboxylation, or exposure to heat or light.

TAC–or total active cannabinoids–is a number you’ll often find on a cannabis product label that indicates the total number of active cannabinoids present in the product. The term “active” refers to the cannabinoids in the product that have already undergone decarboxylation, or exposure to heat or light. This is important because it determines the potency and overall effect of the cannabis products you consume.¹ 

Still confused? Here’s even more detail about TAC.

Cannabinoids, technically called phytocannabinoids since they are plant derived, are the chemical compounds in cannabis that give it its unique effects. This includes THC, CBD, and more than 150 others! These compounds interact with your endocannabinoid system, a biological system in your body that regulates various physiological processes, including mood, memory, and pain perception.²

Tetrahydrocannabinol–i.e. THC–is the most well-known cannabinoid, recognized for its psychoactive effects. It binds to the body’s endocannabinoid receptors to produce the “high” associated with consuming cannabis. THC content is heavily regulated, with various laws determining the allowable limits in cannabis products and where it’s sold.³

TAC includes a variety of cannabinoids, each with its own properties and effects, that contribute to the overall experience of cannabis products.⁴ While there are hundreds that we know of, the most widely known include THC, CBD, cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabinol (CBN), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).

TAC is a comprehensive measure of cannabis potency. By accounting for all the active cannabinoids, TAC provides a more accurate presentation of a product’s strength compared to focusing solely on THC. This can be particularly useful for consumers looking to understand the full potential effects of a product.⁵

Imagine that TAC is the whole symphony, while THC represents only one musician and their instrument. All the instruments playing together, or even in groups, produce different results than the solo musician.

TAC encompasses all active (decarboxylated) cannabinoids in a cannabis product, which provides a broader measure of its potency. In contrast, THC is only one cannabinoid and isn’t an accurate measure of a product’s strength–unless it’s a THC-only product and not a broad-spectrum one.⁶

Two products with the same THC percentage won’t yield the same effects because the other cannabinoids also contribute to the product’s potency and effects. It’s essential to look at a product’s TAC because it gives you a comprehensive understanding of what you consume.

The entourage effect is the synergy or combined interaction between compounds, including cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes. TAC plays a significant role in this effect by providing a holistic look at the active cannabinoids, which can boost the overall experience and therapeutic benefits of cannabis products. Considering TAC when choosing products can help you manage and achieve the desired effects more effectively.

It’s always best to ask your budtender if you have questions about a product’s potency and its potential effects. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about TAC and THC.

Does TAC make you high?

TAC is a measurement of the different active cannabinoids in a product, so by itself, it doesn't make anybody high. THC is the primary compound in cannabis that makes you high.

Is TAC or THC more important?

Both are important, but they also both mean different things. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a high effect. TAC gives you the information you need about all of the active cannabinoids in the cannabis flower or other product you're consuming. You can get information about how much THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are in each product through the TAC analysis.

Where can I find TAC in my cannabis products?

If you want to find out the total active cannabinoids in your product, you can locate the information on the package label.

How are TAC and THC related?

TAC includes THC as part of its total measurement. While THC is a single cannabinoid, TAC represents the sum of all the active cannabinoids in a marijuana product.

What is the entourage effect, and how does TAC influence it?

The entourage effect is the combined effect of different cannabis compounds working together. TAC influences this by measuring how the active cannabinoids contribute to the overall impact.

In what parts of the cannabis plant are TAC and THC found?

Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, are primarily found in the plant’s trichomes, which are small, crystal-like structures on the surface of cannabis flower and leaves. TAC measures all the active cannabinoids that are produced in the trichomes.⁷

Are some cannabis strains higher in TAC or THC?

Strains vary widely in their cannabinoid profiles. Some may have a higher THC content, while others may have a broader spectrum of cannabinoids that contribute to a higher TAC. The non-THC cannabinoid content is often less than the overall THC levels, but when you add all the compounds, they may comprise a high percentage of a product’s TAC profile.

Understanding THC vs TAC

Understanding THC vs TAC is essential for making informed choices about the cannabis products you want to consume. Consider both to appreciate the full range of effects and benefits that cannabis may offer. Always check the cannabis product label for the THC and TAC percentages, and if you’re unsure, ask your favorite budtender for help.