1. INTRODUCTION
Cannabis is a plant that people use for different reasons, including medical treatment. It can help with symptoms of illnesses like cancer and other health conditions. You may hear different names like marijuana, hemp, THC, and CBD. These terms all relate to cannabis, but they mean different things. Knowing what each one means can help you make better decisions about using cannabis, whether you’re looking for the best weed delivery in toronto or considering other options.
2. WHAT IS CANNABIS?
Cannabis is a type of plant with more than 700 different varieties. These plants belong to the Cannabaceae family. The two most common types used for medicine and other purposes are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica.
- Cannabis sativa: This type of cannabis is known for making people feel more energetic, happy, and mentally focused. It has long, thin leaves and is usually light green.
- Cannabis indica: This type is known for making people feel relaxed and calm. It has shorter, darker green leaves.
- Cannabis ruderalis: This type is not commonly used because it has mild effects. However, it is often mixed with other types to make plants grow faster and stronger.
Sometimes, different cannabis plants are mixed to create new varieties. These mixed plants are called hybrids.
- Hybrid cannabis: A plant that is a mix of different cannabis types.
- Blended cannabis: A product made by mixing different types of cannabis plants, either pure or hybrid.
3. WHAT ARE THC AND CBD?
Cannabis contains many different chemicals, but two of the most important ones are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These chemicals belong to a group called cannabinoids, which are substances that affect the body and brain in different ways. There are more than 100 cannabinoids in cannabis, but THC and CBD are the most well-known.
- THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol): This is the chemical that makes people feel “high.” It affects the brain and changes how a person feels and thinks.
- CBD (cannabidiol): This chemical does not make people feel high. Instead, it helps with pain, inflammation, and relaxation. It is often used for medical purposes.
Since THC and CBD come from plants, they are called phytocannabinoids (“phyto” means plant).
4. THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
The human body naturally produces cannabinoids. These are called endocannabinoids (“endo” means “within”). The body has a system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that helps regulate different functions, such as pain, hunger, and stress.
The ECS includes special receptors (proteins that receive signals) in different parts of the body:
- CB1 receptors: Found in the brain and nervous system. These control pain and emotions.
- CB2 receptors: Found in the immune system and other organs. These help the body deal with inflammation and injury.
- THC attaches directly to CB1 receptors, which is why it changes how people feel.
- CBD does not attach to these receptors. Instead, it helps the body use its natural cannabinoids more effectively.
5. SYNTHETIC CANNABINOIDS
Some cannabinoids are made in laboratories. These are called synthetic cannabinoids. Scientists create these chemicals to have similar effects to THC and CBD.
One example of a synthetic cannabinoid is nabilone, which is approved by the FDA and is available as a prescription. However, many synthetic cannabinoids sold illegally can be dangerous and cause serious health problems.
6. WHAT ARE MARIJUANA AND HEMP?
Both marijuana and hemp come from cannabis plants, but they are used differently and contain different amounts of THC and CBD.
- Marijuana: This is made from the dried leaves, flowers, and seeds of the cannabis plant. It contains both THC and CBD. It is also called pot, weed, ganja, grass, and many other names.
- Hemp: This is made from the stalks, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. It also contains THC and CBD, but it has much less THC than marijuana.
7. LEGAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MARIJUANA AND HEMP
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
- Marijuana is any cannabis product that contains more than 0.3% THC. This means it can make people feel high. Under federal law, marijuana is illegal, but some states allow it for medical or recreational use.
- Hemp is any cannabis product that contains 0.3% THC or less. Because it has very little THC, hemp is legal under federal law.
8. HOW CANNABIS IS USED?
Cannabis can be used in many ways. People choose different methods depending on their needs and preferences.
- Smoking or vaping: The dried leaves or flowers of the plant are burned or heated, and the user inhales the smoke or vapor.
- Edibles: Cannabis is mixed into food or drinks, such as gummies, brownies, or teas.
- Oils and tinctures: Liquid cannabis extracts are placed under the tongue or added to food.
- Topical creams and lotions: Cannabis-infused creams can be applied to the skin for pain relief.
9. MEDICAL USES OF CANNABIS
Many people use cannabis to help with medical conditions. Some possible benefits include:
- Pain relief: THC and CBD can help with chronic pain.
- Reducing inflammation: CBD is known to help with inflammation from injuries or illnesses.
- Improving sleep: Some cannabis products help people sleep better.
- Helping with nausea and vomiting: THC can be useful for people undergoing chemotherapy.
- Reducing anxiety and stress: CBD has calming effects that help some people with anxiety.
However, cannabis does not work the same way for everyone. It can have side effects like dizziness, dry mouth, or increased heart rate. It is important to talk to a doctor before using cannabis for medical purposes.
10. THE FUTURE OF CANNABIS
Cannabis laws are changing in many places. Some states in the U.S. allow both medical and recreational use of cannabis, while others only allow medical use or do not allow it at all. Scientists continue to study cannabis to better understand its effects and potential benefits.
As research continues, more people are learning about how cannabis can be used safely and effectively. Whether for medical use or personal use, understanding cannabis, THC, and CBD can help people make better choices for their health and well-being.
