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Surface Trichomes ranging from mature to young 1 05 FOREWORD

06 A BRIEF HISTORY OF CANNABIS

11 ORIGINS OF THE NAME

11 STRAINS AND SPECIES

13

18 THE

24 CONSUMPTION METHODS

28 DOSING

30 CANNABIS AND THE HUMAN BODY

32 SIDE

34 GLOSSARY

44 RESOURCE GUIDE • BOOKS • WEBSITES • FILMS

3 WELCOME TO THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY!

As with any emerging and innovative industry, ours is accompanied by a world of terminology, science, op- portunity, and — unfortunately — misinformation. As such, we’ve created this booklet to help our employees, colleagues and friends navigate an exciting new field that can sometimes feel as complex as the cannabis itself. Drawing on the knowledge of our experts across a range of fields, we hope this resource gives you a solid base to move forward, confident with the many abbre- viations and fascinating facts, and ready to meaningfully engage with both cannabis veterans and new users alike. Please note: Our industry is evolving at an exponential rate, and as such, this booklet does not claim to be a final authority. Science shifts and new topics will emerge, all of which will continue to evolve and be added in later editions. We encourage you to learn more with the reference guide provided, ask questions, draw on the knowledge of our team, and take notes. Philip Campbell CEO, Ascent Industries

5 600 BC

KOREA MIDDLE EAST 2000 BC 1400 BC CHINA 5000 BC INDIA 1000 BCE SOUTH AMERICA 1800 AD

A BRIEF HISTORY OF CANNABIS

10,000 BCE – Archaeological records of pottery shards made with found in what is modern day Taiwan. 5000 BCE – Chinese pottery depicting cannabis leaves is produced.

2000 BCE – Cannabis spreads from China to Korea and Central Asia.

1000 BCE – Earliest recorded confirmed evidence of cannabis use in India.

900 BCE – Religious use of cannabis prevalent throughout Middle East.

450 BCE – Herodotus, the father of history, describes Scythian ritual and recreational cannabis use in modern day Ukraine and Southern .

Gathering Hemp’, Kentucky around 1900 7 1971 – Congress passes the Controlled Substances Act, which classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug. Drugs in this classification are defined as possessing no medicinal value and having a high potential for abuse.

1976 – Netherlands decriminalizes cannabis use.

1996 – California becomes the first American state to legalize medicinal cannabis despite the federal government’s schedule I classification.

2012 – Colorado and Washington both pass popular initiatives to legalize recreational cannabis use. More Hemp harvesting on Rhine bank. Created by Lallemand, published on states follow suit in the following years. L’Illustration, Journal Universel, Paris, 1860 2015 – The Federal Liberal Party forms majority 1000-1300 CE – Arab traders bring hemp to Eastern government in Canada. Justin Trudeau’s campaign Africa and Southern Europe which slowly spread promise to legalize recreational cannabis is expected to throughout these continents. come into effect in 2018. 1600-1800 CE – Hemp cultivation flourished in colonial America, with a few of the original colonies requiring farmers to produce hemp.

1800 CE – Cannabis traveled from Africa to South America and Mexico.

1900 CE – Recreational and medicinal cannabis use becomes prevalent throughout Mexico. This cannabis use soon spread northwards to the United States of America with increasing Mexican immigration.

1937 CE – Due to mounting public pressure in the American populace, largely founded in prejudice against the recent surge in Hispanic immigration, the Marihuana Tax Act is passed which effectively made cannabis production, use, importation and possession illegal. Hemp retting on Rhine bank. Created by Lallemand, published on L’Illustration, Journal Universel, Paris, 1860

9 ORIGINS OF THE NAME Cannabis originates from the Greek word κάνναβις (kánnabis), which was originally a Scythian word, and the word hemp is also thought to be a variant of a word from the same Scythian source. These Scythian expressions spread throughout the Indo-European languages. In 1548 the Oxford English Dictionary recorded the first use of the expression .

STRAINS AND SPECIES Cannabis, as a species, contains many strains. The differentiating factors that separates strains from each other are described in terms of chemotype, genotype, and phenotype.

