Does 4 + 1 Get You High? Understanding Cannabis Ratios and Effects

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

Cannabis products today are significantly more potent than those from decades ago, with some legal flower containing 20% THC or more. When people ask, 'Does 4 + 1 get you high?', they are usually referring to a product with a 4:1 ratio of cannabinoids, but the psychoactive effect depends entirely on which cannabinoid is dominant in that ratio.

Quick Summary

The psychoactive effects of a 4:1 cannabis product depend on whether it is a CBD:THC or THC:CBD ratio. A 4:1 CBD:THC product is mildly psychoactive, while a 4:1 THC:CBD product causes an intense high due to its high THC content.

Key Points

Ratio Matters: The effect depends on whether the 4:1 is CBD:THC (low high) or THC:CBD (intense high).
CBD Counteracts THC: A high ratio of CBD to THC, such as 4:1, can significantly reduce or eliminate the psychoactive effects of THC.
Start Low, Go Slow: This is the safest approach, especially with edibles, as the onset of effects is delayed but more potent.
Factors Influence Experience: Your tolerance, body chemistry, and consumption method all play a role in how a cannabis product affects you.
Source Reputable Products: Always purchase from licensed dispensaries to ensure accurate THC and CBD content on product labels.
Understand the Entourage Effect: The combined interaction of cannabinoids and terpenes can modify the overall experience beyond just the THC and CBD levels.

Deciphering the "4 + 1" Question

Your query regarding "4 + 1" is a common point of confusion that stems from the different ways cannabis product ratios are labeled. The answer to whether it will get you high depends on the ratio's specific components. There are two primary interpretations: a 4:1 CBD-to-THC ratio or a 4:1 THC-to-CBD ratio. The psychoactive properties of cannabis products are primarily determined by the concentration of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound that produces the "high". Cannabidiol (CBD) is non-psychoactive and, in fact, can mitigate some of the intoxicating effects of THC.

The Impact of Cannabinoid Ratios

4:1 CBD to THC Ratio: In this formulation, the product contains four times as much CBD as THC. For example, a gummy might have 20mg of CBD and 5mg of THC. For many users, especially those with some tolerance, this ratio is considered functional, providing a mellow body effect or daytime relief with minimal to no psychoactivity. The high concentration of CBD helps to modulate the psychoactive impact of the smaller amount of THC, preventing the intense, euphoric, or anxiogenic effects often associated with high-THC products.
4:1 THC to CBD Ratio: While less common for balanced products, a 4:1 THC:CBD ratio would mean a significantly higher concentration of the psychoactive compound. In this scenario, a product with 20mg of THC and 5mg of CBD would produce a much more intense and pronounced high. Experienced cannabis users with a high tolerance might seek out such products for stronger psychoactive effects. However, this is not a product suitable for beginners or those with a low tolerance for THC.

Factors Influencing the High

Several personal factors determine how you will react to a cannabis product, regardless of its ratio. This highlights the importance of understanding your body's unique response to cannabinoids.

Method of Consumption: The way you consume cannabis dramatically alters the onset and intensity of effects. Inhaling cannabis (smoking or vaping) leads to almost immediate effects, while edibles have a delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) but result in a more potent, longer-lasting, and often more sedating high. The liver metabolizes ingested THC into a more potent form, 11-hydroxy-THC, which contributes to the stronger edible experience.
Individual Tolerance: A person who uses cannabis regularly will build a tolerance to THC, requiring higher doses to feel the same effects. A beginner, on the other hand, will be far more sensitive to even small amounts of THC.
Body Chemistry: Factors such as body weight, metabolism, and genetics play a significant role in how your body processes cannabinoids. This is why a dose that feels mild for one person might be overwhelming for another.
The Entourage Effect: This theory posits that all the compounds in the cannabis plant—cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids—work together synergistically to produce a specific effect, potentially modifying the impact of THC and CBD.

A Comparison of CBD-Dominant vs. THC-Dominant Products


Feature	4:1 CBD:THC Product	4:1 THC:CBD Product
Psychoactive Effects	Mild to non-existent; high is muted by CBD.	Pronounced and intense psychoactive high.
Suitable For	Beginners, those seeking relief with minimal impairment.	Experienced users with a high tolerance.
Common Use Cases	Daytime relief, mild anxiety, focus without sedation.	Strong relaxation, euphoria, evening/nighttime use.
Potential Side Effects	Drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, upset stomach.	Anxiety, paranoia, rapid heart rate, confusion.

The Importance of Safe and Informed Consumption

Given the complexity of cannabis ratios and individual responses, responsible usage is paramount. The guiding principle for anyone trying a new product, especially an edible, is "start low and go slow". If you are using a new 4:1 CBD:THC product, begin with the lowest possible dose and wait at least two hours before considering more, as the effects can be delayed. For any product, it is crucial to purchase from a licensed dispensary that provides lab-tested products with accurate labeling of THC and CBD content. Unregulated products can contain inaccurately labeled cannabinoid levels or harmful contaminants. For more detailed safety information, resources from organizations like the National Institute on Drug Abuse offer reliable guidance.

Conclusion: Which "4 + 1" Gets You High?

The definitive answer to "Does 4 + 1 get you high?" is that it depends entirely on the ratio of THC and CBD. A 4:1 CBD:THC product is designed to produce minimal or no intoxicating effects, with the CBD mitigating the high. Conversely, a 4:1 THC:CBD product is highly psychoactive and reserved for experienced users. Understanding the specific ratio and how various factors like consumption method and individual tolerance influence the experience is crucial for safe and predictable cannabis use. Always start with a low dose and verify product content from a trusted source to ensure a positive and controlled experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 4:1 CBD:THC product has four parts CBD to one part THC and is mildly to non-psychoactive. A 4:1 THC:CBD product has four parts THC to one part CBD and will produce a strong, intense high.

For most beginners, a 4:1 CBD:THC product is unlikely to cause an intense high due to the high concentration of non-psychoactive CBD. However, sensitive individuals may feel mild effects, so starting with a small dose is still recommended.

Edibles with a 4:1 ratio have a delayed but longer-lasting and often more potent effect than inhaled products because the THC is metabolized differently in the liver. Always allow ample time (at least 2 hours) to feel the full effects before taking more.

Yes, products containing THC, even in small amounts, can cause a positive result on a drug test. Drug tests typically look for THC metabolites. While the ratio is low, trace amounts can still be detected with regular use.

The 'entourage effect' is the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other cannabis compounds. In a 4:1 product, this means the CBD and terpenes can work with the THC to create a modulated effect that is different from isolated compounds.

Consuming a high THC product, especially for those with low tolerance, carries risks including anxiety, paranoia, impaired memory, altered perception, and potentially psychosis in predisposed individuals.

No, it is not safe to mix cannabis with alcohol or other substances. This can amplify the effects and increase the risk of negative outcomes like nausea, dizziness, impaired coordination, and heightened anxiety.