Our dispensary understands that, for many, the world of cannabis can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together some information to help you understand the basics of marijuana.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. The plant contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, with the two most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and has been shown to have numerous potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain.
Different Types of Cannabis
There are three main types of cannabis: indica, sativa, and hybrid.
- Indica strains: Known for their relaxing and sedative effects, indica strains are often used to help with sleep, pain relief, and stress reduction.
- Sativa strains: Known for their uplifting and energizing effects, sativa strains are often used to enhance creativity, boost mood, and increase focus.
- Hybrid strains: Created by crossing indica and sativa strains, hybrid strains offer a mix of effects depending on the specific genetics of the plant.
Methods of Consumption
There are several ways to consume cannabis, each with its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.
- Smoking: The most common method of consumption, smoking involves inhaling the smoke from burning cannabis flowers.
- Vaporizing: A healthier alternative to smoking, vaporizing involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases the active compounds without producing smoke.
- Edibles: Cannabis-infused foods and drinks offer a longer-lasting and more potent high, but can take up to 2 hours to take effect.
- Topicals: Cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils can be applied directly to the skin for localized pain relief and inflammation reduction.
- Tinctures: Concentrated cannabis extracts that are taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast-acting effects.
Responsible Use and Safety
As with any substance, it’s essential to use cannabis responsibly and safely. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with a low dose and go slow, especially if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product.
- Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis.
- Store cannabis products securely and out of reach of children and pets.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
At Elevate SoHo Cannabis, we are committed to educating our customers and destigmatizing cannabis use. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to answer questions, provide recommendations, and ensure that you have a positive and safe experience with our products.
As a small social equity startup, we are dedicated to elevating the cannabis experience through uncompromising quality and a relentless commitment to integrity. We thoughtfully curate a line-up of licensed cannabis products that enhance wellbeing while normalizing and advancing marijuana’s positive impact on society.