These are the 3 most common types of cannabis plant:
Indica
Indica is a classification that is used to establish the geographic origin of a cultivar (strain) and is reserved for cannabis varieties
that are typically shorter in height with wider leaves than their sativa counterparts.
Sativa
Sativa is a classification that is reserved for cannabis varieties that, due to their origins, are typically taller in height with thinner leaves than their indica counterparts.
Hybrid
Hybrid varieties are combinations of both indicas and sativas, possessing traits and characteristics attributed to each classification.
The active ingredients in medicinal cannabis
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds found in cannabis that have been reported to have therapeutic benefits. The two most commonly discussed cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol is commonly referred to as THC. It’s a neutral cannabinoid popularized by its psychoactive effects. THC acts as a mental stimulant and is known for fueling appetite and increasing mental acuity.
Cannabidiol
Commonly referred to as CBD, Cannabidiol is a non psychoactive compound. Concentrations of Cannabidiol counteract THC, while maintaining symptom relief. People have become interested in medicinal cannabis because of CBD.
Cannabinol
Found in much smaller percentages than THC or CBD, CBN begins to appear only when THC starts to degrade. It’s not a weakness. CBN is an important chemical compound aiding in sleep and pain relief.
Cannabichromene
Cannabichromene (CBC) is more bountiful by percentage than CBD, but has received much less research attention. This second place compound may be mood enhancing. Think positivity and relaxation.
Cannabigerol
Before becoming THC or CBD, life begins as Cannabigerol. CBG is non psychoactive and a minor compound found in trace percentages in medicinal cannabis. CBG is more detectable in hemp.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
Closely related to THC, Tetrahydrocannabivarin’s chemical structure is similar, but engages our cannabinoid receptors differently. THCV is psychoactive. It’s being researched for its appetite suppressant and anticonvulsant properties.
Terpenes: Flavours & Aromas
Terpenes are organic compounds, produced by a variety of plants including cannabis. They are responsible for the unique aromas and flavours of different cannabis cultivars (strains). Research is currently underway to substantiate if terpenes work in conjunction with cannabinoids to produce unique therapeutic benefits.
To date researchers have discovered over 100 different terpenes in cannabis varieties, but we’ve listed the most popular cannabis terpenes here.
Caryophyllene
Also Found In: Black pepper, cloves, and oregano
Pinene
Also Found In: Pine needles, rosemary, and basil
Limonene
Also Found In: Lemons, limes, and oranges
Myrcene
Also Found In: Hops, lemongrass, and mangoes
Linalool
Also Found In: Lavender, coriander, and cinnamon
Terpinolene
Also Found In: Allspice, conifers, and sage
How do I consume my cannabis?
There are many different methods available to consume medicinal cannabis. Each option for medicinal cannabis ingestion may have a dramatic impact on its effectiveness. The Peace Naturals Project philosophy is simple, no matter your chosen method: Start slow and with small amounts. Each client is unique in how different cannabis varieties will affect them. By starting with small amounts and consuming slowly, our clients can mindfully self manage for relief and comfort.
Combusting
Combustion (or smoking) is a popular method of consuming medicinal cannabis and is fast-acting. However, smoking can feel harsher than other options and may mask some terpene flavours.
Vaporizing
Vaporization is achieved by heating cannabis below the point of combustion. Accessories called vaporizers transform cannabinoids and terpenes into vapor that can be inhaled without releasing other by-products that occur while smoking.
Cannabis Oils
Cannabis oils are designed to be ingested with food or sublingually. Unlike inhalation, cannabis oils may take from 30 minutes up to 2 hours before the onset of effects, and these effects can last longer (up to 8 hours).
Edibles & Topical Creams
Edibles & topical creams are not permitted to be sold under the ACMPR, but many clients make their own and recipes can be found online.
Is medicinal cannabis right for me?
Most of our clients have chosen to incorporate medicinal cannabis as part of their treatment plan only after exploring other alternatives with little or no success. When considering medical cannabis as an adjunct therapy, it is important to also evaluate your overall lifestyle. If you and your healthcare professional decide that cannabis is a suitable option, our Client Care team is here to help by offering guidance and support.