The Basics of Cannabis (Cannabasics)
Alright Mamas, we're diving into the ABCs and 123s of cannabis, untangling the roots of this *magical* plant. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or brand new to our fun bit of green, there's always something new to discover about cannabis. 🌱
At Dank Mamas we believe one of the most enjoyable things about cannabis is that the more you know, the more fun you can have. We’re all about creating a space to share, learn, and let our curiosities run wild – no side-eye, no judgment while we enjoy sweet sweet cannabis. <3
We’ve got two more extended articles on 'Cannabis Consumption for Beginners' and 'Your Top Canna Questions Answered' to complete our trilogy of cannabis basics (let’s call it cannabasics).
And if you like what you read and want more *green goodness*- you should sign up for the Dank Mama Chronicles, our newsletter to get your weekly fix of our Dank Mamas knowledge, canna news, pro tips, and more delivered straight to your inbox weekly.
Our first logical starting point… What is cannabis?
Cannabis, or as we call it at Dank Mamas, 'canna,' is more than just a funky thing we smoke – This green gem, also known as weed, the Lord’s Lettuce, Mary Jane, etc is a plant grown and harvested for its super unique properties.
A cannabis plant growing in its pre-flowering state
Enjoying canna often leads to a range of experiences, from melting into a state of relaxation to experiencing a burst of creative energy. These effects depend on you as an individual and also on the specific type of plant, or 'strain,' of canna you’re consuming.
The part of the cannabis plant that most people consume is the flower which we also call the “buds” of the plant.
A beautiful flowering cannabis plant with shiny buds
When these little nuggets reach their full potential this part of the plant is dried and trimmed, and you can smoke these or vaporize them to start feeling the plant's effects. Not into smoking? Don’t worry, this isn't the only way to get elevated – there’s a variety of ways to consume. We're talking cannabis edibles like cookies and gummies, tinctures for a drop-and-go, and even topical creams for your skin.
Ancient beginnings
Cannabis is hot right now, but don’t forget it's far from a new player on the scene – its roots stretch back thousands of years, intertwined with ancient cultures and traditions. Dating back thousands of years, canna has played a significant role in ancient rituals and cannabis in medicine has been a staple across various civilizations.
As early as 2737 BC Chinese emperor Shen Nung was already on the game. He wasn't just puffing for fun; he was noting how this plant was a hugggee help for everything from headaches to anxiety. Some history buffs think that even the Vikings and medieval Germans were using cannabis for relief for popping babies and toothaches.
The days of early humans using cannabis weren't just for medicinal purposes – in many cultures, this green gem was the guest of honor at religious ceremonies and social gatherings. Why, you ask? To achieve euphoria and enhance spiritual experiences. We know the Scythians, a nomadic tribe, were known to conduct cannabis rituals, a practice noted by the Greek historian Herodotus.
Cannabis in modern times
Today cannabis has blossomed beyond its origins as a humble plant, making a mark on modern culture.
If you look around, canna’s influence on art, music, and literature is unmistakable: from the vibrant imagery of contemporary art to the popular melodies and beats that soundtrack our lives (think the Beatles, Bob Marley, or Stevie Nicks), moving artists of every genre toward elevated creativity.
Two orange crates containing record albums one from the Beatles. Fun fact the song “Got to Get You into My Life” was written about Paul McCartney’s first time trying cannabis
This impact of cannabis extends past human enjoyment- technological pioneers are using cannabis's potential to revolutionize our approach to sustainability, dreaming up a future where cannabis-derived materials replace many of the GARBAGE materials we produce today like single-use plastics and fossil fuels.
We're especially buzzing about how the medical cannabis community is revealing some very *profound* benefits. This green wonder has stepped into the spotlight as a major player in managing pain, treating mental health issues, and providing relief for chronic conditions. It's a showcase of this little green plant’s versatility and potential to bring healing in so many different ways.
Cannabis is a SPICY topic right now, but let’s not forget it's also an age-old companion to us humans. Whether it's for art, music, innovations materials, or even in the realm of medicine, cannabis has always been around and will very likely be here to stay, adapting alongside us in countless forms and *flavors*.
