A Quick Breakdown of Cannabis

Cannabis comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, known for producing over a hundred compounds called cannabinoids. The ones most people talk about are:

• THC: the psychoactive cannabinoid that creates the “high.”
• CBD: non-intoxicating, currently being studied for potential therapeutic benefits.

The plant also contains terpenes, the aromatic compounds that shape each strain’s flavour, smell, and overall experience. Cannabis with very low THC (under 0.3%) is classified as hemp.

How People Use Cannabis

Cannabis can be consumed in several ways, each with its own onset and intensity:

• Smoking (joints, pipes, bongs) ‍
• Vaping dried flower or vape liquids ‍
• Edibles & beverages that take longer to kick in ‍
• Oils, tinctures & sprays absorbed under the tongue ‍
• Dabbing highly potent concentrates ‍
• Topicals that stay on the skin

Your method of use plays a big role in how quickly you feel effects and how long they last.

Common Forms of Cannabis

Cannabis products vary widely in strength and format:

• Dried flower: up to ~30% THC ‍
• Oils: lower THC concentrations for controlled dosing ‍
• Concentrates (shatter, wax, hash, rosin): can reach 60–90% THC
• ‍Edibles & beverages: slower onset, longer duration ‍
• Tinctures & sprays: flexible dosing ‍
• Topicals: localized, non-intoxicating

Different forms deliver different experiences, so understanding potency is essential.

Source: Health Canada – “About cannabis”
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medication/cannabis/about.html