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November 9, 2022 BY amanda

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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.

November 7, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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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.

November 7, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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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

Sativa

Hybrid

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.

November 6, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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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.

November 5, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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WHAT ARE THE FORMS OF CANNABIS?

Cannabis comes in many different forms making it extremely versatile for personal use. In the state of New Jersey, the following forms are legally allowable and available on our online menu:

Flower/Bud

Bud
Pre-rolls
Moon Rocks/Caviar

Concentrates

Dabs including waxes, shatters, badders, budders, sauces, crumbles, crystals
Oil extracts

Vaporized forms

Cartridges, pods, and disposable pens

Edible Forms

Dissolvables
- Lozenges, sublabial forms (below the lip), sublinguals (under the tongue), and buccals (inside the cheek)
Ingestibles
- Pills, tablets, capsules, and chewables
Food Items
- Chocolates, gummies, baked goods, butters, jams, and jellies

Tincture

Including other liquid forms such as drops, syrups, oral suspensions, and drink enhancers

Topicals

Lotions, creams, calves, ointments
Transdermal patches
Suppositories

Explore these different forms of cannabis to see what best fits your needs and if you have any questions you can always reach out to one of our knowledgeable Canna Coaches.

October 31, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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WHAT’S IN THE CANNABIS PLANT?

The cannabis plant contains a complex mixture of physiologically active compounds, with hundreds of different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds identified to date. The two primary categories of compounds found in cannabis are cannabinoids and terpenes, which contribute to the plant’s various effects and characteristics.

Here’s an overview of the main components:

Cannabinoids: These are the most well-known and studied compounds in cannabis. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes. The two most abundant and well-known cannabinoids in cannabis are THC & CBD.
Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They contribute to the plant’s flavor and aroma and also have therapeutic effects. Some terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene (with a musky scent), limonene (with a citrus scent), and pinene (with a pine scent). Terpenes influence the overall effects of a particular cannabis strain.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are a group of phytonutrients found in cannabis and other plants. They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to the plant’s overall therapeutic potential.
Sterols: Phytosterols are a class of plant-derived sterols that are present in various plant species, including cannabis, and they serve several important biological functions in plants. One of the primary functions of phytosterols in plants is to help regulate the fluidity and permeability of cell membranes. β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol are phytosterols that have been studied for their potential health benefits in humans when consumed as part of a balanced diet. They are known to have cholesterol-lowering properties and may contribute to heart health. While they are not typically the primary focus of cannabis research or use, they are part of the plant’s overall chemical composition and may have subtle effects or contribute to the entourage effect, where multiple compounds work together to produce the plant’s overall effects.
Other compounds: Cannabis contains a wide range of other compounds, including fatty acids, proteins, and various minerals and vitamins.

The specific composition of these compounds can vary significantly among different cannabis strains, which is why different strains produce different effects. The cultivation and breeding of cannabis have allowed for the development of strains with varying cannabinoid and terpene profiles to cater to different preferences and therapeutic needs.

The synergy of these plant components working together to produce a combined effect that is greater than the sum of their individual effects is called the entourage effect. The entourage effect suggests that using whole-plant cannabis extracts or consuming cannabis in its natural form may provide a broader spectrum of therapeutic benefits compared to using isolated compounds. This has significant implications for the use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes, and underscores the importance of considering the whole-plant context when studying or using cannabis.

The Entourage Effect

October 27, 2022 BY amanda

IN Cannabis Plant, Learn

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WHAT IS CANNABIS?

Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana or weed, is a plant that has been used for various purposes for thousands of years. It is one of the most widely cultivated and consumed psychoactive substances in the world. Throughout history, cannabis has been utilized for its psychoactive effects, served as a fiber source for textiles, and contributed seeds and oil for both food and industrial applications. Medicinally, it has been employed to address ailments like pain, nausea, and muscle spasms. Ongoing research is actively exploring the potential medical applications of cannabis, adding depth to our understanding of its diverse properties.

Cannabis is a genus of flowering plants that includes several species, with the most well-known being cannabis sativa and cannabis indica. In many parts of the world, cannabis has a long history of recreational use, and its legal status varies widely. Some countries and states have legalized or decriminalized cannabis for both medical and recreational use, while in other places, it remains illegal.

Cannabis is typically consumed in various forms, including smoking the dried marijuana flowers or leaves, vaporizing, or ingesting it in edible products such as brownies or cannabis gummies. The use of cannabis can have both short-term and long-term effects on physical and mental health, and its safety and legality continue to be subjects of debate and research in many parts of the world.

WHAT ARE CANNABINOIDS?

Types of Cannabinoids

Common Cannabinoids

WHAT ARE CANNABIS TERPENES?

Common Terpenes:

Limonene

Pinene

Terpinolene

Caryophyllene

Myrcene

Humulene

Linalool

Eucalyptol

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

Indica

Sativa

Hybrid

Ruderalis

WHAT DO STRAIN NAMES TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR PRODUCT?

WHAT ARE THE FORMS OF CANNABIS?

WHAT’S IN THE CANNABIS PLANT?

The Entourage Effect

WHAT IS CANNABIS?

Different Uses of the Cannabis Plant

WHAT ARE THE FORMS OF CANNABIS?

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RECREATIONAL AND MEDICAL CANNABIS USE?

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Category: Learn

Types of Cannabinoids

Common Cannabinoids

Common Terpenes:

Limonene

Pinene

Terpinolene

Caryophyllene

Myrcene

Humulene

Linalool

Eucalyptol

Indica

Sativa

Hybrid

Ruderalis

The Entourage Effect

Different Uses of the Cannabis Plant

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