With the passage of the 2018 farm bill legalizing hemp and 33 states legalizing cannabis in some form, it has become more popular than ever. For those that have never tried cannabis or maybe tried it when they were young, the industry has probably become confusing. Not only has the THC content of cannabis become much greater, but there are also more products available than ever before.
From flower to vape pens and edibles to topicals, companies like TheAmsterdam and other online dispensaries are offering a wealth of products to the cannabis consumer. For those just getting initiated or those returning to cannabis use after purchasing some from https://highthc.co/, books like “Cannabis for Dummies” are hoping to make cannabis use and cultivation comfortable.
The book was written by a former PR professional Kim Casey, who spent a year and a half running communications for Native Roots. The company was the largest U.S. dispensary chain.
There is a lot covered in the book. From growing cannabis to choosing and visiting a dispensary, Casey covers it all. If you are new to growing it can help with everything from picking seeds from a seed bank to the equipment required. All from a now-expert who prior to her position at Native Roots, did not know what MIP meant. For those curious, it stands for marijuana-infused product.
For those needing an in-depth guide to the industry, it is wholly recommended that they pick up the book. If you’re just looking for the Cliff’s Notes version, read on.
A Quick Vocabulary Lesson
Indica
When a dispensary employee talks about “purple” strains of cannabis, they’re likely talking about an indica. It offers a relaxing body high and can be used for treating pain and insomnia. Indicas tend to contain more CBD.
Sativa
This type of cannabis offers a more heady high that boosts creativity and is more associated with the giggly euphoria people attribute to cannabis. Higher in THC, sativas are often thought of as the opposite of indica.
Hybrid
A mix of both sativa and indica, hybrids often list which is more dominant. For those looking for pain or anxiety relief without giving them couch lock, an indica-dominant strain is best. For those looking to boost focus and creativity while also providing relief, a sativa-dominant strain is worth considering.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, one of the primary compounds found in cannabis. It is responsible for the euphoric high associated with cannabis.
CBD
Cannabidiol, another of the primary compounds found in cannabis and in hemp. Cannabidiol possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps with pain, anxiety, and can reduce seizures.
Terpenes
These are flavorful and aromatic oils that come from the same glands that produce THC and CBD. More than 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant.
Getting High or Getting Relief – You Don’t Have to Smoke
Many people are concerned about the carcinogens produced from smoking. Smoking cannabis can also reduce the amount of cannabinoids and, let’s face it, it isn’t always convenient. Thankfully, there are several different methods of ingesting cannabis.
Edibles
From cookies and brownies to gummy candy and oil, edibles are a tasty way to ingest cannabis. A common mistake made by newcomers is to eat the entire cookie or brownie at once. This can lead to feeling “too high,” so those not used to cannabis may want to eat half first. While it can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to feel the effects, edibles provide a longer-lasting high and relief.
Tinctures
A few drops under the tongue can provide relief. These are often crafted to be tasty.
Drinkables
From coffee to cannabis-infused sodas, you can choose to sip your cannabis.
Vaping
Whether you choose to vape dried cannabis flower or vaporize a cannabis oil, vaping produces less of the tell-tale smell associated with cannabis. It can also provide more of the cannabinoids than smoking. Vaping also allows the user to feel the effects on less product.
Topicals
THC or CBD-infused topicals are wonderful for delivering relief where you need it. From achy joints to sore muscles, a topical infused with cannabinoids can relieve what hurts.
The Legalese
While several states have legalized recreational cannabis and more have legalized medical cannabis, it is important to know that it is still illegal on a federal level. It is also important to familiarize yourself with your local and state laws regarding cannabis. From how much cannabis you can possess to how many plants you can cultivate, each jurisdiction has its own regulations. Also, driving under the influence of cannabis is a big no-no and can result in criminal charges.
Author Bio
Joseph is Content Director at TheAmsterdam.com since 2016. He is a Vaporizer and Marijuana fanatic and knows everything from growing to vaping. He reviews Vaporizers, marijuana seeds, growing supplies, CBD products and writing scientific articles about marijuana and vaping.
