Cannabis:
A plant that produces flowering buds that contain the psychoactive cannabinoid THC and the regulatory cannabinoid CBD. Hemp & weed (marijuana) are the same plant: Cannabis sativa. The compounds (cannabinoids) found in hemp and weed are the same. The primary difference is a legal one, based on Delta-9 THC content of less than or greater than 0.3%.
Cannabinoid:
A chemical compound of the cannabis plant. Most well-known are THC & CBD, but we’re gonna talk about some others too!
THC:
Tetrahydrocannabinol or “THC” is the primary psychoactive component of the plant and is what gets you high.
- Delta 9: “Real THC.” Starting dose: 5–10mg
- Delta 8: Half as potent as regular THC, often lab-made. Starting dose: 15–25mg
- THCA: The most prevalent THC in cannabis flowers when growing – once heated, it converts to Delta-9 THC and becomes psychoactive. It is not psychoactive in edible form (you’ll be looking for Delta-9 THC) and only produces a high when smoked.
CBD:
Cannabidiol or “CBD” on its own is not psychoactive and does not produce a “high.” It is great for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. A good starting dosage:
- 25–50mg for anxiety relief
- 50–100mg for pain or sleep aid
CBN:
Cannabinol or “CBN” is sedative & relaxing. Starting dosage: ~10mg–50mg. Non-intoxicating and best when taken in combination with CBD or THC.
CBG:
Cannabigerol or “CBG” is your best friend for pain relief – it’s anti-inflammatory and non-intoxicating. Starting dosage: ~10–20mg. Best when taken with CBD or THC!
CBC:
Cannabichromene or “CBC” is known for mood support, brain health, and anti-inflammatory properties. Starting dosage: ~10–20mg. Best when taken with CBD or THC.
Endocannabinoid System:
Why cannabis does what it does! A system of receptors in the brain and body that respond to cannabinoids called CB1 and CB2 receptors. The ECS is involved in regulating various physiological processes including mood, sleep, immunity, and pain.
- Endocannabinoids: We discovered that the body makes its own compounds for regulation, called endocannabinoids. The most famous of these being anandamide – the bliss molecule known for the “Runner’s High.”
The Entourage Effect:
The presence of multiple cannabinoids significantly enhances their effects. Try different combinations of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids together to find what is best for your desired effect.
Full Spectrum:
Also known as “Full Plant” products, they often have low levels of THC and may not make you feel high but still contain the compound in some amount. Products that contain zero THC but contain other active components, such as CBD, CBN, CBG, and terpenes, are known as “Broad Spectrum.”
