CANNABIS 101. Surface Trichomes ranging from mature to young

Transcription

1 CANNABIS 101 Surface Trichomes ranging from mature to young 1

2 05 FOREWORD 06 A BRIEF HISTORY OF CANNABIS 11 ORIGINS OF THE NAME 11 STRAINS AND SPECIES 13 CANNABINOIDS 18 THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM 24 CONSUMPTION METHODS 28 DOSING 30 CANNABIS AND THE HUMAN BODY 32 SIDE EFFECTS OF CANNABIS 34 GLOSSARY 44 RESOURCE GUIDE BOOKS WEBSITES FILMS 3

3 WELCOME TO THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY! As with any emerging and innovative industry, ours is accompanied by a world of terminology, science, opportunity, and unfortunately misinformation. As such, we ve created this booklet to help our employees, colleagues and friends navigate an exciting new field that can sometimes feel as complex as the cannabis plant itself. Drawing on the knowledge of our experts across a range of fields, we hope this resource gives you a solid base to move forward, confident with the many abbreviations and fascinating facts, and ready to meaningfully engage with both cannabis veterans and new users alike. Please note: Our industry is evolving at an exponential rate, and as such, this booklet does not claim to be a final authority. Science shifts and new topics will emerge, all of which will continue to evolve and be added in later editions. We encourage you to learn more with the reference guide provided, ask questions, draw on the knowledge of our team, and take notes. Philip Campbell CEO, Ascent Industries 5

4 UKRAINE 600 BC SOUTH AMERICA 1800 AD MIDDLE EAST 1400 BC INDIA 1000 BCE CHINA 5000 BC KOREA 2000 BC A BRIEF HISTORY OF CANNABIS 10,000 BCE Archaeological records of pottery shards made with hemp found in what is modern day Taiwan BCE Chinese pottery depicting cannabis leaves is produced BCE Cannabis spreads from China to Korea and Central Asia BCE Earliest recorded confirmed evidence of cannabis use in India. 900 BCE Religious use of cannabis prevalent throughout Middle East. 450 BCE Herodotus, the father of history, describes Scythian ritual and recreational cannabis use in modern day Ukraine and Southern Russia. Gathering Hemp, Kentucky around

5 1971 Congress passes the Controlled Substances Act, which classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug. Drugs in this classification are defined as possessing no medicinal value and having a high potential for abuse Netherlands decriminalizes cannabis use California becomes the first American state to legalize medicinal cannabis despite the federal government s schedule I classification. Hemp harvesting on Rhine bank. Created by Lallemand, published on L Illustration, Journal Universel, Paris, CE Arab traders bring hemp to Eastern Africa and Southern Europe which slowly spread throughout these continents CE Hemp cultivation flourished in colonial America, with a few of the original colonies requiring farmers to produce hemp Colorado and Washington both pass popular initiatives to legalize recreational cannabis use. More states follow suit in the following years The Federal Liberal Party forms majority government in Canada. Justin Trudeau s campaign promise to legalize recreational cannabis is expected to come into effect in CE Cannabis traveled from Africa to South America and Mexico CE Recreational and medicinal cannabis use becomes prevalent throughout Mexico. This cannabis use soon spread northwards to the United States of America with increasing Mexican immigration CE Due to mounting public pressure in the American populace, largely founded in prejudice against the recent surge in Hispanic immigration, the Marihuana Tax Act is passed which effectively made cannabis production, use, importation and possession illegal. Hemp retting on Rhine bank. Created by Lallemand, published on L Illustration, Journal Universel, Paris,

6 ORIGINS OF THE NAME Cannabis originates from the Greek word κάνναβις (kánnabis), which was originally a Scythian word, and the word hemp is also thought to be a variant of a word from the same Scythian source. These Scythian expressions spread throughout the Indo-European languages. In 1548 the Oxford English Dictionary recorded the first use of the expression Cannabis Sativa. STRAINS AND SPECIES Cannabis, as a species, contains many strains. The differentiating factors that separates strains from each other are described in terms of chemotype, genotype, and phenotype. The chemotype of a plant can also be referred to as the strain of a plant. Chemotypes are defined as the most abundant chemical produced within the individual. This chemical ratio gives strains their unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes. The words genotype and phenotype are often thrown about in our industry, usually with confusion as to what they actually mean and how it relates to the plant itself. Simply put: Genotype is the genetic makeup of a cell, the genetic code. This code contains every possible outcome that lies within our own genetics. 11

