Cannabis 101
Cannabis flower is the dried and often cured flowering part of the female cannabis plant. This is the smokable product that can also be processed into concentrates and the like.
A clone is a plant identical to the mother plant. They are obtained by cutting the strongest branches from a cannabis plant and allowing them to grow roots.
Cannabis can be smoked, vaped, eaten, or even applied to the skin in the case of topicals. There are many ways to enjoy cannabis.
THC is a psychoactive compound most often contributing to the “high” when consuming cannabis. CBD is the non-psychoactive compound most commonly used for its medicinal properties. Both can help with various conditions, as well as relaxation in the user.
Sativa- Great for musicians, or other creative minds. We like to describe the Sativa strains as more of a head high that allows you to be able to complete your daily tasks. They are well sought after for social gatherings.
Indica-Latin for India as the Indica variety was developed on the Indian sub-continent. Indica’s are known for being physically sedating, a full body high. Great as a treat before bed to help you fall into a deep sleep. Term widely used to help remember the effects of the Indica variety is “Indicouch.”
Hybrid- A mix of both Indica and Sativa. The effects are determined by parent strains that determine which way they lean (Indica or Sativa). For example, the strain Bubba’s Girl 2 is a cross of Pre 98’ Bubba Kush (Indica) and Girl Scout Cookies (Hybrid), making Bubba’s Girl 2 an Indica Dominant Hybrid.
*Depending on the strain the effects of all these are highly variable.
Beginning with five milligrams for a first time user is highly recommended. Cannabis impacts different individuals in different ways. Edibles take several hours to kick in, so only add another five milligrams after waiting for 1 to 3 hours. Edibles can be an uncomfortable experience if you overdo it.
For your first experience with cannabis beginning with flower may be best, as concentrates are much more potent. You can purchase a pre-roll, buy papers to roll your own joint, or if you would prefer, buy a small pipe or water pipe to consume. Our budtenders can help find the best piece of equipment for you.
You can purchase an edible, or a small handheld vaporizer cartridge and battery for a smoke-free experience.
Public consumption of cannabis is illegal. Enjoying cannabis in the privacy of your own home is the best option.
Depending on how long you have been enjoying cannabis and what method you are using to consume, the effects of cannabis can last for 2 to 6 hours. This is made longer by additional consumption.
Terpenes are the pungent oils that distinguish cannabis strains with distinctive aromas and flavors. Listed below are the most common Terpenes found in cannabis strains:
- Caryophyllene-
- Aromas: Floral, Citrus and Spice
- Effects: No physical effects detected
- Also found in: Pepper, Cloves, Hops, Basil and Oregano
- Medical Benefits: Antioxidant, Inflammation, Muscle Spasms, Pain & Insomnia
- Humulene-
- Aromas: Woody and Earthy
- Effects: Suppresses appetite
- Also found in: Hops and Coriander
- Medical Benefits: Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Bacterial & Pain
- Limonene-
- Aromas: Citrus, Lemon and Orange
- Effects: Elevated mood and Stress relief
- Also found in: Citrus Rinds, Juniper and Peppermint
- Medical Benefits: Anti-Depression, Anti-Anxiety, Gastric Reflux & Antifungal
- Linalool-
- Aromas: Floral, Citrus and Spice
- Effects: Calm and Sedative
- Also found in: Lavender, Citrus, Laurel, Birch and Rosewood
- Medical Benefits: Insomnia, Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Pain & Convulsions
- Myrcene-
- Aromas: Musk, Cloves, Herbal and Citrus
- Effects: Sedative, Relaxing and Enhances THC psychoactivity
- Also found in: Mango, Thyme, Citrus, Lemongrass and Bay Leaves
- Medical Benefits: Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Antifungal and Inflammation
- Pinene-
- Aromas: Sharp, Sweet and Pine
- Effects: Memory Retention and Alertness
- Also found in: Pine Needles, Conifers and Sage
- Medical Benefits: Inflammation and Asthma. Great Bronchodilator.
