Cannabis is one of the most misunderstood plants on the planet, demonized by some and yet celebrated by many. For the average person, it can be extremely difficult to navigate the facts and the fictions surrounding this infamous crop. And while we may not be scientists, we feel that there are things about the plant itself that are understood and we’d like to share this knowledge with you. Hopefully this information will be of help to you as you journey to understand and connect with the plant and all it has to offer. And of course, if you just want to get high for the sake of getting high - that is just fine.
What are Cannibinoids?
Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis. The most notable cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most notable cannabinoid of the plant. There are at least 100 different cannabinoids isolated from cannabis, exhibiting varied effects.
What Is The Difference Between THC and CBD?
THC is the compound in Marijuana that is known to get you high. CBD is a compound that is non-psychoactive, meaning that CBD alone will not get you high. However, once paired with THC, it is said that the medicinal benefits of CBD are heightened due to what is known as
“The Entourage Effect.”
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are molecules produced naturally by all plants and herbs, including cannabis. These terpenes are responsible for the unique tastes and aromas a plant has and can add to the distinct effects produced when consumed. Terpenes can be identified by their citrus, skunky, spicy, diesel like, woody, pine like, or tropical aromas and flavors. Think the uplifting or sedative effects of essential oils.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are how Marijuana is typically classified. What they are really refering to is how the plant itself physically looks and grows. Sativa strains generally come from plants that are typically taller in struture, have narrower leaves, and are better suited to grow in warmer climates allowing for a longer flowering period. Indica strains generally come from plants that are shorter in structure, have broader, wider leaves, and are better suited to grow in colder climates which cater to a shorter flowering period.
Hybrid strains are exactly what it sounds like, a cross between a Sativa and an Indica strain. Their plants usually look like something in between an Indica and Sativa, naturally having characteristics of both. Although many people associate the effects of getting high as being “sativa-like” or “indica-like”, all modern cannabis strains are technically Hybrids and therefore, it isn’t 100% accurate to describe the effects as such. Everyone is effected differently, meaning for some, an Indica-dominant strain may actually uplift rather than sedate and visa versa.
