If you’re new to smoking or simply need a refresher, we’ve got you covered. Here’s 5 basic cannabis terms and definitions every cannabis lover should know.
Cannabis
Otherwise known as marijuana, cannabis is a psychoactive drug from the cannabis plant. It is used both recreationally and medicinally all over the world. There are currently 483 known compounds in the plant, including 65 cannabinoids; such as THC and CBD. Cannabis has an extensive list of mental and physical effects. For instance, Euphoria, relaxation, dry mouth, red eyes, and improved appetite.
THC a major component of the Cannabis plant
THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the most abundant natural compound found in cannabis plants. It is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. It is what’s responsible for the “high” sensation you feel after smoking weed. THC is used to help treat pain, muscle spasticity, glaucoma, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, and anxiety amongst other things.
CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD), is the second most prevalent natural compound found in cannabis plants. You’ve probably heard of the health benefits of CBD at some point in time. It is commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and, muscle and joint inflammation. Arguably its greatest medicinal use is its effectiveness in treating childhood epilepsy syndromes such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. In fact, in 2018 the FDA approved the first-ever drug compromised of CBD to treat seizures.
Strain
Strains are essentially different breeds of cannabis. Each strain can be defined by a combination of factors such as appearance, effects, and botanical lineage. Strains are given names that often reference their lineage, aroma, appearance, or possible effects. Consumers should keep in mind that strains sold at different locations bearing the same name won’t necessarily be the same. A strains characteristics often vary greatly from grower to grower.
Cannabinoids
Compounds unique to cannabis, cannabinoids bind to receptors in the human body. When you smoke weed, they are responsible for providing different effects such as pain relief or drowsiness. Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids. They work by imitating compounds our bodies naturally produce, called endocannabinoids.
Leave a comment down below if there are any other cannabis terms you’d like us to cover!