What is cannabis?
For thousands of years, cannabis has been used for its medical and psychedelic properties. Chinese emperor Shen Nung was the first to list medical uses for the plant by adding it to his pharmacopeia in 2800 BCE. But, what is cannabis? Cannabis, as we know it, is the flower of the Cannabis sativa plant. While we may categorize different strains by Indica, Sativa and Hybrid, they all come from the same species of plant! What makes this plant so special? Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active ingredient in marijuana that everyone knows and loves; however, it’s not the only ingredient worth mentioning. CBD, CBG, and CBN are all cannabinoids that can be readily found in cannabis and all possess their own benefits! Along with cannabinoids, Terpenes are also an integral part of the cannabis experience, dictating whether you’ll feel energized or relaxed, giddy or calm, or which part of the spectrum you will experience. Visit us today and have one of our highly educated staff help you find the best combination!
Cannabis is a dynamic plant with different cannabinoids and terpenes interacting with our endocannabinoid system. The active components can vary significantly with the amount of CBD and THC in each product.
Understanding the benefits of different medical marijuana products isn’t as difficult as it may seem. The key is to identify what issues you’re trying to lessen and understand how diverse product ranges and strain classifications can affect various conditions. This guide can help you better understand which products have the potential to help with your condition, coupled with a one-on-one consultation with our cannabis experts.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid
1. Indica
Cannabis Indica has become synonymous with a more sedative experience.
Ideal for nausea, pain relief, appetite stimulation, and insomnia.
Indica leaning cultivars include Northern Lights, OG Kush, Blueberry Kush, Bubba Kush, and GDP.
Typically, terpenes like Linalool, Beta-Caryophyllene, and Myrcene are thought to be found in more relaxing strains.
2. Sativa
Cannabis Sativa has come to represent the energy specificity of the strain. Sativa strains are thought to make one feel energized, uplifted, and focused.
Ideal for outdoor activities, creativity, conversation and uplifting moods.
Sativa leaning cultivars include Jack Herer, Sour Diesel, Harlequin, and Super Silver Haze.
Typically, terpenes like Limonene and Pinene are thought to be found in more euphoric and elevating strains.
3. Hybrid
Much like Indica, meaning more relaxed, and Sativa meaning more uplifting, hybrids are synonymous with a more balanced experience.
Hybrid leaning cultivars include SFC OG, Banana OG, Royal Kush, Birthday Cake, Gelato #33, and Blue Dream.
Due to the complex and relative nature of hybrids, terpenes are wide-ranging including Humulene, Eucalyptol, and Nerolidol.
Method of Delivery
Considering each strain’s benefits, you can then start to hone in on the type of product and type of delivery method that will ultimately work best for you:
Each product will modulate your endocannabinoid system, but it depends on the ratio, consumption type, dose, and individual body responses. Check in with our patient consultants to narrow down our vast selection to find the perfect product and method for you!
THC vs CBD
There are 8 main cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant:
THC and CBD are the two most famous cannabinoids.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most common molecule in cannabis responsible for producing the classic cannabis high and feelings of euphoria. THC is a phytocannabinoid that interacts within our endocannabinoid system to help relieve symptoms associated with a myriad of conditions:
CBD is a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid found in cannabis, which does not produce the traditional feeling of “high” many associate with THC. CBD interacts naturally with our endocannabinoid system as a partial agonist to CB1 and CB2 receptors by stimulating serotonergic receptors. CBD has the ability to be used for:
What in the world are Terpenes?
THC, while important, is not the only chemical affecting you when you consume cannabis. Terpenes are specific chemicals found in cannabis as well as many other plants, fruits and herbs. If THC is the engine of the car, terpenes would be your steering wheel. Terpenes help create the desired effect and guide your cannabis experience.
Here are a few common Terpenes found readily in cannabis:
Limonene – Found in citrus fruits – This terpene is known for its citrusy scent and flavor. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Pinene – Found in pine and rosemary – This terpene has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties.
Linalool – Found in lavender – This terpene has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, neuroprotective, antidepressant, and anxiolytic properties.
Myrcene – Found in hops and lemongrass – This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
b-Caryophyllene – Found in cloves and black pepper – This terpene is known for its black pepper scent. It has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Humelene – Also found in hops – This terpene has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties in regards to allergies.