If you're new to the world of CBD and medical marijuana, you likely have a lot of questions. With legal marijuana becoming more and more readily available, you may feel overwhelmed on your first visit to a dispensary.
Though cannabis is biologically classified as the single species Cannabis Sativa, there are at least three distinct plant varieties: Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis, though the last is rare. There are also hybrids, which are crosses between sativa and indica varieties. Cannabis used for fiber is typically referred to as hemp and has only small amounts of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC, usually less than 1%.
Genetic “breeders” of the cannabis seed have developed thousands of different strains of cannabis from these three varieties. There are marked differences between sativa, indica, and hybrid. Today, we mostly find hybrids. It can be difficult to find pure indica or sativa.
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All types of medical cannabis produce effects that are more similar than not, including pain and nausea control, appetite stimulation, reduced muscle spasm, improved sleep, and others. But individual strains will have differing cannabinoid and terpene content, producing noticeably different effects. Many people report finding some strains more beneficial than others. For instance, strains with more CBD tend to produce better pain and spasticity relief. As noted above, effects will also vary for an individual based on the setting in which it is used and the person's physiological state when using it.
In general, sativas and indicas are frequently distinguished as follows:
Sativas
The primary effects are on thoughts and feelings. Sativas tend to produces stimulating feelings, and many prefer it for daytime use. Some noted therapeutic effects from use of Sativas:
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- Stimulating/energizing
- Increases sense of well-being, focus, creativity
- Reduces depression, elevates mood
- Relieves headaches/migraines/nausea
- Increases appetite
NOTE: Side-Effects from use of Sativas:
Increased anxiety feelings
Increased paranoia feelings
Indicas
The primary effects are on the body. Indicas tend to produce sedated feelings, and many prefer it for nighttime use.
Therapeutic Effects from use of Indicas:
- Provides relaxation/reduces stress
- Relaxes muscles/spasms
- Reduces pain/inflammation/headaches/migraines
- Helps sleep
- Reduces anxiety
- Reduces nausea, stimulates appetite
- Reduces intra-ocular pressure
- Reduces seizure frequency/anti-convulsant
NOTE: Side-effects from use of Indicas include feelings of tiredness and “fuzzy” thinking
There are many ways that you can ingest CBD and marijuana, so if you have questions on how they can be taken, we have you covered with these FOUR ways:
1. THC & CBD Tincture
Marijuana doesn't have to mean a cloud of smoke. If you're hesitant to smoke a doobie, don't fret. Tinctures are another common way to ingest marijuana or CBD. Tinctures are a liquid that the user can dispense into the mouth with an eyedropper. This method is both easy to use and dispenses user-friendly doses.
With tinctures, you'll know exactly how much CBD or THC you're ingesting.
2. Smoking
Marijuana's most commonly associated method of ingestion is through smoking. This method may require a pipe, rolling papers, or a bong.
If you're new to smoking marijuana, don't expect to smoke a whole joint by yourself the first time. Easy does it. As you learn your own tolerance and herb preferences, you'll be sure to find what works for you.
3. Vaping
Vaping is another great way to get your dose of THC or CBD. Vaping is similar to smoking but doesn't provide the heavy scent associated with marijuana or require you to pull smoke into your lungs.
Vaping also has the added benefit of letting you start and stop at will. You won't feel pressured to finish a whole joint.
If you're new to vaping, we recommend taking a hit, waiting a few minutes and assessing where you're at. If you want another hit, your vape will be ready for you at a moment's notice. Click here for more about vaping CBD.
4. Edibles
Edible may be the most innocuous choice for taking THC or CBD, but it's not for the faint of heart! Edibles can be quite strong, so if you're looking to try a THC treat for the first time, start small! This is especially the case for snacks like brownies or rice krispy treats.
Just because edible treats may be delicious doesn't mean you'll want to eat the whole thing by yourself. Don't eat too large of a portion of an edible or you could risk ending up a little higher than you'd like to be.
Now that you know the answer to "how is marijuana taken?", it's time for you to find the style that works best for you! Whether you prefer smoking, vaping, tinctures, or edibles, there is a world of CBD and legal marijuana products available at your fingertips.