THC- Tetrahydrocannabinol-the dominant psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. THC is the reason cannabis makes us feel euphoric, happy and hungry.
CBD- Cannabidiol- CBD is the 2nd most abundant cannabinoid found in cannabis. CBD is calming, relaxing and great as an anti-anxiety. Very helpful for people looking to relax without the high.
CBN- A sedating, sleepy cannabinoid that is found in higher amounts in aged cannabis as THC degrades
CBC- A nonpsychoactive cannabinoid being studied for its anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties.
THCA- The non psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw cannabis, THCA is known to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-nausea effects. Raw cannabis leaves are popular for those who use them to juice or brew into teas for the content in THC.
THCV- Thought to have high-energy psychoactive effects, THCV is an appetite suppressing, anxiety-fighting cannabinoid showing promise for conditions like Diabetes, PTSD, Alzheimer’s and Osteoporosis.IS CANNABIS SAFE FOR THE ELDERLY?WHAT CAN I EXPECT THE FIRST TIME I TAKE CANNABIS?HOW SHOULD I CHOOSE MY CANNABIS PRODUCT?WHAT ARE TOPICALS?WHAT ARE EDIBLES?CAN I CONSUME CANNABIS WHEN I’M ILL?WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING A MEDICAL MARIJUANA PATIENT?HOW CAN I SET MYSELF UP FOR THE BEST CANNABIS EXPERIENCE?ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF CANNABIS I SHOULD BE AWARE OF?WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I OVER CONSUME?WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON METHODS FOR USING CANNABIS?
Cannabis is safe for adults in general, but every individual is different. Check with your doctor if you are worried about any possible interactions with your current medication, and consider consuming cannabis without combustion, as it is easier on the body and lungs.
The first time you try cannabis, the effects are variable. Some people may not even notice they are high, as noticing the effects of cannabis expands with experience. Regardless of your method of consumption, start slow, as overconsuming can be an uncomfortable experience. Being in a comfortable environment around people you trust leads to the best experience.
Choosing a cannabis product is personal to the individual. The better question is, what are you comfortable with? Some adults are comfortable with smoking, while others would prefer to try other methods. Talk to your budtender to decide what method is best for you.
Topicals are CBD or THC infused oils, lotions or otherwise that can relax the muscles of the body. Typically they do not produce a head high, and are useful for relaxation.
Edibles are cannabis infused food or drinks.
Depending on the illness, some medical as well as recreational patients report relief from pain, nausea and other conditions. Further research is needed about cannabis and its effects on the human body. If you have any questions about what is right for you while you are ill, consult with your doctor.
Becoming a medical patient in Washington can mean more access to medicine, higher limits on how much you can purchase and possess, as well as access to greater concentrations of cannabis. This is all dependent on whether you have a qualifying medical condition.
Being in a comfortable environment around people you trust, and taking it slow when you first begin are the best ways to set yourself up for a pleasant cannabis experience. Having some of your favorite snacks nearby is also helpful.
Cannabis impacts every individual differently, with a range of effects. As long as you do not over consume, these effects are largely pleasant. Some individuals report paranoia with some forms of cannabis. If you are feeling worried or anxious, just remember, the effects are temporary. Dry mouth and red eyes are also minor cannabis side effects.
Over consuming can be stressful. If you feel you are too high, or uncomfortable you may want to eat some food and drink plenty of water which will help diminish the effects over time. Anecdotally, potassium rich foods are helpful for some. Taking a nap or resting with eyes closed in a dark room can also help alleviate the discomfort. If you feel there is a medical emergency, always consult your doctor. In most cases the discomfort will pass in time, and will often feel like over-stimulation, paranoia, or possible nausea.
- Smoking
- Vaping
- Ingesting (Edibles – liquid or solid, Tinctures, RSO)
- Topicals