Varieties and Forms of Cannabis Products

Cannabis products exhibit a diverse array of types and formats, encompassing Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid strains, alongside flower, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Each variant offers distinct effects and advantages, underscoring the importance of comprehension before consumption. Additionally, individual tolerance and potential side effects merit consideration.

Cannabis flower

Flowers

Cannabis flower, the dried and cured bud of the cannabis plant, stands as the most prevalent form of marijuana consumption. Laden with cannabinoids like THC and CBD, it yields an assortment of effects, including relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief. Consumption methods range from smoking and vaporizing to integrating into edibles and concentrates. It’s important to know the strain, potency, dosage, and sourcing before using, to ensure quality and safety.

Cannabis flower

Concentrates

Concentrates, as the name suggests, offer highly concentrated forms of THC and/or CBD, most commonly vaporized. Solvent-free concentrates utilize solvents like ethanol, BHO, or CO2 for extraction, purged thereafter to eliminate residual solvents. Conversely, solventless concentrates rely on heat and pressure for extraction, yielding products such as Shatter, Crumble, THCA Diamonds, and Rosin.

Cannabis flower

Pre-Rolls

Pre-rolled joints, available in marijuana dispensaries, offer a convenient option saving you time and trouble. Although the term “pre-rolls” has gained popularity, some still refer to them simply as “joints.” While individuals can manually roll their own joints at home, dispensaries often employ machines for consistency. Crafted with thin paper and typically including a filter tip, pre-rolls offer convenience and uniformity.

Cannabis flower

Vape Products

Vaping presents an effective alternative to traditional combustion methods, with marijuana oils vaporized for inhalation. This method often produces minimal to no cannabis odor in exhaled vapor. Similar to flower, vaping yields immediate effects, with cartridges available in a variety of strain options.

Cannabis flower

Edibles

For those averse to smoking, there’s a wide range of edibles available, from gummies to baked goods. Tailored to various preferences and needs, edibles are available in a variety of diverse blends such as average THC, high-THC, and THC/CBD formulations.

Cannabis flower

Topicals

Marijuana topicals offer localized pain relief, with cannabinoids like THC and CBD permeating the skin’s upper layers. This option suits those seeking analgesic effects in specific areas, as THC does not enter the bloodstream.

Strain Classifications: Understanding Cannabis Diversity

All strains of cannabis derive from the Cannabaceae family of plants, with Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa being the two main subspecies. Each common strain offers distinct characteristics with unique effects on the mind and body.

Sativa

Sativa is a type of cannabis strain that is known for its energizing and uplifting effects. Sativa strains typically have high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Sativa strains are often used during the day to increase focus and creativity, as they may help to stimulate the mind and provide a burst of energy. Some common effects associated with Sativa strains include increased energy, creativity, and productivity, as well as decreased appetite and anxiety. Sativa strains may be beneficial for those with depression or anxiety, as they may help to boost mood and reduce stress. Some popular Sativa strains include Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, and Green Crack.

Indica

Indica is a type of cannabis strain that is known for its relaxing and sedative effects. Indica strains typically have high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Indica strains are often used at night to help with sleep or to ease chronic pain, as they may help to calm the mind and body and induce feelings of relaxation and tranquility. Some common effects associated with Indica strains include muscle relaxation, pain relief, and reduced anxiety. Indica strains may be beneficial for those with insomnia, anxiety, or chronic pain. Some popular Indica strains include Purple Kush, Northern Lights, and Granddaddy Purple.

Hybrid

A hybrid cannabis strain is a type of strain that is a cross between two or more different cannabis strains, typically an Indica and a Sativa strain. The goal of creating hybrid strains is to combine the desirable effects and characteristics of both parent strains. Hybrid strains can have a wide range of effects and characteristics, depending on the genetics of the parent strains used in the crossbreeding process.

