You’ve probably heard a lot about cannabis lately. It’s being legalized in more and more places, and people are starting to become more open about using it according to industry gurus like Mike Staumietis. But what is cannabis, really? In this post, we’ll go over the basics of cannabis so that you can learn more about this popular plant.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that belongs to the Cannabaceae family. This family also includes hops, which are used to make beer. Cannabis plants are characterized by their leaves, which are usually green and have serrated edges. The plants can grow tall and skinny, or short and stubby. They typically flower in the late summer or early fall.
Types of Cannabis
There are three main types of cannabis: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis sativa is the most common type of cannabis. It grows best in warm climates and produces long, thin leaves. Cannabis indica is native to the Hindu Kush region of the Himalayas. It grows best in cold climates and has shorter, broader leaves. Cannabis ruderalis is native to Eastern Europe and Russia. It’s a smaller plant with thin leaves, and it flowers earlier than the other two types of cannabis.
Cannabis plants produce a compound called THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is what gives cannabis its psychoactive properties. When THC enters the body, it binds to receptors in the brain and produces various effects, such as relaxation, altered perception, and increased appetite. THC is mainly found in the buds (or flowers) of the plant. CBD, or cannabidiol, is another compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Instead, it has been shown to have various medicinal properties, such as reducing anxiety and pain relief.
Benefits of Cannabis
Cannabis has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant. It has been used to treat various ailments, such as pain and inflammation. Additionally, it is thought to have potential benefits for people with certain mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.
In recent years, there has also been an increased interest in using cannabis for recreational purposes. Smoking cannabis can produce a feeling of euphoria and relaxation, as well as increased creativity and enhanced sensory perception.
Other Uses for Cannabis
In addition to its use as a recreational drug, cannabis has a number of other uses that are often overlooked. For example, hemp, which is a strain of cannabis sativa, is increasingly being used to create clothing, paper, and other items. Hemp oil and seeds are also rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and other nutrients that can be beneficial for health. Additionally, cannabis can be used as a source of biofuel. In fact, some scientists believe that it could eventually replace petroleum as the primary source of fuel for transportation. With so many potential uses, it’s clear that cannabis is much more than just a recreational drug.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know some basics about cannabis, you might be interested in trying it for yourself! If you live in a place where it’s legal, make sure to do your research first and buy your cannabis from a reputable source. Start with a low dose so that you can see how your body reacts to it, and always consume responsibly!
