Cannabis - the Complete Guide

1. Introduction to Cannabis

  • Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for various purposes, including medicinal, recreational, and industrial uses. Its history dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was cultivated for its fibers and medicinal properties. In modern times, cannabis has seen a resurgence in popularity and legality, especially in places like Oregon. For a comprehensive overview of cannabis history, visit History of Cannabis on Wikipedia.

  • Global

    Cannabis laws vary widely across the world. Some countries have fully legalized it for both medical and recreational use, while others have strict prohibitions. Understanding global trends can provide context for its local status. For more information, see Global Cannabis Laws on Leafly.

    National (USA)

    In the United States, cannabis legality is a complex issue due to federal and state laws. Federally, cannabis remains illegal, classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. However, many states, including Oregon, have legalized it for medical and recreational use. For current U.S. cannabis laws, check NORML’s State Laws Page.

    Local (Oregon)

    In Oregon, cannabis is legal for both medical and recreational use. The state legalized medical cannabis in 1998 and recreational cannabis in 2014. Adults 21 and older can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. Springfield, Oregon, adheres to these state laws, allowing local dispensaries to operate within regulated frameworks. More details can be found at Oregon Health Authority’s Cannabis Program.

  • Indica

    Indica strains are prized for their calming and relaxing effects, making them popular among those looking to unwind or relieve stress.

    • Physical Characteristics: Indica plants are typically shorter, bushier, and have broader leaves compared to sativa plants. They tend to have dense, resinous buds.

    • Growing Conditions: Indica strains usually have a shorter flowering time, making them suitable for cultivation in cooler climates and indoors.

    • Effects: Indica strains are often associated with a “body high,” providing deep relaxation and sedation. They are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of insomnia, chronic pain, muscle spasms, and anxiety.

    • Popular Indica Strains:

    • Granddaddy Purple: Known for its potent relaxation effects and sweet, berry-like flavor.

    • Northern Lights: Famous for its pain-relieving properties and earthy, piney aroma.

    • Bubba Kush: Renowned for its tranquilizing effects and rich, chocolate-coffee flavor.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s Indica Strains.

    Sativa

    Sativa strains are known for their invigorating and uplifting effects, which can enhance creativity and sociability.

    • Physical Characteristics: Sativa plants are generally taller with thinner leaves and lighter, airier buds. They can grow up to 12 feet or more outdoors.

    • Growing Conditions: Sativa strains typically have a longer flowering period, requiring a warm climate with a longer growing season.

    • Effects: Sativa strains are often associated with a “head high,” providing cerebral stimulation and euphoria. They are commonly used to treat symptoms of depression, fatigue, and mood disorders.

    • Popular Sativa Strains:

    • Sour Diesel: Known for its energizing effects and pungent, diesel-like aroma.

    • Jack Herer: Celebrated for its clear-headed, creative high and spicy, piney flavor.

    • Green Crack: Renowned for its intense energy boost and fruity, citrus flavor.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s Sativa Strains.

    Hybrid

    Hybrid strains are bred to combine the characteristics of both indica and sativa plants, offering a balanced experience.

    • Genetic Makeup: Hybrids can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced. The genetic composition determines the effects and characteristics of the strain.

    • Effects: Hybrids offer a mix of effects, catering to a wide range of needs. They can provide both physical relaxation and mental stimulation, depending on the strain’s genetic profile.

    • Cultivation: Hybrid strains often inherit the best growing traits from both parents, making them versatile and adaptable to various climates and conditions.

    • Popular Hybrid Strains:

    • Blue Dream: A balanced hybrid known for its calming, euphoric effects and sweet, berry-like flavor.

    • Girl Scout Cookies (GSC): Renowned for its potent, long-lasting effects and complex flavor profile, blending sweetness with earthy undertones.

    • OG Kush: Celebrated for its strong, balanced effects and classic earthy, piney aroma.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s Hybrid Strains.

  • Springfield, Oregon, situated in the heart of the Willamette Valley, benefits from the state’s progressive cannabis laws. Dispensaries here offer a wide variety of cannabis products, catering to both locals and visitors. It’s essential for customers to bring a valid ID to verify they are 21 or older when purchasing cannabis products. More details about local dispensary regulations can be found on the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission website.

