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If you’ve ever been to a dispensary or shopped for THC gummies online, you know that not all gummies are the same.
Some are made with high-potency distillate. Others use live resin, live rosin, or full-spectrum extracts like RSO. And depending on whether it’s a sativa, indica, or hybrid gummy, the vibe can be radically different.
This guide breaks down the different types of THC gummies, the extracts they use, how they work, and how to choose the right one for your body and goals—especially if you’re using cannabis for therapeutic reasons.
What Are THC Gummies?
THC gummies are edible cannabis products infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis sativa plant.
They offer a smokeless, discreet way to consume THC, with effects that tend to last longer than vaping or smoking. Most gummies are designed to deliver a controlled dose of THC – usually between 2.5mg and 50mg per piece – though there are products much stronger.
THC gummies are a popular cannabis consumption method among both recreational users and medical patients. They’re easy to dose, easy to store, and available in a wide range of potencies and formulations.
Some are made with isolated THC for a pure high, while others include cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, or CBG for more well-rounded effects. And because the effects hit slower but last longer, many people find gummies ideal for consistent, all-day relief.
While cannabis-derived THC gummies are only available through dispensaries in select states, hemp-derived THC gummies (that contain less than 0.3% THC) are federally legal in the US. This wide availability is just another reason for their popularity.
Types of THC Gummies
While there are many different ways THC gummies can be categorized, the best way to understand them is in terms of their effect profiles: indica, sativa, or hybrid.
These are the effect profiles commonly associated with cannabis strains. These effects are determined by the cannabinoid and terpene composition of the strain, and the same sorts of cannabinoid-infusions are used in most THC gummies.
Indica THC Gummies
Indica THC gummies are known for their calming and sedating properties. They often contain cannabinol (CBN) and cannabidiol (CBD) – two other cannabinoids with relaxing properties – in addition to THC.
Many people take indica gummies to help them unwind at night or to ease physical discomfort that flares up in the evening. The effects tend to be body-heavy, promoting deep relaxation and, in many cases, sleep.
That said, they’re not ideal for daytime use unless you don’t mind the risk of feeling sluggish or sleepy. If you’re looking to chill hard, these are the ones to reach for.
Sativa THC Gummies
Sativa gummies THC lean more toward mental stimulation than body relaxation. They often contain higher amounts of cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) in addition to THC, as well as energizing terpenes from the plant.
Sativa gummies are popular among people who want a creative spark, improved mood, or a little boost to get through the day. Many people mention that sativa-leaning gummies help with productivity and social situations without leaving them feeling weighed down.
However, because sativas tend to be more energizing, some people – especially those prone to anxiety – may find the high a bit too intense if they take too much. Sativa gummies also aren’t a good option at night, as they tend to disrupt your natural sleep processes.
Hybrid THC Gummies
Hybrid THC gummies combine the effects of indica and sativa, creating a more balanced experience that’s good for just about any time of day. They’ll often feature balanced cannabinoid profiles with CBD, CBN, and CBG, as well as natural terpenes.
The exact effects depend on the cannabinoid and terpene blend present in the edibles, but in general, hybrids are ideal for people who want a little bit of everything. They’re especially useful if you’re new to THC gummies, since the experience tends to be more balanced and contain fewer extremes.
Hybrid gummies are commonly used in wellness routines, where you want a light mood boost without being completely zonked or overly energized.
Types of THC Extract Used in Gummies
In addition to understanding the broad effect types of THC gummies, knowing the different types of cannabis extract used in gummies can help you identify which product is the best for you.
These are the most commonly-used extracts in THC gummies:
- Distillate: One of the most common extracts found in THC gummies. It’s a highly refined form of cannabis that contains mostly pure THC, with all other compounds like terpenes and secondary cannabinoids stripped away. The high is strong and straightforward, but it can also feel a bit harsh or one-dimensional due to the absence of other cannabinoids.
- Full-Spectrum THC: This extract keeps more of the plant’s natural profile intact. This means the THC is accompanied by other cannabinoids and aromatic compounds that work together to enhance the effects, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect. Gummies with full-spectrum extract tend to render balanced effects and are superior to distillate gummies for mental and physical therapeutic support.
- Rick Simpson Oil (RSO): A full-plant cannabis extract known for its potency and therapeutic potential. Unlike distillate or even most full-spectrum oils, RSO includes nearly all components of the cannabis plant – including chlorophyll, fats, and plant waxes – which contribute to its thick texture and deep color. RSO-based gummies are most popular among therapeutic users managing serious conditions, as the effects are deeply relaxing, often sedating, and long-lasting.
- Live Resin: An extract made from fresh-frozen cannabis flower, which preserves high levels of terpenes and volatile compounds that get lost in other extraction methods. Gummies made with live resin tend to have a more vibrant, aromatic high and are especially popular among cannabis connoisseurs. The effects are rich, flavorful, and often a bit more euphoric, but they’re also pricier than distillate options.
- Live Rosin: Similar to live resin, but instead of using solvents, it’s made using only heat and pressure. This solventless approach creates a clean, potent extract that’s often seen as a premium product. Live rosin gummies are favored by people who want a pure, flavorful, and terpene-rich experience without chemical interference. They’re usually made in small batches and priced accordingly, but if you’re seeking top-tier nuanced effects, they’re hard to beat.
Conclusion: Which Type of THC Gummies Are Best For You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to THC gummies.
If you’re looking for therapeutic relief with long-lasting body effects, RSO or full-spectrum gummies are the way to go.
For a quick boost or recreational buzz, distillate or sativa options might suit you better.
Hybrids are a great middle ground if you’re not sure where to start. The key is to know what extract you’re dealing with, match it to your goals, and always start by taking a small amount, then adjusting until you find your sweet spot.
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