7 Phenotype is the observed characteristics or traits seen in the physical organism. For example the height of the plant, the colour of the flowers, and the smell of the terpenes are all specific phenotypes. The genotype and phenotype are related in a simple way. Phenotype is influenced by three factors. The first being the genotype or the genetic makeup, environmental factors, and epigenetic factors (changes in gene function, not changes to the DNA). In order to define chemotype, phenotype, and genotype in layman s terms we will use a family of four as our example. In a family of four the two kids will have similar characteristics to each other but also to their parents. The similarities the children share with their parents are determined by their chemotype. The entire genetic makeup of the children are a direct reflection of both parents, so why aren t they exactly the same? The differences in the physical traits between the children are determined by their own phenotype. Characteristics that would be more broadly used to describe an entire race or ethnicity would be referred to by their genotype. The most commonly used terms for cannabis are - Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis. The terms Indica and Sativa seem to have been created anecdotally and used loosely by cannabis consumers for decades now. It should be noted that there is currently no scientific definition for either term. Indica What is known as Indica-dominant strains originated primarily out of Central Asian countries such as Afghanistan and Nepal. Their leaves are broader, and the plants are typically shorter and bushier than sativa strains. They tend to have a higher THC level and are often preferred for pain relief and for night time use, as they have a more subdued and sedative feeling. Therapeutic benefits of Indica Helps with: body pain, insomnia, migraines, headaches, anxiety or stress, reducing intraocular (eye) pain and inflammation, and relaxing sore muscles. Sativa What is known as Sativa-dominant strains originated primarily from more equatorial countries such as Mexico, India and Thailand. Their leaves are longer and narrower and the plants typically grow much taller and faster than indica varieties. They tend to be known for their stimulant effect and often preferred during the daytime. Sativa strains tend to be known more as uplifting, energetic and cerebral. Therapeutic benefits of sativa Increased immune support, anti-depression, increased creativity, energy, assists with ADD and mood disorders Ruderalis Often called the overlooked middle child of the cannabis industry, ruderalis is a feral weed that originated in the cold northern climates of Central Asia and Russia. It typically grows wild, far shorter than either indica or 13

8 sativa, and is seen to have fewer leaves. Rugged and more resistant to weather and pests, ruderalis has been known to consist of very low THC levels, but its hardiness, ability to autoflower and significant levels of CBD have made it increasingly popular in the breeding of hybrid strains. Hybrids Hybrid cannabis strains provide the best of both worlds. Breeders select the top sativa, indica and in some cases ruderalis strains and combine them into new strains that maintain all the best qualities from the parent plants. Hybrids can be sativa or indica dominant and offer the effects to match. CANNABINOIDS When talking about cannabinoids, we are referring to chemicals that are unique to the cannabis plant. There are over 480 natural components found within the cannabis plant, of which 66 have been officially classified as cannabinoids. These chemicals are scrutinized for the effects they have on humans, both physically and psychologically. THC Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most well-known and researched cannabinoid and the most psychoactive. When it comes to cannabinoids, the scientific community has generally focused on THC as the primary or only important variable. Until very recently, selective breeding in cannabis for both the recreational and medicinal markets have produced mostly THCpredominant strains of cannabis to the exclusion of other cannabinoids. Effect: THC has the ability to alter behaviour, mood, perception, and consciousness. THC is responsible for the euphoric feeling people most often associate with being high. It is known for assisting with acute pain relief, relaxation, and appetite stimulation. CBD Cannabidiol (CBD) is the next most commonly studied cannabinoid. It used to be common in cannabis grown naturally but, until recently, had largely disappeared from recreational cannabis genetics. In the medicinal arena, CBD has received increasing attention due to its many medicinal attributes without intoxication or sedation. Studies have shown CBD to be most known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and autoimmune regulating abilities. After THC, it is the most abundant cannabinoid in modern genetic varieties of cannabis, sometimes contributing up to 40% of resin. Strains with a greater percentage of CBD often demonstrate reduced psychoactivity. Use of cannabis with little to no CBD has been shown to have an increased psychological impact, and can result in unwanted side effects such as drowsiness or anxiety in some cases. Effect: CBD is non-euphoric. Studies have shown it to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-nausea, neuroprotective, blood pressure reducing, nerve pain reducing, and autoimmune response regulating abilities. It has shown to be particularly effective for reducing 15

