Ultimate Guide to Cannabis

There are a bunch of inventive cannabis products on the market, but all of them stem from the buds of the wonderful plant. Each and every cannabis-related product can be traced back to the green flowers of marijuana or hemp. Let’s take a minute to show our appreciation for cannabis in full, and get to know what it’s really about!

This comprehensive guide to cannabis will teach you everything that there is to know about the plant, so you don’t have to go looking anywhere else.

Plant Structure of Cannabis

There are many aspects to the cannabis plant, such as the leaves, the stem, the seeds and the flowers. What’s more, there are subcategories to the plant anatomy, and each of these “body parts” are classified with scientific terminology. There are numerous factors that add to the equation of growing premium bud, so let’s dive right in and find out!

Roots

Healthy roots are the most essential aspect of any plant, and cannabis is no exception. Roots anchor and support the stability of the plant, and they also absorb nutrients which are then distributed throughout the plant. Based on the manner in which the cannabis plant was grown, there are several different types of roots that form. For example, if the cannabis sprung forth from a seed, then the root will have one large section, known as a “taproot.” From the taproot a multitude of smaller roots will emerge – and these are known as “feeder roots.” On the other hand, if the cannabis was clone-grown then the large taproot will not form, and there will only be smaller, feeder roots.

Leaves

The leaves of plants are responsible for photosynthesis – which is the process of turning sunlight into energy and making the leaves green. On top of this, the leaves of the plant draw in carbon dioxide and expel oxygen as well as water. This is kind of the opposite of humans, as we draw in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.

Stems

The major stem of the plant is known as the stalk, and it is from the stalk that branches and smaller stems shoot forth. The stalk is like the backbone of the plant, providing support to the entire structure. Similarly, the stems and branches are like a skeleton, in that they hold together the leaves and buds. The stems and branches position leaves and flowers so that they can perfectly absorb the sunlight.

Cuttings

To get into grower’s terminology, when a cannabis plant is trimmed, the parts that have been severed are known as “cuttings.” It is possible to plant these cuttings in soil, and they will then grow roots and form into an entirely new cannabis plant. This method is referred to as “cloning” and it is not always a simple process.

Cotyledons

Now we are really getting into the science of plant anatomy, and you may be wondering

“what the heck are cotyledons?” Well, cotyledons are the mini-leaves that emerge from the cannabis at the beginning of the germination process. These cute little leaves are responsible for the photosynthesis of the plant, which supports the growth of the iconic cannabis leaves. In other words, cotyledons are a preview to the mature cannabis leaves.

Pistil

“Pistil” is the word used to describe the part of the female plant that arises to gather pollen from the male cannabis plant.

Stigma

The pistil is covered in tiny, sticky hairs that serve an important purpose. These little hairs are known as “stigmas” and they are responsible for collecting the pollen.

Calyx

After the female plant has been pollinated by a male plant, a seed begins to form. This is called the “calyx” and it is the life-forming embryo of the cannabis plant.

Seeds

There are three major categories of cannabis seeds:

Normal Seeds
Feminized Seeds
Autoflower Seeds

So what is the difference between these types of seeds?

Well, normal seeds are completely natural and have not been modified by growers in any way. On the other hand, feminized seeds have been modified in order to ensure that they are female. Lastly, autoflower seeds are the type of seeds that have been modified in order to control the timing of harvest.

CBD and THC: What’s the Difference?

CBD and THC have been the subject of scientific studies for decades, and they are also the most popular cannabis compounds.

The official name for THC is “delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.” This compound is in charge of the intoxicating sensation that you get from smoking (or ingesting) cannabis.

On the other hand, cannabidiol (CBD) does not get you high, and yet it contains a host of holistic health benefits. Even though you will not experience intoxication from CBD, you may still experience sensations of relief because it impacts brain chemistry.

While THC attaches to the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBD only partially does. This is the reason that you get high from THC and not from CBD, but we will be exploring this in depth later.

However, even though CBD and THC have different effects on the brain they are not completely different. Did you know that you can actually get THC and CBD from the same strain of cannabis?

In this case the CBD actually counters some of the effects of THC, which is why the health department of Canada advises recreational consumers to choose strains with a high percentage of CBD and a lower percentage of THC.

Cannabis strains therefore can be divided into two different types: Balanced (which is one part THC to one part CBD) and CBD dominant.

By the way, this information is not suggesting that you can use CBD to combat the effects of too much THC. In fact, if the CBD is going to counter the THC at all, then these two compounds need to be ingested (or inhaled) at the same time.

You can buy CBD oil in Canada from this link.

You can also buy weed online from Budderweeds.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

Science and recreational experimentation have already revealed that cannabis has an impact on human physiology. But although everyone knows that cannabis can make you high, what is less commonly known is that the human body has something called the endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for processing the cannabis compounds which leads to different effects after using it.

The ECS is comprised of receptors that span the whole body, and cannabis impacts these receptors as if it were a key and the receptors are the lock. Together, the cannabis and ECS can create the magical sensations of intoxication or various forms of relief.

The Different Effects of Sativa and Indica

Interestingly, although many people in cannabis culture refer to weed as either sativa or indica, there is no concrete evidence behind these claims. With that in mind, let’s quickly explore the origins of the terminology…

History of Sativa and Indica

As early as the 1750s, Carl Linnaeus (a Swedish scientist) made a statement claiming that there is only one species of cannabis – sativa. However, the scientist was incorrect, although for decades he was revered for the discovery.

