By Laura C.
Cannabis is a fascinating plant with a rich history and a complex chemical makeup. As cannabis legalization continues to spread across the U.S., more and more people are curious about this plant. Here are five surprising facts about cannabis that might just blow your mind:
- Higher THC/TAC Doesn’t Always Mean a Better High It’s a common belief that higher THC levels equal a better, stronger high. However, this isn’t necessarily true. The quality of your cannabis experience depends on a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes working together. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds in cannabis, significantly shape the effects of different strains. For example, a strain with lower THC but higher levels of certain terpenes can provide a more enjoyable and balanced experience than one with higher THC alone. So, don’t just chase the numbers—look at the whole profile of the strain.
- Terpenes Do More Than Just Add Flavor Terpenes are the compounds that give cannabis its unique aroma and flavor, but their role doesn’t stop there. Terpenes also greatly influence the effects you feel after consuming cannabis. For instance, linalool, a terpene found in lavender, is known for its calming effects. When combined with a stress-relieving cannabinoid like CBD, the two work together to create a stronger stress-reducing effect. This interaction is known as the entourage effect. Understanding terpenes can help you choose the right strain for your desired effects.
- Cannabis Has Both Male and Female Plants Cannabis plants come in male and female varieties. The female plants produce the buds rich in cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which are used for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Male plants, on the other hand, produce pollen and are usually less popular among growers. However, they are crucial for breeding new cannabis strains. Knowing the difference between male and female plants is essential for anyone growing or breeding cannabis.
- Cannabis Can Be Grown Sustainably While the cannabis industry isn’t exactly known for being eco-friendly, sustainable cultivation practices are becoming more important as the industry grows. Traditional growing methods can use a lot of resources, but there are ways to minimize the environmental impact. Indoor growers can use energy-efficient LED lights and recirculating water systems, while outdoor growers can adopt organic farming practices and regenerative agriculture techniques. These methods help reduce the carbon footprint and promote a healthier ecosystem, making cannabis cultivation both productive and environmentally friendly.
- Ancient Medicine: Cannabis Has Been Used for Thousands of Years Did you know that cannabis has been used as medicine for thousands of years? Ancient Chinese texts from around 2900 BC mention cannabis as a treatment for ailments like rheumatism and malaria. In ancient Egypt, it was used to treat glaucoma and inflammation. Even Shakespeare might have used cannabis, with traces found in his old pipes. These historical uses show that cannabis has long been valued for its medicinal properties.
Cannabis is a fascinating plant with a rich history and complex properties, and there’s still so much more to uncover about its potential. Whether you’re a seasoned user or new to cannabis, there’s always something new to discover about this remarkable plant. If you have questions or need product suggestions, speak to a Cal Verde budtender today—they’re here to help guide you through your cannabis journey.
Shop Cal Verde Naturals in Belmont, MA, for all of your favorite cannabis products.