prominent figures

PROMINENT FIGURES IN THE CANNABIS HISTORY

Cannabis has seen a remarkable journey towards acceptance and understanding. Throughout history, individuals from diverse backgrounds have played pivotal roles in reshaping perceptions and advocating for the therapeutic, cultural, and economic potential of this ancient plant. From pioneering physicians and scientists to iconic activists, musicians, and entrepreneurs, these figures have left an indelible mark on the landscape of cannabis. Their stories serve as a testament to the evolving narrative surrounding cannabis.

  • Sir William Brooke O’Shaughnessy (1808-1889): An Irish physician and scientist who made significant contributions to the introduction of cannabis to Western medicine. He played a crucial role in bringing attention to the therapeutic potential of cannabis and promoting its use in medical treatments. O’Shaughnessy conducted the first clinical trials of cannabis preparations, first with safety experiments on mice, dogs, rabbits and cats, then by giving extracts and tinctures to some of his patients. In 1839, O’Shaughnessy published a groundbreaking research paper titled “On the Preparations of the Indian Hemp, or Gunjah” in the Provincial Medical Journal. In this paper, he described the therapeutic uses of cannabis for various conditions, including rheumatism, hydrophobia, cholera, and convulsions. He also highlighted the plant’s analgesic and sedative properties.
  • Dr. Raphael Mechoulam (1930-2023): An Israeli organic chemist, Mechoulam is often referred to as the “father of cannabis research.” His pivotal work in the 1960s involved identifying and synthesizing THC, the psychoactive compound within cannabis. Mechoulam’s groundbreaking research not only demystified the chemical composition of cannabis but also established a solid foundation for subsequent studies on cannabinoids, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the plant’s pharmacological properties.
  • Brownie Mary (1922-1999): A well-known cannabis activist, nurse, and baker, Mary Jane Rathbun aka Brownie Mary became a symbol of the medical marijuana movement for her efforts to promote the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes while the AIDS epidemic was roaring in the 1980s. Brownie Mary became known for distributing “special” brownies to AIDS patients. Her activism and distribution of medical brownies to those suffering serious illnesses made her a legendary figure in the world of cannabis and also became a symbol of resistance.
  • Lester Grinspoon (1928-2020): An Associate Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and a legend in the field of psychiatry. Grinspoon’s interest in cannabis began in the 1960s. An unlikely crusader for marijuana, Grinspoon’s research began in 1967 with a goal to prove that marijuana was dangerous. He soon realized that he was mistaken about the dangers of cannabis and in 1971, Grinspoon published ‘Marihuana Reconsidered’ which challenged many of the prevailing myths and misconceptions about cannabis, presenting a thorough examination of the plant, its effects, and its cultural and legal status. His efforts helped shift public opinion and contributed to the changing landscape of cannabis policies in various parts of the world. Today, his ideas and research continue to influence discussions around marijuana, both medically and recreationally.
  • Willie Nelson (born 1933): A long time cannabis user and outspoken advocate for the legalization of marijuana. Nelson has been actively involved in various campaigns and initiatives aimed at changing cannabis laws. He has used his platform to bring attention to the benefits of cannabis and to challenge the stigma associated with its use. Willie Nelson’s advocacy for cannabis extends beyond words; he has actively contributed to the industry by launching his own cannabis brand and supporting organizations and initiatives that align with his views on cannabis policy reform. 
  • Tommy Chong (born 1938): Extending beyond his comedic contributions, Tommy Chong has used his platform to champion cannabis legalization, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to the growing acceptance of cannabis in society. Chong spent nine months in prison at 65, after getting caught up in a federal crackdown on paraphernalia vendors for selling glass bongs under his company named Chong Glass and Nice Dreams. To be clear, Chong’s family never sold marijuana or any drug of any kind—only bongs and pipes. Although it’s been nearly two decades since he left prison, his journey continues as a recognizable and influential figure within the cannabis advocacy community working towards the plant’s redemption story through federal legalization. 
  • Jack Herer (1939-2010): Known as the “Emperor of Hemp,” Herer was a cannabis activist and author of the book “The Emperor Wears No Clothes”. He believed that hemp and cannabis had enormous economic, environmental, and medical potential, and he worked tirelessly to promote their benefits. His work has inspired generations of individuals to question cannabis prohibition and explore the potential benefits of hemp.The famous cannabis strain “Jack Herer” was named as a tribute to Herer’s contributions to cannabis advocacy.
