Cannabis is a unique plant with a rich history spanning multiple centuries. Today, cannabis products come in a variety of forms, each offering unique benefits every connoisseur can enjoy. Here’s everything you need to know about cannabis and cannabis goods to elevate your consumption to the next level.

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis, also known as weed or marijuana, is a plant with psychoactive properties. Cannabis products are available in various forms, such as whole flower or nugs, cannabis infused foods and beverages, cannabis extracts and concentrates, pre-rolls, vape products, and topicals.

Understanding Cannabis Types

The three main cannabis categories include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. The three types are distinct and have different characteristics, growth patterns, and origins. Sativa plants have a longer flowering time and are tall with long, slim leaves, while indica plants have a faster flowering time but are shorter with broad leaves. 

Popular sativa strains include Blue Dream, Jack Herer, and Lemon Haze, while popular indica strains include Northern Lights, Grandaddy Purple, and Bubba Kush.

Hybrid cannabis is created by crosbreeding two strains for desired cannabis genetics. The plant’s physical attributes and growth patterns are determined by the dominant genetics. Some hybrid strains are more sativa-dominant or indica-dominant, while others are more balanced. Popular hybrid strains include Ice Cream Cake, OG Kush, and Purple Gelato.

Chemical Structure of Cannabis

Cannabinoids and terpenes are the two main substances that make up the cannabis plant. Other compounds found in cannabis include flavonoids, amino and fatty acids, sugar, and other natural compounds.

Cannabinoids

There are over 100 different cannabinoids, with many still being discovered and studied. Cannabinoids interact with the receptors responsible for altering mood, appetite, sleep, pain management, and other functions. Each cannabinoid has unique effects and offers different therapeutic benefits. The two primary cannabinoids are Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). THC is a psychoactive compound, producing euphoric or relaxing effects, while CBD is a nonintoxicating cannabinoid that doesn’t produce a ”high.”   

Other notable cannabinoids found in cannabis include:

• Delta-8 THC
• Delta-10 THC
• Cannabinol (CBN)
• Cannabigerol (CBG)
• Cannabichromene (CBC)

Terpenes

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They act as aromatics and flavorants, giving cannabis its distinctive smell and taste, depending on the terpene profile. Cannabinoids and terpenes go hand in hand by synergizing and producing entourage effects.

The most common terpenes and their potential effects include:

• Limonene (citrusy aroma with potential uplifting effects)
• Pinene (pine-like aroma with potential anti-inflammatory effects)
• Linalool (floral aroma with potential stress-reducing effects)
• Myrcene (earthy or musky aroma with potential relaxing effects)

How Does Cannabis Affect the Body?

Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which includes two main cannabinoid receptors that help regulate pain, sleep, appetite, memory, and mood. CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, while CB2 receptors can be found in the immune system.

Different Ways to Consume Cannabis

Cannabis is available in many forms, with different characteristics and methods of consumption, such as:

• Smoking: By consuming ground flower or whole nugs in joints, pipes, or bongs, offering a fast onset of effects.
• Vaping: By inhaling vapor from disposable vape pens and cartridges, offering a fast onset of effects and easy use.
• Dabbing: consuming cannabis highly potent and flavorful cannabis concentrates by using dab tools, offering a fast onset of effects.
• Edibles: By consuming cannabis infused foods, beverages, oils, and capsules, offering long-lasting effects and onset that depends on the dose.
• Topicals: By using cannabis infused lotions, creams, and transdermal patches, offering a slower onset of effect with prolonged duration.

Effects and Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Cannabis

The effects of cannabis are tied to the cannabinoid content and its interaction with the body’s ECS system. Cannabis can be used for recreational purposes, due to its relaxing and euphoric effects that can be beneficial in social and private settings. Medical cannabis is becoming more and more popular over the years, as it’s been legalized in 40 states.

Common Side Effects of Cannabis

The severity of side effects can vary depending on the potency, dose, and personal tolerance to cannabis. Some methods of consumption can increase the risk of side effects, as smoking or vaping is hard to dose and can be overwhelming for beginners. While the effects of edibles can be amplified if taken on an empty stomach, especially if a larger dose is taken. Common side effects of cannabis include dry mouth and eyes, drowsiness, altered perception, increased anxiety, and paranoia.

Legality of Cannabis

Cannabis is only legal for adults in 24 U.S. states, as there is no federal law legalizing it. Each state has its own laws and regulations regarding cannabis use that should be followed accordingly.

Cannabis can be a transformative substance for beginners, and even some connoisseurs who are learning new ways to consume it. Understanding how cannabis works can help enhance the overall experience. Find your nearest dispensary and explore the selection of cannabis products.