Cannabis 101: Bud basics explained
CBD and THC
In a 2018 survey of 20,000 Canadians (50% of whom considered themselves cannabis users), the Caddle team found that only 45% of Canadian cannabis users understand the difference between cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD and THC are only two of hundreds of different chemical substances found in cannabis, but are two of today’s most researched substances regarding cannabis and are driving factors in the purchase of particular strains. If you’re new to it, already use it, or would just like to learn more, here are three important aspects to know about cannabis:
1) The plant types
There are two predominant plant types: Sativa and Indica. Canadian cannabis producer Peace Naturals explains that Sativa is used to improve mood, treat chronic pain and anxiety, and increases focus and creativity. On the other hand, Indica improves mental and muscle relaxation, decreases nausea and acute pain, and increases appetite and pleasure.
2) The chemical types
According to CanniMed, THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis – i.e., it is responsible for the euphoric high users feel. THC also stimulates appetite, mood, pain relief and relaxation. On the other hand, CBD is often considered the counter to THC. CanniMed explains that CBD is often used to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and is a non-psychoactive, calming chemical substance.
3) The rules
As of October 17, 2018, cannabis is fully legal across Canada. The public possession limit is 30 grams in every province, while the legal age differs (18 in Alberta and Quebec; 19 everywhere else). In Alberta, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Saskatchewan, you can purchase cannabis from private licensed stores; everywhere else you must purchase from a government-operated store. Most provinces offer dried flower, oils, and pre-rolls; edibles are not sold but may be prepared at home. Permitted usage varies by municipality, but you cannot consume while operating a motorized vehicle, near schools and children, on patios and on business properties.
Helpful literature on cannabis is available everywhere – consider checking out the blogs of one of the many growing Canadian cannabis brands, and keep a look out for emerging research now that cannabis is legal. And if you’re considering trying cannabis for the first time, here are a few excellent tips from Toronto-based brand Tokyo Smoke on how to practice safe sesh.