When stepping into the cannabis community, you may see a lot of buzz surrounding two natural compounds: CBD and THC. These are cannabinoids and they are considered the main drivers of cannabis’ effects. If you want to learn more about CBD, THC, and how they might influence your next dispensary visit – keep reading.
The Basics
There are more than 140 chemical compounds unique to cannabis plants, but CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are two of the most common. They are cannabinoids, and both compounds are found in marijuana and hemp. Traditionally marijuana contains more THC than hemp – and hemp contains more CBD than marijuana.
There are distinct properties that separate CBD and THC, mainly that THC is the psychoactive chemical in cannabis and CBD is the non-psychoactive chemical. An easy way to think about that is THC is often defined by how it makes cannabis enthusiasts feel, while the effects of CBD aren’t typically felt – but it depends on the individual and how they respond to cannabinoids.
Strains can be THC-dominant or CBD-dominant, which means they will present more of either cannabinoid and its intended effects.
The Science
CBD and THC actually have the same chemical formula, 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms, but the difference lies in how they are arranged. The differences in structure give CBD and THC different chemical properties and they affect your body differently.
Researchers have found that the chemical structure of CBD and THC are similar to the body’s natural endocannabinoids. CBD and THC mimic endocannabinoids and bind with receptors, which is how they cause effects in the body. The endocannabinoid system plays an integral role in maintaining the body’s homeostasis. CBD and THC work with receptors that release neurotransmitters in your brain to affect things associated with mood, sleep, pain, appetite, and memory – all things researchers associated with the endocannabinoid system.
How CBD and THC Affect the Body
As mentioned earlier, THC is a psychoactive chemical in cannabis. This is what makes cannabis enthusiasts feel “elevated.” CBD doesn’t cause elevated feelings and instead, works with other elements in the body linked to feelings of well-being.
CBD can actually block some of the effects of THC, creating a less intense psychoactive effect. This is why products with a mix of both compounds are ideal for first-time enthusiasts.
More research is needed to better understand the efficacy (and range) and CBD’s benefits, but CBD products are taken to help with a host of conditions and symptoms, including:
Pain
Inflammation
Arthritis
PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Crohn’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Opioid withdrawal
The FDA has approved one CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, to treat severe forms of rare childhood epilepsy, and the research continues. The National Institutes of Health clinical trials database shows nearly 200 trials involving CBD that are either active or recruiting.
THC is said to make enthusiasts feel hungry and relieve symptoms related to pain, nausea, Multiple sclerosis pain, Parkinson’s disease tremors, and glaucoma. The FDA has approved a few drugs that contain THC, including Marinol and Syndros. These drugs contain synthetic THC and are used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy during cancer treatment. The FDA also approved Cesamet, which contains a synthetic substance similar to THC and is used to treat weight loss and appetite problems associated with both chemotherapy and HIV/AIDs.
Ways to Take Each
Both THC and CBD can be consumed in a number of different forms. THC is most often consumed by smoking cannabis, but other cannabis products that may include THC and CBD include:
Oils
Tinctures
Sprays
Capsules
Vape products
Edible products (gummies, chocolate, or other infused food items)
Beverages containing cannabis oil
Lotions and salves
The Takeaway
THC and CBD are considered the main drivers of cannabis’ effects. And despite being derived from the same cannabis plant, the two compounds have distinct properties that separate them from one another. CBD and THC levels may vary from crop to crop – even from plant to plant. It is recommended that enthusiasts check with their dispensaries about the specifics of their strains’ levels. It is also recommended that enthusiasts purchase only lab-tested products that clearly state the CBD and THC levels, to gain a better sense of the expected experience.
These cannabinoids could also have an effect on some health conditions or interact with certain medications, particularly how medications metabolize in the body. Before engaging in cannabis usage or products that contain THC or CBD, check your state laws to ensure they are legal where you live and talk to your doctor and/or primary care physician. Both THC and CBD are show signs of alleviating and even treating, some medical and mental health conditions – however research into this is still new, and more is needed.
Whether it’s the vanilla cake frosting scent of Wedding Cake, the strong citrus scent of Tangie OG, or the zesty, skunky scent of Mendo Breath – there is something very intriguing about the aroma of cannabis. But have you ever wondered why certain strains smell the way they do? There’s an explanation behind the sweet or skunky smell of cannabis, so let’s dive in.
The Basics
Every strain of cannabis has a unique terpene profile, and a strain can have several terpenes. Terpenes are what give cannabis its smell and medicinal properties. But what are they exactly?