  • Keith Stroup (born 1943): An attorney by profession, Stroup founded NORML in 1970, making it one of the oldest and most well-known cannabis advocacy organizations focusing on and advocating for the responsible use of marijuana by adults, the decriminalization of marijuana possession, and the regulation of marijuana for adults. Under Stroup’s leadership, NORML has worked to change public opinion, influence legislation, and support legal cases that challenge marijuana prohibition.
  • Ed Rosenthal (born 1944): Known as the “Guru of Ganja,” Ed Rosenthal’s multifaceted contributions have had a lasting impact on the cannabis community. His work has not only provided valuable information for cannabis enthusiasts and cultivators but has also played a role in advancing the broader conversation around cannabis legalization, education, and advocacy. His book “Marijuana Grower’s Handbook” is considered a classic in the field, providing valuable insights into cannabis cultivation. Rosenthal has been a vocal advocate for the legalization of cannabis and the rights of cannabis growers.
  • Dennis Peron (1945-2018): Considered the godfather of the legal cannabis movement, Peron was a cannabis activist and co-author of California Proposition 215. As an openly gay man, he actually fought to legalize cannabis well before the AIDS epidemic, but when the disease began to ravage the gay community, Peron fought harder, opened a Cannabis Buyers’ Club, and co-wrote Proposition 215. Dennis Peron’s legal battle for medicinal cannabis rights was a turning point in the legalization movement, helping open people’s eyes to the drug’s benefits for terminally ill patients.
  • Rick Simpson (born late 1940s): As a prominent figure in the alternative medicine community, Simpson’s most notable contribution was his advocacy for the use of cannabis oil in cancer treatment, popularizing “Rick Simpson Oil” (RSO), a full spectrum cannabis extract used for its medicinal properties. While Rick Simpson no longer produces the oil himself, it remains a crucial ingredient in the treatment plans of patients across North America. 
  • Ethan Nadelmann (born 1957): Described as “the point man” for drug policy reform efforts and “the real drug czar,” Ethan Nadelmann is widely regarded as the outstanding proponent of drug policy reform both in the United States and abroad. A scholar and activist, Nadelmann founded the Drug Policy Alliance, an organization that advocates for drug policy reform, including the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis. He played a crucial role in shaping public opinion on drug policy. 
  • Steve DeAngelo (born 1958): Dubbed “the father of the legal industry” , DeAngelo is a lifelong activist, author, educator, investor, and entrepreneur on the front lines of the cannabis reform movement for both medical and recreational use. He has been involved in numerous campaigns and initiatives aimed at changing cannabis laws and policies. His most notable achievements include co-founding Harborside-one of the first six dispensaries licensed In the United States and one of the first to feature a drive-thru; Steep Hill Laboratory, the first cannabis testing and analytics; Arcview Group, the first dedicated cannabis investment network; Last Prisoner Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to criminal justice reform for nonviolent cannabis offenders; and authoring The Cannabis Manifesto.  He played a key role in the passage of Initiative 59, Washington DC’s medical cannabis law; the passage of Prop 64, California’s adult-use law; and successfully defended multiple legal attempts by US federal authorities to shutter the doors of Harborside.
  • Snoop Dogg (born 1971): A well-known rapper, Snoop Dogg has been a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization. His laid-back and cannabis-friendly persona have contributed to the mainstream acceptance of cannabis, and played a significant role in shaping the perception of cannabis within the entertainment and sports industries. Snoop Dogg’s advocacy goes beyond business and personal use. He has been involved in community initiatives and programs that aim to address social justice issues related to cannabis prohibition, such as advocating for the release of nonviolent cannabis offenders.
  • Jane West (born 1976): A trailblazer for women in the cannabis industry, West is a successful entrepreneur and activist known for organizing and hosting cannabis-centric events that aim to bring together enthusiasts, industry professionals, and advocates.  West has also been a prominent figure in discussions about women in the cannabis industry. She has highlighted the role of women in shaping the industry and has been involved in initiatives that promote gender equality and inclusivity. In 2014, West founded Women Grow, an organization dedicated to empower women in the marijuana industry by providing networking opportunities, mentoring and business support.
  • Charlotte Figi (2006-2020): While not a public figure in the traditional sense, Charlotte Figi’s battle with Dravet syndrome inspired changes to medical marijuana laws across the country and ignited the CBD movement. Her 2013 interview on CNN with Dr Sanjay Gupta made Charlotte a symbol and hero for the medical marijuana and CBD movement.
how-they're-made

HOW ARE MY CANNABIS PRODUCTS MADE?