9 seizures from epilepsy, Dravet, or heart arrhythmia. It is also known to reduce certain side effects of THC when consumed or administered in unison, specifically in cases of anxiety and tachycardia (a condition associated with an abnormal and accelerated heart rate). Taken together, THC and CBD demonstrate synergy in many applications. CBDV Cannabidvarin (CBDV) is a phytocannabinoid found in higher concentrations in incida plants vs sativa. It is a homolog of CBD. CBDV is to CBD what THCV is to THC. CBDV is a propyl cannabinoid meaning it contains a propyl side chain instead of a pentyl side chain. Effect: CBDV is a cannabinoid found to have similar properties to CBD. It has been observed to have mild euphoric effects leaving the consumer with a sense of well-being and calmness. In recent studies, CBDV has demonstrated anticonvulsant effects. These effects include CBDV s ability to act as an inhibitor for the neural activity that triggers an epileptic seizure. There have also been studies done with rats for nausea reduction using THCV and CBDV. Results of this study showed a significant reduction in nausea symptoms. Ongoing research has correlated the use of CBDV with epilepsy/ seizures, IBD/Crohn s, HIV/AIDS, and MS. CBN Cannabinol (CBN) is a psychoactive cannabinoid that comes about from the degradation of THC, such as when THC is exposed to air and oxidizes or to heat from combustion. There is usually very little CBN in a fresh plant. Whether through degradation or combustion at higher temperatures, once present, CBN is often described as producing a couch lock effect, meaning it is very sedative. Effect: CBN is mildly psychoactive on its own but unlike CBD, interacts with THC in a way that actually increases psychoactivity. Cannabis that has been left out or unused will have increasing amounts of CBN and decreasing amounts of THC. CBN is most commonly known as being an effective sleep-aid for people suffering from any type of insomnia. CBG Cannabigerol (CBG) is a non-euphoric cannabinoid, is the precursor, the stem cell, the mother of THC and CBD. Like CBD, it is is known to block the metabolic action and thus psychoactive effects of THC. Until recently, the outstanding medicinal properties of this cannabinoid were not well studied. Effect: CBG has shown to stimulate neurogenesis (brain cell growth), is antibacterial, anti-tumor, helps with insomnia, can calm the digestive tract, and is uniquely known as an adrenal regulator through the suppression of release of noradrenaline in the body which is most commonly produced from stress or the fight or flight response. THCV Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is found in largest quantities in what are commonly seen as sativa strains most prominently originated from African landraces. While one of the lesser known cannabinoids, it is 17

10 becoming known for having some of the most positive impacts on psychoactivity. THCV affects the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors giving a mild psychoactive effect on its own but are very commonly reported as energetic, clear, focused or euphoric. Like CBD, it has shown to limit the negative effects of THC on its own, moderating psychoactivity and reducing anxiety related symptoms. Effect: THCV is currently being researched as a treatment for metabolic disorders such as diabetes since it has been found to reduce glucose intolerance and improve insulin sensitivity. It has also shown to have promise in treating the tremors associated with Parkinson s disease due to the neuroprotective effect that it has when interacting with the nervous system. Compounds with this neuroprotective effect are also used to treat tremors associated with neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis. THCA, CBDA, and other Cannabinoids in their Acid Forms Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA), Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) and other cannabinoids in their acid form are the main constituent in raw cannabis. They convert to their non-acid form when burned, vapourized, or heated for a period of time at a certain temperature. The process is called decarboxylation which renders the cannabinoids bioavailable in the body. Effects: THCA holds much of the anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative (inhibiting the cell-growth in tumors/ cancer cells,) as well as antispasmodic (suppresses musclespasms) properties but without any psychoactive effect. 19