Some common effects associated with hybrid strains include a combination of both Sativa and Indica effects, such as increased energy and creativity as well as relaxation and pain relief. Hybrid strains may be beneficial for those who want a balance of both uplifting and relaxing effects. Some popular hybrid strains include Blue Dream, Girl Scout Cookies, and OG Kush. With the variety of hybrid strains available, it’s important to research the specific genetics of a strain to determine its potential effects and characteristics.

CBD vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

The cannabis plant produces more than 100 cannabinoids, with the two main ones being CBD and THC.  Both cause drug-like reactions but they interact with your body differently. The most notable difference is that THC is psychoactive, producing a “high” while CBD does not.

CBD vs THC

CBD and THC have the same molecular structure: 21 carbon atomsTrusted Source, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. A slight difference in how the atoms are arranged accounts for the differing effects on your body.

CBD and THC are chemically similar to your body’s endocannabinoids (the endocannabinoid system helps regulate your body functions, including sleep and mood, etc.). This allows them to interact with your cannabinoid receptors. The interaction affects the release of neurotransmitters in your brain.

THC strains

THC strains are a type of cannabis strain that is high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” typically associated with cannabis use. THC strains are often used for recreational purposes, as they can produce a range of euphoric and relaxing effects.

Some common effects associated with THC strains include euphoria, relaxation, altered perception of time and space, increased appetite, and decreased anxiety. THC strains may be beneficial for those with depression, anxiety, or chronic pain, as they may help to improve mood and reduce pain and inflammation.

THC strains come in a variety of different strains, including Sativa, Indica, and hybrid strains. Some popular THC strains include OG Kush, Sour Diesel, and Blue Dream. When selecting a THC strain, it’s important to consider the specific genetics of the strain, as well as the THC content, to determine its potential effects and potency. It’s also important to use THC strains responsibly and in moderation, as high doses of THC can produce adverse effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.

CBD strains

CBD strains are a type of cannabis strain that is high in cannabidiol (CBD) and low in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, meaning it does not induce the “high” typically associated with cannabis use. CBD strains are often used for medicinal purposes, as they may provide a range of therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating effects of THC.

Some common effects associated with CBD strains include relaxation, pain relief, and reduced anxiety. CBD strains may be beneficial for those with chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia. Additionally, research has suggested that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties, and may be effective in treating conditions such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

CBD strains come in a variety of different strains, including Sativa, Indica, and hybrid strains. Some popular CBD strains include Charlotte’s Web, ACDC, and Harlequin. When selecting a CBD strain, it’s important to consider the specific genetics of the strain, as well as the ratio of CBD to THC, to determine its potential effects and therapeutic benefits.

It’s important to note that cannabinoids will affect everyone differently. While some people may find benefits for some conditions, others will not. Some individuals may have reactions completely opposite of what is typical. For example, while both CBD and THC often decrease migraine symptoms, for some people either could trigger migraine.

A Quick Comparison

IMPORTANT: the table below provides only a general overview, and the specific effects and considerations for THC and CBD can vary based on factors such as individual tolerance, dosage, and product quality.

Note for mobile users: the table below will scroll horizontally so you can view all fields.

Features THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) CBD (Cannabidiol)
Psychoactive Effects Produces a psychoactive “high” Non-psychoactive, does not produce a “high”
Medical Applications Pain relief, nausea reduction, muscle spasm control Pain management, anxiety and depression reduction, epilepsy treatment
Binding to Cannabinoid Receptors Binds directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system Indirectly influences cannabinoid receptors, modulating their activity
Side Effects Short-term memory impairment, anxiety, potential dependency Generally well-tolerated, mild side effects like fatigue or dry mouth
Source Found in higher concentrations in marijuana plants Found in both marijuana and hemp plants
Interaction with Other Medications May interact with certain medications Potential for drug interactions, caution advised with concurrent use
Potential for Addiction May be associated with dependency and addiction risks Not associated with addiction or dependency
Research Status Extensive research conducted Growing body of research, ongoing exploration of potential benefits
Availability Subject to legal restrictions in many areas More widely available in various forms