All cannabis products sold by Canna Remedies are grown and produced in New Jersey by New Jersey state licensed cultivators and manufacturers. It is the role of the cannabis manufacturer to produce the various forms of cannabis such as vape cartridges, edibles, and topicals. 

The post processing steps to manufacture these products differ based on the end product, however, all start with the same process of extraction. Cannabis extraction refers to the process of removing the oil found in the trichomes from the raw cannabis plant and collecting the plant compounds including cannabinoids and terpenes such as THC, CBD, myrcene and limonene. Below is an exploration of the different extraction types and methods.

Live Resin & Distillate Oil

Live Resin refers to the process of extracting oil by freezing and processing live cannabis flower. This process best preserves the cannabinoid and terpene profile for a naturally flavorful extract. Live resin is used in high-temperature consumption like vaping or dabbing, since the THC hasn’t been activated yet because it was done cold.

Basic Steps:

  • Freeze the bud
  • Run butane through it
  • Purge the butane using warm water (no higher than 45℉)
  • Purge the rest of the butane using a vacuum chamber

Distillation refers to the oil being extracted from the cannabis plant using a liquid solvent, often ethanol or pressurized CO2, and then hyper-purified through a process known as winterization. Distillation strips the oil of impurities, including the chemical compounds that give cannabis its flavor and aroma: terpenes. Manufacturers often add terpenes back to THC distillate after it’s been purified to its super-potent form, usually using plant-based terpenes to mimic the flavor of the cannabis plant.

Basic Steps:

  • Start with room temperature cannabis and an extraction medium such as ethanol, BHO, or CO2.
  • Soak the cannabis in the ethanol
  • Break the cannabis up, keep the ethanol really cold
  • Filter the plant matter out of the mixture
  • Heat the mixture to burn off the ethanol
  • Distill it down to pure oil

Cannabis Extraction Processes

Hydrocarbon Extraction

Hydrocarbon extraction, normally achieved using butane or propane, is able to extract a greater variety of terpenes from the cannabis material than the alcohol extraction method.

For products such as vape oils or oral tinctures, where the cannabis extract is unlikely to be masked by other flavors, preserving these terpenes helps to give the extract flavor and aroma.

The process involves cold butane solvent washed over the cannabis plant material to extract its oils. The butane solvent can be easily cold-boiled off to leave an oil with more of a “whole plant” character, as more of the temperature-sensitive terpenes will be retained.

These volatile and flammable solvents present a safety hazard to workers. Hydrocarbon extraction is a very hands-on process and is rarely automated, meaning that there is almost always a human worker in close proximity to the extraction vessel. In the interest of safety, hydrocarbon extraction is done on a much smaller scale, though the speed and efficiency of this extraction method means its overall output still makes it suitable for large-scale operations.

Alcohol 

Alcohol extraction, also commonly referred to as ethanol extraction, is one of the most efficient extraction methods for processing large batches of cannabis flower, and can be done in hot, cold, or room temperature conditions.

Hot alcohol extraction is generally accomplished using cycles of hot alcohol solvent through the solid cannabis flower, stripping the cannabinoids and terpenes from the flower in the process. This often extracts unwanted chlorophyll and plant waxes from the cannabis flower and requires several post-processing clarification steps to fix.

Cold alcohol extraction makes it a little harder for the unwanted polar plant waxes and chlorophyll to dissolve in a polar ethanol solvent.

Room temperature ethanol extraction allows for scalability, ease of post-processing, and energy efficiency. The process involves submerging cannabis flower in a vat of room temperature ethanol solvent. Once the cannabis plant matter is removed, the resulting ethanol/cannabis oil solution can be gradually heated to remove the solvent and leave behind a high-purity cannabis oil containing the most common cannabinoids.

