Welcome to column No. 1 of No Dumb Cannabis Questions, covering many of the basics, from CBD to the difference between sativa and indica.
We’d love any newbies in the audience to send in any questions you may have (And don’t worry, I’ve heard some pretty questionable comments from experienced users, too!).
We really just want to know what’s on your mind, so reader-submitted questions will be included anonymously … meaning you don’t have worry about your friends making fun of you or your boss getting all grumpy. Hit us up at canadianevergreen@blackpress.ca
Q: Does CBD get you high?
A: Short answer: no. Long answer: well, also no, no matter how hard you try.
Unlike “non-alcoholic” beer, CBD does not contain even 0.6 per cent of THC, the element in cannabis that gets you high.
However, CBD is often sold as a concentrate for its medicinal properties, or sold in flower form as a 20:1 or 10:1 CBD to THC content, so it is important to understand the entire composition of your chosen product.
But so long as you’re only taking only CBD, no, CBD is non-psychoactive; meaning that it does not get you high.
You may be wondering: “What’s the point? I’m here to get high, gosh dang-it.” Well, then THC is for you, my friend, however CBD offers a variety benefits unavailable solely from THC, for those looking for the benefits of cannabis without the high.
READ MORE: Help without the high? Potential benefits of CBD
Q: What’s the difference between sativa and indica cannabis?
A: Not all weed is created equal – and it’s not only about the level of THC. Different kinds of cannabis can produce a different kind of “high.”
The general consensus is that sativa cannabis is described as an uplifting, creative and overall more energetic high, while indica cannabis is often described as having much heavier body euphoria, inducing the classic “munchies” sensation, and is associated with the more stereotypical, couch-locked style of high.
So, a common, fun way to remember which is which involves the above: indica = in-da-couch.”
READ MORE: Indica? Sativa? What are they and what’s the difference?
Q: What is the best way to try cannabis for the first time?
A: Although many have their own opinions on the best option for somebody’s first time consuming cannabis, vaporizer cartridges of concentrated THC, or a mixture of THC and CBD can allow for a more measured approach.
Although concentrates are rated at a much higher THC content than any regular cannabis flower, using a vaporizer offers you more control over the amount you intake. Simply put, one hit from a concentrate vaporizer doesn’t get you as high as one hit from a bong or a pipe, even if they’re filled with regular cannabis flower. You also don’t have the same level of odour or harshness from smoking a joint.
However, because it can take time to feel the impacts, no matter how you’re consuming cannabis, as always, remember to go slow.
READ MORE: Cannabis consumption 101: Some pros and cons of different methods
Downsides to vaping concentrates is the initial cost of the vaporizer, as well as paying extra for the concentrated THC-filled disposable “tank” or “pod” portion when compared to other methods.
To get the week’s latest must-read stories from the cannabis world direct to your inbox, sign up for our weekly newsletter at canadianevergreen.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.