Cannabis has become a hot topic on the global stage, from uses of this plant for medicine to legalizing it for recreational use. Whether you are a curious novice, a grower, or someone trying to navigate the legal landscape, this guide is for you – covering everything from growing cannabis, to whether it is addictive, to legal questions, health effects, and consumption methods. As well as answering the common questions which people often have about cannabis.

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis refers to a group of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae, comprised of species, most commonly Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. There are differences in the appearance, growth characteristics and cannabinoid profiles of these species.

Cannabis has more than 100 different cannabinoids, with the two most known cannabinoids being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC induces the effect we consider the “high” of cannabis, whereas CBD is non-intoxicating and is largely favored for its medicinal purposes for reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammation.

Cannabis also contains terpenes, which are responsible for the aroma and flavor we smell and taste, with terpenes to some extent able to alter the effects. Historically, cannabis was used for fiber, food, medicine and religion/spirit.

When and How Do Cannabis Work?

Cannabis impacts the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a widespread biological system involved in regulating various physiological processes including mood, appetite, pain perception, immunity, and memory. The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors, both CB1 and C2; endogenous cannabinoids known as endocannabinoids; and the enzymes.

When cannabis is consumed, the cannabinoids like THC mainly bind to the CB1 receptors located in the brain and the nervous system and cause psychoactive symptoms which can include euphoric state, altered perception of state, and relaxation, while cannabidiol (CBD) will bind to the receptor in a different manner, often modulating the activity of the receptor, and decreasing anxiety or inflammation without a “high.”

This difference explains different and diverse effects of cannabis based on the dose, strain and individual biology.

Is Cannabis Addictive?

The public often asks: is cannabis addictive? Cannabis is considered to be less addictive than other substances such as smokeless tobacco, nicotine and alcohol, but is possible for the regular user or heavy user to develop a cannabis use disorder (CUD) or cravings, the desire to use cannabis and/or tolerance (need to increase dosage in order for the same effect) or withdrawal symptoms if stopping cannabis use. Some users report irritability, insomnia, and a lack of appetite when stopping cannabis use.

The research suggests that 9% of the general cannabis users develop dependence. For specific users who started using during adolescence, that number rose to approximately 17%. Cannabis addiction is not nearly as likely as alcohol or opioid addiction, but the potential for misuse is real, especially in susceptible individuals.

Does Cannabis Cause Cancer or Lower Blood Pressure?

The cannabis-cancer relationship is multi-faceted, and research is ongoing. It is well documented that smoking cannabis can expose the lungs to the same toxins and carcinogens seen in tobacco smoke. While it is hypothesized that very heavy and long-term use may increase the risk of lung cancer, there is conflicting evidence. There are some cannabinoids that exhibit anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies, however, the clinical evidence is inconclusive at this time.

Regarding blood pressure, cannabis can increase or decrease blood pressure in the short term through its effect on vasodilation and vagal tone depending on dose and individual differences. For example, THC may elevate the heart rate and blood pressure at initiation, and some tolerance and decrements may soon follow while CBD promotes vasodilation and decrease in blood pressure. In summary, individuals with cardiovascular disease should use caution with cannabis use.

Can you overdose on cannabis?

There are no known fatal overdoses of cannabis alone (unlike opioids and alcohol) but consuming very high doses, particularly through edibles (which take longer to metabolize), can lead to very high levels of distress, and negative effects such as panic attacks, paranoia, hallucination, nausea, and rapid heart rate. This use has been coined “greening out.”

While distressing and not pleasant, these reactions are relatively short lived and mild in terms of threat to life. If you or someone you know has extreme symptoms such as hallucinations, typically finding a quiet and calm environment and fluids can help. Medical support is rarely needed unless additional drug exposures have occurred.

Is Cannabis Legal Where You Live?

Cannabis laws differ greatly around the world and even in countries. Take Florida for example, they allow medical cannabis but recreational cannabis use is still not allowed. Texas has mostly strict laws but does make limited medical exceptions. Mexico has temporarily legalized recreational cannabis.

In countries/ranges such as France, Hawaii, Italy, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Thailand, and Utah all have legal statuses ranging widely from medical cannabis use mostly to completely prohibited depending on local regulations.

How to Grow Cannabis at Home?

Growing cannabis at home requires making choices about which seeds (and/or clones) to use, where to grow the plants, how to provide light (natural sunlight or artificial grow lights), ensuring the right temperature (65-80 F), how much humidity the plants will have (40-60% RH), and how to plant and how to water, nutrients, and venting. Plants grow in a vegetative state and a flowering state, each requiring a different care process.

If you grow your cannabis indoors, you can control every variable exactly. If you have an outdoor grow, you will be dependent on climate and how long your growing season is. Always check to see if it is legal to grow in your area.

How to Clone Cannabis?

