What is CBG?
A cannabis plant can have many properties, all of which will have a different impact on your body when consumed. These different elements of the plant are referred to as cannabinoids, and a plantcancontain over 100 differing cannabinoids, the two most popular ones beingCBD and THC.
CBG is the acronym for Cannabigerol, which is considered the mother of all cannabinoids. CBG is essentially the “parent” cannabinoid, meaning that every other cannabinoid begins as CBG and then eventually converts to other cannabinoids like THC or CBD.
CBG is processed through the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is made up of molecules and receptors in our bodies that are responsible for keeping our bodies in an optimal state regardless of what’s going on in our external environment.In our bodies, CBG imitatesendocannabinoids, the natural compounds our body makes.
CBG works by binding to both receptors where it’s thought to strengthen the function of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in stabilizing mood, regulating appetite and sleep, and alleviating pain. Unlike THC, CBG has no psychotropic effects, so it will not give you a high.
Most strains of cannabis have very little CBG in them, because of that break down process that takes place as the plant ages but even in small amounts, CBG can be impactful. CBG is also believed to have positive impacts when it comes to treating depression and anxiety disorders.
Source: https://www.leafly.ca/
What are the potential benefits of CBG?
Like CBD, CBG has been used to combat pain without having the intoxicating effect of cannabinoids like THC.
Research shows that CBG can also have therapeutic effects. However, human studies on this are sparse and more research needs to be done in this area.
What is the value of Craft growers and small-batch products?
Small batch and craft production isbecoming more and more popular in the cannabis industry for many reasons. The cannabis that is grownfrom small batch, craft growers is much more likely to be produced with a focus on quality over quantity. Many craft producers begin their growing from seeds as opposed to clones, this means that they can map the genetics of the seed and know exactly what they are growing. Craft producers are more likely to deploy many best practices with respect to strain development, use of nutrients, hand trimming, as well as curing and drying practices. This additional care and attention to detail typically results in a higher-quality end product, which is valued by many consumers.
Should I consume edibles for medical and recreational purposes?
Edibles are a great way for individuals to enjoy cannabis without having to smoke it. However, the effect from consuming edibles is different from smoking and users should be aware of the differences before consuming them, whether recreationally or medically. When you consume an edible, it enters your digestive system and is metabolized by your stomach and liver. This means that it will take longer for you to feel the impacts, but those impacts will also last longer.
If you want to have more control of your dosing, there are also fast-acting edibles that work sublingually, or molecules are water soluble. Also distillate powders that you can add to your food or beverage. These products are quicker acting and a great alternative for people who prefer to smoke or vape because the pace of the experience is very similar. The user will typically feel the effects with in 15 to 20mins, however, this will be different for all consumers.Like all other edibles, fast-acting edibles are also available in THC, CBD or Balanced formats giving you the same great options.
Edibles are an easy and approachable way for individuals who are new to cannabis to enjoy its effects. It’s essential to make sure you are following safety practices and federal regulations before ingesting any cannabis products. This is especially important for first-time users who might not be familiar with the effects of THC.The most important consideration for user that are new to edibles is to start low and go slow! Learn more here.
How does cannabis act as a sleep aid?
Cannabis can be an incredible tool for calming your nerves, lowering anxiety, and even limiting chronic pain – all of which are factors that can impact sleep. It has become widely accepted that cannabis can be an effective sleep aid and it is commonly believed that a good stain of Indica could help to induce relaxation and calm, leading to heavy sleep
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are the two main cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis. CBD is a non-psychoactive and non-sedative, while THC is psychoactive and is primarily responsible for inducing sleep.
Studies have shown that THC, which is also the compound that gives users a “euphoric” feeling, helps decrease the time it takes to fall asleep while also increasing the amount of time spent in stage 4 sleep, the deepest stage of sleep.
Another cannabinoid called cannabinol (CBN) is a similar compound in cannabis plants that appears to offer sleep and other health benefits. CBN is more common in aged cannabis, as THC naturally converts into CBN over time.