11 THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM The endocannabinoid system is a system of receptors located in the body. This system of receptors is responsible for the interactions between cannabinoids and the body. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters naturally synthesized in the body whose main purpose is communication on a cellular level. The receptors that these neurotransmitters interact with also interact with cannabis cannabinoids, thus the discovery of this system. Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, nervous system, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. In each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, balance. Endocannabinoids and cannabinoids are also found at the intersection of the bodies various systems, allowing communication and coordination between different cell types. At the site of an injury, for example, cannabinoids can be found decreasing the release of activators and sensitizers from the injured tissue, stabilizing the nerve cell to prevent excessive firing, and calming nearby immune cells to prevent release of proinflammatory substances. Three different mechanisms of action act on three different cell types for a single purpose: minimize the pain and damage caused by the injury. The endocannabinoid system, with its complex actions in our immune system, nervous system, and in all the body s organs, is literally a bridge between the bodily systems and the mind. As ongoing research increases our understanding of this system, scientists are discovering this powerful mechanism that seems to explain how states of consciousness can promote health or disease. CB1 Receptors CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, but are also present in the lungs, liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs. CB1 receptors have been found to play a role in memory processing, motor regulation, appetite, pain sensation, mood, and sleep. The activation of CB1 receptors have also been linked to neuroprotective responses, suggesting the cannabinoids with a higher affinity for CB1 receptors could help in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer s disease, and Parkinson s disease. CB2 Receptors When CB2 receptors are activated, they stimulate a response that fights inflammation, which in turn reduces pain and minimizes damage to tissues. These antiinflammatory effects have been found to be beneficial for treating inflammation-related conditions like arthritis, Crohn s disease and inflammatory bowel syndrome. Interaction of CB1 and CB2 with THC and CBD THC directly interacts with CB1 receptors which decrease the interactions naturally occurring between the bodies neurotransmitters and receptors. This blocking ability of THC is why when consumed, users feel the euphoria of cannabis. In opposition, CBD will influence enzymes to directly interaction with CB1. 21

12 CBD may stimulate enzymes to interact with CB1 which will lower the receptor affinity for THC interaction. This indirect interaction is how CBD can decrease the euphoric feelings of THC when consumed in unison. TERPENES AND THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT Terpenoids (or terpenes) are an organic compound responsible for the aromatic components of the plant. Terpenes are often used in fragrances and flavorings, and display anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant and immune stimulating properties. Like cannabinoids, terpenes are produced in the trichomes and have been shown to be an important modulator of cannabis effects on the body such as an increase in the uptake of cannabinoids into the bloodstream, the entourage effect. TERPENES MOST COMMON IN CANNABIS Myrcene One of the most prevalent terpenes, myrcene, is found in a large varieties of cannabis strains, as well as in thyme, hops, lemongrass and citrus. Strains with myrcene concentrations greater than 0.5% have a more sedative or indica quality while strains containing less than 0.5% of myrcene have a more energetic or sativa quality. Single mature trichome 23

