Curious About Cannabis? We’re Your Resource to Learn More
When did the love for Mary Jane start? As far as we can see, we’re going way back — like “before-Pyramids” kind of back. Yep, even the ancient Egyptians were all about that leaf. And would you believe it, they found THC remnants in age-old pots from Pamir mountains? Yeah, those ones at the crossroads of China, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. And these pots? Older than your grandma’s grandma — by a good 2,500 years.
Now get this: those old pots were filled with THC vibes much stronger than what you’d find in your regular wild weed. Makes you think, right? Were our ancestors chilling in their mountainside cribs, working on THC-loaded strains? Maybe they were looking for some help connecting with the gods or having a heart-to-heart with the departed.
Fast forward to the birth of the U.S. Guess who was into hemp? Yeah, that’s right, old George Washington himself. And Abe Lincoln’s favorite pastime? Chilling on his porch, puffing on some sweet hemp, and jamming on his harmonica. Until 1920, cannabis was part of the American dream — all legal and sometimes even medicinal. That was until the end of the Mexican Revolution, when many Mexicans made their way north, bringing marijauna as part of their cultural luggage.
When was Cannabis First Outlawed in the U.S.?
Cue the drama. The OG haters — white politicians with an issue against Mexican immigrants — kicked off the anti-cannabis movement, nicknaming it “Locoweed.” Fast forward to 1913, California put the kibosh on weed. By the 30s, marijuana was criminalized in 29 states, and guess who fanned the flames? William Randolph Hurst, with his yellow journalism and stereotypes linking cannabis to criminal activities by Black and Mexican communities.
Reefer Madness, Marihuana Tax Act & the Controlled Substances Act
Things got out of control when “Reefer Madness” hit the screens in 1936. Congress freaked out, passing the Marihuana Tax Act in 1937, practically outlawing marijuana nationwide. Then in 1970, Nixon drops the Controlled Substances Act bomb, setting federal laws against drugs. Despite the lack of solid evidence, cannabis lands in the Schedule I category: allegedly super dangerous drugs with zero medical use. Nixon’s move was likely a power play against his perceived enemies: the Black Panthers and the peace-loving, pot-smoking hippies.
The Impact of the War on Drugs
This escalated the situation real quick. Suddenly, non-violent cannabis lovers were getting arrested and jailed like never before. Three strikes and you’re out, mandatory minimums — the system was rigged. And guess who got the short end of the stick? Black communities. The U.S. incarcerated African American men at a rate four times higher than under apartheid in South Africa. Talk about a colossal fail. It messed up lives and sucked billions out of taxpayers’ wallets.
Is Cannabis Legal Now?
In ’96, California broke the chain, legalizing medical cannabis. Since then, 37 states and some territories jumped on the green train, passing laws for medical and/or recreational cannabis. Some places even set up social equity programs to make up for the messed up drug laws. But don’t celebrate yet — federally, Mary Jane is still a Schedule I drug. Thousands are still behind bars for a plant that could be helping humanity. So yeah, it’s better, but there’s still a whole lot of fighting to be done.
What is Cannabis?
Let’s dive into the green world of weed. It’s not just a plant; it’s a lifestyle. If you’re new to this, you might be thinking, “Wow, there’s so much info!” But don’t stress. We’re here to simplify it.
The Cannabis Plant
Cannabis is a family member of the Cannabaceae family, and there are three main species we need to know: Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis. When you crossbreed these species, you get a bunch of unique cultivars with different vibes and effects. They’re known for their iconic flowers, which are packed with cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
What are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are the stuff in cannabis that give you the feels. THC is the head honcho, responsible for that “on cloud nine” experience. On the flip side, CBD is all about the chill, offering therapeutic benefits without the high.
There are around 113 cannabinoids discovered so far. A few worth name-dropping include:
- THC: The ride-or-die psychoactive cannabinoid that gets you high.
- CBD: The chill, non-psychoactive cannabinoid for relaxation and relief.
- CBN: A non-psychoactive player that might ease chronic muscle pain.
- CBC: Another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may boost brain health.
- THCV: A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that could help keep your weight in check.