Supercritical CO2

Supercritical CO2 extraction is still considered to be somewhat of a newcomer to the cannabis industry but is already commonly used in other industries for the processing of products such as coffee, tea, vanilla, and perfumes.

The method involves using low pressures and temperatures over a long period of time in specialized equipment to turn gaseous CO2 into a supercritical fluid. When passed over cannabis material, the fluid can easily extract plant waxes and oils from the cannabis.

Unlike alcohol or butane, CO2 is a highly tunable solvent, meaning you can pull unique compounds from botanicals at different pressures and temperatures. CO2 is also safer than many hydrocarbon techniques which use flammable and toxic solvents like butane.

Water

Water extraction utilizes a solvent-less method of extraction that submerges the cannabis plant in freezing water. The plant is stirred in the cold water causing the trichomes to separate from the plant.

Once the trichomes fall off of the plant, it will pass through a series of screens. The end result is a product that has 50% to 70% THC levels.

Isopropyl Oil

Dried cannabis flowers are soaked in isopropyl alcohol and then shaken gently. Isopropyl strips the trichomes from the plant. The mixture is strained into a dish and then the solvent is removed using a vacuum oven that keeps temperatures under 181 degrees. When the solvent evaporates, the remaining substance is a THC rich oil.

How it's grown

HOW IS MY CANNABIS GROWN?

All cannabis products sold by Canna Remedies are grown and produced in New Jersey by New Jersey state licensed cultivators and manufacturers. Cannabis cultivators refers to the companies who plant, grow, harvest, dry, cure, grade, and trim the cannabis buds. Below explores the different environments and techniques these cultivators are using to grow and harvest your bud.

Growing Environments for Cannabis

  • Outdoor – exposes a crop to a natural environment offering natural light and significantly reducing costs for growers. This can also lead to an exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as rain, insects, extreme weather conditions, and invasive plants such as thistle. Outdoor cannabis cultivation relies on the available sunlight during the changing seasons, during which the plant is exposed to the full spectrum of light available in nature at that time of year. Outdoor cultivators experience a longer growth cycle and typically only harvest once a year.
  • Greenhouse – Greenhouse grows offer the free sunlight of an outdoor grow, but with far greater environmental control. Greenhouses allow growers to control natural light with a blackout shade or similar roof covering system. Greenhouses also offer a layer of protection from animals, pests, and extreme environmental changes. A risk in greenhouse growing is that pests can spread inside the enclosed environment at a faster rate. Protection against environmental crossover is also limited depending on the type of greenhouse structure.
  • Indoor – Growing marijuana indoors requires artificial lighting and use of air conditioning and dehumidification systems to mimic the elements of the outdoors. High upfront costs is the major downside of growing marijuana indoors for beginners.

Growing from Seed or Clone

  • Seed – Plants grown from seed are the preferred method for outdoor cannabis cultivation because it makes for a more durable plant, and has a greater yield potential than clones. These from seed plants are also more resistant to pests, illnesses, and diseases. The downside to growing cannabis from seed each time are inconsistencies in the phenotype, or observable physical characteristics and chemical traits, of the parent plant. This causes variances in the cannabinoids and terpenes profiles and effects
  • Clone – Cannabis clones refer to the replication of a single parent plant outside the means of sexual reproduction. This is done by taking cuttings from a mature cannabis plant that can be rooted and grown into a new, genetically identical plant. Clones are preferred for indoor grows looking for consistency in their products. When grown under the exact same environmental conditions as the mother plant, a clone is infinitely more likely to exhibit the mother plant’s physical traits, cannabinoid and terpene profile, and ability to take in nutrients and resist pests or fungi. Plants grown from clones also allow growers to determine which environmental conditions will maintain those ideal genetics, and determine optimal feeding schedules, flowering times, and nutrient recipes. If plants are exposed to adverse environmental conditions for which they have no genetic defense, an entire crop can be wiped out.

