Intro to Cannabis 101 and Things You Should Know
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Intro to Cannabis 101
Cannabis is first of all a plant, and today it comes in many different varieties and forms. What is unique about cannabis is the combination of its essential oils: terpenes and cannabinoids. While terpenes can be found on many other plants, only the cannabis plant has cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids have a medicinal effect by imitating compounds our bodies naturally produce (endocannabinoids). Together the cannabinoids and terpenes hold most of the influence when it comes to the effects of cannabis.
There are over 85 cannabinoids in cannabis, but the main two that you should know about are THC and CBD:
THC
(DELTA-9-TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL)
THC is responsible for the psychoactive (“stoned”) effects. Commonly experienced effects include euphoria, relaxation, and “giggles”.
SATIVA
- Increases energy, focus, elevates mood, increases creativity.
- Consumed during Daytime.
INDICA
- Relaxes and reduces stress, pain, and anxiety, promotes sleep and reduces inflammation.
- Consumed at Nighttime.
Remember: Most cannabis strains are HYBRIDS and their effect fall somewhere between the two.
All products vary in their strength of effect on body and mid. Each person is unique and may experience cannabis differently. Read the packaging label for product laboratory results and consumption suggestions. Always start with a small dose and wait until getting another one.
Terpenes
We also mentioned terpenes which are aromatic oils that distinguish cannabis varieties with smell and flavor, but they also affect the human body in a variety of ways and contribute to the Entourage Effect.
Did you know? These are the 5 things that are chemically similar to a cannabis high: Catnip; Running; Love; Chocolate; Cheese.
Most common terpenes are Pinene, Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, Humulene.
Cannabis can be classified into two categories based on its effects:
WHAT PRODUCTS TO CHOOSE?
The effects of the cannabis products will vary significantly depending on the individual as each person metabolizes, processes and experiences marijuana differently. Before making a purchase, you should understand your desired effect, its lengths and strength of impact as well as the overall experience that you are looking for. Our expert Product Specialists will help you find the right product based on the following factors:
- Type: we offer flower, edibles, vaporizers, concentrates, topicals and tinctures – all of which are consumed in different ways.
- Dosage: products come in a variety of strengths and dosages. You might want to start with a low dosage, especially if you are new to cannabis.
- Effect: the main groups of cannabis strains are Indica (sedative/relaxing), Sativa (invigorating/uplifting) and Hybrids (fall in between Indica and Sativa). Keep in mind that terpenes will also influence the effect of the product.
WHAT TYPE OF PRODUCT AND METHOD OF USE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
There are many ways to use cannabis, and its effect may vary depending on the method. If you are not sure what works best for you – ask our Product Specialist about the products and methods of use.
Type | Method | Start With | Effects Start | Effects Last | Wait Until Another Dose | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Flower | Smoking | One Inhalation | 1 – 15 minutes | .5 – 2 hours | 15 – 20 Minutes | Easy to control |
Edible | Ingest | 5mg or less, have food before | 15 – 120 minutes | 3 – 8 hours | 2+ hours | No inhalation, longer lasting |
Concentrate | Smoking, vaporizing | One Inhalation | 1 – 15 minutes | .5 – 2 hours | 15 – 20 minutes | Stronger effect |
Tincture | Under Tounge | 5mg or less | 15 – 60 minutes | 1 – 4 hours | 30 – 60 minutes | No inhalation, longer lasting |
Topical | Apply to skin | 1 or 2 drops | 20 – 120 minutes | 1 – 4 hours | 20 – 40 minutes | Targeted relief, no “high” feeling |
To choose the correct product you may consult with our Product Specialist who will recommend the best type of product and method of consumption based on your preference and desired effect.
WHAT IS THE CORRECT DOSAGE?
All products vary in their strength of effect on body and mind, and cannabinoid profile. Strain specific details are labeled on all products after they are tested by certified third-party laboratories. It is important that anyone using marijuana is careful in finding the appropriate dose for their desired effects. Each person is unique and may experience cannabis differently.
Before using cannabis re-read the laboratory test results and instructions on the packaging label. This will help you understand how strong the product is and what is the recommended method and dosage of use. It is always best to start with a small dosage and wait a few hours to realize the full effects. Most products come in a variety of strengths and dosages, so start low and go slow, especially if you are new to cannabis or trying out a new product.