There’s more to cannabis than just cannabinoids, though. We’re talking terpenes, flavonoids, and 500+ kinds of phytonutrients.
What are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the essential oils, adding aroma, flavor and influencing its effects. There are about 400 known terpenes, but they’re not in every cultivar. Some popular kids in the terpene squad include Linalool, Pinene, Myrcene, and Phytol.
Each cannabis strain is like a unique cocktail of 100+ cannabinoids and 400 terpenes. They all interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system for a one-of-a-kind experience.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
Endo-what? Humans have an Endocannabinoid System — a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate mood, memory, pain, and appetite. Yep, we’re all hardwired to respond to cannabis.
Here’s the tricky part: we all react differently to cannabis. A particular strain might have predictable effects, but with hundreds of cannabinoids and terpenes playing with each person’s endocannabinoid system, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Don’t sweat it, though. In this ever-evolving green landscape, there’s something for everyone. Get out there and find your perfect strain.
What are the Different Cannabis Strains?
Alright, you’ve got the basics down, but let’s level up your cannabis IQ. In a nutshell, we’ve got three broad categories: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Cannabis cultivators are always on a quest to find that next legendary strain. Some might be all about that energetic Sativa life while others might be brewing those calming, OG Indicas. Why does this matter? Well, you’ll eventually discover which farms or brands tickle your fancy.
Sure, there’s a ton of chat about whether Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are legit ways to classify weed. Honestly, it’s more about the cannabinoid and terpene profiles. However, Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid are still handy shortcuts to get you to the vibe you’re after.
- Indica: When you’re looking to chill, unwind, or binge-watch your favorite show, Indicas are your go-to.
- Sativa: Need a creative spark, planning an outdoor adventure, or gotta tackle that to-do list? Hit up those Sativa strains.
- Hybrid: Can’t decide? Hybrids blend the best of both worlds.
Even though these terms aren’t flawless, they’re pretty handy.
Choose Your Adventure: Cannabis Consumption Methods
Before we get to the goods, let’s chat about how you can enjoy cannabis.
There are three primary ways to enjoy your green: smoking, vaporizing, and munching on edibles. Each has its pluses and minuses and different effects. So let’s dive into those:
- Smoking: Old school but gold. Whether it’s a pipe, bong, joint, or blunt, smoking is the OG method. But heads up, it’s also the least efficient as some of your green goes up in smoke.
- Vaporizing: This method’s catching on fast. You can vape using a vaporizer, vape pen, or cartridges. It’s a step up from smoking because it avoids combustion, making it a little friendlier on your lungs.
- Edibles: If you enjoy a tasty treat or drink, edibles are your jam. This category also includes sublingual products like infused oils and tinctures.
Your choice will depend on your needs and preferences. For instance, if you’re leaning towards medical cannabis, edibles might be a better fit because they offer longer-lasting relief.
The Different Types of Cannabis Products
In the modern cannabis world, there’s a dizzying array of products to explore. Let’s break it down.
The Mighty Cannabis Flower
The flower is the dried bud from the female cannabis plant. This stuff can be enjoyed old-school style in a hand-rolled joint, a pre-roll, a pipe, or a bong. Or, if you’re feeling MacGyver-ish, an apple, soda can, or even a toilet paper roll could do the trick. Remember, innovation is born from necessity.
Cannabis Concentrates: All the Good Stuff, Amplified
This is like the espresso shot of weed. Using solvents or mechanical processes, the good bits (cannabinoids and terpenes) are extracted from the plant to create forms like wax, shatter, sauce, or diamonds. Yeah, even diamonds.
Cannabis Edibles: For the Foodies
Edibles are cannabis-infused munchies. We’re talking cookies, brownies, gummies, and yes, even beef jerky. Because who said you can’t mix pleasure with pleasure?
Cannabis Drinks: Sip and Savor
Swap out your regular happy hour drink for THC-infused beer, wine, seltzer, syrup, or a powdered mix. It’s a refreshing twist to your chill time.
Cannabis Capsules and Tablets: For the Precision Lovers
Cannabis in pill form mirrors our fave over-the-counter meds. Many offer specific effect ratios and precise dosages, meaning you’re always in control.