2. Effects of Cannabis

  • Cannabis primarily affects sobriety through its two main active compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

    • THC: THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. It affects the brain by binding to cannabinoid receptors, influencing mood, memory, and perception.

    • CBD: Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high. Instead, it is known for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain.

    For more detailed information, visit Leafly’s guide to THC and CBD.

  • The immediate effects of cannabis can vary depending on the strain, method of consumption, and individual tolerance. Common short-term effects include:

    • Euphoria or a sense of well-being

    • Altered perception of time and space

    • Increased sensory awareness

    • Dry mouth and red eyes

    • Increased heart rate

    • Impaired short-term memory and concentration

    • Increased appetite (commonly known as “the munchies”)

    These effects typically last from 1 to 3 hours when smoking or vaping, and up to 8 hours when consuming edibles. For more information, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse’s effects of marijuana.

  • Cannabis can have both positive and negative effects on mental health:

    • Positive Effects: Some individuals use cannabis to relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

    • Negative Effects: Conversely, high doses or frequent use may exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to these conditions.

    For more information, visit Harvard Health’s article on cannabis and mental health.

  • Understanding how to use cannabis safely is crucial for minimizing risks:

    • Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a low dose, especially if you are new to cannabis, and gradually increase as needed.

    • Avoid Mixing Substances: Do not mix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs.

    • Know Your Limits: Be aware of how cannabis affects you and do not drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence.

    • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to counteract dry mouth and dehydration.

    For more guidelines on responsible use, visit Responsible Cannabis Use on Leafly.

    By understanding the effects of cannabis on sobriety, individuals can make informed decisions about its use and ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

3. Terpenes

  • Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive aromas and flavors of different cannabis strains. Beyond their sensory contributions, terpenes also interact with cannabinoids to influence the overall effects of cannabis, a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.”

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to terpenes.

  • Myrcene

    • Aroma: Earthy, musky, with hints of cloves and fruit.

    • Effects: Known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing properties. It can also enhance the psychoactive effects of THC.

    • Sources: Mango, hops, lemongrass, thyme.

    • Strains High in Myrcene: Blue Dream, OG Kush, Granddaddy Purple.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s page on Myrcene.

    Limonene

    • Aroma: Citrus, lemon, orange.

    • Effects: Uplifting and mood-enhancing. It may also have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects.

    • Sources: Citrus rinds, juniper, peppermint.

    • Strains High in Limonene: Sour Diesel, Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s page on Limonene.

    Pinene

    • Aroma: Pine, rosemary, basil.

    • Effects: Known for its anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and memory-enhancing effects.

    • Sources: Pine needles, rosemary, basil, dill.

    • Strains High in Pinene: Jack Herer, Blue Dream, OG Kush.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s page on Pinene.

    Linalool

    • Aroma: Floral, lavender.

    • Effects: Known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects. It also has analgesic and anti-epileptic properties.

    • Sources: Lavender, mint, cinnamon, coriander.

    • Strains High in Linalool: LA Confidential, Amnesia Haze, OG Shark.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s page on Linalool.

    Caryophyllene

    • Aroma: Spicy, peppery, woody.

    • Effects: Unique among terpenes for its ability to interact with cannabinoid receptors. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

    • Sources: Black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, basil.

    • Strains High in Caryophyllene: GSC (Girl Scout Cookies), Bubba Kush, Sour Diesel.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s page on Caryophyllene.

  • The interplay between terpenes and cannabinoids, known as the entourage effect, significantly influences the overall experience of consuming cannabis. For instance, the calming effects of an indica strain might be attributed to high levels of myrcene, while the uplifting effects of a sativa might be due to high levels of limonene.

    Understanding terpenes can help consumers select strains that best suit their needs and preferences. Here are some ways terpenes can impact the cannabis experience:

    • Aroma and Flavor: Terpenes are responsible for the diverse range of scents and tastes found in cannabis. This sensory aspect is crucial for many consumers in selecting their preferred strains.

    • Therapeutic Effects: Different terpenes offer various therapeutic benefits, from anti-inflammatory properties to mood enhancement. Combining specific terpenes with cannabinoids can optimize these effects.

    • Modulating Effects: Terpenes can modulate the effects of THC and CBD. For example, pinene might counteract some of the short-term memory loss associated with THC, while myrcene can enhance the sedative effects.