THC vs CBD what’s the difference?
The high or *elevated* feeling you get after consuming comes down to the main cannabinoid found in many cannabis flowers: THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)(which is converted into THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) upon the intro of heat or aging).
The amount of THC in a plant can be as varied, as the plants themselves. Plants known for getting you super high will have a THC content of 25-30%, whereas milder plants will have a THC content of 5-10%.
While THC is typically the show stopper, you shouldn’t sleep on its baby sister, CBD (Cannabidiol). For those a bit newer to the canna scene CBD dominant plants may be a better way to ease into cannabis. These plants don't quite give you that 'high' feeling, but they are known for their relaxing and therapeutic potential. In some CBD dominant strains, THC content can be less than 1% while the CBD content can push above 20%. This is why CBD-dominant plants are perfect for those who want benefits like relaxation and stress relief from cannabis without the psychoactive roller coaster. 🎢
How do cannabinoids get me *elevated*?
Before THC can start doing its thing in your brain, it needs a little warm-up. Literally 🔥. Unheated, THC is actually the compound THCA that we brought up before which is non-psychoactive. When we apply a bit of heat to our buds, THCA transforms into the THC we’re used to hearing about. This is why we turn to smoking, vaping, or baking/cooking our cannabis.
The effects of THC
Now let’s get to the fun part 🙈. Once we’ve successfully activated our THC, it LOVES to interact with our brains. Our brains as humans have what are called CB1 receptors– key players in our endocannabinoid system. When we consume canna and THC meets these receptors, things get *interesting*.
Your perception might shift – like hearing a funky beat in the hum of an old fridge. THC is also known for its mood-lifting powers, often bringing on a happy, uplifted feeling. You might find yourself dying of laughter at the number 24 simply because it reminds you of 25- that's the THC at work. And hey, if you're in the mood for a laugh, a SpongeBob marathon pairs *perfectly* with the canna experience.
Spongebob and Patrick laughing in Ms. Puff’s class
THC can get you hungry. This could mean getting lost in the cheesy mess of a Domino's pizza, or experiencing a full-on mouthgasm while diving into a pint of Ben and Jerry’s during a canna session. THC is the ringmaster when it comes to the “munchies”- this is what we call the increased pleasure of food that you’ll probably experience from THC.
THC has a knack for tuning all your senses to eleven. Our green little friend can help make colors seem brighter, music more profound, textures richer- it's like THC flips a switch, and the world turns into this vivid, more vibrant place. Everything from the rustle of leaves to the fabric of your couch can become an incredible sensory experience.
For us busy Mamas, relaxation is often what we're looking for, and THC is known to bring just that. When enjoyed correctly canna can be used for relaxing your mind and body, easing stress and getting you to a state of serenity.
Whether it's heightening the joy of simple pleasures or providing a much-needed escape from the daily grind, THC offers an experience that's really something else.
Remember, cannabis THC content varies greatly, with THC levels in the flower of cannabis ranging from a gentle 1% in some hemp varieties to a powerful 30% in potent strains. Higher THC means you might feel more intense effects bringing you to a state of being 'zooted'.
What are the other cannabinoids?
Let’s not forget our unsung heroes – THC’s other cannabinoid siblings. While THC and CBD might hog the limelight, there are over a hundred lesser-known cannabinoids like CBN (Cannabinol), CBG (Cannabigerol), and THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin), each with its unique properties and potential benefits.
A entourage of cannabinoid super heroes all doing their part to save the day
These compounds contribute to what's known as the 'entourage effect,' a theory suggesting that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation. So, when we talk about cannabis, it's not just a THC/CBD story; it's a diverse world of compounds waiting to be explored. This will also lead us to the compounds that give canna its *flavor* profile. Our sweet terpenes.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes (Terps) are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Beyond their role in canna, terpenes have their therapeutic properties. For instance, the terpene Linalool (also found in lavender) is known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects, while Pinene (found in pine needles) has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties. Terps come in many shapes and forms. Common terpenes in cannabis include Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Pinene, and Linalool.