Terpenes are organic molecules responsible for the unique aroma and flavor, as well as the health-benefiting properties, in cannabis and a variety of other plants, fruits, and organisms. For example, terpenes can be found in lavender flowers, oranges, hops, and pepper.
Cannabis plants have hundreds of different terpenes, which are formed inside secretory cells inside glandular trichomes, the same glands that ooze THC and CBD. Terpene production can be directly impacted by both the spectrum and intensity of light exposure.
“Specific spectra, environmental, and nutrient variables can all be manipulated to enhance terpenes (as well as flavonoids, and cannabinoids),” MJ Verdant Cultivation Director Chris Gioia explained. “This is thanks to the plant’s secondary metabolites.”
Secondary metabolites are compounds within a plant that aren’t required for growth or reproduction but are produced to grant a plant some selective advantages. Growers have the ability to dissect their methods of cultivation and directly impact secondary metabolites, which leads to the optimization of strains to reach their best potential.
Terpenes also play an important role in plants. In some plants, terpenes attract pollinators, while in others they cause a strong reaction to repel insects or foraging animals. Some terpenes help the plant to recover from damage and others help keep infectious germs, bacteria, and fungus away.
When talking about terpenes, some people use the term terpenoids interchangeably. However, terpenes and terpenoids are not the same – the terms actually have different meanings. Terpenes are the natural form of the molecules. They are hydrocarbons, meaning the only elements present in the compound are carbon and hydrogen. Terpenoids are the chemically modified form of the molecules. As a plant dries and cures – in the production of cannabis, for example – the terpenes oxidize and become terpenoids.
The Different Kinds of Terpenes
There are hundreds of different terpenes found in cannabis, but about 11-15 are the most prominent, along with their aromas, flavors, and effects. Here are some of the most primary terpenes in most cannabis strains on the market:
Myrcene is primarily musky, earthy, and herbal. It is also found in lemongrass, thyme, and hops. Potential effects include relaxation, sedation, and mood-lifting.
Limonene is primarily citrus-scented. It is also found in fruit peels, juniper, and peppermint. Potential effects include mood-lifting and stress relief.
Pinene is primarily pine-scented. It is also found in pine needles, rosemary, dill, and basil. Potential effects include energy-boosting, alertness, and memory retention.
Caryophyllene is primarily spicy and peppery. It is also found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Potential effects include relaxation and stress relief.
Humulene is primarily hop-scented, woody, and earthy. It is also found in hops, cloves, and basil. It has anti-inflammatory properties.
Eucalyptol is primarily menthol and mint-scented. It is also found in mint, sage, and tea tree oil. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Terpinolene is primarily described as a “fresh” scent with piney, floral, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy notes. It is also found in lilacs, nutmeg, and cumin. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Linalool is primarily spicy and floral. It is also found in lavender. Potential effects include mood-lifting and sedation.
Growers often identify the terpenes in each of their strains and develop a “flavor wheel” to help medical cannabis patients and recreational enthusiasts navigate strains based on effects. By mapping out terpene profiles, it has become easier to predict, and even manipulate the effects and medicinal value of varieties, giving breeders endless opportunities for developing new strains.
It’s not uncommon for cannabis enthusiasts to focus on THC alone or to use the terms “indica” and “sativa” to describe the effects of strains, however, they aren’t actually the best predictors of effects and potency. Understanding terpenes is essential to understanding the effect of a cannabis strain.
Unfortunately, knowing the possible effects of a specific terpene does not mean that’s always the case. The effect profile of any given terpene may change when in the presence of other compounds, meaning the right combination of cannabis compounds can be more potent and effective than an isolated compound. This phenomenon is known as the “Entourage Effect.”
Terpenes and cannabinoids may either exaggerate or suppress one another’s effects, depending on which combination is present in a given strain and how an individual responds to it. Some research has been done to better understand each terpene’s effect when used in conjunction with other compounds, but more is still needed.
Final Thoughts
Terpenes are the organic compounds responsible for the way most plants smell. They are abundant in cannabis but are also found in other plants, fruits, and herbs. As we learn more about terpenes and what effects each combination of compounds exudes, breeders can continue to selectively modulate the terpene ratios in strains to maximize desired benefits.
“To me, specific terpene, flavonoid, cannabinoid combinations play a critical role in the medicinal properties of cannabis – that’s why, when selecting a strain of cannabis, I’ve always found it extremely beneficial to experience the full spectrum effect of that strain,” Goia said. “All of these exciting variables that encompass the passion of cannabis cultivation play key roles for me.”