The chemotype of a plant can also be referred to as the strain of a plant. Chemotypes are defined as the most abundant chemical produced within the individual. This chemical ratio gives strains their unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes.

The words genotype and phenotype are often thrown about in our industry, usually with confusion as to what they actually mean and how it relates to the plant itself. Simply put:

Genotype is the genetic makeup of a cell, the genetic code. This code contains every possible outcome that lies within our own genetics.

11 Phenotype is the observed characteristics or traits seen Indica in the physical organism. For example the height of the What is known as Indica-dominant strains originated plant, the colour of the flowers, and the smell of the primarily out of Central Asian countries such as terpenes are all specific phenotypes. Afghanistan and Nepal. Their leaves are broader, and the are typically shorter and bushier than sativa strains. The genotype and phenotype are related in a simple way. They tend to have a higher THC level and are often Phenotype is influenced by three factors. The first being preferred for pain relief and for night time use, as they the genotype or the genetic makeup, environmental have a more subdued and sedative feeling. factors, and epigenetic factors (changes in gene function, not changes to the DNA). Therapeutic benefits of Indica Helps with: body pain, insomnia, migraines, headaches, In order to define chemotype, phenotype, and genotype anxiety or stress, reducing intraocular (eye) pain and in layman’s terms we will use a family of four as our inflammation, and relaxing sore muscles. example. Sativa In a family of four the two kids will have similar What is known as Sativa-dominant strains originated characteristics to each other but also to their parents. primarily from more equatorial countries such as Mexico, The similarities the children share with their parents are India and Thailand. Their leaves are longer and narrower determined by their chemotype. and the plants typically grow much taller and faster than The entire genetic makeup of the children are a direct indica varieties. They tend to be known for their stimulant reflection of both parents, so why aren’t they exactly the effect and often preferred during the daytime. Sativa same? The differences in the physical traits between the strains tend to be known more as uplifting, energetic and children are determined by their own phenotype. cerebral.

Characteristics that would be more broadly used to Therapeutic benefits of sativa describe an entire race or ethnicity would be referred to Increased immune support, anti-depression, increased by their genotype. creativity, energy, assists with ADD and mood disorders

The most commonly used terms for cannabis are - Ruderalis Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis. The terms Indica and Sativa Often called the overlooked middle child of the cannabis seem to have been created anecdotally and used loosely industry, ruderalis is a feral weed that originated in the by cannabis consumers for decades now. It should be cold northern climates of Central Asia and Russia. It noted that there is currently no scientific definition for typically grows wild, far shorter than either indica or either term.

13 sativa, and is seen to have fewer leaves. Rugged and and medicinal markets have produced mostly THC- more resistant to weather and pests, ruderalis has predominant strains of cannabis to the exclusion of other been known to consist of very low THC levels, but its cannabinoids. hardiness, ability to autoflower and significant levels of Effect: THC has the ability to alter behaviour, mood, CBD have made it increasingly popular in the breeding of perception, and consciousness. THC is responsible for hybrid strains. the euphoric feeling people most often associate with Hybrids being “high”. It is known for assisting with acute pain Hybrid cannabis strains provide the best of both worlds. relief, relaxation, and appetite stimulation. Breeders select the top sativa, indica and in some cases CBD ruderalis strains and combine them into new strains that (CBD) is the next maintain all the best qualities from the parent plants. most commonly studied Hybrids can be sativa or indica dominant and offer the . It used to be effects to match. common in cannabis grown naturally but, until recently, had largely disappeared from recreational cannabis genetics. In the medicinal CANNABINOIDS arena, CBD has received increasing attention due to its many medicinal attributes without intoxication or When talking about cannabinoids, we are referring to sedation. Studies have shown CBD to be most known chemicals that are unique to the cannabis plant. There for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and autoimmune are over 480 natural components found within the regulating abilities. After THC, it is the most abundant cannabis plant, of which 66 have been officially classified cannabinoid in modern genetic varieties of cannabis, as cannabinoids. These chemicals are scrutinized for sometimes contributing up to 40% of resin. Strains with the effects they have on humans, both physically and a greater percentage of CBD often demonstrate reduced psychologically. psychoactivity. Use of cannabis with little to no CBD THC has been shown to have an increased psychological (THC) impact, and can result in unwanted side effects such as is the most well-known and drowsiness or anxiety in some cases. researched cannabinoid and the most psychoactive. When it comes to cannabinoids, the Effect: CBD is non-euphoric. Studies have shown it scientific community has generally focused on THC as to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-nausea, the primary or only important variable. Until very recently, neuroprotective, blood pressure reducing, nerve pain selective breeding in cannabis for both the recreational reducing, and autoimmune response regulating abilities. It has shown to be particularly effective for reducing