    For more detailed information on how terpenes influence cannabis, visit Project CBD’s article on the Entourage Effect.

  • Dispensaries in Springfield, Oregon, offer a wide variety of cannabis strains, each with its unique terpene profile. Understanding the role of terpenes can help customers make more informed choices about the products they purchase. Dispensaries often provide lab reports detailing the terpene content of their products, enabling consumers to select strains based on their desired effects and flavors.

4. Cannabinoids

  • Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system regulates various physiological processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and memory. The two most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD, but there are many others, each with unique effects and potential benefits.

    For a detailed introduction to cannabinoids, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabinoids.

  • THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

    • Effects: THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” sensation. It can induce euphoria, relaxation, altered sensory perception, and increased appetite. THC also has potential therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief and anti-nausea properties.

    • Medical Uses: Pain management, appetite stimulation, nausea reduction, and muscle spasticity.

    • Potential Side Effects: Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, red eyes, and impaired memory.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to THC.

    CBD (Cannabidiol)

    • Effects: CBD is non-psychoactive and is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It does not produce a high but can counteract some of the effects of THC.

    • Medical Uses: Anxiety relief, anti-inflammatory, seizure control, pain management, and neuroprotection.

    • Potential Side Effects: Dry mouth, diarrhea, changes in appetite, and fatigue.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to CBD.

    CBN (Cannabinol)

    • Effects: CBN is mildly psychoactive and is primarily known for its sedative effects. It is often found in aged cannabis.

    • Medical Uses: Sleep aid, pain relief, and appetite stimulation.

    • Potential Side Effects: Sedation and drowsiness.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to CBN.

    CBG (Cannabigerol)

    • Effects: CBG is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

    • Medical Uses: Inflammation reduction, antibacterial, neuroprotection, and appetite stimulation.

    • Potential Side Effects: Limited research on side effects, generally considered well-tolerated.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to CBG.

    CBC (Cannabichromene)

    • Effects: CBC is non-psychoactive and has potential anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-tumor properties.

    • Medical Uses: Inflammation reduction, pain relief, and mood enhancement.

    • Potential Side Effects: Limited research on side effects, generally considered well-tolerated.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to CBC.

    THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

    • Effects: THCV is psychoactive but produces different effects than THC, often acting as an appetite suppressant.

    • Medical Uses: Appetite suppression, weight loss, and potential for treating diabetes.

    • Potential Side Effects: Anxiety at high doses.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to THCV.

    CBDV (Cannabidivarin)

    • Effects: CBDV is non-psychoactive and is similar to CBD, with potential anticonvulsant properties.

    • Medical Uses: Seizure control and potential for treating autism spectrum disorders.

    • Potential Side Effects: Limited research on side effects, generally considered well-tolerated.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to CBDV.

  • In addition to the major cannabinoids, there are numerous minor cannabinoids present in cannabis that are currently being studied for their potential benefits. These include:

    • CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid): Potential anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties.

    • THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): Potential anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-proliferative properties.

    • CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid): Potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

    Emerging research continues to uncover new cannabinoids and their effects, expanding our understanding of the therapeutic potential of cannabis. For more information on minor cannabinoids, visit Project CBD’s guide to minor cannabinoids.

  • Dispensaries in Springfield, Oregon, offer a wide variety of cannabis products with diverse cannabinoid profiles. Understanding the different cannabinoids and their effects can help customers choose products that best meet their needs. Many dispensaries provide lab reports detailing the cannabinoid content of their products, ensuring transparency and allowing for informed decision-making.

5. Forms of Cannabis Products

  • Flower, also known as bud, is the most common form of cannabis. It refers to the dried and cured flowers of the cannabis plant, which are typically smoked or vaporized.

    • Consumption Methods: Smoking in joints, blunts, pipes, or bongs; vaporizing with a dry herb vaporizer.

    • Effects: Vary depending on the strain, but generally provide immediate onset of effects.

    • Popular Strains: Blue Dream, Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis flower.

  • Concentrates are highly potent extracts of cannabis that come in various forms. They contain a higher concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes than flower.

    Shatter

    • Appearance: Glass-like texture.

    • Consumption Methods: Dabbing, vaporizing.

    • Effects: Strong and fast-acting.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to shatter.