Imagine how relaxed you’d be in a lush green and purple lavender field. Now add that to your buds 😉
Here’s the cool part – terpenes love teamwork. They partner up with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to play a significant role in the effects that different types of canna have on the body and mind. Terpenes are believed to interact synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance and modulate the effects of cannabis.
A bud with high levels of Terpene Limonene, for example, might feel more uplifting and energizing, suitable for daytime use, where one with higher levels of Linalool might be more suitable for relaxation and nighttime use.
How do I know what experience I’ll have?
Welcome to strains-indicas, sativas, and hybrids
This is where we introduce the term that will help you figure out what kind of canna you’ll be consuming and that is our cannabis strains. Strains are like custom-made flower cocktails, each with a unique mix that hits differently from one plant to another.
When exploring the question, 'How will I feel after using cannabis?', think about the interplay of THC, CBD, other cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain. These components come together to form the characteristics that influence the specific effects you'll experience of each canna plant. These individual plants, or strains, typically get broken down into categories based on their unique makeup- sativa, indica, or hybrid. Buds are typically bought in these categories.
A dried cannabis bud ready to be smoked 💨
Remember how we mentioned buds earlier? They are the rockstars of the cannabis world. They have little trichomes, the sparkly, sticky crystals that cling to the surface of the canna flower and can range in color – from deep purples to vibrant greens, intertwined with fiery orange hairs. They also contain the cannabinoids and terpenes that make your cannabis experience one to remember.
And the aroma? It’s one of my favorite smells on this earth. Break open a bud, and it's like opening a treasure chest of scents – a whiff of lemon here, a hint of pine there, maybe a dash of earthy goodness. It’s like a nature walk through a forest of different smells, each strain guiding you down a different path🌳.
The best thing about cannabis is that it’s so versatile, offering a range of experiences to match your vibe. You can smoke or vaporize them to find your bliss or even enjoy edibles made from buds to get your moment going. There’s a strain and way for everybody to embrace the magic of canna.
Let’s do a quick recap:
THC is the main psychoactive compound (cannabinoid) known for producing the 'high.' It's the spark that lights up feelings of euphoria, creativity, and altered perception.
CBD, THC's non-psychoactive counterpart, contributes to the experience by offering a grounding effect. It's known for its soothing properties, which can balance the intensity of THC, making the experience more mellow and relaxing.
Lesser-known cannabinoids such as CBN, CBG, and THCV can offer unique benefits, such as sedative effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and more enriching the cannabis experience beyond just THC and CBD.
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive scents. These aren't just about the smell; they play a crucial role in shaping the effects of a strain.
All of these work together in a wide variety of combinations creating what’s known as the 'entourage effect,' where their combination produces a more nuanced experience than any single compound alone. Every strain of cannabis is a unique mix of these elements.
The way you feel after consuming cannabis is a result of the bud/strain you choose. A bud labeled a sativa might have higher levels of THC and specific terpenes that result in an energizing, uplifting effect, while an indica might be richer in CBD and other terpenes, leading to a more calming, relaxing experience. Hybrids blend these characteristics, offering a middle ground that can either lean towards sativa or indica dominance, depending on the plant.
This can seem complex, but thankfully, there are excellent resources out there designed to guide you through. One of which we’ve cooked up for you: We’ve created an entire strain guide to help you pick out a strain based on the mood or vibe you’re trying to have with cannabis.
There are so many bud types out there, so you’ve got to use your resources 📕. If you encounter something new, looking at a strain database - helps act as a guide for breaking down the characteristics of sativas, indicas, and hybrids, from their THC and CBD content to the specific terpenes that define their unique effects. These can also help you find your perfect match AND this is also why it's important to get your cannabis from legitimate, reputable sources. This ensures you experience what you're expecting to, both in terms of effects and comfortability.
Your body’s chemistry, the context of where you are, and even your mood also play a part, making each cannabis experience unique to you. Finding the right canna strain for yourself is a journey of exploration and it can honestly be incredibly fun to discover and try different blends, effects, and *flavors* of our sweet green cannabis 😊.
