Harbor House Collective

While there is typically little to no difference in cannabis products offered at medical, recreational, or dual use dispensaries, there may be differentiation in experience, price, quantity allowed, or age restriction. Medical dispensaries require a medical cannabis permit card and patients are often subject to less or zero tax on purchases. Many states also allow patients under the age of 21 to obtain this medical card, extending access in certain situations such as cancer or epilepsy.

Any naturally occurring plant compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors. The cannabis plant produces phytocannabinoids in the form of carboxylic acids. For example, the two most popular cannabinoids THC and CBD in their acidic plant form are called THCA and CBDA, respectively. Until very recently, we thought these were only found in the cannabis plant; however, we now realize that some other plants appear to contain phytocannabinoids as well.

Since every individual is different, and there are also multiple factors to take into account, there is currently no standard dose of cannabis. We all react differently to substances. Therefore, if you are not an avid user of cannabis, your tolerance will be low and the effects will be stronger. It is important to “start low and go slow” when finding the sweet spot that achieves your desired outcome(s). Experts suggest starting with the minimum effective dose (MED) and slowly increasing as tolerance builds.

Some cannabis products can be taken sublingually, which means placed under the tongue. Common products taken sublingually are tinctures, sprays, dissolvable strips, and lozenges. These products can be placed within the mouth, specifically under the tongue, because there are a large number of blood vessels there which absorb cannabinoids. This delivery method offers rapid and effective absorption.

Historically speaking smoking cannabis is the most common delivery method and something that many associate with cannabis use. Smoking cannabis is often considered a controversial delivery method because it contains chemicals and carcinogens that are potentially harmful to your lungs. Some research has found that cannabis smokers do not appear to have an increased incidence of lung cancer. A lack of increased risk, however, does not mean no risk. Chronic cannabis smokers can develop bronchitis. Users should be aware of the risks involved with smoking and should use this method in moderation.

The aroma of cannabis flower can be attributed to its unique terpene (terpenoid) profile. Terpenes are essential oils that occur naturally in plants, trees and flowers. Throughout the growth cycle, terpenes act as a defense mechanism that deter and/or attract certain insects and animals. Once the cannabis flower is dried, cured or chemically altered, these terpenes become denatured by oxidation and are then called terpenoids. These terpenoids give off specific aromas and some cannabis strains have even become known for their unique smells.

You’ll likely hear loads of differing viewpoints on whether cannabis addiction is real or not. One thing is typically agreed upon, however, and that is — if dependency occurs, it is an addiction in psychological terms rather than in the physical sense. In comparison to pharmaceuticals (many of which carry a high risk for addiction), cannabis has a significantly lower potential for adverse side effects, withdrawal and/or dependency.

The length of time varies depending on how often you use cannabis. THC is stored in the body’s fat cells and it also accumulates in the body over time. There are different ways to test for THC and some tests can locate its presence longer than others. THC appears to stay in saliva the shortest amount of time, followed by urine and then hair.

It should first be said that using cannabis responsibly and in small doses can help users avoid feeling any negative effects. Cannabis has yet to cause even one death; however, consuming too much can lead to some uncomfortable side effects. Some of these are very mild, like dry mouth and increased appetite. Other users have reported feeling dizzy or disoriented. Cannabis overdose can cause users to experience feelings of anxiety and slight paranoia.

Cannabis changes over time when it has been exposed to oxygen, heat, or UV light. These changes alter the chemical compounds in cannabis (cannabinoids and terpenes) and the effects the user may experience. This is why proper storage of your cannabis is important. Aged THC, for instance, converts into the cannabinoid CBN. CBN offers an array of benefits, the most pronounced of which is its sedative effect which makes it helpful in treating insomnia.