    Wax

    • Appearance: Soft, waxy texture.

    • Consumption Methods: Dabbing, vaporizing.

    • Effects: Strong and fast-acting.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to wax.

    Rosin

    • Appearance: Semi-transparent, sap-like texture.

    • Consumption Methods: Dabbing, vaporizing.

    • Effects: Strong and fast-acting; solvent-free extraction method.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to rosin.

    Oil

    • Appearance: Thick, viscous liquid.

    • Consumption Methods: Vaporizing, oral ingestion, sublingual.

    • Effects: Vary depending on cannabinoid content and consumption method.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis oil.

  • Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, lotions, and balms applied directly to the skin. They provide localized relief without psychoactive effects.

    • Uses: Pain relief, inflammation reduction, skin conditions.

    • Effects: Localized and non-psychoactive.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis topicals.

    Creams, Lotions, and Balms

    • Appearance: Creamy or oily consistency.

    • Uses: Applied to skin for localized relief.

    • Effects: Non-psychoactive, targeted relief.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis creams and lotions.

  • Capsules are cannabis-infused pills that offer a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis.

    • Uses: Pain relief, anxiety reduction, overall wellness.

    • Effects: Similar to edibles with longer onset time and longer-lasting effects.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis capsules.

  • Transdermal patches deliver cannabinoids through the skin into the bloodstream for sustained, controlled release.

    • Uses: Pain relief, anxiety reduction, sleep aid.

    • Effects: Steady and prolonged effects without psychoactive peaks and valleys.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to transdermal patches.

  • Vaping products include vape pens and cartridges filled with cannabis oil or distillate. They provide a smokeless method of inhalation.

    • Uses: Discreet and portable consumption method.

    • Effects: Immediate onset, similar to smoking.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to vaping cannabis.

  • Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a highly concentrated cannabis extract known for its potent medicinal properties. Named after Rick Simpson, a Canadian medical marijuana activist who developed the method of extraction, RSO is typically used for its therapeutic benefits.

    • Appearance: Thick, viscous, dark-colored oil.

    • Consumption Methods: Oral ingestion, topical application, or sublingual administration.

    • Effects: Strong and long-lasting; varies depending on the cannabinoid profile.

    Uses

    RSO is primarily used for its potential medicinal properties, including:

    • Cancer Treatment: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that RSO may help reduce tumors and alleviate cancer symptoms. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.

    • Pain Relief: Due to its high concentration of cannabinoids, RSO is effective in managing chronic pain.

    • Inflammation: RSO may help reduce inflammation and associated symptoms.

    • Neurological Conditions: Potential benefits for conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders.

    How to Use RSO

    • Oral Ingestion: RSO can be ingested directly or mixed with food or drink. It is highly potent, so starting with a small dose is recommended.

    • Topical Application: Applied directly to the skin, RSO can provide localized relief for conditions such as skin cancer or arthritis.

    • Sublingual Administration: Placing RSO under the tongue allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream.

6. Methods of Consumption

  • Smoking is one of the most traditional methods of consuming cannabis. It involves inhaling the smoke from burning cannabis flowers.

    • Methods: Joints, blunts, pipes, bongs.

    • Effects: Immediate onset (within minutes), lasting 1-3 hours.

    • Pros: Quick onset, easy to control dosage.

    • Cons: Potential respiratory issues, strong odor.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to smoking cannabis.

  • Vaping involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes in the form of vapor, without burning the plant material.

    • Methods: Dry herb vaporizers, vape pens, vape cartridges.

    • Effects: Immediate onset (within minutes), lasting 1-3 hours.

    • Pros: Less harmful than smoking, discrete, less odor.

    • Cons: Initial cost of equipment, potential health risks with certain vape products.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to vaping cannabis.

  • Edibles are cannabis-infused food and drink products. They provide a smoke-free and often more discreet way to consume cannabis.

    • Methods: Gummies, chocolates, beverages, baked goods.

    • Effects: Longer onset time (30 minutes to 2 hours), lasting 4-8 hours or more.

    • Pros: Discreet, no respiratory risks, longer-lasting effects.

    • Cons: Difficult to dose accurately, delayed onset can lead to overconsumption.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis edibles.

  • Sublingual administration involves placing cannabis tinctures or oils under the tongue for quick absorption into the bloodstream.