It was Jean-Baptiste Lamrack (a French scientist) who uncovered the fact that there are in fact two species – indica and sativa. While sativa was grown on the western continent, indica was indigenous to the east.

But what does all this have to do with recreational cannabis anyway?

Well, although most cannabis users classify ganja as either sativa or indica – with sativa being more uplifting and indica more sedating – this is actually a myth.

Let’s dig a little deeper and find out more about the truth of the matter….

Indica

As mentioned, the majority of stoners describe strains that induce “couch lock” as indica. Indica strains are said to give a “body-high” and are thought to be more sedating than sativa.

Sativa

On the other hand, sativa is thought to be more invigorating and energizing. Many people believe that sativa provides inspiration and has an uplifting effect. But despite the rumors in stoner circles, the indica and sativa theory remains unproven.

However, even though there is no scientific evidence to back up the effects behind indica and sativa, the history remains concrete.

Terpenes: The Healing Compounds

Terpenes are found in all plants, and they are the reason that each plant has a different fragrance and taste. Although terpenes are found in fruits and vegetables, they are also found in cannabis. This is the reason that different strains have different flavors, and every strain is completely unique.

There are major and minor terpenes found in all plants, and not only do they provide flavor and fragrance, but each one contains healing properties too.

Here are a few of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and other plants:

Beta-caryophyllene

Beta- Caryphyllene is among the most common of all terpenes found in cannabis, and is the only terpene known to attach to the cannabinoid receptors. The compound is known for its spicy clove-like flavor and is found in rosemary, hops, oregano and black pepper.

Limonene

Limonene, as the name suggests, has a citrus-like flavor and is found in fruits, basil and oregano, as well as pepper and cloves. The compound is often used to flavor foods and also as a cleaning agent.

Beta-Pinene

Pinene gets its name from its pine-like flavor and can be found in pine trees, spruce trees and pepper. It is also found in Penelope and Houndstooth flowers as well as plants with alpha-pinene (in smaller amounts).

Terpinolene

Terpinolene is known for its variety of tastes and can be found in juniper, apples, cumin, nutmeg, all-spice and tea tree. It is a minor terpene that is present in a wide number of strains.

Humulene

Humulene is found both in cannabis and hops, and provides a uniquely beer-like taste. It is also found in basil and cloves, as well as Argyle, Highlands and Donegal.

Myrcene

Myrcene is found in most cannabis strains, as well as lemongrass, wild thyme, bay leaves and mangoes. It also appears in Highlands, Houndstooth, Bakerstreet and Penelope.

Alpha-pinene

This compound is known for its “piney” taste and is found in coniferous trees, basil, parsley, dill and rosemary.

Linalool

Linalool has a floral aroma, kind of like the lavender plant in which it is also found. Linolool is present in mint, cinnamon and coriander, and is a popular addition to hundreds of essential oils as well.

How to Get High with Cannabis Buds

Of course, there are multiple ways to get high with cannabis, but this is a comprehensive guide to the buds specifically.

In terms of using cannabis buds, there are two main techniques to choose from. The most popular method is to smoke cannabis, which you can do with a bong, a pipe, a chilm or a joint. You can also vape cannabis flowers– but you will need a special vaporizer for that.

No matter whether you choose to vape or smoke cannabis, you can get high and experience the benefits. Both techniques impact the body the same way, with the compounds being instantly absorbed into the bloodstream.

These two methods are the most popular because the effects are immediate.

The question then, is whether to smoke or vape the cannabis. The main difference is in the way the cannabis is inhaled – with vaping merely heating the cannabis and smoking actually burning it.

As a result, vaping emits vapor instead of smoke, which is thought to be healthier. The reason for this is that vaping limits exposure to combustion side effects that you may get from smoking the flower.

How to Use Cannabis Safely

Of all the ways in which cannabis can be ingested, the most important thing is to stay safe. It is advisable for novice users to start with only a small amount of cannabis and just a few puffs to begin with. This applies to new products for experienced users as well.

Novice Users

For those of you who have never-before-tried-cannabis, welcome to the club. Cannabis is a wonderfully healing plant that is proven to provide relief to a number of health conditions. There is no right or wrong answer as to which strain to start out with, but according to the Canadian health department it is advised that novice users start out with less than 2.5mg of THC, or 10%. It is also recommended to look for a product with equal amounts of CBD, so as to offset the THC.

How long does it take?

Whether you are vaping or smoking cannabis buds, the effects will set in anywhere between a few seconds to a few minutes after inhalation. The sensation lasts between 6 and 24 hours.

Legal Limit

In Canada, citizens are permitted to carry up to 30 grams of dry or fresh buds. However, these rules vary depending on province regulations – so it is recommended to brush up on the laws in your area.

How to Store Cannabis

It is super important to keep your cannabis in a safe place, out of reach of children and animals. Store the cannabis somewhere dry as it will be spoiled if it gets wet.

Don’t “Smoke and Fly”

There is a saying that goes “Don’t drink and drive, smoke and fly” but this is not good advice. It is not legal to drive while intoxicated and it is actually incredibly dangerous. Don’t do it!!!

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Now that you know everything that there is to know about cannabis flowers, you can proceed to enjoy them at your leisure!

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