Cannabis is grown and then harvested at the end of the flowering cycle. Harvesting requires cutting each bud-laden branch off near where the branch meets the main stem. After harvesting a cannabis plant, buds have to be trimmed, dried, and cured before they can be consumed. A proper dry and cure are necessary so mold doesn’t develop in the buds. 

Cannabis is typically trimmed to remove the excess sugar leaves that, while consumable, have a smaller concentration of trichomes than the flower and can be harsh when smoked. Ideally, this is done over a screen to collect any trichomes that may break off the plant. Plants are then left hanging upside down to dry until the stems slightly snap when bent. Once dried the curing process can begin. This is a prolonged process of removing moisture from the flowers under controlled environmental conditions to allow the conversion of non-psychoactive cannabinoids like THCA to continue to gain potency. Quick drying under warm, dry conditions halts this process much faster. A slow cure at low temperatures will preserve these terpenes better than a quick, hot cannabis drying process. Curing is complete when the flowers feel a little crunchy on the outside and the smallest branches snap when you bend them rather than fold.

cannabinoids

WHAT ARE CANNABINOIDS?

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are present in various tissues and cells throughout the human body. When a cannabinoid meets a receptor, it can cause an effect to occur within the cell. It’s helpful to think of it as a key fitting into a lock. The locked door (cannabinoid receptor) will not open until a particular key (cannabinoid) is inserted and turned in the lock.

Types of Cannabinoids

Endocannabinoids: Made by the human body.

Phytocannabinoids: Naturally found in the cannabis plant and some other plants.

Synthetic Cannabinoids: Man-made compounds created in a lab to mimic endocannabinoids.

There are over 124 different cannabinoids in cannabis, each with its own unique effects.

Common Cannabinoids

THC (delta 9 – Tetrahydrocannabinol)

  • Well-known for its euphoric or psychoactive effects.
  • Medicinally reduces pain, nausea, and stress.
  • Can stimulate appetite and help with sleep issues.

 

CBD (Cannabidiol)

  • Non-psychoactive and renowned for reducing symptoms in seizure and spasm disorders such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosis.
  • Reduces inflammation and pain, producing a calming effect.
  • Often recommended for clarity without the “high” feeling and to counteract THC’s effects.

 

CBG (Cannabigerol)

  • Considered the “Precursor Cannabinoid” because CBG converts to other cannabinoids as the plant matures.
  • Non-psychoactive and acts as a buffer to THC’s psychoactivity, which helps to reduce paranoia that is sometimes caused by higher levels of THC.
  • Reduces inflammation, pain, nausea, and intraocular eye pressure.

 

CBN (Cannabinol)

  • Mildly psychoactive and derived from THC-A.
  • Sedative properties, aids in pain and inflammation reduction.
  • Reduces intraocular eye pressure and seizure frequency.

 

CBC (Cannabichromene)

  • Non-psychoactive, supports neurogenesis (developing brain cells).
  • Reduces inflammation, especially when combined with other cannabinoids.

 

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

  • Psychoactive, found in cannabis sativa strains.
  • Produces a motivated, alert, and energizing feeling.
  • Neuroprotective properties, reduces stress, anxiety, and appetite suppression.

 

Why the ‘A’ After Certain Cannabinoids?

The cannabis plant initially produces cannabinoids as carboxylic acids, so sometimes you will see THC-A, CBD-A or THCV-A on product labels for cannabis flower or live manufactured products. Exposure to heat and light (decarboxylation) activates them, allowing them to attach to receptors in the body and create the intended effects.

terpenes

WHAT ARE CANNABIS TERPENES?

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants and some animals. They’re responsible for the aromas, flavors, and even colors associated with various types of vegetation. 

In plants, terpenes are produced to ward off herbivores that might eat them. They also help to attract helpful predators and pollinators. In insects, they are used to deter predators or attract a mate. Terpenes are also common ingredients in essential oils and in the human diet and have been recognized as safe to consume by the FDA. 

In terms of cannabis, terpenes are secreted in the glandular trichomes and contribute to a strain’s unique smell, natural flavor, and medicinal effects. There are around 200 terpenes that have been found in the marijuana plant, but only a few appear in amounts substantial enough to be noteworthy. 