So where do I get started?
Some like to classify cannabis buds into THC-dominant strains of “sativa vs indica” and call it a day but in light of everything we’ve talked about by now you know that's a pretty crude way to pick the bud you’ll be consuming. Take time for a quick search to figure out what canna you’ll be having so you can have a better idea of the experience you’ll enjoy. Pair your strain with the experience you want to elevate.
Note in the same way a cabernet from California may differ from one from Chile each plant, even of the same strain, will be unique. Why? Because it's all about the genetics. Each plant comes from a family tree with branches spreading far across the Cannabis genus. And let's not forget about the grower's touch – the way an individual plant is nurtured can make a big difference, turning a good strain into a great one.
For no cost to you, we’ve broken down some of the most popular strains and their common traits. Feel free to give them a try (low doses for my baby stoners out there) and see how you feel enjoying these flowers🌻.
Popular strains to try:
Strain: “Blue Dream”
Sativa-Dominant Hybrid
THC/CBD Levels: Medium to High THC, low CBD.
Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene.
Effects: Blue Dream is known for its balancing act – it brings a gentle cerebral invigoration from its sativa side, coupled with a soothing body relaxation from its Indica genetics. Myrcene offers a calming effect, pinene contributes to alertness and memory retention, and caryophyllene adds a spicy note that can also aid in stress relief.
Strain: “Sour Diesel”
Sativa Dominant
THC/CBD Levels: High THC, minimal CBD.
Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Myrcene.
Effects: As a sativa, Sour Diesel is all about energizing and uplifting effects. The usually high THC content means it packs a punch for euphoria and cerebral activity. Caryophyllene and limonene work together to enhance mood and energy, while myrcene adds a slight grounding effect, preventing overstimulation.
Strain:
“Granddaddy Purple”
Indica Dominant
THC/CBD Levels: High THC, low to moderate CBD.
Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene.
Effects: A quintessential indica, Granddaddy Purple is famous for its deeply relaxing and sedative effects. The high THC content is responsible for its potent psychoactive effects, while myrcene enhances the sedation, making it ideal for relaxation or sleep. Caryophyllene adds to the stress-relieving qualities, and pinene provides a counterbalance to keep the mind somewhat alert.
Strain: “OG Kush”
Indica-Dominant Hybrid
THC/CBD Levels: High THC, low CBD.
Terpenes: Limonene, Myrcene, Caryophyllene.
Effects: OG Kush is beloved for its ability to melt stress away without overly sedating effects. The THC-rich profile brings on a euphoric head high, with limonene boosting mood and stress relief. Myrcene and caryophyllene together provide a relaxing body effect, making it suitable for unwinding after a long day.
Strain: “ACDC”
CBD-Dominant Hybrid
THC/CBD Levels: Low THC, very high CBD.
Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene.
Effects: ACDC is a rarity in the cannabis world due to its high CBD and low THC levels. This makes it excellent for those seeking relief from various ailments without intense psychoactive effects. The terpene profile supports relaxation (myrcene), mental clarity (pinene), and pain relief (caryophyllene), making it a therapeutic favorite.
Now that we’ve given you a jump start on your knowledge it should be a bit easier to pick a strain that aligns with the effects your looking to feel. Whether you’re just tryna have some fun or looking for therapeutic effects. Ready to start enjoying our fun little friend? Check out our next article on Cannabis Consumption for Beginners below- perfect for those just getting started.
Craving more canna knowledge? Dive into our treasure trove of blog articles for more reads. And hey, don't miss out on our weekly newsletter The Dank Mama Chronicles – it's a treat for your inbox! We’re bringing you the latest and greatest in cannabis news, nifty tips, cool products, and a bunch of fun tidbits to uplift your week.
Safety first! Always consume responsibly and stay informed about your local cannabis laws – our advice and content are tailored for those in areas where canna consumption is legal. Subscribe, stay safe, and let's keep the good vibes rolling responsibly!