13 Pinene Pinene accounts for cannabis familiar odor, often associated with pine trees and turpentine. Pinene is the most common naturally occurring terpenoid and has the potential to act as both an anti-inflammatory agent and a bronchodilator. Linalool Linalool has a floral scent reminiscent of spring flowers, but with spicy overtones. It possesses sedative properties, as well as anxiolytic, analgesic and anticonvulsant characteristics. Limonene Limonene is a dominant terpene in strains with a pronounced Sativa effect and can have a anxiolytic and anti-depressive qualities. It is also found in the rinds of citrus fruits. Caryophyllene Caryophyllene is the only terpene known to interact with the body s endocannabinoid system (CB2). It is presumed that this terpene contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic characteristics. Humulene Humulene contributes to the hoppy aroma of cannabis. This terpene acts as an appetite suppressant and has potential to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. Terpinolene Previous studies have shown terpinolene to exhibit antioxidant and sedative effects in mice. In addition, terpinolene is responsible for many of the floral notes found in Jack Herer varieties. Terpineol Terpineol is known for its pleasant smell and is often used in soaps and perfumes. It is known to have relaxing qualities. Geraniol Geraniol emits a rose scent that makes it a popular perfume additive. It is an effective mosquito repellent and shows potential as a protective agent against neuropathy. Ocimene Ocimene is frequently used in perfumes for its pleasant odor. In nature, this terpene contributes to a plant s defenses and possess antifungal properties. CONSUMPTION METHODS Smoking Dried cannabis is smoked in the form of filtered or unfiltered joints, bongs, or pipes. The heat applied to dried cannabis must be hot enough to convert the cannabinoids from inactive to activate, also called decarboxylating the chemical structures. A typical joint when being inhaled is burning at about 800. Vapourization Vapourization is the process of inhaling cannabis by heating a small amount to a temperature below its combustion point, but enough to generate an inhalable vapour. This method releases cannabinoids in vapour form without producing irritating toxic and carcinogenic 25

14 by-products. Little to no smoke is produced and a cooler temperature vapour can be inhaled, thereby reducing irritation and harmful effects to the lungs, and eliminating second-hand smoke and odour. Every cannabinoid has its own optimal vapourization temperature ranging from 140 to 220. Setting your vapourizer to 225 is a good way to ensure that you are getting all available cannabinoids without combustion. Anything above 235 will begin the combustion process. Dabbing Dabbing is a flash vapourization of concentrates applied to a hot surface. This method of consuming cannabis provides a heavy dose of active cannabinoids in a small package. Using a special tool that heats up a bowl until it is red hot or about 345, then a metal utensil called a dab tool to take a small amount of concentrated extract, dab it on the hot bowl, and inhale. The extract will instantly vaporize and produce a strong smooth hit. Compared to smoking, dabbing provides quick and strong delivery of THC into the body and is meant for more seasoned or connoisseur users. Ingesting Orally Consuming cannabis is most commonly associated with edibles such as baked goods, candies, chocolates, smoothies, and spreads. It can also be mixed with healthy meal options, eaten raw or even juiced. It can take up to an hour to feel the effects, and in general less cannabis is required with the effects lasting longer than traditional smoking. Raw When consuming raw cannabis, one is consuming cannabinoids in their acid form (e.g. THCA or CBDA) which are non-euphoric alkaloids. By eating or juicing raw cannabis in its natural state, there is no high to speak of. Drinking fresh-squeezed cannabis juice (similar to wheat grass juice) or eating raw cannabis as a leafy green vegetable is a preferred means of consumption for individuals in search of particular health benefits without the euphoric experience. Sublingual Latin for under the tongue, sublingual consumption of cannabis involves placing precisely decarboxylated cannabis under the tongue, allowing the cannabinoids to immediately enter the bloodstream through vessel-rich tissues. It is socially acceptable, convenient, and one of the preferred methods of treatment for many cancer patients who take full extract oils to relieve pain. Suppository For serious conditions, back door medicine, or rectal delivery of cannabis, provides the greatest amount of plant medicine delivered with zero euphoric effects. Whereas smoking typically delivers about a 25% efficiency rate, the efficiency rate of suppositories is up to 70%, with predictable results. This provides maximum medicine with maximum relief, little to no euphoria, and fewer side effects. 27

15 Topical Cannabinoids, much like the active ingredients in other medications, can also be absorbed through the skin. Products designed for this functionality are known as cannabis topicals. The skin has a relatively complex absorption process that involves a chemical s ability to dissolve in H20. Examples of topical products include creams, balms and even patches. DOSING Dosing refers to the amount of cannabis consumed in order to achieve a desired effect. Dosage amounts will be highly dependent on the ailment being treated, the method of delivery, other prescriptions or substances being consumed, and individual tolerance levels. It is always best determined by a doctor. As an organization and as responsible individuals, we do not recommend dosage and refer users to discuss with medical authorities. Having said that, many jurisdictions have set standard dosages and recommend a maximum dose of THC to be 10mg. 29