Common Terpenes:

Limonene

Limonene is an abundant cannabis terpene with an unmistakable citrus aroma, most commonly resembling tangerine, grapefruit and lemon. It is also found in high concentrations in the rinds of citrus fruits, rosemary, juniper, and peppermint.  Limonene is often used in cosmetics, household cleaners, and as flavoring agents in food. Whether you’re looking to uplift your mood or relieve stress, knowing how much limonene is in your cannabis can play a key role in selecting the ideal strain.

  • Mood elevation and euphoria are typical effects from cannabis strains high in limonene. 
  • Limonene can also provide stress relief and often will yield a more energetic experience. 
  • Limonene also boasts powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 
  • Limonene is known to allow more efficient absorption of other cannabis terpenes, making it a critical component in the overall effect unique to each strain.  

Strains containing limonene

Such strains include super lemon haze, durban poison, jack herer and SFV (San Fernando Valley) OG.

 
Pinene

Alpha-pinene is the most common terpene in the plant world found in pine needles, rosemary, basil, parsley, and dill. It smells just like its name: piney.

  • Pinene also promotes alertness and memory retention by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholinesterase, a neurotransmitter in the brain that stimulates these cognitive effects and has been associated with reducing the short-term memory loss associated with THC. 
  • A-pinene acts at the benzodiazepine binding site showing it has the potential to help with decreasing anxious feelings.
  • Studies in animals have shown anti-inflammatory effects in reducing alcohol induced gastric ulcers as well as bronchodilator effects used in asthma. 

Strains containing pinene

A-Pinene rich cannabis strains include Jack Herer (her-heir), Blue Dream, Island Sweet Skunk

 
Terpinolene

Terpinolene displays a piney, floral, and herbaceous aroma that can be found in lilacs, conifers, apples, tea trees, cumin and nutmeg. The strong aromatic properties of terpinolene make it a commonly used ingredient in soaps, perfumes, lotions, and insect repellents. 

  • Typically found in marijuana sativa strains, terpinolene offers a mildly sedative effect and can reduce anxious feelings.  
  • It may provide a more balancing experience with some of the more energetic properties many sativas display.  
  • Terpinolene displays some antiseptic properties as tea tree oil (which is naturally high in terpinolene) is used for its antimicrobial properties for centuries. 

Strains containing terpinolenes

Terpinolene is a somewhat elusive terpene as most marijuana strains don’t have any at all and those that do tend to have very low quantities. Jack Herer (her-heir) and its derivatives are among the few that do. 

 
Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene, also known as beta-caryophyllene, is responsible for the spicy or peppery aroma found in several cannabis strains and is found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. 

  • Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to bind with cannabinoid receptors directly binding to the peripheral cannabinoid receptor known as “CB2.” This is why caryophyllene is highly known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Binding only with the CB2 receptor also prohibits any added psychotropic activity, unlike several other cannabis terpenes. It is also gastro-protective. 
  • Beta-Caryophyllene is believed to be the scent sought out by drug sniffing dogs.

Strains containing caryophyllene

OG Kush, Bubba Kush, and Chemdawg are some of the marijuana strains that are higher in Caryophyllene.

 
Myrcene

Myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis. Its aroma is musky, ripe or fermented fruit and quite pungent. It can be found in a variety of organic sources including hops, lemongrass, thyme, and mangos.

  • Myrcene has largely sedative properties and its anti-inflammatory properties help with relieving bodily discomfort. 
  • The most notable effect is its contribution to the infamous “couch-lock”.
  • A point of interest about myrcene revolves around the rumor that eating mangoes before consuming cannabis will make the effects come on quicker and stronger. This is because myrcene has been shown to increase the maximum saturation level of the CB1 receptor, which can cause a more psychoactive effect. For most people, the consumption of a fresh mango, 45 minutes before inhaling cannabis, will result in a faster onset of psychoactivity and greater intensity. Just make sure you’re eating the fruit and not just drinking juice for the best possible results.

Strains containing myrcene

Myrcene can be found in cannabis strains like Mango Kush, Blackberry Kush, and White Widow.

 
Humulene

Humulene is a common cannabis terpene boasting a subtle earthy or musky aroma with spicy undertones. Humulene is abundant in hops, coriander, cloves, basil and fights inflammation while boosting the body’s immune responses. 

