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The world of cannabis is a vast wonderland – if you're new, dabbling, or a seasoned enthusiast, there is always something to learn. From its ancient origins to its modern-day relevance, cannabis has woven itself into the fabric of countless cultures, eliciting curiosity, controversy, and celebration along the way.
Here, we bring you Cannabis 101, where we dive into the world of cannabis, demystifying it with a user-friendly guide to the best possible experience. So, lean back, settle in, and open your mind as we dive into all things cannabis, where the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
Say Hello To Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are mesmerizing chemical compounds produced by the cannabis plant. Although some research suggests that the plant might contain over 100 different cannabinoids, we’re most familiar with a few whose benefits have been well-established: THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG.
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Among the most famous cannabinoids are THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient responsible for the "high" experience, and CBD, the non-intoxicating compound renowned for its potential therapeutic benefits. Cannabinoids mimic our own body’s own chemical messengers and use our receptors to directly activate cells, creating psychoactive and therapeutic effects. Together, they create a harmonious symphony of effects that have made their impact far and wide.
Take A Look At Terpenes
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds responsible for giving plants, including cannabis, their distinctive fragrances. Terpenes have their own pharmacology and affect the way we feel.
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The terpene profile of each cannabis strain or product largely determines the nuanced effects of the experience. Cannabis products are commonly categorized into three varieties to help consumers predict their effects:
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Sativa/Stimulating
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Hybrid/Balanced
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Indica/Calming
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Personal terpene preference is a crucial part of setting yourself up for success when selecting cannabis products that respond well to your unique biology.
SATIVA
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For those who need a boost.
Can help with:
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Boosting mood
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Improving focus
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Increasing energy
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Fostering creativity
HYBRID
The best of both worlds.
Classified as:
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Indica-dominant (indica-dom)
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Sativa-dominant (sativa-dom)
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Balanced
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A lot of options to choose from
INDICA
If you’re in need of a chill pill. Great for:
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Reducing anxiety
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Relaxing the mind and body
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Reduce nausea
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Increase appetite
Enter, The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is a biological system found within all mammals. It’s a combination of messengers and receptors that regulate our most basic functions, like sleep, memory, mood, and appetite. This essential system is largely responsible for maintaining the body’s internal balance.
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The natural compounds found in cannabis, called cannabinoids, interact with the body’s own endocannabinoid system in a range of ways. These compounds regulate all sorts of essential processes—pain, stress, appetite, metabolism, cardiovascular function, reward and motivation, reproduction, and sleep—just to name a few.
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Certain lifestyle choices like eating healthy foods, exercising, and doing stress-relieving activities like meditation or yoga can optimize the function of the ECS. Consuming phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant can also increase the efficacy of the Endocannabinoid System. However, consuming cannabis in excess can effect the ECS negatively.
How Do I Consume Cannabis?
There is a huge variety of cannabis consumption methods with no one-size-fits-all solution. The consumption method that is best for you will depend on the cannabis product you are using and the experience you are after. Generally, consumption methods fall into these categories:
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Inhalation
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Oral consumption
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Topical application
Inhalation
When you inhale cannabis, the plant’s active compounds, cannabinoids and terpenoids, are absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs, and the effects are felt almost immediately. Cannabis can be inhaled through smoking or vaping, each of which has its own benefits.
Devices: pipe, bong, pre-roll, vape cartridge, flower vaporizer, dab rig
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Onset Time: immediate-10 minutes
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Duration of Effect: 1-3 hours
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Take on small puff
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Wait 15-20 minutes to see how you feel
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If an increase is needed, take another small puff
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Repeat until your minimum effective dose is found
Oral Consumption
There are two main ways to consume cannabis orally: edibles and tinctures. Oral consumption generally has a slow onset of effects and a long duration. Edibles, for example, consuming high doses of edibles can have a duration period lasting over 24 hours, depending on the dosage and the individual.
EDIBLES
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Forms: gummies, baked goods, mints, candies
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Onset Time: 15 minutes - 4 hours
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Duration of Effect: 6-8 hours
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Consume 2 mg a few hours before going to sleep--wait 2 hours to realize effects
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If an increase is needed, the next night consume an additional 2 mg
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Increase by 2 mg night over night until your minimal effective dose is found
TINCTURES
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Devices: bottle with dropper
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Onset time: 15-30 minutes
Duration of effects: 2-4 hours
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Consume 2-5 milligrams
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Wait 30 minutes to realize effects
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If an increase is needed consume an additional 2-5mg
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Repeat until your minimal effective dose is found
Topical Delivery
Topical, meaning applied to the skin, is a delivery method that involves creams, salves, sprays, or oils. These products allow you to absorb active compounds through the skin and provide localized relief for pain, muscle soreness, joint stiffness, and inflammation.
Devices: lotions, creams, balms, salves and patches
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Onset time: 10-30 minutes
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Duration of effects: 2-4 hours
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Apply a quarter of the dose suggested on the product's packaging
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Wait 2 hours to realize effect
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Repeat until your minimal effective dose is found
How Much Cannabis Should I Consume?
The first rule of dosing regarding cannabis is to start low and slow. Conservative test dosing will help you determine the lowest possible dose to achieve the desired effect. Overconsumption, especially if you are new to cannabis, is all too easy, especially with edibles. Beginning with too high of a dose can create discomfort, including paranoia, dry mouth, and forgetfulness. If you are smoking, for example, beginning with a puff and waiting a few minutes to see how you feel is a good idea. With an edible or tincture, a 2 mg dose is probably a good place to begin.
And How Do I Know What Type Of Cannabis Is Right For Me?
We’ve got you! Visit us in-store at Unity Rd., and one of our friendly, knowledgeable team members will point you in the right direction! It's best to start with curiosity and a proactive attitude as you explore your options and find the perfect fit.