No two cannabis enthusiasts will experience terpenes in the exact same way or will find the same aromas and flavors appealing. “At the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference. Due to people’s unique biochemistry, these combinations will produce effects that differ for some but align with others. That is the beauty of cannabis. As well as the importance of the preservation of specific strains, whether the preference is for medicinal or recreational purposes.”
When browsing or growing cannabis strains, you may notice they are commonly broken up into three groups: indica, sativa, and hybrid. Many cannabis enthusiasts have used these three weed “types” as a gauge for predicting the possible effects. But what does indica and sativa really mean? What are the differences between them?
What does “indica” and “sativa” mean?
When cannabis enthusiasts think of indica vs. sativa strains, it’s generally thought that indica strains are physically sedating and provide “whole-body” elevation. Sativa strains are thought to be energizing, with uplifting cerebral effects. However, indica does not always mean sedative and sativa doesn’t always mean energizing. As researchers learn more about the cannabis plant, it turns out that the chemical compounds in each strain – the cannabinoids and terpenes – play a huge role in determining the effects felt, not necessarily whether it’s an indica or sativa strain. In fact, the two names are rooted in botany, according to Leafly, not effects.
Origins of indica and sativa
The words “indica” and “sativa” were introduced in the 18th century and used to describe different species of cannabis. Cannabis sativa was the term that described hemp plants found in Europe and western Eurasia. The hemp was cultivated for its fiber and seeds. Cannabis indica refers to the physically and mentally stimulating varieties of cannabis discovered in India. These varieties were harvested for seeds, fiber, and hashish production.
Since their earliest botanical definitions, the terms indica and sativa have shifted. Today, “sativa” most frequently refers to the tall, narrow-leaf varieties of cannabis plants. As mentioned earlier, these varieties are thought to induce energizing effects in enthusiasts. The term “indica” has come to describe the stout, broad-leaf cannabis plants thought to induce sedating effects. The term “hemp” most often refers to the industrial, non-intoxicating varieties of cannabis harvested for seeds, fibers, and CBD.
The cannabis varieties that are most largely consumed by enthusiasts stem from Cannabis indica, even though both terms are used to organize thousands of strains on the market.
Popular Sativa Strains
Popular Indica Strains
Sour Diesel Jack Herer Green Crack Durban Poison Strawberry Cough Amnesia Haze Super Lemon Haze Super Silver Haze
Purple Punch Granddaddy Purple White Rhino Bubba Kush Northern Lights Blueberry Grape Ape Blue Cheese
What about hybrid strains?
Hybrid strains are thought to have a mix of indica and sativa effects; they are bred from both indica- and sativa-descended plants. There is a long history of cross breeding cannabis strains to create new plants that feature the best qualities of its parent plants. Strains that have pure indica or pure sativa lineages are actually rare, according to Leafly. In fact, most strains referred to as “indica” or “sativa” or have a type of dominance in either category are likely hybrids, with genetics, and often effects, inherited from both subspecies.
To glean a better sense of the kinds of effects hybrid strains will have, it’s best to examine the parent strains. For example, if a hybrid strain has more indica in its lineage – it is likely to have more effects associated with those types of strains.
Some popular hybrid strains include Wedding Cake, OG Kush, Blue Dream, White Widow, and Pineapple Express.
So, what impacts the strain effects?
As mentioned before, the terms indica and sativa aren’t really the best predictors of effects. Strain effects depend on a number of different factors, but most commonly known are the terpenes and cannabinoids—the chemical compounds found in cannabis. Cannabis plants are composed of hundreds of chemical compounds.
Terpenes Make the Strain—Not the THC
Every strain of cannabis has a unique terpene profile. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds produced by plants and fruits, and they can also be found in lavender flowers, oranges, hops, and pepper. In cannabis, terpenes are secreted by the same glands that ooze THC and CBD, and they are what makes cannabis smell like cheese, citrus or pine or even fuel.
Terpenes also play a key role in differentiating the effects of various cannabis strains. Some terpenes might promote relaxation and stress-relief, while others potentially promote focus and acuity. This directly challenges the standard beliefs held about indica vs. sativa strains. But still, even more research needs to be conducted to understand how and to what extent terpenes impact a strain’s effects.