  • Humulene and caryophyllene are structurally similar.
  • Together, humulene and caryophyllene may amplify each other’s anti-inflammatory properties. 

Strains containing humulene

Strains high in humulene include GSC, White Widow and Headband.

 
Linalool

Linalool is a terpene displaying a floral aroma and is commonly found in lavender.

  • Relaxation and stress relief are typical effects from linalool rich strains. 
  • Like lavender, Linalool produces a calming effect on the body and mind including an anesthetic-like effect caused by reducing the excitability of cells in the spinal cord that transmit pain signals to the brain. 

Strains containing linalool

Such strains include Amnesia Haze and LA Confidential.

 
Eucalyptol

Eucalyptol has a minty, cooling, and slightly spicy aroma. It is found not only in eucalyptus but other plants such as rosemary, camphor laurel, tea tree, and cannabis. 

  • Eucalyptol has been traditionally used in various cultures for its medicinal properties. 
  • It is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic effects with an ability to open up airways and promote respiratory health. 

Strains containing eucalyptol

Strains high in eucalyptol include Girl Scout Cookies and Super Silver Haze.

what's the difference

SATIVA VS HYBRID VS INDICA: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

The definition of sativa, hybrid, and indica have changed throughout the years. Initially, cannabis sativa and cannabis indica were plant science terms referring to plant genus and species. 

  • Cannabis Sativa L. described hemp plants found in Europe and western Eurasia, where it was cultivated for its fiber and seeds. 
  • Cannabis indica referred to the psychoactive varieties originating from the Hindu Kush mountains of India, where it was harvested for its seeds, fiber, and hashish production. 

Due to human migration, cannabis seeds were spread across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond where they developed distinct differences in their new, isolated homes. Each region where cannabis has grown natively or been uniquely cultivated has its own history and identifiable strains. These marijuana strains are known as Landrace strains and include Thai Stick, Acapulco Gold, and Hindu Kush. 

During this era of cannabis migration, the terms sativa and indica began to reference plant structures and features. A new plant classification was introduced in 1924 – Cannabis ruderalis. 

  • “Sativa” refers to tall, narrow-leaf varieties of cannabis, thought to induce energizing effects. 
  • “Indica” has come to describe stout, broad-leaf plants, thought to deliver sedating effects. 
  • “Ruderalis” plants are stalkier, with a smaller number of side branches and narrower palmate-shaped leaves, it’s naturally higher in CBD, and produces very little THC.

In the 1960s and ’70s cannabis breeders began transporting landrace strains and then bred them together to develop a wider range of genetic crosses. The motivations for this interbreeding stemmed from a desire for new effects, flavors, natural disease and pest resistance, larger yields, curiosity, or simply by accident. These crossbred cannabis strains created what we know as hybrid strains.

Indica leaf

Indica

Sativa leaf

Sativa

Hybrid leaf

Hybrid

Ruderalis leaf

Ruderalis

Today, the terms sativa, indica and cannabis hybrid are used less  to describe a plant’s physical features, but rather a plant’s effects on the user. This is because the majority of cannabis strains today are marijuana hybrids created as plant genetics are crossed time and time again.

So, when reading a marijuana dispensary’s menu it’s good to understand what they mean by sativa, hybrid, indica, and High CBD. 

What does cannabis sativa mean?

Sativas are believed to cause the “high” effects of cannabis. This is in reference to the head high and more euphoric effects. 

  • Invigorating, uplifting cerebral effects
  • Stimulates mind and senses
  • Improves focus/concentration
  • Increases energy
  • Uplifts mood

What does cannabis indica mean? 

Indicas are believed to cause the “stoned” effects of cannabis. This is in reference to the more physically and mentally relaxing effects like “couch lock”. A common saying to help remember these effects is Indica = In Da Couch. 

  • Physically relaxing and sedating
  • Relaxes mind and body
  • Relieves pain and nausea
  • Stimulates appetite
  • Reduces anxiety

What are cannabis hybrid strains?

Hybrid refers to a mixture of effects due to crossing a variety of cannabis plant types. Hybrid strains have been categorized even further to sativa dominant hybrids and indica dominant hybrids. 