Cannabis Tinctures: Drop it Like It’s Hot
Tinctures are perfect for sublingual consumption. Thanks to a measured dropper, you can ensure your dosage is just right every time.
Cannabis Topicals: For Your Skin and Muscles
Rub away aches and muscle pains with THC-infused lotions, creams, or balms. It’s like your spa day but with an extra kick. These are beneficial for patients suffering from localized pain and need pain relief medicine that doesn’t include using traditional medication. This also includes products like transdermal patches.
With the cannabis market booming with products, do some digging to find what suits your vibe.
Recreational and Medicinal Uses of Cannabis
Cannabis has been the go-to for both a good time and health needs for centuries. When we talk about recreational use, we mean using weed for its mind-expanding effects. Medicinal marijuana, on the other hand, is all about harnessing the plant’s power to ease or erase health woes.
The medicinal magic of weed has been gaining hype as more scientific support piles up for its healing potential. And as for recreational use, let’s just say the party’s only getting bigger as more people are seeing cannabis as their fun and harmless vibe enhancer.
Whether you’re about the chill or the healing, here’s a little 101 on how our favorite plant works its wonders.
Party in a Plant
From spiritual journeys to creative surges or just some good old-fashioned chilling, cannabis is a key player. Some people also swear it amps up their intimacy. And if you’re hunting for an alcohol alternative, cannabis could be your new BFF. But hey, you do you – no judgment here!
Healing Herbally
The medical community’s growing love for cannabis isn’t for nothing. Studies are showing that cannabis could be a game-changer for a long list of conditions and symptoms, including:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation and Muscle spasms
- Nausea
- Seizures and Insomnia
- Even some heavy hitters like Cancer, Glaucoma, PTSD, HIV/AIDS, and Neurodegenerative diseases (think ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)
And that’s just scratching the surface. The potential of marijuana as a medicine keeps growing as more research rolls in.
If you’re considering cannabis for a medical condition, remember to check in with your doc first. Also, get clued in on your state’s medical marijuana laws so you know the 411 on what conditions qualify for cannabis treatment.
How Do I Choose the Right Weed Strain for Me?
It’s like finding your signature fragrance or the perfect pair of jeans: you gotta try, you gotta trust your instincts, and you gotta be patient. Here are some tips:
- What’s your vibe? Looking to chill with Indica or get pumped with Sativa? Or maybe you want the best of both worlds with a Hybrid. Let your budtender in on your vibe.
- Get curious. Your budtender is your bud-bestie. Grill them with questions. They’ve heard it all and are ready to guide you.
- Play the field. Experiment, go slow, and enjoy the process. Remember, this is more about the journey than the destination.
- Use your sniffer. If the strain smells heavenly to you, chances are it’ll feel the same way.
- Do your homework. Stay in the loop with our blogs, learn the lingo, see what’s trending, but don’t stress. You’ll find your perfect strain.
Remember, cannabis is like a buffet – there’s something for everyone. It’s all about figuring out what tickles your taste buds.
FAQ
Is cannabis addictive?
While Cannabis Use Disorder exists, cannabis is not physically addictive like alcohol or opiates. The struggle to quit is more of a psychological challenge.
What are cannabis withdrawal symptoms?
Typically, you might face anxiety, irritability, mood swings, restlessness, and insomnia. These peak in the first week and mellow out after 2-3 weeks.
How long does cannabis stay in your system?
It can stay for up to 30 days, but it depends on how much you use, how often, your body fat percentage, and your metabolism.
Are there negative health consequences with cannabis?
It can impact young users, like losing IQ points and increasing depression or anxiety. But these effects are seen in heavy, regular users.
Does the way cannabis is consumed change its effects?
Absolutely! If you inhale it, the effects are quicker as it goes straight into your bloodstream via your lungs. Edibles, however, take longer as they go through your digestive system and liver, transforming THC into a potent compound: 11-hydroxy-THC. This packs a punch with a long-lasting, deep high. So, pick your poison wisely!
Get Your Goods at Phenotopia
Ready to explore the world of weed and find your perfect strain? Hop on the hype train and get your goods at Phenotopia! We’ve got everything you need to start your journey right. Order online for quick pickup!
Happy toking!