15 seizures from epilepsy, Dravet, or heart arrhythmia. It is plant. Whether through degradation or combustion also known to reduce certain side effects of THC when at higher temperatures, once present, CBN is often consumed or administered in unison, specifically in cases described as producing a “couch lock” effect, meaning it of anxiety and tachycardia (a condition associated with is very sedative. an abnormal and accelerated heart rate). Taken together, Effect:CBN is mildly psychoactive on its own but unlike THC and CBD demonstrate synergy in many applications. CBD, interacts with THC in a way that actually increases CBDV Cannabidvarin (CBDV) is a psychoactivity. Cannabis that has been left out or unused phytocannabinoid found in higher will have increasing amounts of CBN and decreasing concentrations in incida plants vs sativa. amounts of THC. CBN is most commonly known as It is a homolog of CBD. CBDV is to being an effective sleep-aid for people suffering from any CBD what THCV is to THC. CBDV is a propyl cannabinoid type of insomnia. meaning it contains a propyl side chain instead of a CBG pentyl side chain. (CBG) Effect:CBDV is a cannabinoid found to have similar is a non-euphoric properties to CBD. It has been observed to have mild cannabinoid, is the precursor, the stem cell, the mother euphoric effects leaving the consumer with a sense of of THC and CBD. Like CBD, it is is known to block the well-being and calmness. In recent studies, CBDV has metabolic action and thus psychoactive effects of THC. demonstrated anticonvulsant effects. These effects Until recently, the outstanding medicinal properties of include CBDV’s ability to act as an inhibitor for the neural this cannabinoid were not well studied. activity that triggers an epileptic seizure. There have Effect:CBG has shown to stimulate neurogenesis (brain also been studies done with rats for nausea reduction cell growth), is antibacterial, anti-tumor, helps with using THCV and CBDV. Results of this study showed insomnia, can calm the digestive tract, and is uniquely a significant reduction in nausea symptoms. Ongoing known as an adrenal regulator through the suppression research has correlated the use of CBDV with epilepsy/ of release of noradrenaline in the body which is most seizures, IBD/Crohn’s, HIV/AIDS, and MS. commonly produced from stress or the fight or flight CBN response. (CBN) is a THCV psychoactive cannabinoid (THCV) is that comes about from the found in largest quantities in what degradation of THC, such as are commonly seen as sativa strains when THC is exposed to air and oxidizes or to heat from most prominently originated from African landraces. combustion. There is usually very little CBN in a fresh While one of the lesser known cannabinoids, it is

17 becoming known for having some of the most positive impacts on psychoactivity. THCV affects the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors giving a mild psychoactive effect on its own but are very commonly reported as energetic, clear, focused or euphoric. Like CBD, it has shown to limit the negative effects of THC on its own, moderating psychoactivity and reducing anxiety related symptoms.

Effect:THCV is currently being researched as a treatment for metabolic disorders such as diabetes since it has been found to reduce glucose intolerance and improve insulin sensitivity. It has also shown to have promise in treating the tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease due to the neuroprotective effect that it has when interacting with the nervous system. Compounds with this neuroprotective effect are also used to treat tremors associated with neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis. THCA, CBDA, and other Cannabinoids in their Acid Forms Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA), Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) and other cannabinoids in their acid form are the main constituent in raw cannabis. They convert to their non-acid form when burned, vapourized, or heated for a period of time at a certain temperature. The process is called decarboxylation which renders the cannabinoids bioavailable in the body.

Effects: THCA holds much of the anti-inflammatory, anti- proliferative (inhibiting the cell-growth in tumors/ cancer cells,) as well as antispasmodic (suppresses muscle- spasms) properties but without any psychoactive effect.