  • Sativa dominant hybrid – Balanced effect with mood boosting effects and some relaxing physical effects. 
  • Hybrid – Effects balanced between euphoria and relaxation
  • Indica dominant hybrid – Balanced effect with more relaxing physical effects and slight mood boosting effects and some.

What is CBD?

High CBD are cannabis products that contain an appreciable amount of CBD. CBD is often associated with hemp CBD that can be bought at your local markets or online CBD shops. However in cannabis dispensaries, they are often referring to products that contain over 5% THC and at least 10% CBD. This can be helpful for those looking for physical and emotional relief with extremely low potential for the head high. 

density-buds-scale graphic
strain-names

WHAT DO STRAIN NAMES TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR PRODUCT?

Modern cannabis names primarily began in the 1960s and ’70s when cannabis breeders began transporting feral marijuana strains from around the world – called “landrace strains.” These strains were then bred together to develop a wider range of genetic crosses. They are often given unique names that reflect their genetic lineage, appearance, aroma, flavor, or effects. These names are often created by breeders and enthusiasts to distinguish one strain from another and to convey specific characteristics or qualities of the cannabis plant. Below are some examples of how cannabis strains are named:

Genetics/Lineage

  • Cleverly combining the parent strains’ names: 
    • Critical Purple Kush = Critical x Purple Kush
    • Alien Dutchess = Dutch Treat Haze x Alien OG
    • Locomotion = Blue Diesel x Trainwreck

Attributes of the Strain

  • Physical traits:
    • Golden Goat
      This strain has a golden appearance close to harvest and an abundance of golden hairs/pistils.
    • Granddaddy Purple
      This strain has flowers that bloom in shades of deep purple with colorful purple leaves.
    • Cherry Diesel
      The harvest room smells like cherries when this strain is being grown.
  • Effects:
    • Strawberry Cough
      Higher content of the ocimene terpene in this strain makes you cough.
    • GG #4
      This strain is known to “glue you to your seat.”
  • Cannabinoid Content:
    • Otto
      This strain has a one to one (OTO) ratio of THC and CBD.
    • Harlequin
      Tis strain is named for the patchwork costume of a court jester, representing the patchwork of cannabinoids and terpenes in this particular strain. 

Paying Homage

  • Jack Herer
    This strain is named for a cannabis activist.
  • Ringo’s Gift
    This is named after a CBD-strain breeder.
  • Agent Orange
    This strain is named in tribute to a Vietnam veteran who passed away from cancer due to Agent Orange.

Temporal Significance

  • Pre-98 Bubba Kush
    This strain originated before the panic of the great Y2K catastrophe.

Although some strain names are tied to specific characteristics or qualities of the plant, certain names are selected seemingly at random, often holding personal significance for the breeder but carrying minimal or no relevance for the consumer.

While strain names provide a bit of insight into what a person can expect when consuming, they cannot be used to precisely understand the effect due to the multiple variations a strain has. Research has led to scientists finding a new way to categorize cannabis (apart from strains), they are Chemotypes and Chemovars. 

Cannabis chemotypes

Chemotypes are a way to categorize cannabis plants by their cannabinoid content. In New Jersey, it is required that products be labeled with their chemotype. 

  • “High THC, Low CBD,” where the THC to CBD ratio is greater than 5:1 and the total THC percentage is 15% or greater.
  • “Moderate THC, Moderate CBD,” where the THC to CBD ratio is between 5:1 and 1:5 and the total THC percentage is between 5 and 15%.
  • “Low THC, High CBD,” where the THC to CBD ratio is less than 1:5 and the total THC percent-age is less than or equal to five percent.

Cannabis chemovars

Chemovars categorize cannabis plants by their cannabinoid and terpene ratio, taking into consideration at least two abundant cannabinoids and the two, three, or four main terpenes found in cannabis plants. 

  • The chemovar approach requires a full chemical analysis to know exactly which cannabinoids and terpenes a plant contains in order to be able to divide them by their potential effects. This makes it hard to study and implement in most places due to cannabis being illegal and standardization varying from state to state. 
  • Scientists claim that categorizing by chemovar types is crucial in the cannabis industry in order for consumers to find products that best meet their needs.
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