Cannabis involves a wide variety of products for medical and recreational purposes. Use of cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes is legalized in Canada. Medicinal use has been legalized countrywide under certain conditions.

Three main types of cannabis products are-

1. Flower
2. Edibles (food and beverages)
3. Extracts (oil, resins, shatter)
4. CBD Oil
5. Topical Creams/Lotions 

Generally speaking, vaping and smoking cannabis respond fast. Their effects last for three to four hours. Edibles take longer (a half-hour or so) to kick in. But, they metabolize slower and stay active in your system longer. Anyone who has accidentally eaten a pot brownie knows, you had a good weekend.

Hemp

Hemp is also cannabis, but of a different variety. It is one of the oldest domesticated crops having around 25,000 industrial uses, spun into fiber for textiles, rope or paper and processed into such divergent end uses as fuel, paint and animal feed. 

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoid Receptors are found throughout our bodies. They are in charge of many signaling functions. They are part of the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in various physiological processes such as pain-sensation, appetite, mood, and memory.  

When it comes to external cannabinoids like those found in the cannabis plant, they are bound to the same signaling systems. Every plant affects every individual differently because every person has a unique way of processing cannabis and every plant has its own genetic makeup. 

Cannabis plants have many different cannabinoids. However, you need to know THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) levels.

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – THC is the primary psychoactive compound available in marijuana. It is a mind-altering ingredient, considered ideal for daytime or more social use. Euphoria and Creativity are the specific qualities of THC. THC can make people feel being “too high”. Since cannabinoid receptors in individuals vary, the effects of THC vary in every different individual. Some people find THC to control their anxiety. 
• Cannabidiol (CBD) – Analgesic, anti-nauseant, appetite stimulant, anti-inflammatory qualities and muscular and mental relaxation are distinct qualities of CBD. CBD blunts the effects of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). So, to adjust the experience, consumers just need to add more CBD and come down.

Strains

Three most common strains are: Indica, Sativa and Hybrid versions. 

• Sativa – It has more THC (the energizing, psychoactive element that causes anxiety in new users) than CBD (the pain relief, body relaxation stuff). 
• Indica – Indica strains have higher levels of CBD and less THC. Its effects include feeling happy, relaxed, euphoric, and sleepy. It is known as “night time” strains and consumed to relax and unwind at the end of the night.
• Hybrids – They are a combination of plants bred for particular effects. Experts recommend starting hybrids with a low dose and wait for effects to settle in before consuming more. 

Medical Vs. Recreational 

• Medical Cannabis: Medical cannabis, as the name suggests, is used for medical treatment. They refer to any part of the whole unprocessed cannabis plant that is cultivated to relieve certain mental and physical medical conditions that do not respond well to traditional medical therapies. 
• Recreational Cannabis: Recreational cannabis is products that don’t serve a medical purpose. Instead, their users consume it to seek high that comes with smoking or drinking cannabis.

Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in Cannabis. They are primarily the aromatic essential oils present in cannabis strains (and other fruits, plants, and vegetables), the “flavour” elements. Terpenes interact with cannabinoids which are called “the entourage effect” for creating different physical and psychological responses. There are hundreds of these terpenes. However, four to look out for are pinene (memory), limonene (generally indicated for depression), linalool (anxiety) and caryophyllene (arthritis).