Best strain recommendations: Pink Kush, Bubba Kush. Also look for terpene profiles that contain high levels of Myrcene, Pinene, Linalool, Terpinolene, Nerolidol and caryophyllene.
Source: https://www.leafly.ca/
How does cannabis help anxiety?
When you are considering using cannabis as a medication or tool to manage your anxiety or depression, we encourage you to be aware of the complexities of both your own mental health and that of cannabis. Not all cannabis is made equal and not all properties of the cannabis plant will have the same impact. It is important when you are using cannabis that you now your limits – much of the research on this topic suggests that small does of cannabis are helpful in managing anxiety, but high doses, especially for inexperienced users, can have the opposite impact.
We suggest that you speak with a member of our team to better understand the strains that are right for you and what impacts THC and CBD could have on you.
Our body contains two types of cannabinoid receptors—CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found in the nervous system and brain, while CB2 receptors are located in the immune system and other areas of the body.The exact way CBD affects CB1 receptors in the brain isn’t fully understood. However, it may alter serotonin signals.Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays an important role in your mental health. Low serotonin levels are commonly associated with people who have depression. In some cases, not having enough serotonin may also cause anxiety.CBD will not produce more but make sure that receptor is functioning at its highest levels.
Source: https://www.leafly.ca/
What are terpenes?
Each cannabis cultivator consists of its own unique aroma. This aroma, and the resulting impact each distinct flavour has on the human body,are the result of molecules within the plants terpenes. The distinct terpenes of each cannabis cultivator have become an important element in the growing of varying strains of cannabis. In fact, today many licensed producers are even including the details of their terpene structure and percentages on their packaging. There are hundreds of distinct terpenes that are found in cannabis, but the 11 most prominent flavours or aromas are:
- Myrcene: As one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, myrcene delivers an earthy aroma that is believed to act as an anti-inflammatory. Also analgesic, sedative, antioxidant anti-bacterial, anticancer effects.
- Caryophyllene: Often associated with the aroma of cloves, hops, and rosemary, caryophyllene is commonly used as an anti-inflammatory or pain reliever.
The unique molecular structure of caryophyllene allows it to easily bind to CB2 receptors primarily located within our peripheral endocannabinoid system. This means that is doesn’t cause any of the euphoric feelings of cannabis while providing many of the benefits associated with activating those receptors, like reducing inflammation.
It’s unlike any other terpene because it is the only one that has the ability to directly activate a cannabinoid receptor, especially CB2 receptors.
Caryophyllene has also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and to be a possible therapy for treating inflammatory bowel disease. Research has even found that caryophyllene may be able to treat anxiety and depression.
Current studies are hoping to unveil even more of the therapeutic potential behind caryophyllene, including research indicating that it may help with lifespan longevity by reducing gene stress.
Strains high in caryophyllene: GSC, Bubba Kush, Sour Diesel, Chemdog, Cookies n cream, gelato, master kush.
- Pinene: You may recognize the flavour of pinene as the common aroma of pine, often associated with the odor or flavour of coniferous trees. This terpene is also believed to function as an anti-inflammatory and research shows it may also help avoid stomach ulcers.Also Bronchodilator (opens airways) may help combat short-term memory impairment.
Strains high in Pinene: Blue Dream, Cannatonic, Grape ape, Kosher Tangie (also know as 24k Gold)
- Limonene: It is not surprising that the limonene aroma is found in citrus fruits and delivers a delightful and soothing citrus odor. Limonene is commonly believed to help boost the immune system of the human body. Alsohas anti-fungal&anit bacterial properties, may help relief heartburn and gastric reflux. Improves absorption of other terpenes and chemical by way of the skin mucous membranes and digestive tract.Also studies have shown that daily consumption of limonene can inhibit cancer cell growth and anti tumor in breast cancer, lung and brain cancers. Also inhaling limonene on a daily basis can improve serotonin and dopamine levels.
Strains high in Limonene: Do-si-do, MAC, Strawberry banana, Wedding cake, Tahoe OG.