    • Methods: Tinctures, oils.

    • Effects: Quick onset (15-45 minutes), lasting 2-4 hours.

    • Pros: Discreet, easy to dose, faster onset than edibles.

    • Cons: Taste may be unpleasant for some users.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis tinctures.

  • Topicals are cannabis-infused products applied directly to the skin. They provide localized relief without psychoactive effects.

    • Methods: Creams, lotions, balms, transdermal patches.

    • Effects: Localized relief, non-psychoactive.

    • Pros: No psychoactive effects, targeted relief.

    • Cons: Effects are limited to the application area.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis topicals.

  • Dabbing involves inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates using a dab rig or e-rig. This method delivers a high concentration of cannabinoids quickly.

    • Methods: Dab rigs, e-rigs, nectar collectors.

    • Effects: Immediate onset (within minutes), lasting 1-3 hours.

    • Pros: Potent effects, quick onset, flavorful experience.

    • Cons: Requires special equipment, potential for overconsumption, not suitable for beginners.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to dabbing.

7. Medical Benefits of Cannabis

  • Cannabis has been widely studied and used for its analgesic properties. Both THC and CBD can help manage chronic pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

    • Conditions Treated: Arthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, topicals.

    • Research: Studies suggest that cannabis can reduce pain and improve quality of life for chronic pain sufferers. NIH Study on Cannabis for Pain Management

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and pain.

  • CBD, in particular, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. It is thought to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain.

    • Conditions Treated: Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD, depression.

    • Methods of Use: Tinctures, capsules, vaping, edibles.

    • Research: Preliminary research suggests CBD can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Harvard Health Blog on CBD for Anxiety

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and anxiety.

  • Cannabis, particularly indica strains and products high in CBD, can help improve sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and increasing the duration of sleep.

    • Conditions Treated: Insomnia, sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures.

    • Research: Studies indicate that cannabis can improve sleep in people with various sleep disorders. American Sleep Association on Cannabis and Sleep

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and sleep.

  • CBD has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures, particularly in treatment-resistant forms of epilepsy.

    • Conditions Treated: Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

    • Methods of Use: CBD oil, capsules, edibles.

    • Research: The FDA has approved a CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for the treatment of severe epilepsy. FDA Approval of Epidiolex

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and epilepsy.

  • Cannabis can help alleviate several symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, pain, and loss of appetite.

    • Conditions Treated: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, cancer pain, cachexia.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures.

    • Research: Studies have shown cannabis to be effective in managing chemotherapy side effects. American Cancer Society on Marijuana and Cancer

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and cancer.

  • Cannabis has neuroprotective properties, potentially beneficial for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

    • Conditions Treated: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures.

    • Research: Cannabinoids may help protect nerve cells and reduce neuroinflammation. NIH Study on Neuroprotective Effects of Cannabinoids

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and neuroprotection.

  • Cannabis, particularly CBD, has strong anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for conditions characterized by inflammation.

    • Conditions Treated: Arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, topicals.

    • Research: Studies indicate that cannabinoids can reduce inflammation and associated symptoms. NIH Study on Cannabinoids and Inflammation

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and inflammation.

  • Cannabis, especially strains high in THC, is known to stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for individuals with conditions that cause a loss of appetite.

    • Conditions Treated: HIV/AIDS, cancer, eating disorders.

    • Methods of Use: Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures.

    • Research: THC is effective in increasing appetite and food intake. NIH Study on Cannabis and Appetite Stimulation

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis and appetite stimulation.

    Local Context for Springfield, Oregon

8.  Choosing the Right Cannabis Product

  • Desired Effects

    Different cannabis products and strains produce varying effects, from relaxation and pain relief to energy and creativity. Knowing what you want to achieve can help you choose the right product.

    • Relaxation and Sleep: Indica strains, products high in CBD.

    • Energy and Creativity: Sativa strains, products high in THC.

    • Balanced Effects: Hybrid strains, balanced THC:CBD ratios.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to choosing cannabis products.

    THC:CBD Ratio

    The ratio of THC to CBD in a product significantly influences its effects. THC is psychoactive, while CBD is not, and can even counteract some of the effects of THC.

    • High THC, Low CBD: Strong psychoactive effects.

