Do not use cannabis if you are under twenty-one years of age. Keep cannabis out of the reach of children.
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change store The world of cannabis can be overwhelming, even to experienced users. Even if you have years of experience with the plant, it can be intimidating to walk into a cannabis store. Where do you start? With shelves full of flowers, vapes, edibles, and almost everything else you can imagine, the choice can be overwhelming.
We’re here to help! At Shangri-La, we believe in the power of cannabis to enhance life experiences and provide a sense of well-being and relief to patients who really need it.
Our team members are experienced and knowledgeable, so they can help guide you to the products that will be best for you. We aim for you to have positive, fulfilling experiences while finding the relief you’re after. Below, you'll find answers to all your questions, whether about the science of cannabinoids and terpenes or the basics of each consumption method.
Appreciating the cannabis plant begins with understanding its origins. Cannabis has been used for thousands of years, with early stages of documented use dating back to ancient civilizations. From medicinal applications in ancient China and India to recreational use in the Middle East, the journey of cannabis is as diverse as its potential uses.
At the heart of cannabis lies a complex interplay of chemical compounds known as cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the primary compounds responsible for the plant’s effects. THC is known for its psychoactive properties, while CBD is celebrated for its potential therapeutic benefits without the high.
Terpenes, on the other hand, are aromatic compounds that give each cannabis strain its unique scent and flavor profile, contributing to the overall experience.
Cannabis is sorted into three broad categories or strains: sativa, indica, and hybrid.
Each strain is thought to have different effects on the user, though these effects can vary from person to person. Some question whether there are even real differences between these strains, and many cannabis professionals and researchers now believe a plant breed’s terpene profile is more important in predicting effects than whether it’s an indica, sativa, or hybrid.
Still, these categories remain widely used and understood in the cannabis world. When you walk into a cannabis store, these are some of the first labels you are going to see, so it's essential to understand what they mean.
The second classification you'll find is the strain (aka the breed or variety). Maybe you'll find "Blue Dream,” “Jack Herer,” or "Gelato #25”; these all identify the genetics. Each plant strain has been genetically bred to have certain characteristics and psychoactive and physical effects, often resulting from that strain’s terpene profile.
Our patient consultants can help you navigate the different strains and which are the best match for your circumstance.
Sativa strains are typically thought to have an energizing and uplifting effect on the user.
Popular Sativa strains include: Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, Super Lemon Haze, Purple Haze, and Blue Dream.
Indica is all about relaxation and sedation. If you’ve ever heard the rule of thumb, “indica = in the couch,” you will have a sense of what these strains are all about.
Popular Indica strains include: Northern Lights, Wedding Cake, Girl Scout Cookies, Grandaddy Purple, and Skywalker OG.
Hybrid strains are crosses of indica and sativa strains. They can be uplifting and relaxing at the same time. Consider Hybrids the best of both worlds.
Popular Hybrid strains include: OG Kush, White Widow, Cherry Pie, Chemdawg
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, and pain perception. This system maintains homeostasis, keeping our bodies stable and balanced. So, how does it function?
The ECS comprises endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are lipid-based neurotransmitters produced naturally by the body, with anandamide and 2-AG being the most notable examples. These endocannabinoids bind to cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 and CB2, found throughout the body. CB1 receptors are mostly located in the brain and central nervous system, influencing mood and cognition, while CB2 receptors are more common in the immune system, affecting inflammation and pain.
Cannabinoids found in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, can bind to these same receptors, mimicking the effects of endocannabinoids and influencing various bodily functions. Enzymes like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol acid lipase break down endocannabinoids once they have fulfilled their role, ensuring that the ECS remains in balance.
There are so many ways to enjoy the effects of cannabis; it can definitely feel overwhelming for the uninitiated. Here are the quick and dirty details on each of the consumption methods, including how effective they are at delivering the active compounds into your body and their onset and duration.
| Method | Bioavailability (%) | Onset Time | Duration of Effects |
| Smoking | 10-56% (avg. 30%) | Less than 10 minutes | 1-3 hours |
| Vaping | Up to 50-80% | Less than 10 minutes | 1-3 hours |
| Edibles | 4-20% | 30-120 minutes | 4-8 hours |
| Sublingual | 20-35% | 15-30 minutes | 2-4 hour |
| Dabbing | Up to 50-80% | Less than 10 minutes | 1-3 hours |
Let's run through a few more details of the most common consumption methods:
The most traditional method is smoking, which involves inhaling the smoke from burning dried cannabis flowers (sometimes you'll hear flower called buds or nugs). Whether it’s a joint, blunt, pipe, or bong, you put flame to the flower and inhale.
