The Basics of Cannabis Explained

Cannabis has been part of everyday life for centuries. People have relied on it for needs like food and fiber, and they have also discovered its unique effects on the mind and body. What sets today apart is the depth of knowledge available and the care we can take in choosing how to use it. At Feel State, we believe a good cannabis experience starts with good information. This guide takes you back to the basics so you can explore with confidence.

Cannabis Plant Types and Chemotypes

For much of history, cannabis was described by how it looked and how it made people feel. The familiar categories of indica, sativa, and hybrid grew out of this tradition.

• Indica plants are usually short with broad leaves and are often associated with calm and rest.
  
• Sativa plants are taller with narrow leaves and are associated with energy and focus.
  
• Hybrid plants are perceived to combine traits of both.

While these labels are still widely used, they do not always predict the actual effects.

A more modern way to understand cannabis is through chemotypes, which classify the plant by its cannabinoid content.

• Type 1: High THC with very little CBD, usually the most intoxicating.
  
• Type 2: Balanced THC and CBD, often a mix of euphoric and calming effects.
  
• Type 3: High CBD with very little THC, typically non-intoxicating.
  

This approach reflects today’s deeper knowledge and gives consumers a clearer sense of what to expect. If you are shopping at Feel State Florissant, ask your budtender about chemotypes when comparing strains.

Cannabinoids in Cannabis

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids that interact with the body in powerful ways. The most recognized are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which produces the high, and CBD (cannabidiol), which does not intoxicate but may promote balance and calm. These cannabinoids work with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that helps regulate mood, memory, appetite, and more.

What was once understood only through experience is now explained by science, giving consumers better tools to choose products that match their needs.

Cannabis Terpenes Explained

Another key part of cannabis is terpenes; aromatic compounds that give plants their distinctive scents. People have long noticed the sharp citrus of some cannabis varieties or the earthy spice of others, but only recently have terpenes been studied closely.

Terpenes are found in lavender, pine, citrus, and countless other plants. In cannabis, they do more than shape flavor and aroma. They may also influence how cannabinoids feel in the body, a relationship often called the “entourage effect.” For example, myrcene has been linked to calming effects, limonene is associated with uplifting feelings, and pinene may help with alertness.

By paying attention to terpenes alongside cannabinoids, you can begin to choose cannabis not just by strain name but by its unique chemical fingerprint.

Cannabis Consumption Methods

People have enjoyed cannabis in different ways for centuries, from teas and tinctures to smoking flower. Today, consumers have more choices than ever:

• Flower: The dried buds of the plant, smoked or vaporized.
  
• Edibles: Foods and drinks infused with cannabis extract.
  
• Concentrates: Potent extracts such as wax, badder, or live rosin.
  
• Tinctures: Liquid extracts taken under the tongue or mixed into food.
  
• Topicals: Lotions, balms, or patches applied directly to the skin.
  
• Vapes: Pre-filled cartridges or pens for inhaling vapor.
  

Each method has its own onset time and duration. Smoking or vaping works quickly but fades sooner, while edibles take longer to kick in yet last much longer. At Feel State, our team can guide you through these options and help you find the best fit.

Beginner Cannabis Tips

If you are new to cannabis, the best approach is to start with a small amount and give your body time to respond before using more. This is often called microdosing, which focuses on using very small amounts to achieve mild, manageable effects. Everyone reacts differently to cannabis, and factors like metabolism, tolerance, and even environment can shape the experience. At Feel State dispensaries, budtenders are here to answer your questions and help you find the right approach for your comfort and goals.

The Bottom Line

Cannabis has always been part of human life, from practical uses like food and fiber to its role in shaping how people feel and think. What makes today unique is the level of understanding and choice available. Whether you are curious about flower, edibles, or topicals, taking time to learn the basics is the best way to set yourself up for a positive experience. At Feel State, we believe cannabis education is the foundation of confidence and care, and we are here to support your journey.

Quick Reference: Cannabis Vocabulary

Cannabinoid – A natural compound found in cannabis that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

CBD (Cannabidiol) – A non-intoxicating cannabinoid often associated with relaxation and balance.

Chemotype – A way of classifying cannabis by its cannabinoid content:

• Type 1 (high THC, low CBD)
  
• Type 2 (balanced THC and CBD)
  
• Type 3 (high CBD, low THC)
  

Concentrate – A highly potent cannabis product made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes.

Decarboxylation – The process of heating cannabis to activate cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Edible – Any food or drink infused with cannabis extract.

Endocannabinoid System (ECS) – A network in the human body that helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and memory by interacting with cannabinoids.

Flower – The dried buds of the cannabis plant, commonly smoked or vaporized.

Hybrid – A cannabis plant bred from both indica and sativa, often associated with a mix of effects.

Indica – A type of cannabis plant generally associated with relaxation and calming effects.

Microdosing – Consuming very small amounts of cannabis to experience mild effects without full intoxication.

Resin – The sticky substance from cannabis trichomes that contains cannabinoids and terpenes.

Rosin – A type of solventless concentrate made by pressing flower or hash with heat and pressure.

Sativa – A type of cannabis plant often linked to uplifting, energizing effects.

Terpene – Aromatic compounds in cannabis that influence smell, flavor, and may contribute to effects.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for the “high.”

Tincture – A liquid cannabis extract taken under the tongue or added to food.

Topical – A cannabis-infused lotion, cream, or balm applied to the skin.

Vape Cartridge – A small container filled with cannabis oil, used with a vaporizer battery.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is meant for educational purposes only. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of specific medical products.