16 CANNABIS AND THE HUMAN BODY The first historical reference to cannabis as a medicinal treatment dates back to 2737 BC in China. It was prescribed as a treatment for rheumatism, gout and malaria, and in the ensuring four millennia, its usage and applications spread around the world. Below is a list of some of the diseases and conditions that can be treated with cannabis. Alzheimer s Disease Arthritis Chronic Pain Diabetes Dystonia Epilepsy Fibromyalgia Gastrointestinal Disorders. Cancer / Gliomas Hepatitis C Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Hypertension Incontinence MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Osteoporosis Pruritus (Itching) Sleep Apnea Tourette Syndrome 31

17 It s incredible and important to note that there has yet to be a single reported death linked to cannabis overdose, worldwide. In fact, you d have to consume 20,000 to 40,000 times the average dose in order for cannabis to kill you, the equivalent of somehow consuming 1,500 pounds (680 kg) of cannabis in 15 minutes. Studies published to date on the side effects of cannabis are based almost exclusively on strains high in THC and low in CBD. Below are some of the known side effects of cannabis high in THC: In large doses, THC can induce auditory and visual hallucination. Acute effects while under the influence can include both euphoria and anxiety. Concerns have been raised about the potential for long-term cannabis consumption to increase risk for schizophrenia, depersonalization disorder, bipolar disorders, and major depression. However, studies thus far have been are inconclusive and the ultimate conclusions on these factors are disputed. Dry Mouth, an uncomfortable feeling due to lack of saliva. SIDE EFFECTS OF CANNABIS Remember that guy who died from cannabis consumption? said No-One. Ever. Increased consumption, although this is often used as a benefit for cancer patients. Withdrawal. Effects of cannabis generally range from 10 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the potency of the dose, other substances consumed, method of administration, setting, and personal tolerance to the drug s various effects. 33

18 GLOSSARY AEROPONICS This term refers to the method of growing plants in an environment of air or mist. Plants receive nutrients through infused water. AROMA The term used to describe the general smell and/or taste of a certain plant or flower. Because consumers individual definition of aromas (such as earthy, skunky, or citrus ) can differ somewhat, aromatic descriptions are used as a basic guideline. AQUAPONICS A system that combines conventional aquaculture with hydroponics. In this system, water is fed through a hydroponic system breaking down by-products into readily available nutrients. Water is then circulated back into the aquaponic system. BONG A large pipe, usually made of glass, that uses water to diffuse and cool the smoke as you breathe it into your lungs. BLUNT Cannabis wrapped in a tobacco leaf cigar or cigarillo paper. The cigar may be hollowed out and then rerolled with cannabis, and the origin of the name was coined due to the popularity of the brand Phillies Blunt Cigars. Blunts often burn longer than joints and are usually found in larger social gatherings. BUBBLER A handheld pipe, usually made of glass, with a water reservoir at the bottom to cool and diffuse the smoke before it is inhaled. Precisely-dosed medical cannabis products 35

19 BUD Bud refers to the actual flower of the cannabis plant. These are the fluffy parts that are harvested and used for recreational or medicinal purposes as they contain the highest concentrations of active cannabinoids. BUDTENDER This is the attendant working behind the counter at your local dispensary or retail cannabis shop who may be able to answer your questions on strains, cannabis products, and make suggestions based on your needs. CANNABINOIDS Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds unique to cannabis that act upon the human body s cannabinoid receptors, producing various effects including pain relief and other medically beneficial uses. The most wellknown cannabinoid in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) due to the fact that it is the most abundant, and also because it produces the euphoric effects (or the high ) that drives the plant s recreational use. CANNABIS Cannabis is a plant genus that produces three species of flowering plants: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica are used to produce both recreational and medical cannabis. Cannabis ruderalis is rarely farmed due to its natural lower THC content and small stature. Cannabis is native to Asia, but grows almost anywhere and has been cultivated for thousands of years both for the production of hemp and to be used as a medicinal drug. CBD CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol, one of the at least 85 cannabinoids found in cannabis and the second only to THC when it comes to average volume. CBD has gained support for its use as a medical treatment as research has shown it effectively treats pain, inflammation, and anxiety without the euphoric effects (the high or stoned feeling) associated with THC. High CBD strains, such as Harlequin, are being bred more actively and appearing more frequently on the market. CLONE This refers to a clipping from a cannabis plant, which can then be rooted and grown through a cloning process of the mother plant, from which the clone was cut. CONCENTRATES Concentrates are a potent consolidation of cannabinoids that are made by removing trichomes from cannabis either through sieving (kief/hash) or through the use of a solvent, such as supercritical CO2, butane or ethanol. The resulting product has very high cannabinoid content compared to dried flowers and can produce varying products that range from thick sticky oils (honey oil) to moldable goo (budder/wax) to resinous bits (shatter). Referred to by a variety of slang terms, the classification of concentrates is often dependent on the manufacturing method and the consistency of the final product. DAB/DABBING A dab is a slang term used to refer to a dose of cannabis concentrates dabbed onto a red-hot surface and inhaled. The act of dabbing refers to partaking in dabs. 37