Smoking allows for quick absorption of the cannabinoids and terpenes, providing almost immediate effects. When cannabis is smoked, the smoke (including all the active compounds) enters the lungs, where it is absorbed through the alveoli—tiny air sacs that facilitate gas exchange.
This method bypasses the digestive system and liver, leading to a faster onset of effects than oral consumption. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues. Smoked cannabis offers a distinct experience compared to other consumption methods.
Vaping is an alternative to smoking. It involves inhaling vaporized cannabis but avoids respiratory concerns many people have with the smoke element. With the right device, you can vape pure dried flower or a cannabis concentrate, like hash, live rosin, sauce, or distillate. Vaping devices come in various forms and price points, from super-portable disposable vape pens to larger desktop vaporizers.
When cannabis is vaporized, it's done at a much lower heat point than smoking, which means the material doesn't burn. The low heat extracts cannabinoids such as THC and CBD from the plant material or concentrates by vaporizing them. This vapor gets inhaled into the lungs, where cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the alveoli. This method avoids the harmful byproducts of combustion found in traditional smoking yet delivers a nearly identical onset and duration of effects.
Dabbing is specifically designed for use with cannabis. Concentrates, such as shatter and wax, are highly potent extracts. They’re often used in “dabbing,” which is a way of vaporizing and inhaling these high-THC products. See above for exactly what’s going on when you vaporize cannabis.
You need special equipment, such as a dab rig or dab pen, to dab. These devices use high indirect heat to vaporize the active compounds in the concentrate for a powerful and flavorful experience. These are for advanced cannabis users only.
Cannabis edibles offer a totally different way to consume cannabis—one that is super delicious and sometimes highly potent. Edibles come in a wide array of formats, like gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and a hundred other treats.
The effects of edibles take longer to kick in, usually between 30 minutes to two hours, but they tend to last longer and can be more intense. Why? Because when you consume an edible, it travels through the digestive system rather than being absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the lungs. This can take time.
Then, the cannabinoids in the edible are metabolized by the liver. This process converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound known for its potent psychoactive effects, often resulting in a different experience compared to smoke or vaping.
Sublingual administration is a method of consuming cannabis tinctures, oils, and tablets by placing them under the tongue. This allows the active compounds to get absorbed through the oral mucosa rather than the digestive system. Patients particularly love this method because it avoids smoking or vaping. The effects come on quickly and, depending on the product, can still be very potent.
Cannabis has been a medicinal plant for thousands of years, eventually capturing European scientific attention for its possible medical benefits in the 19th century. Over a century later, it's getting extensively researched through a modern scientific lens.
Cannabis research has uncovered a lot about how this plant impacts pain, mood, appetite, and several chronic conditions. One of the most recent and robust reviews of the medical effects of cannabis was published by the National Academies Press in the report "The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids."
The team arrived at nearly 100 different research conclusions on the association between cannabis/cannabinoid use and various health outcomes. The most noteworthy conclusion they came to was that there is substantial evidence that cannabis or cannabinoids are effective for treating chronic pain in adults, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and multiple sclerosis spasticity symptoms.
Research is ongoing, but many states have already launched cannabis programs for patients and approved its use for a long list of qualifying conditions.
Let's just look at Missouri's list of qualifying medical conditions to see what people are finding relief from with this powerful plant medicine:
Some studies suggest that cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis, may play a role in managing discomfort associated with chronic conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Research into the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids also shows promise, though further investigation is required to better understand these effects in human populations.
In addition, there is growing interest in the potential of cannabis, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), in supporting mental well-being. Preliminary studies indicate that CBD may have calming properties, potentially reducing feelings of anxiety and improving mood, without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. However, more clinical research is needed to fully assess these health effects.
Understanding the difference between medical cannabis and recreational cannabis is crucial for informed cannabis use.
Medical marijuana is typically recommended by a healthcare provider (aka a cannabis doctor or cannabis clinic) and used to treat specific medical conditions. Whether it's edible medical cannabis products or straight flower, it often comes in standardized doses and formulations to ensure consistency and efficacy. Medical marijuana is now legal in 38 states and counting, including Missouri, Connecticut, Ohio, and Illinois.
