Flower is the trimmed and cured bud of a female cannabis plant. There are different varieties of cannabis flowers, which we call strains. Each strain has a unique flavor and combination of active ingredients that provides a unique effect. Explore different strains to find out which best suits your needs. There are two major strain types to consider:
Indica strains are believed to be physically sedating, perfect for relaxing after work or as a nightcap before bed.
Sativa strains tend to provide more invigorating, uplifting effects that pair well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects.
Flower can be smoked through a pipe, bong, or joint. It can also be vaporized through a variety of accessories.
Pre-rolls are joints filled with cannabis flower and are sometimes enhanced with cannabis concentrates. Pre-rolls provide an easy and traditional way to enjoy cannabis. Pre-rolls typically come in one-gram or half-gram sizes, are sold individually and in multi-packs, and feature different strains and blends.
Price varies by the size and number of pre-rolls, and the quality of the cannabis inside them. THC content varies between strains and brands so be sure to look into which suit you best.
Vape pens are a convenient and discreet way to consume cannabis. They heat cannabis extracts to the point of vaporization, without combusting. The effect onset is immediate and gradually trails off over two to three hours—a shorter duration than pre-rolls and flower and without the smoke, ash or strong odor.
Some vape pens are pre-charged and disposable; others offer rechargeable batteries and interchangeable cartridges. When choosing a vape cartridge, it’s important to know the type of oil contained within, whether and how it’s flavored and what cutting agents, if any, have been used to dilute the solution. This helps you anticipate the type of vaping experience to expect.
Edibles are food items made with cannabis flower or concentrates. Edibles are absorbed through the digestive system, which results in delayed onset as compared to inhalation and sublingual delivery (administered underneath the tongue). While it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours to feel the effects, edibles provide a longer duration of effects when compared to other consumption methods.
Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils that are absorbed through the skin for localized relief of pain, soreness, and inflammation. Because they’re non-intoxicating, topicals are often chosen by patients who want the therapeutic benefits of marijuana without the cerebral euphoria associated with other delivery methods.
Other transdermal innovations are fast arriving in the cannabis market, including long-lasting patches and tingly lubricants for patients and recreational consumers alike.
Tinctures are a discreet and flexible way to ingest cannabis made by infusing cannabis usually with alcohol. When dropped under the tongue, their effect is similar to inhaled cannabis with a close to immediate effect. When swallowed with a food or beverage, the effect is similar to edibles and can take up to one hour, plus the effect can last six hours or longer.
Sublinguals are dissolved on, or under, the tongue. Many of these products have a high ratio of CBD and have been reported to assist with anxiety and help control seizures in children. Many tinctures do contain THC, so it is important to pay attention to the THC/CBD amount and recommended consumption instructions on the label.
Cannabis concentrates are much stronger than cannabis flowers. They are made by separating the tiny crystals that sit on the surface of the plant called trichomes from the underlying, inert vegetable material. Concentrates are available in many different forms including shatter, wax, rosin and sauce.
Cannabis concentrates are consumed through a portable device or stationary “dab” rig that vaporizes the concentrate at very high temperatures. They can also be mixed with flower to supercharge a bowl or pre-roll.
Due to their high potency, concentrates are often reserved for a more experienced cannabis consumer. By current California state law, adult-use customers are allowed to buy up to 8 grams of concentrates per day.