Cloning creates and preserves the genetics of the desirable plant. Choose a healthy, beefy branch with a few leaf nodes. Cut below a node (this means cut a short stick with a node at the top) and place in a rooting medium. Use a humidity dome to support the clone. Using Rooting hormone will also improve your cloning success rate. Within a few days to a few weeks, roots will form and you will have a new plant, that is a genetic copy of the original plant.

How to Germinate Cannabis Seeds?

To sprout, seeds need: moisture, warmth (70 F is good), and darkness. There are many ways to germinate seeds, the most common methods include: placing seeds in damp paper towels inside a container that stays both warm and dark (the paper towels should be moist, not soggy) or planting the seeds directly in soil. Germination takes from 1-7 days.

When Should Cannabis Be Harvested?

Knowing when to harvest will impact potency and flavor. The trichomes on the buds are clear initially, then they will turn milky white at the peak of THC content, and lastly, they will turn amber as THC turns into CBN resulting in a more sedative effect. Harvesting at the proper time will depend on what effects you want to achieve.

How Long should Cannabis Dry and Cure?

When drying cannabis, use a dark and well-ventilated room, ideally humidity around 60 percent for about 7-10 days helps reduce moisture to prevent mold growth. Curing should be done in airtight jars, for at least 2 weeks (some people cure for months) while the drying process breaks down the chlorophyll and preserves the cannabinoids, developing flavor aroma and smoothness over time.

How to Prune Cannabis?

Pruning is meant to get rid of excess leaves and smaller branches to allow light to penetrate the entire canopy, promote airflow, help prevent mold, and increase yield quality. Pruning can be accomplished in a variety of ways including “topping,” “lollipopping” and removing most of the fan leaves.

Cannabis Products and Preparation Methods

How to Make Cannabis Oil?

Cannabis oil can be extracted in several different ways. Some methods are as simple as the infusion in a fat (such as olive oil), while others include complex solvent or CO2 extraction, which leave oils with a higher concentration of cannabinoids. These oils can be used medicinally or in cooking.

How to Make Cannabis Butter and Gummies?

Cannabutter is made by simmering the cannabis plant with butter to extract the cannabinoids. Cannabutter also serves as the base for many edible recipes. Gummies can also be made by mixing cannabis tinctures or oils into gelatin or pectin-based candy recipes to create a more discreet and enjoyable edible option.

How to Make Cannabis Tea?

To make cannabis tea, you’ll need decarboxylated cannabis (heated cannabis believed to activate THC) soaked in hot water, preferably combined with fats that increase the absorption of cannabinoids, such as coconut oil or milk. While it takes some time to feel the effects of tea (as opposed to inhalation), the effects may last longer.

Storage and Use of Cannabis

How Should Cannabis be Stored?

Proper storage involves airtight containers stored in a cool, dark space to avoid mold and degradation or a loss of potency. Many users tend to use glass jars with humidity packs.

How do you use Cannabis Oil?

Cannabis oil can be taken sublingual for immediate absorption, vaporized or made into foods. The dosage can vary widely based on the potency of the oil, and the tolerance of the person taking it.

Cannabis Use and Health Issues

What Syndrome is Associated with Cannabis Use?

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a rare syndrome in chronic users. CHS causes the individual to have severe cyclic vomiting episodes that are relieved by a hot bath or shower. It is not clear why CHS occurs, but eliminating cannabis use will also eliminate CHS symptoms.

What is Cannabis Poisoning?

Cannabis poisoning usually occurs in children or pets after accidentally eating large doses of cannabis, which will lead to lethargy, vomiting, and disorientation. Adults who eat too much cannabis could experience a very high level of intoxication, which may lead to admission in a medical facility for observation.

Practical Considerations

Are Cannabis Pens Allowed Through Airport Security?

Most airline carriers prohibit you from carrying cannabis vape pens, at least in legal states. This is because of federal law and security policies of the rest of the world.

How Will a Rusty Pole Affect a Cannabis Plant?

A cannabis plant is not harmed by rust; the only real risk is contamination from dirty tools. Always make sure to clean any tools before use.

Fun Facts About Cannabis

• Cannabis was used over 2,500 years ago – Archaeologists found ancient cannabis remains in China, showing it was used for rituals as far back as 500 B.C.
• Hemp and marijuana are cousins – Both come from the Cannabis sativa plant species, but hemp contains very low levels of THC (the psychoactive compound).
• The U.S. government once encouraged farmers to grow hemp – During World War II, the U.S. launched a campaign called “Hemp for Victory” to produce rope, uniforms, and other military supplies.
• Some pets use cannabis too – Specially formulated CBD oils are used by pet owners to help with anxiety and joint pain in dogs and cats.

Conclusion

Cannabis is a complicated subject matter with growing interest about use, effects, and legality. Despite any medicinal purposes it is beneficial for the user, there are risks with it, especially when used improperly and in younger users.

Laws are changing and evolving so it is crucial to review cannabis related information, thoughtfully ask questions, and if you determine to use cannabis use it responsibly. By clarifying the facts, it is an opportunity to combat stigma and lead to smarter and safer choices.

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