Individuals need a recommendation from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain medical cannabis. This often involves a thorough evaluation to determine if cannabis is a suitable treatment option for the individual’s condition, as well as recommendations for use.
Recreational cannabis, on the other hand, is available without speaking to a doctor and is often consumed for its fun, pleasant effects (aka the high). The legal status of recreational cannabis varies by state, and for those in Missouri, Connecticut, Ohio, and Illinois, you now have access to legal adult-use cannabis. Even better? Shangri-La has locations in each of these states. It remains a controlled substance at the national level.
If you’re a newbie to the cannabis world, we want your first time consuming to be a great time. We’ve got some tips to help you begin your cannabis journey with positive experiences that’ll have you soaring right from the start.
Always start with a low dose. We recommend less than 10 milligrams of THC. Instead of taking a whole gummy, take half or less than that. Take one puff off a vape or pre-roll; don’t burn down the whole thing. Wait for the effects to kick in, and then decide if you want to consume more. Tolerance varies from person to person, so go slow and know when to say no.
There are endless strains of cannabis, and each offers unique effects based on the amount of THC and CBD and its terpene profile. Sativa strains can be uplifting and energizing. Indica strains can be relaxing and calming.
Hybrids are the best of both worlds. Think about what kind of experience you’d like to have, and our staff can help you find the right strains to get you there.
Vapes, edibles, flower smoked in a pipe, concentrates, topicals—there are so many ways to consume cannabis, and each can deliver a different experience. Explore different methods (while remembering Tip #1) to find the one you enjoy the most.
Make sure you’re having your first experience in a comfortable, familiar, and positive environment. That means having good company in a space where you can feel relaxed. Have some good music on, watch some movies, or do something creative.
Two of the most well-known effects of cannabis outside of being a little elevated are dry mouth (aka “cottonmouth”) and the munchies. Drink plenty of water and have healthy snacks on hand (think fruit and veggies instead of salty, fatty chips or sweets).
Cannabis hits everyone a little differently. Some people, especially those who are experienced consumers, have a higher tolerance. Pay attention to yourself and how you feel before consuming more. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with anyone. Respect your limits and know when to stop.
Cannabis used responsibly and in moderation by adults can be safe and positive. However, cannabis can be dangerous or deadly in little hands. Store your products securely, away from children and pets. Also, do not consume cannabis and drive! If you need to go somewhere after consuming, arrange a sober ride!
The world of cannabis is vast. It can be difficult to navigate all the products available. We have a team of knowledgeable pros at all our stores who are ready to help you have the best experiences with cannabis so you can find what we call the “soar spot”—the places and things that a little cannabis can make even better. We’re here to answer any cannabis questions you have, so feel free to ask away!
Clearly, cannabis is an incredibly versatile and complex plant, containing unlimited potential in medicine but also for sheer enjoyment. From understanding the basics and types of cannabis plants to exploring the endocannabinoid system and various consumption methods, we hope this guide has helped introduce you to the cannabis universe.
With Shangri-La as your co-pilot, you are in good hands as you begin to explore just what this plant has to offer. Not sure where to start or where to go next? Shangri-La’s got you covered. Come chat with our knowledgeable patient consultants to determine what’s right for you to help you soar—to reach exactly where you want to be.
Remember that sativa and indica are largely outdated descriptions, even if they are widely used across the industry today. But, generally speaking, the primary difference is that sativa provides uplifting and energizing effects, whereas indica is known for its relaxing and sedative qualities.
The endocannabinoid system functions by regulating essential bodily processes such as mood, appetite, and pain perception through the use of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes, ultimately maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body.
Using medical cannabis can effectively aid in pain management, alleviate anxiety and depression, improve sleep disorders, and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable option for enhancing overall health and well-being. Always speak to a doctor about cannabis for medical use before you begin so you can avoid possible adverse health effects and drug interactions.
To use cannabis responsibly, begin with a low dose before you head back for seconds. You'll want to understand your tolerance before taking a stronger dose to avoid strong side effects in the beginning. Always avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence, and ensure that cannabis products are stored securely, away from children and pets.
The key difference between medical and recreational cannabis lies in their use and regulation; medical cannabis is recommended for specific health conditions by a healthcare provider in more than 38 states and counting, whereas recreational cannabis is legal in more than 30 states and consumed for enjoyment without a prescription.
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