19 systems and the mind. As ongoing research increases THE ENDOCANNABINOID our understanding of this system, scientists are SYSTEM discovering this powerful mechanism that seems to explain how states of consciousness can promote health The endocannabinoid system is a system of receptors or disease. located in the body. This system of receptors is responsible for the interactions between cannabinoids CB1 Receptors and the body. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and naturally synthesized in the body whose main purpose central nervous system, but are also present in the lungs, is communication on a cellular level. The receptors that liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs. CB1 receptors these neurotransmitters interact with also interact with have been found to play a role in memory processing, cannabis cannabinoids, thus the discovery of this system. motor regulation, appetite, pain sensation, mood, and sleep. The activation of CB1 receptors have also been Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found linked to neuroprotective responses, suggesting the throughout the body: in the brain, nervous system, cannabinoids with a higher affinity for CB1 receptors organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. In could help in the prevention and treatment of each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different neurodegenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis, tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. balance. CB2 Receptors Endocannabinoids and cannabinoids are also found at When CB2 receptors are activated, they stimulate a the intersection of the bodies various systems, allowing response that fights inflammation, which in turn reduces communication and coordination between different cell pain and minimizes damage to tissues. These anti- types. At the site of an injury, for example, cannabinoids inflammatory effects have been found to be beneficial can be found decreasing the release of activators and for treating inflammation-related conditions like arthritis, sensitizers from the injured tissue, stabilizing the nerve Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel syndrome. cell to prevent excessive firing, and calming nearby Interaction of CB1 and CB2 with THC and CBD immune cells to prevent release of proinflammatory THC directly interacts with CB1 receptors which substances. Three different mechanisms of action act on decrease the interactions naturally occurring between three different cell types for a single purpose: minimize the bodies neurotransmitters and receptors. This the pain and damage caused by the injury. “blocking” ability of THC is why when consumed, users The endocannabinoid system, with its complex actions feel the euphoria of cannabis. In opposition, CBD will in our immune system, nervous system, and in all the influence enzymes to directly interaction with CB1. body’s organs, is literally a bridge between the bodily

21 CBD may stimulate enzymes to interact with CB1 which will lower the affinity for THC interaction. This indirect interaction is how CBD can decrease the euphoric feelings of THC when consumed in unison.

TERPENES AND THE Terpenoids (or terpenes) are an organic compound responsible for the aromatic components of the plant. Terpenes are often used in fragrances and flavorings, and display anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant and immune stimulating properties. Like cannabinoids, terpenes are produced in the trichomes and have been shown to be an important modulator of cannabis effects on the body such as an increase in the uptake of cannabinoids into the bloodstream, the entourage effect.

TERPENES MOST COMMON IN CANNABIS Myrcene One of the most prevalent terpenes, myrcene, is found in a large varieties of cannabis strains, as well as in thyme, hops, lemongrass and citrus. Strains with myrcene concentrations greater than 0.5% have a more sedative or indica quality while strains containing less than 0.5% of myrcene have a more energetic or sativa quality.

Single mature trichome 23 Pinene Terpineol Pinene accounts for cannabis’ familiar odor, often Terpineol is known for its pleasant smell and is often associated with pine trees and turpentine. Pinene is the used in soaps and perfumes. It is known to have relaxing most common naturally occurring terpenoid and has the qualities. potential to act as both an anti-inflammatory agent and a Geraniol bronchodilator. Geraniol emits a rose scent that makes it a popular Linalool perfume additive. It is an effective mosquito repellent and Linalool has a floral scent reminiscent of spring flowers, shows potential as a protective agent against neuropathy. but with spicy overtones. It possesses sedative properties, Ocimene as well as anxiolytic, analgesic and anticonvulsant Ocimene is frequently used in perfumes for its pleasant characteristics. odor. In nature, this terpene contributes to a plant’s Limonene defenses and possess antifungal properties. Limonene is a dominant terpene in strains with a pronounced Sativa effect and can have a anxiolytic and anti-depressive qualities. It is also found in the rinds of citrus fruits. CONSUMPTION

