Cannabis is a flowering plant with a multitude of purposes. Cannabis seeds can be used for food (Hemp seeds). Its stalks can be used for many industrial purposes: paper, clothing, rope, building material, etc. and, cannabis leaves, flowers and roots can be used for medicinal purposes.

Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds secreted by cannabis flowers that provide relief to an array of symptoms including pain, nausea, anxiety and inflammation. Cannabinoids work by imitating compounds our bodies naturally produce, called endocannabinoids which activate to maintain internal stability and health.

When cannabis is consumed, cannabinoids bind to receptor sites throughout our brain (CB-1) and body (CB-2). Different cannabinoids have different effects depending on which receptors they bind to, i.e. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) binds to receptors in the brain whereas (CBN) Cannabinol has a strong affinity for CB-2 receptors located throughout the body. Different types and levels of relief are achievable depending on the cannabis products and their cannabinoid profiles.

​Cannabis contains more than 85 types of cannabinoids, many of which have potential for medical use. Specific products and strains have been developed to deliver different cannabinoids to help treat certain symptoms.

Trichomes are glands on the cannabis plant that secrete the cannabinoids which have therapeutic and euphoric effects on the mind and body. Trichomes also produce terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic oils that color cannabis varieties with distinctive flavors like citrus, berry, pine, etc.

Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant and every strain tends toward a unique terpene composition. The diverse palate of cannabis flavors is accredited to its terpene composition. Terpenes’ ability to interact synergistically with other compounds in the plant, like cannabinoids, is not only fascinating but impressive.

Each terpene is associated with unique effects. Some promote relaxation and stress-relief while others promote focus and acuity. However, the effect profile of a specific terpene may change in the presence of another compound. This phenomenon is known as the entourage effect.