    • Balanced THC:CBD: Mild psychoactive effects, enhanced therapeutic benefits.

    • High CBD, Low THC: Minimal psychoactive effects, strong therapeutic benefits.

    For more information, visit Project CBD’s guide to understanding ratios.

    Consumption Method

    The method of consumption affects the onset, intensity, and duration of cannabis effects.

    • Smoking and Vaping: Immediate onset, lasting 1-3 hours.

    • Edibles: Delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours), lasting 4-8 hours.

    • Tinctures: Quick onset (15-45 minutes), lasting 2-4 hours.

    • Topicals: Localized effects, non-psychoactive.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to consumption methods.

  • Understanding how to read cannabis labels can help you choose the right product.

    • Cannabinoid Content: Indicates the levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.

    • Terpene Profile: Lists the dominant terpenes and their concentrations.

    • Strain Information: Provides the strain name and type (indica, sativa, hybrid).

    • Testing Information: Shows the results of lab testing for potency, contaminants, and safety.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to reading cannabis labels.

  • Budtenders at dispensaries and healthcare professionals can provide valuable guidance in choosing the right cannabis product.

    • Budtenders: Knowledgeable staff who can recommend products based on your desired effects and experience level.

    • Medical Professionals: Can provide advice on using cannabis for medical conditions and potential interactions with other medications.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to consulting a budtender.

8.  Safe use and the law

  • Understanding and adhering to appropriate dosage guidelines is crucial for responsible cannabis use.

    • Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a low dose, especially if you are new to cannabis, and gradually increase as needed.

    • Smoking/Vaping: Start with one or two puffs, wait 15-30 minutes before consuming more.

    • Edibles: Start with a dose of 2.5-5 mg of THC, wait 1-2 hours before consuming more.

    • Tinctures: Start with 1-2 drops, wait 15-45 minutes before consuming more.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to cannabis dosing.

  • Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and dangerous. Cannabis can impair motor skills, reaction time, and judgment.

    • Wait Time: It is recommended to wait at least 4-6 hours after consuming cannabis before driving. For edibles, wait longer, as the effects last longer.

    • Alternative Transportation: Use public transportation, ride-sharing services, or have a designated driver if you need to travel.

    For more information, visit CDC’s page on impaired driving.

  • Storing cannabis safely is essential to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.

    • Childproof Containers: Use childproof containers and keep cannabis products out of reach of children.

    • Labeling: Clearly label all cannabis products and store them in a secure place.

    • Education: Educate family members, including children and guests, about the risks of cannabis.

    For more information, visit CDC’s guide to safe storage.

  • Overconsumption of cannabis can lead to unpleasant and potentially harmful effects. It’s important to recognize the signs and know how to respond.

    • Symptoms of Overconsumption: Extreme anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, nausea, and vomiting.

    • Response: Stay calm, find a safe and comfortable place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if necessary. Support from a sober friend can also be helpful.

    For more information, visit Leafly’s guide to handling cannabis overconsumption.

  • Oregon is one of the states that has legalized both medical and recreational cannabis. Adults 21 and older can legally purchase and possess cannabis within specified limits.

    • Purchase Limits: Up to one ounce of usable cannabis (flower), 16 ounces of solid cannabis products (edibles), 72 ounces of liquid cannabis products, and 5 grams of concentrates.

    • Possession Limits: Up to 8 ounces of usable cannabis at home and 1 ounce in public.

    • Home Cultivation: Up to four plants per household.

    For more information, visit Oregon Health Authority’s cannabis program.

    Buying and Possessing Cannabis Legally

    To purchase and possess cannabis legally in Oregon, individuals must follow state regulations.

    • Age Requirement: Must be 21 or older with a valid ID.

    • Purchasing: Cannabis can only be purchased from licensed dispensaries.

    • Possession: Respect state limits for possession in public and at home.

    For more information, visit Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC).

    Traveling with Cannabis

    Traveling with cannabis can be legally tricky. It’s important to understand the laws of your destination and the rules for transporting cannabis.

    • Within Oregon: You can travel with cannabis within the state, adhering to possession limits.

    • Out-of-State Travel: It is illegal to take cannabis across state lines, even to states where cannabis is legal.

    • Air Travel: Cannabis is prohibited on flights and at airports due to federal regulations.

    For more information, visit TSA’s cannabis policy.