Caryophyllene METHODS is the only terpene known to interact Smoking with the body’s endocannabinoid system (CB2). It is Dried cannabis is smoked in the form of filtered or presumed that this terpene contains anti-inflammatory unfiltered joints, bongs, or pipes. The heat applied to and analgesic characteristics. dried cannabis must be hot enough to convert the Humulene cannabinoids from inactive to activate, also called Humulene contributes to the “hoppy” aroma of cannabis. decarboxylating the chemical structures. A typical This terpene acts as an appetite suppressant and has when being inhaled is burning at about 800℃. potential to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity. Vapourization Terpinolene Vapourization is the process of inhaling cannabis by Previous studies have shown terpinolene to exhibit heating a small amount to a temperature below its antioxidant and sedative effects in mice. In addition, combustion point, but enough to generate an inhalable terpinolene is responsible for many of the floral notes vapour. This method releases cannabinoids in vapour found in varieties. form without producing irritating toxic and carcinogenic

25 by-products. Little to no smoke is produced and a cooler Raw temperature vapour can be inhaled, thereby reducing When consuming raw cannabis, one is consuming irritation and harmful effects to the lungs, and eliminating cannabinoids in their acid form (e.g. THCA or CBDA) second-hand smoke and odour. Every cannabinoid which are non-euphoric alkaloids. By eating or juicing has its own optimal vapourization temperature ranging raw cannabis in its natural state, there is no “high” to from 140 to 220℃. Setting your vapourizer to 225℃ is speak of. Drinking fresh-squeezed cannabis juice (similar a good way to ensure that you are getting all available to wheat grass juice) or eating raw cannabis as a leafy cannabinoids without combustion. Anything above green vegetable is a preferred means of consumption for 235℃ will begin the combustion process. individuals in search of particular health benefits without Dabbing the euphoric experience. Dabbing is a flash vapourization of concentrates applied Sublingual to a hot surface. This method of consuming cannabis Latin for “under the tongue”, sublingual consumption provides a heavy dose of active cannabinoids in a small of cannabis involves placing precisely decarboxylated package. cannabis under the tongue, allowing the cannabinoids to immediately enter the bloodstream through vessel-rich Using a special tool that heats up a bowl until it is red tissues. It is socially acceptable, convenient, and one of hot or about 345℃, then a metal utensil called a dab the preferred methods of treatment for many cancer tool to take a small amount of concentrated extract, dab patients who take full extract oils to relieve pain. it on the hot bowl, and inhale. The extract will instantly vaporize and produce a strong smooth hit. Suppository For serious conditions, “back door medicine,” or rectal Compared to smoking, dabbing provides quick and delivery of cannabis, provides the greatest amount of strong delivery of THC into the body and is meant for plant medicine delivered with zero euphoric effects. more seasoned or connoisseur users. Whereas smoking typically delivers about a 25% efficiency Ingesting Orally rate, the efficiency rate of suppositories is up to 70%, with Consuming cannabis is most commonly associated predictable results. This provides maximum medicine with edibles such as baked goods, candies, chocolates, with maximum relief, little to no euphoria, and fewer side smoothies, and spreads. It can also be mixed with healthy effects. meal options, eaten raw or even juiced. It can take up to an hour to feel the effects, and in general less cannabis is required with the effects lasting longer than traditional smoking.

27 Topical Cannabinoids, much like the active ingredients in other medications, can also be absorbed through the skin. Products designed for this functionality are known as cannabis topicals. The skin has a relatively complex absorption process that involves a chemical’s ability to dissolve in H20. Examples of topical products include creams, balms and even patches.

DOSING Dosing refers to the amount of cannabis consumed in order to achieve a desired effect. Dosage amounts will be highly dependent on the ailment being treated, the method of delivery, other prescriptions or substances being consumed, and individual tolerance levels. It is always best determined by a doctor. As an organization and as responsible individuals, we do not recommend dosage and refer users to discuss with medical authorities. Having said that, many jurisdictions have set standard dosages and recommend a maximum dose of THC to be 10mg.