20 DECARBOXYLATION In order to access the full psychoactive effects of cannabis, you must first put it through a process called decarboxylation. To decarboxylate your herb, you need to heat it very precisely. The heat transforms the cannabinoid acids into a form that is readily usable by the body. DISPENSARY Dispensary is a general term used to refer to any location where a patient or consumer can legitimately and safely access cannabis, whether the business is technically an access point, pick-up location. co-op, collective or any other version of a legal cannabis distributor. EDIBLES Edibles are medicated edible goods that have been infused with cannabis extracts. They are commonly baked goods such as cookies and brownies, but options as varied as flavored coffee drinks, breads, and candies exist too. Dispensaries also often sell cannabis-infused butters or oils for patients or consumers to make their own edibles. Consuming edibles means the active components from the extracts require more time before the desired effect, as they need to be absorbed through the digestive system. FEMINIZED Feminized plants come from seeds that have been selectively bred to produce only female plants. Since female plants are the ones that produce flowers (which is where most of cannabis cannabinoids are found), they are the only ones that are used to create cannabis products. FLOWERS While cannabis flowers don t have traditional petals or look like daisies, they are still the reproductive organ of the female plants. Cannabis flowers are the hairy, sticky, crystal-covered bits that are harvested and dried to be used as medication. When they are allowed to be fertilized by male plants, these flowers will produce cannabis seeds. If not, they will continue to produce the resin that contains their active cannabinoids until they are harvested or begin to die. HEMP Hemp is a fibrous product that can be produced from the male cannabis plant and can be used in the manufacture of rope, paper, beauty products, and a vast array of other products. Hemp plants have no value as a drug since they are males. However, they are still considered illegal in many parts of the world including the United States. HYBRID Hybrid refers to a plant that is genetically a cross between one or more separate strains of cannabis. Hybrids can happen unintentionally, but they are usually bred specifically to combine desired traits of the original plants. Most cannabis on the market today is some form of hybrid. HYDROPONICS Hydroponics refers to a system of gardening that does not use soil. Plants are grown in water and receive their nutrients from the addition of solutions rather than soil. For growers, hydroponic advantages include more control over nutrient intake and stability. In terms of cannabis production, plants grown hydroponically are sometimes said to have cleaner, more distinct flavors. 39