- Terpinolene:Found in most cannabis plant but in very small amounts. Is the least common terpene. As a potential antioxidant, terpinolene is commonly associated with the aromas of Nutmeg, apples, and lilacs.Not a lot is know about this terpenes effects, study are showing that is may have antifungal and antibacterial properties. They are using it more in soaps and cleaning products. May also work well as a pest repellent.
Strains high in terpinolene: Ghost train haze, Jack Herer, golden goat.
- Humulene: The hoppy flavour of humulene is commonly associated with basil, black pepper, ginseng, and clove. Humulene has been proven a strong anti-inflammatory. Also know as b-Caryophyllene.
The effects and benefits of humulene if you want to add:
The medical and therapeutic potential of humulene is expansive and well-researched. A 2016 study shows that it may help terminate cancer cells when combined with phytocannabinoids and other terpenes.
Humulene is present in many therapeutic-grade essential oils and the use of such oils for healing purposes dates back centuries. The terpene is present in Balsam fir oil (a.k.a. Abies balsamea essential oil), and is believed to be an active mechanism in fighting tumors, evidenced by its ability to produce Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).
The oil was also shown to exhibit antibacterial properties in another study, proving to be active against the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus (a.k.a. golden staph) when administered in small quantities. S. aureus is a bacterium present in our bodies at all times, but it can play a role in a host of nasty infections and diseases when exposed.
Humulene also plays a role in pharmacokinetics—the study of how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes drugs—showing potential to be distributed rapidly throughout the body via both oral and topical absorption of an oil derived from the tropical plant black sage (Cordia verbenacea). Oil from this plant has also shown anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
Humulene also plays an important function in the life cycle of a cannabis plant prior to harvest. Beginning with synthesis in the trichome head, humulene and other terpenes aid in a plant’s defense capabilities by helping to deter pests and prevent fungal infestations.
To learn more about the impact of terpenes on your body and to better understand what strains of cannabis highlight specific terpenes, please come into our store, and speak with a member of our team!
Sources:
https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/terpenes
https://www.healthline.com/health/cannabis-terpenes
What are concentrates and how many different types are there?
Concentrates are filled with everything that you love about cannabis. Concentrates can appear in a variety of forms and are the product of distilling down the most desirable parts of the plant. It is the excess material left over once a cannabis plant has gone through the process of removing unnecessary plant matter while maintaining cannabinoids and terpenes from the original plant. These concentrates are found in the trichomes, or the hair-like appearance on the outside a cannabis plant. Concentrates continue to grow in popularity because they isolate the elements of the plant that consumers are looking for and they offer a heightened potency.
There are a variety of ways to extract cannabis, and several different types of cannabis and ways to consume them. Types of concentrates include:
- Tinctures: ingested orally not available on legal market because they are an alcohol or glycerine-based product. Emulsions are available, they are the cannabis extractinfused into MCT coconut or palm oil. Available in sprays or with a dropper.
- Capsules: ingested orally
- Vaporizer Cartridges: vaporize. filled with distillate, live rosins, hash oils(honey oil), live terpene.
- Hash: vaporize, dab or smoke
- Shatter, Wax, sugars, slush, rosin, diamonds, isolates and Dababble Oils: smokable.
It is important to note that the term ‘extracts’ is often used when referring to concentrates. While extracts are a form of concentrate, they are not entirely the same.
So, what is the difference between extracts and concentrates?
While you won’t find a concentrate that hasn’t been extracted, you can find extracts that haven’t been concentrated. Much like the problem of trying to buy a plank of chocolate, it’s important to use your cannabis vernacular properly to understand what you are buying.
A tincture made from cannabis extracts may be just as potent as the flower from which it was extracted, but it may also be possible to find a concentrated version of that tincture that has a significantly higher cannabinoid potency.
Here is another circular definition: Concentrates are cannabis products that have been extracted and then concentrated to increase their potency.
Sources:
https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/concentrates
https://www.leafly.ca/news/strains-products/cannabis-concentrates-oils-extracts