This year has been a whirlwind for everyone. Our entire worlds have been shaken like a snow globe and we’re left trying to make sense of our new normal. In some ways, marijuana might just be our saving grace during the turmoil of the year.
Our anxiety has been off the charts which reflects Oregon’s increase in marijuana sales since March, when stay at home orders were mandated. March isn’t an exception either, each month has shown a continued increase in sales. The month of July in Oregon reaped an astonishing $106 million in marijuana sales.
Whether you want to ease your anxiety, or are bored and want to try something new, if you haven’t dabbled with marijuana yet, now is as good of a time as any.
This post will explain common terms relating to marijuana to make the topic less scary or intimidating. There are no dumb questions at Greeley Gallery but knowing some basic terminology might prevent explanations from sounding like a foreign language.
Cannabinoids
These are the active chemical compounds within a marijuana plant. The two most common types are THC and CBD.
THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the cannabinoid compound responsible for making us feel high. It has a psychoactive ingredient which affects our cerebral cortex of our brain, the area responsible for thinking, memory, motor movements, pleasure, coordination, and concentration. With proper dosage, you can expect feeling relaxed, in a good mood, calm, or even euphoric. However, if the THC high comes on a bit strong, it might result in dizziness, depression, anxiety or fatigue. If you don’t have much experience, it’s always a good idea to start with a smaller percentage of THC and work your way up. Our staff will be happy to help you find a strain to fit your tolerance.
CBD
Cannabidiol is the second most commonly known ingredient of weed. CBD won’t get you high, but it makes headlines for its own reasons. CBD is most commonly known for its health benefits. It’s been touted to help anxiety, insomnia (both falling and staying asleep), and chronic pain. According to Harvard University, its most prevalent and well-researched achievement is its effectiveness in reducing and (in some cases stopping) epileptic seizures in children.
Indica
If you suffer from anxiety, chronic pain, or insomnia and you want to feel a high, then Indica is a good option for you. Indica is a type of cannabis (marijuana) plant known to give you what’s known as a body high while helping combat your physical stress. Be warned though, after smoking Indica, you might not want to get off your couch.
Sativa
If you’re feeling a bit down in the dumps, and in need of a creative kick, then you’ll want to check out some Sativa. You might want to think of it as the opposite of Indica. Both are variations of cannabis, but while Indica affects your body, Sativa is a mind high. Sativa strains can be used to treat depression because they provide you with energy, focus, and often put you in a better mood. It’s great to use during creative tasks like art, writing, or even just going for a walk.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to note that you don’t need to smoke marijuana to reap the benefits. Especially with COVID-19, we advise being extra careful with your lungs. Instead of inhaling, try eating it. We have a variety of edibles and tinctures, including vegan and vegetarian options, to choose from. Whether you’re a professional or a novice, we welcome you to visit the cannabis and marijuana dispensaries nearest you. If you live in north Portland near Rosa Parks or Arbor Lodge, then we’re right on the corner of Greeley waiting for you.
Our world is a crazy place right now, but that doesn’t mean you need to lose your mind along with it. Use this time to discover new things about yourself, and what better way to do that than with weed.