Remember:
- Wait 15-20 minutes before taking another inhalation of a flower or
- For sublingual use wait 30-60 minutes before taking another
- Always have some food before taking an Edible and remember to keep your dose within 5mg. Never rush for an additional dose, wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
Always note the time when you used the product to keep track of the onset and duration.
If you are not into math: cannabis is often in grams or ounces. To better understand the weight of our products please use the following conversion table:
3.5g ≈ 1/8 oz. | 7g ≈ 1/4 oz. | 14g ≈ 1/2 oz. | 28g ≈ 1 oz.
Note: All conversions are approximate and have been rounded up or down to the nearest whole number.
Important Information about Cannabis
All information contained herein and, on our website, www.capecodcannabis.com, is for educational purposes only. None of this information should be interpreted as medical or treatment advice for any person or condition. Always consult with a licensed physician in all matters regarding your health.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites.
Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; the ABA and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
- ALCOHOL. Do not mix cannabis with alcohol.
- CONSUMPTION. Cannabis use is allowed only in a private space where smoking and/or vaping is allowed. Consumption is prohibited in or around the Cape Cod Cannabis location. Do not consume in public areas as it is prohibited by State and Local laws. Consumption and possession of cannabis on the territory of the Cape Cod National Seashore and the Cape Cod Rail Trail is prohibited. Violators will be put on “blacklist” and would not be able to shop at Cape Cod Cannabis locations in the future.
- DIVERSION. Consumer may not sell marijuana to any other individual or distribute to minors, doing so may impose a fine and/or imprisonment; Violators will be put on “blacklist” and would not be able to shop at Cape Cod Cannabis locations in the future. Any unused, excess, or contaminated product can be returned to the dispensary for disposal.
- DOSAGE always speaking with your doctor about your medical history and the medications you are taking before using cannabis. Consult with a physician regarding dosage. For consumers who are new to cannabis we recommend starting with smallest dosage according to package directions and allowing sufficient time to pass to allow effects to be felt, based on the method of consumption or application. Some people report dry mouth, dizziness or paranoia when using cannabis. While many use cannabis to combat anxiety, it may create anxiety in others. Responsible dosing can help you avoid unpleasant experiences with cannabis.
- DRIVING & MACHINERY cannabis can slow your reaction time. Under M.G.L. c90, §24 it is illegal to drive or operate machinery under the influence of marijuana. When driving, keep your cannabis in a secure area of your vehicle, out of reach of the driver and passengers.
- FOOD. Do not consume cannabis infused products (edibles) on an empty stomach. We recommend eating a full meal before consuming cannabis infused products as it helps lower the intensity of effects. The undesirable effect will subside with time.
- LIMITS. You may purchase up to 1 ounce of cannabis flower or up to 5 grams of cannabis concentrate per day. Possessing more than the legal limit (1 oz.) outside of your place of residence may be penalized up to 6 months imprisonment or a $500 fine.
- PENALTIES. For information regarding penalties for possession or distribution of marijuana in violation of Massachusetts law please refer to M.G.L. c94G, §13. Selling cannabis to others is illegal and a first offense (under 50 lbs.) can be punishable up to 2 years of imprisonment or a $5,000 fine.
- PREGNANCY certain health risks may be associated with consumption of cannabis while pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant.
- STATE BORDER. Stay in Massachusetts and do not cross state lines with cannabis products.
- STORAGE. Store cannabis securely, away from children and pets. Keep cannabis in the original child-proof packaging and away from other food items. To keep cannabis fresh, store in dark, dry and cool place.
- TOO MUCH OR TOO STRONG? Anxiety and paranoia may accompany accidental overdose. It is best to stay calm and remain in a comfortable and safe place.
- TOLERANCE, DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL. Although it is generally accepted that cannabis is not a physically addictive substance, a psychological dependence is possible with excessive usage of any substance.
Please consume cannabis and cannabis products at your own risk. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of substance abuse, consider talking to someone, your physician our counselor, about the drug use.
Some examples of symptoms and signs of substance abuse are:
- Neglecting responsibilities at school, work, or home because of drug use.
- Using drugs under dangerous conditions or taking risks while high.
- Built up a drug tolerance.
- Taking drugs to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms may include nausea, sweating, shakiness, and extreme anxiety.
