Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that give each strain its unique scent and flavor while also influencing its effects.
Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a natural regulatory system in the body that helps maintain balance by interacting with cannabinoids to influence mood, pain, sleep, appetite, and overall well-being.
What is Cannabis
Cannabis is a plant that contains hundreds of compounds, many of which have therapeutic effects.
It has been used medicinally and recreationally for thousands of years and continues to be researched for its potential health benefits. At the core of cannabis science are three key pillars: Cannabinoids, Terpenes and Endocannabinoid System (ECS). Understanding these pillars helps both new and seasoned users make informed choices about cannabis use.
Three Key Pillars
Cannabis effects are shaped by three key pillars
Cannabinoids
The Active Compounds
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce various effects. The two most well-known cannabinoids are:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – The primary psychoactive compound responsible for the “high.” It offers pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anti-nausea effects.
- CBD (Cannabidiol) – A non-psychoactive compound known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties.
Other cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and THCV also contribute to cannabis’ effects, making each strain unique.
Terpenes
The Aroma & Effects
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that give each strain its unique scent and flavor while also influencing its effects. Some important terpenes include:
- Myrcene – Sedative, relaxing (Earthy, musky, herbal, with hints of cloves).
- Limonene – Uplifting, anti-anxiety (Citrusy, lemon, orange, and sometimes a little minty).
- Pinene – Enhances focus, anti-inflammatory (Pine, earthy, woody, with hints of rosemary and basil).
Terpenes work together with cannabinoids to create the entourage effect, enhancing the plant’s overall impact. While cannabinoids like THC determine that you’re going to get high, terpenes influence how you experience that high. Think of it like getting on a bus—THC ensures you reach your destination, but the terpenes act as the driver, deciding whether the ride is smooth, energetic, relaxing, or intense.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
How Cannabis Works in the Body
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling network found in all humans and many animals. It plays a crucial role in maintaining balance (homeostasis) in the body, regulating functions like mood, pain, sleep, appetite, and immune response. The ECS is made up of:
- Endocannabinoids – Naturally occurring compounds in the body that function similarly to cannabinoids in cannabis.
- Cannabinoid Receptors (CB1 & CB2) – These receptors are found throughout the body, with CB1 receptors primarily in the brain and nervous system (affecting mood, memory, and coordination) and CB2 receptors mainly in the immune system (influencing inflammation and pain response).
- Enzymes – These break down cannabinoids once their job is done, ensuring balance in the system.
When you consume cannabis, THC binds to CB1 receptors, producing psychoactive effects, while CBD interacts indirectly with the ECS, influencing receptor activity and promoting relaxation, pain relief, and reduced inflammation.
Cannabis Cultivation & Grades
Explore the different cultivation methods and how they impact cannabis quality
Outdoor
Sun-Grown Simplicity
Outdoor cannabis is grown in natural soil and sunlight. It’s eco-friendly and cost-effective, but exposed to pests and weather fluctuations. Typically has looser buds and more earthy flavor profiles.
- Cost: Low
- Potency: Moderate
- Common Grade: A to AA
Greenhouse
Best of Both Worlds
Greenhouse cannabis blends natural sunlight with environmental control. It generally produces better quality than outdoor and can reach AAA grade, with a balance of aroma, density, and resin content.
- Cost: Medium
- Potency: Moderate to High
- Common Grade: AA to AAA
Light Deprivation Greenhouse
Controlled Flower Cycles
“Light dep” techniques control exposure to light to trigger flowering earlier. This enables multiple harvests per year and better quality than traditional greenhouse or outdoor grows.
- Cost: Medium
- Potency: High
- Common Grade: AAA to AAA+
Indoor
Precision Growing
Indoor cultivation uses controlled environments to maximize quality — ideal temperature, humidity, and lighting. Produces dense buds with potent aroma and trichome coverage.
- Cost: High
- Potency: Very High
- Common Grade: AAA to AAAA
Exotic Indoor (Craft AAAA)
Top-Tier Genetics & Artisanal Care
Exotic indoor flower is grown in boutique-style indoor environments with rare genetics, small batches, hand trimming, and optimal curing. It's visually stunning, rich in flavor, and high in THC.
- Cost: Premium
- Potency: Extremely High
- Common Grade: AAAA+ / Exotic
Summary Table
Compare Cultivation Methods at a Glance
| Grade | Cultivation | Nicknames | Quality | Potency | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAAA | Exotic Indoor | Zaaa, Top Shelf | 🌟🌟🌟🌟 | Extremely High | Very High | Craft-grown in small batches, rare genetics, hand-trimmed |
| AAA | Indoor | Premium Indoor | 🌟🌟🌟 | Very High | High | Potent, dense buds with strong aroma and consistent results |
| AA | Greenhouse / Light Dep | Light Dep, Tunnel | 🌟🌟 | Moderate to High | Medium | Balanced between quality and value; great for daily use |
| A–B | Outdoor | Swazi, Bush, Budget | 🌟 | Low to Moderate | Low | Uncontrolled environment, lower price, ideal for extracts |
