Cannabis Strains
When categorizing cannabis strains, the industry has broken it down to three distinct sub-species, or strains. These are Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis. Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica plants are very common, whereas Cannabis Ruderalis tends to be less prevalent due to its lower concentrations of the psychoactive compound associated with a cannabis 'high', called THC. The terms "indica" and "sativa" have been widely accepted by the cannabis industry to distinguish differences in effects. A "Sativa" strain is known for more energetic, cerebral and euphoric effects. An "Indica" strain is known for more body-oriented, sedative, and relaxing effects. Nearly all strains nowadays are considered hybrids which are a result of crossbreeding of the Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica plants. You will see many cannabis products have Sativa, Indica or Hybrid variations.
THC vs CBD
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds secreted by cannabis flowers and are, effectively, the plant's medicine. There are currently over 100 known cannabinoids, we tend to focus only on two of the main cannabinoids that occur in cannabis: THC, Tetrahydrocannabinol, which has a pyscho-active effect and CBD, Cannabidiol, which does not. These compounds affect the body differently and are known to be used for both medical and recreational benefits and can offer relief to an array of symptoms including pain, nausea, anxiety, depression and inflammation. While these two cannabis compounds are the most common, there are at least 100 different cannabinoids that can be produced by the cannabis plant. As legalization opens up access to cannabis, more research will reveal a diversity of compounds with an even wider array of beneficial cannabinoids than just THC and CBD.
Terpenes: Scent & Flavor Profiles
A terpene is an aromatic hydrocarbon that is found in the essential oils of all plants. The flavors associated with fruits, vegetables and herbs are actual terpenes. Terpenes are responsible for the unique smell and distinct flavors of cannabis strains. Terpenes in cannabis plants are responsible, in part, for the colorful names, i.e. Blueberry Muffin, Wedding Cake, Orange Dream, that are given to varieties of cannabis flowers.
Finding What Works for You
Since 2015, adult-use recreational cannabis has been legal in the state of Oregon. This means that any person over the age of 21 can purchase cannabis in the state. It is not legal, however, to transport purchased cannabis products to other states; even if cannabis is legal in that state. Knowing the laws about cannabis is essential for your personal protection and well-being.
Good Old Fashioned Smoking
Considered the most basic way to consume cannabis, dried leaves and buds are ignited in a device such as a pipe or bong, or rolled up in paper and ignited to create smoke that is inhaled through the mouth or nose. Smoking is the go-to visual most people have when thinking of consuming cannabis.
Vaping
Vaping is still inhaling but at a lower temperature for a smoother draw. The vape cartridge offers a highly portable and discrete way to consume cannabis. The vape system is a no-mess, no-fuss, no-lighter, no-paraphernalia way to partake. The scent and taste are far less noticeable and certainly offers a more discreet method of consumption.
Edibles
Cannabis has become an added ingredient to a wide variety of treats to suit individual tastes and desires. Digesting cannabis is a different experience than inhaling and takes a bit of experimenting to determine what works for your taste buds and sensitivity level. Cannabis edibles can be found in candy gummy forms, cookies, lollipops, cakes, and yes, brownies!
Concentrated Extracts
This category is exactly how it sounds- extracting out the essential oils and cannabinoids of the plant and making concentrations that are higher potency. Concentrates have become popular with the seasoned user that enjoys higher dosed increments and often richer terpene flavors. You will find these labled as shatter, budder, diamond, resin, sauce, and wax, to name a few. If you're unsure how to partake a particular extract type, ask one of our friendly, knowledgeable, budtenders. They'll get you set up the wright way!
Topical Creams, Sprays, & Ointments
Cannabis is a plant-based medicine that interfaces with our body's endocannabinoid system. Topical cannabis products can be applied topically to aches and pains for spot relief. There's the rub!
Sublingual Tinctures
Sublingual tinctures by-pass the delay in onset that occurs with ingestion and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from under the tongue. It usually offers a similar body high that you can feel from edibles, only faster. Considered ideal for micro-dosing.