29 CANNABIS AND THE HUMAN BODY The first historical reference to cannabis as a medicinal treatment dates back to 2737 BC in China. It was prescribed as a treatment for rheumatism, gout and malaria, and in the ensuring four millennia, its usage and applications spread around the world. Below is a list of some of the diseases and conditions that can be treated with cannabis. • Alzheimer’s Disease • Arthritis • Chronic Pain • Diabetes • Dystonia • Epilepsy • Fibromyalgia • Gastrointestinal Disorders. • Cancer / Gliomas • Hepatitis C • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) • Hypertension • Incontinence • MS (Multiple Sclerosis) • Osteoporosis • Pruritus (Itching) • Sleep Apnea • Tourette Syndrome

31 It’s incredible and important to note that there has yet to be a single reported death linked to cannabis overdose, worldwide. In fact, you’d have to consume 20,000 to 40,000 times the average dose in order for cannabis to kill you, the equivalent of somehow consuming 1,500 pounds (680 kg) of cannabis in 15 minutes.

Studies published to date on the side effects of cannabis are based almost exclusively on strains high in THC and low in CBD. Below are some of the known side effects of cannabis high in THC:

• In large doses, THC can induce auditory and visual hallucination.

• Acute effects while under the influence can include both euphoria and anxiety.

• Concerns have been raised about the potential for long-term to increase risk for schizophrenia, depersonalization disorder, bipolar disorders, and major depression. However, studies thus far have been are inconclusive and the ultimate conclusions on these factors are disputed.

• Dry Mouth, an uncomfortable feeling due to lack of saliva.

• Increased consumption, although this is often used as a benefit for cancer patients.

SIDE EFFECTS OF • Withdrawal.

CANNABIS Effects of cannabis generally range from 10 minutes to “Remember that guy who died from cannabis 8 hours, depending on the potency of the dose, other consumption?” – said No-One. Ever. substances consumed, method of administration, setting, and personal tolerance to the drug’s various effects.

33 AEROPONICS GLOSSARY This term refers to the method of growing plants in an environment of air or mist. Plants receive nutrients through infused water.

AROMA The term used to describe the general smell and/or taste of a certain plant or flower. Because consumers’ individual definition of aromas (such as “earthy,” skunky,” or “citrus“) can differ somewhat, aromatic descriptions are used as a basic guideline. AQUAPONICS A system that combines conventional aquaculture with hydroponics. In this system, water is fed through a hydroponic system breaking down by-products into readily available nutrients. Water is then circulated back into the aquaponic system.

BONG A large pipe, usually made of glass, that uses water to diffuse and cool the smoke as you breathe it into your lungs.

BLUNT Cannabis wrapped in a tobacco leaf cigar or cigarillo paper. The cigar may be hollowed out and then rerolled with cannabis, and the origin of the name was coined due to the popularity of the brand Phillies Cigars. Blunts often burn longer than joints and are usually found in larger social gatherings.

BUBBLER A handheld pipe, usually made of glass, with a water reservoir at the bottom to cool and diffuse the smoke before it is inhaled.

Precisely-dosed products 35 BUD CBD Bud refers to the actual flower of the cannabis plant. CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol, one of the at These are the fluffy parts that are harvested and used for least 85 cannabinoids found in cannabis and the second recreational or medicinal purposes as they contain the only to THC when it comes to average volume. CBD highest concentrations of active cannabinoids. has gained support for its use as a medical treatment as research has shown it effectively treats pain, inflammation, and anxiety without the euphoric effects This is the attendant working behind the counter at your (the “high” or “stoned” feeling) associated with THC. High local dispensary or retail who may be able CBD strains, such as Harlequin, are being bred more to answer your questions on strains, cannabis products, actively and appearing more frequently on the market. and make suggestions based on your needs. CANNABINOIDS CLONE Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds unique to This refers to a clipping from a cannabis plant, which can cannabis that act upon the human body’s cannabinoid then be rooted and grown through a cloning process of receptors, producing various effects including pain relief the mother plant, from which the clone was cut. and other medically beneficial uses. The most well- CONCENTRATES known cannabinoid in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol Concentrates are a potent consolidation of cannabinoids (THC) due to the fact that it is the most abundant, and that are made by removing trichomes from cannabis also because it produces the euphoric effects (or the either through sieving (/hash) or through the use of “high”) that drives the plant’s recreational use. a solvent, such as supercritical CO2, butane or ethanol. CANNABIS The resulting product has very high cannabinoid content Cannabis is a plant genus that produces three species compared to dried flowers and can produce varying of flowering plants: Cannabis sativa, , products that range from thick sticky oils (honey oil) to and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis moldable goo (budder/wax) to resinous bits (shatter). indica are used to produce both recreational and medical Referred to by a variety of slang terms, the classification cannabis. Cannabis ruderalis is rarely farmed due to its of concentrates is often dependent on the manufacturing natural lower THC content and small stature. Cannabis is method and the consistency of the final product. native to Asia, but grows almost anywhere and has been DAB/DABBING cultivated for thousands of years both for the production A dab is a slang term used to refer to a dose of cannabis of hemp and to be used as a medicinal drug. concentrates “dabbed” onto a red-hot surface and inhaled. The act of “dabbing” refers to partaking in dabs.