There are more than a hundred different known types of terpenes found in cannabis, but some of the most common are myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, pinene, and terpinolene. In the case of a strain that has myrcene in its terpene profile, it will exhibit a primarily herbal scent, or even smell like hops or lemongrass. This specific terpene profile is believed to help relax consumers. For a strain with pinene in its profile, the cannabis will smell like pine, or rosemary, dill, and basil. This terpene strain is said to help boost energy in enthusiasts.
But knowing the possible effects of a specific terpene does not mean that’s always the case. The effect profile of any given terpene may change when in the presence of other compounds. This phenomenon is known as the “Entourage Effect.” Some research has been done to better understand each terpene’s effect when used in conjunction with other compounds, but more is still needed.
THC & CBD
The two most common cannabinoids are THC and CBD and those are considered the main drivers of cannabis’ effects. THC is the psychoactive chemical in cannabis, and CBD is a non-psychoactive chemical, which basically means THC helps give a feeling of elevation, and CBD does not. THC is said to make enthusiasts feel hungry and relieve symptoms related to pain and nausea. CBD is said to alleviate anxiety, pain, inflammation, and similar conditions.
Strains can be THC-dominant or CBD-dominant, which means they will present more of either cannabinoid and it’s intended effects.
It’s a personal preference
Cannabis and how you select the right strain for yourself is a personal experience. Understanding its nuances, including the differences between indica and sativa, can help you decide which qualities you prefer in a particular strain. Some cannabis enthusiasts can enjoy any strain, any time. For others, approach strain selection with process and precision is key to having a positive experience.
Despite cannabis usage being fully legalized in more than a dozen U.S. states, many enthusiasts still face a fight against stereotypes and stigmas. In California, which is considered the cannabis capital of the U.S., hundreds of municipalities have banned cannabis cultivation, processing, or retail businesses – and in some cases all three.
Cannabis growth and use are legal in 14 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia; medical cannabis is legal in 36 states and four US territories, yet cannabis is still designated as a Schedule 1 drug by the federal government. This means cannabis companies face challenges with banking, are unable to deduct normal business expenses from their taxes, and are barred from advertising on Facebook and Google – two of the largest platforms for advertising.
Stigmas and Stereotypes
Stigmas and stereotypes range from believing that cannabis enthusiasts are lazy or unmotivated to perpetuating the harmful depiction that enthusiasts are involved in criminal activity, among several others related to the quality and health-related benefits of cannabis itself. It’s been a slow process, but in the last ten years, the tide of public opinion on cannabis has seen a shift. Ongoing polling by Gallup shows that since 1969, when they started asking people about cannabis legalization, there has been a steady and increasing acceptance of cannabis and 68% of Americans favor legalizing the plant.
Perhaps the most well-known anti-drug PSA involved an egg and a hot frying pan: “This is your brain on drugs,” said the voiceover, as the egg crackled and browned. It aired across the U.S. back in 1987 and has been parodied numerous times since then. However, the PSA was reimagined in 2018 as a pro-cannabis PSA created by Artisans on Fire titled “This is Your Brain on Cannabis.” In the PSA, an egg is tossed into a frying pan. The chef then adds fresh vegetables and plates the dish, ending in a colorful and seemingly very appealing appetizer.
Cannabis enthusiasts cut across all sections of our society – everyone from successful CEOs, celebrities, startup owners, engineers and more. Some individuals are workaholics, even-keeled, and essentially “totally normal.” They just love cannabis, and so do we!
The “stoner stereotype” still exists, but a new image of who a cannabis enthusiast is today has slowly eroded the negative labels that plagued it. Many of our team members have been harmed by the war on drugs and marijuana prohibition. They, along with MJ Verdant’s ownership, aim to remove the stigma associated with cannabis in general through the production of clean cannabis, exemplary compliance and cultivation processes, and an unwavering focus on the consumer and the community.
So, what is MJ Verdant doing?
As part of our mission with MJ Verdant, we created this company and this brand to not only grow exceptional cannabis, but to educate new and familiar consumers, as well as the general community, consequently dissolving the stigma that surrounds cannabis. We believe that cannabis is a healthy and healing plant that benefits people and communities. We will work to break the stigmas toward cannabis, cannabis businesses, and its enthusiasts that still persist – starting with this blog.
Coming in The Clean Cannabis Blog you will find educational articles, expert interviews, myth debunking, and other relevant cannabis information. We will also feature noteworthy products and profiles. This is where we will dive into some of our business practices—and share what we do and why. We believe so strongly in the power of cannabis to help people and create positive community change.
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