21 INDICA Indica is the less scientific name for the Cannabis Indica species of cannabis. Generally these plants originated in the Middle East and Asia and include both of the famous kush and Afghan lineages. These plants are typically shorter, bushier and have more compact flower structure. This species tends to produce more relaxing physical effects and can have a sedative quality. KUSH Kush refers to a line of cannabis plants that hail from the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Kush strains are indicas and have a unique aroma that have given them a large fan base. Specific breeds and plants are unique, but their aroma is generally described as earthy and often piney combined with citrus or sweet. MARIJUANA Marijuana is the general term for female cannabis plants or their dried flowers. Females are distinct from male plants in that they are the ones that produce flowers which contain the high percentage of cannabinoids that hold both their medicinal and psychoactive properties. PRE-ROLL Pre-roll is a commonly used term that refers to a prerolled cannabis cigarette, also known as a joint. Many dispensaries have pre-rolls available for purchase. PULL To inhale or a draw from a joint or vape pen. SATIVA Sativa is the less scientific name for the cannabis sativa species of cannabis plant. In general, these plants originated outside of the Middle East and Asia and include strains that are from areas such as South America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Thailand. These strains typically grow taller as plants, are lighter in color and take longer to flower. When consumed, Sativas tend to produce more cerebral effects as opposed to physical and sedative ones. SHATTER Shatter is a terms used to refer to oil that has been extracted at lot temperatures with the use of hydrocarbons. This extract is then baked in a vacuum oven to create a glass like substance used for dabbing. SUGAR WAX Oil extracted from cold alcohol, cured and vacuumed at low temperatures to preserve terpenes. Also used for dabbing. STRAIN A strain, also known as cultivar, chemovar, chemotype, is a specific variety of a plant species. Strains are developed to produce distinct desired traits in the plant and are usually named by their breeders (or by creative consumers). Strain names often reflect the plant s appearance, its promised buzz, or its place of origin. THC THC is an abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol. It is the most well-known and most abundantly available cannabinoid in cannabis plants. THC is also the component in cannabis that is responsible for the euphoric effects, or the high. 41

22 TINCTURE A tincture is a liquid cannabis extract usually made with alcohol or glycerol that is often dosed with a dropper. Tinctures can be flavoured and are usually placed under the tongue, where they are absorbed quickly. Effects can be felt within minutes. Tinctures can also be mixed into a drink, but in these cases effects will take longer because the tinctures will be absorbed by the digestive system. since there is no smoke to ingest, but this method still produces near instant effects. With new, more compact models on the market, vapourizing is growing in popularity. WEED Weed is a slang term for cannabis. TOKE To take a drag or puff off a joint or vape pen. TOPICAL A topical is a type of cannabis product where the active properties of the flowers have been extracted and added to a product such as a lotion or a cream that s applied to the skin. The medicinal properties are absorbed through the skin and can be used to treat muscle aches, long term soreness, or ailments like dry skin. TRICHOME Trichomes are the production glands of the cannabis plant. In Greek the word means growth of hair, and while these sticky little protrusions can make plants appear a little hairy, they are not hairs, nor are they crystals, which is how they are often described. THC, CBD and other cannabinoids are all produced in these glands. VAPOURIZER A vapourizer is a device used to consume cannabis. It heats either flowers or cannabis-infused oils to a temperature that produces a cannabinoid-laced vapour to inhale. Vapourizing is healthier than smoking 43

23 RESOURCE GUIDE The Pot Book: A Complete Guide to Cannabis by Julie Holland MD The Emperor Wears No Clothes by Jack Herer Cannabis Policy: Moving Beyond Stalemate Marihuana: The First Twelve Thousand Years by Ernest Abel The Botany of Desire: A Plant s-eye View of the World by Michael Pollan Heart of Dankness: the Race for the Cannabis Cup by Mark Haskell Smith A New Leaf: The End of Cannabis Prohibition by Alyson Martin Humboldt: Life on America s Marijuana Frontier by Emily Brady Smoke Signals, A Social History of Marijuana by Martin A. Lee The Cannabis Pharmacy by Michael Backes, The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids by the National Academies of Sciences The Cannabis Health Index by Uwe Blesching, PHD Films Medicaljane.com CannaSOS.com ProjectCBD.org Cannabis Industry Journal Phylos Bioscience The Culture High (2015) Grass: The History of Marijuana (1999) The Union: The Business Behind Getting High (2007) 420: The Documentary (2013) American Drug War 2: Cannabis Destiny When we Grow, This is What We Do Weediquette (Vice TV series) A Normal Life (2011) Clearing the Smoke: The Science of Cannabis (2011) The Scientist The Life and Work of Raphael Mechoulam (2015) Prescribed Grass (2009) Websites The Cannabis Trade Alliance of Canada: sustainablecannabis.ca TheWeedblog.com 45

24 NOTES 47

25 Questions? Comments?