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CANNABIS 101

Your Essential Guide to the Plant

Welcome to Cannabis 101! Whether you're curious about cannabis, new to its benefits, or simply want to refresh your knowledge, this guide is designed to provide you with the foundational understanding you need. At Native Spirit, we believe in informed choices and empowering our community with clear, reliable information.

1. What is Cannabis? The Basics

Cannabis is a plant with a rich history, used for centuries for medicinal, recreational, and spiritual purposes. It contains unique compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with our body's endocannabinoid system.

THC: The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the "high" sensation. It also has therapeutic properties like pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anti-nausea effects.

CBD: A non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it won't get you "high." CBD is celebrated for its potential therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety, inflammation, and chronic pain, without the intoxicating effects.

Other Cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC, etc.): The plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, each with unique potential effects that scientists are still actively researching.

3. Consumption Methods: How to Enjoy Cannabis

Smoking/Vaping (flower in joints/pipes or vaporized flower/concentrates) provides immediate effects, lasting 1-3 hours, with vaping being a "cleaner" option.

Edibles (infused foods/drinks) have a slower onset (30 mins - 2 hours) but deliver longer, more intense effects (4-8+ hours). Always "Start Low, Go Slow" with edibles.

Tinctures (liquid extracts under the tongue) act within 15-45 minutes and last 2-6 hours, offering precise dosing.

Topicals (lotions/balms on skin) give localized, non-psychoactive relief, with variable onset and duration.

Concentrates (shatter, wax, oils via dabbing/vaping) are highly potent, offering immediate effects for 1-3 hours, best for experienced users.

Indica: Traditionally associated with relaxing, sedating effects. Often chosen for evening use, to aid sleep, or for full-body pain relief. Think "in da couch."

Sativa: Generally linked to uplifting, energizing, and creative effects. Often preferred for daytime use, social activities, or to boost focus. Think "Sativa for soaring."

Hybrids: These strains are a cross between Indica and Sativa genetics, offering a blend of effects. Most strains today are hybrids, carefully bred to achieve specific balances of effects, aromas, and flavors.

The Entourage Effect: Beyond just Indica/Sativa, the unique combination of cannabinoids, terpenes (aromatic compounds), and flavonoids in each strain works synergistically to produce its overall effects. This concept is known as the "Entourage Effect."

2. Understanding Cannabis Strains: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrids
4. Dosage & Responsible Use: Start Low, Go Slow

Responsible cannabis use is crucial for a positive experience.

Start Low, Go Slow: This is the golden rule, especially for new users or when trying a new product. Begin with a very small dose and wait to see how you feel before consuming more.

Know Your Tolerance: Everyone reacts differently to cannabis based on factors like body weight, metabolism, and individual sensitivity. What works for one person might be too much for another.

Set and Setting: Be mindful of your environment and mood. A comfortable, safe space and a positive mindset can greatly enhance your experience.

Stay Hydrated: Keep water handy!

Avoid Mixing: Be cautious when mixing cannabis with alcohol or other substances.

Storage: Keep cannabis out of reach of children and pets, and store it in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and potency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What payment methods?

We are a cash-only shop, so please bring cash when you visit, or use ouron-site ATM.

When are you open?
Do you offer educational resources?
Is age verification required?

Yes, we are 19+ only.

We are open 24x7!

Yes, talk to our experienced budtenders in-store, or visit the Cannabis101 page