- Causing problems in relationships.
- Abandoning previously enjoyed activities.
- Continuing using drugs, despite knowing it is hurting you.
- Losing control over drug use, may want to stop using, but feel powerless.
- Experiencing legal trouble, such as arrests for disorderly conduct, driving under the influence, or stealing to support a drug habit.
- If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs or symptoms of substance abuse please contact the Massachusetts substance abuse helpline at (800) 327-5050 for further assistance
DO’s
- DO take your cannabis products directly from the dispensary to a private residence.
- DO keep your cannabis sealed and out of reach while in your motor vehicle. Cannabis cannot be transported once opened.
- DO store cannabis in a safe place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of any children or pets.
- DO consult your physician if you have any medical conditions before using cannabis.
DON’Ts
- Do NOT consume cannabis in public.
- Do NOT drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of cannabis.
- Do NOT consume cannabis with alcohol. Cannabis may increase the intensity of intoxication.
- Do NOT consume cannabis on National Seashore and bike trail.
- Do NOT travel out of the state of Massachusetts with your cannabis.
- Do NOT engage in the diversion of any marijuana products.
How Much Weed Can I Buy at a Time?
1 ounce of flower or 5 grams of concentrate. Up to 20 servings of edibles at a time, which can be up to 100 milligrams of THC.
How Much Am I Allowed to Possess?
You’re allowed to hold up to ten ounces of marijuana in your home. If you’re on the street, the 1 oz or 5 grams rule still applies. You also can’t go out in public, or drive around in your vehicle, with an open container of weed. This will earn you a fine of $500, so respect the law and keep it sealed up.
Cannabis: A Big Sisters’ Guide is an illustrated guide to CBD and marijuana. From parts of the plant to the anatomy of a bong, to tips for shopping at a dispensary, this is an indispensable guide for new consumers. Cannabis nurses use this book for new patient education. Budtenders rely on the detailed appendix. With over 100 pictures, this easy to read guide helps people navigate the new world of cannabis.
Written by Cape Local, Anna May Meade.
EXPERIENCE LOG Use a similar template, like the one below, to record your experience using different cannabis strains and products (line 1 is filled as an example):
1 | Date: 2/1/2021 | Product: Flower | Strain/Type: Bubba Kush (Indica) | Method of Use: Smoking |
Dosage: 2 puffs | Effects: sleepy, happy, hungry | Onset: 3 mins | Duration: 1 hr | |
Notes: sweet with a taste of coffee and chocolate | ||||
2 | Date: | Product: | Strain/Type | Method of Use: |
Dosage: | Effects: | Onset: | Duration: | |
Notes: | ||||
3 | Date: | Product: | Strain/Type | Method of Use: |
Dosage: | Effects: | Onset: | Duration: | |
Notes: |
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT CANNABIS:
Marijuana and Marijuana Products have not been analyzed or approved by the FDA, therefore there is limited information on side effects. There may be health risks associate with using marijuana or marijuana products. All marijuana and marijuana products should be kept away from children.
Under M.G.L. c90, §24 it is illegal to drive or operate machinery under the influence of marijuana.
We always recommend speaking with a physician regarding dosage. For consumers who are new to cannabis er recommend starting with smallest dosage according to package directions and allowing sufficient time to pass to allow effects to be felt, based on the method of consumption or application.
Tolerance, dependence and withdrawal have not been researched therefore please consume marijuana and marijuana products at your now risk.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs or symptoms of substance abuse please contact the Massachusetts Substance Abuse Helpline at 800 327 5050 for further assistance.
Consumer may not sell marijuana to any other individual, doing so may impose a fine and/or imprisonment; likewise registered qualifying patients may not distribute marijuana to any other individual, and that they must return unused, excess, or contaminated product to the RMD from which they purchased the product, for disposal.
For information regarding penalties for possession or distribution of marijuana in violation of Massachusetts law Please refer to M.G.L. c94G, §13.
For additional educational materials please refer to our website www.CapeCodCannabis.com
Please consume cannabis products responsibly.
Cannabis is for use only by adults 21 years of age or older. All information contained herein and, on our website, www.capecodcannabis.com, is for educational purposes only. None of this information should be interpreted as medical or treatment advice for any person or condition. Always consult with a licensed physician in all matters regarding your health.
