Cannabis 101
Whether you’re brand new to cannabis or just want a better understanding, this guide is made to help you feel confident and informed—no science degree needed.
Your Endocannabinoid System
Cannabis works with a natural system in your body that helps keep everything in balance. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it all connects:
What It Is
Your body has something called the Endocannabinoid System (we’ll just call it your Cannabinoid System). It helps manage things like mood, sleep, pain, and appetite—basically, it keeps you feeling steady.
How It Works
This system has tiny receptors (think of them like locks), and cannabis has compounds (like THC and CBD) that act like keys.
CB1 receptors are mostly in your brain.
CB2 receptors are more in your immune system.
THC & CBD: What’s the Difference?
THC is the part of cannabis that makes you feel “high.” It primarily interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, influencing how you feel, think, and experience the world.
CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t produce a high. It works more subtly throughout the body and may help with stress, soreness, or inflammation—making it a popular option for more gentle relief.
Everyone’s System is Unique
Just like fingerprints, everyone’s cannabinoid system is a little different. That’s why cannabis can affect people in different ways—and why finding the right product, dose, and strain is a personal journey and can take a little experimenting.
So, what does this mean for you?
Start low, go slow. What works for a friend might not work the same for you.
Find what’s right for you. Ask our budtenders — we’re here to help.
Why Cannabis Affects Everyone Differently
Body Chemistry
Everyone's ECS is a little different, just like everyone has different pain tolerance or reactions to caffeine or alcohol. One person might feel relaxed from a small dose, while someone else may need more—or feel nothing at all.
Tolerance & Experience
New users tend to feel stronger effects. Over time, your body may build tolerance, meaning you might need more to feel the same effects.
Method of Use
Smoking, edibles, tinctures, topicals—they all affect your body differently. For example, edibles take longer to kick in, but can be more intense and last longer.
Hormones & Gender Differences
Women and men can react differently to cannabis—and science is starting to show us why:
Women often have more CB1 receptors, which means they may be more sensitive to THC.
Estrogen levels can affect how cannabis works in the body—so effects might change throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle.
Some studies suggest women may feel stronger pain relief and relaxation, but may also build tolerance faster.
Cannabis strains are generally grouped into three categories — Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid — each known for producing different types of effects.
Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing properties. They often deliver a “head high” that can enhance focus, creativity, and sociability, making them a great choice for daytime use or when you want to stay active and mentally engaged.
Indica strains are known for their calming and relaxing effects. These strains typically produce a “body high” that helps ease tension, promote rest, and support sleep, making them ideal for evening use or unwinding after a long day.
Hybrid strains combine traits from both Sativa and Indica plants. Depending on the specific genetics, a hybrid may lean more toward relaxation or stimulation — or offer a balanced mix of both. Hybrids are a great option for users seeking tailored effects without being too far on either end of the spectrum.
Knowing the difference makes it easier to find what works best for you — whether you're looking to relax, recharge, or find a little balance.
Understanding the Differences: Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the natural oils in cannabis (and many other plants) that give each strain its unique smell, flavor, and even some of its effects. Think of them like the essential oils of the plant world.
You know that citrusy smell some strains have? Or that earthy, pine-like scent? That’s terpenes at work. But they don’t just smell good — they can also influence how a strain makes you feel.
Why It Matters
Terpenes help shape the overall vibe of a strain — not just how it smells, but how it feels. Two strains might both be Indica, for example, but if they have different terpene profiles, one might mellow you out while the other helps with focus.
So next time you're choosing a strain, looking at the terpene profile can give you an even better idea of what to expect.
Cannabis A-Z
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Think of them as your cannabis guide. They can help explain different products and effects based on what you’re looking for—whether it’s better sleep, stress reduction or to elevate your mood.
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A lab test that shows what’s in your product (how much THC/CBD, if it’s free of mold, pesticides, etc.). Always check this to be sure your product is clean and safe.
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A legal store where you can buy cannabis products. Staff are usually trained to help you find what fits your needs
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Cannabis-infused snacks like gummies or chocolates. Start with a small dose (like 2.5–5mg THC) and wait 1–2 hours before deciding if you need more.
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When all parts of the cannabis plant (THC, CBD, terpenes, etc.) work together for better results than any one part alone.
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The part of the cannabis plant that’s smoked or vaped. It’s the most traditional way to use cannabis.
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Products that keep all the plant’s natural compounds. These often give a more well-rounded effect.
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Cannabis cultivated in a controlled indoor environment. Often produces more visually appealing buds and allows for year-round growing.
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A ready-to-use joint that’s already rolled and ready to go.
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Different “varieties” of cannabis—each with its own effects.
Indica strains often help with relaxation, sleep, or pain.
Sativa strains may give a more uplifting, energetic feeling.
Hybrid strains mix both.
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Cannabis cultivated outdoors under natural sunlight. Known for being more sustainable and having a broader terpene profile due to full-spectrum light exposure.
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Natural oils in cannabis that give it smell and flavor—and can affect how it feels (like calming or energizing).
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Liquid cannabis you drop under your tongue. Effects come on faster than edibles but slower than smoking.
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Creams or balms that go on your skin to help with soreness, arthritis, or inflammation. They don’t get you high.