37 DECARBOXYLATION FLOWERS In order to access the full psychoactive effects of While cannabis flowers don’t have traditional petals or cannabis, you must first put it through a process called look like daisies, they are still the reproductive organ decarboxylation. To decarboxylate your herb, you of the female plants. Cannabis flowers are the hairy, need to heat it very precisely. The heat transforms the sticky, crystal-covered bits that are harvested and dried cannabinoid acids into a form that is readily usable by the to be used as medication. When they are allowed to body. be fertilized by male plants, these flowers will produce cannabis seeds. If not, they will continue to produce the DISPENSARY resin that contains their active cannabinoids until they are Dispensary is a general term used to refer to any location harvested or begin to die. where a patient or consumer can legitimately and safely access cannabis, whether the business is technically an HEMP access point, pick-up location. co-op, collective or any Hemp is a fibrous product that can be produced from the other version of a legal cannabis distributor. male cannabis plant and can be used in the manufacture of rope, paper, beauty products, and a vast array of other EDIBLES products. Hemp plants have no value as a drug since Edibles are medicated edible goods that have been they are males. However, they are still considered illegal infused with cannabis extracts. They are commonly in many parts of the world including the United States. baked goods such as cookies and brownies, but options as varied as flavored coffee drinks, breads, and candies HYBRID exist too. Dispensaries also often sell cannabis-infused Hybrid refers to a plant that is genetically a cross butters or oils for patients or consumers to make their between one or more separate strains of cannabis. own edibles. Consuming edibles means the active Hybrids can happen unintentionally, but they are usually components from the extracts require more time before bred specifically to combine desired traits of the original the desired effect, as they need to be absorbed through plants. Most cannabis on the market today is some form the digestive system. of hybrid.

FEMINIZED HYDROPONICS Feminized plants come from seeds that have been Hydroponics refers to a system of gardening that does selectively bred to produce only female plants. Since not use soil. Plants are grown in water and receive their female plants are the ones that produce flowers (which nutrients from the addition of solutions rather than is where most of cannabis’ cannabinoids are found), soil. For growers, hydroponic advantages include more they are the only ones that are used to create cannabis control over nutrient intake and stability. In terms of products. cannabis production, plants grown hydroponically are sometimes said to have cleaner, more distinct flavors.

39 INDICA and include strains that are from areas such as South Indica is the less scientific name for the Cannabis Indica America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Thailand. These species of cannabis. Generally these plants originated strains typically grow taller as plants, are lighter in color in the Middle East and Asia and include both of the and take longer to flower. When consumed, Sativas tend famous and Afghan lineages. These plants are to produce more cerebral effects as opposed to physical typically shorter, bushier and have more compact flower and sedative ones. structure. This species tends to produce more relaxing SHATTER physical effects and can have a sedative quality. Shatter is a terms used to refer to oil that has KUSH been extracted at lot temperatures with the use of Kush refers to a line of cannabis plants that hail from the hydrocarbons. This extract is then baked in a vacuum Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Kush oven to create a glass like substance used for dabbing. strains are indicas and have a unique aroma that have SUGAR WAX given them a large fan base. Specific breeds and plants Oil extracted from cold alcohol, cured and vacuumed are unique, but their aroma is generally described as at low temperatures to preserve terpenes. Also used for “earthy” and often piney combined with citrus or sweet. dabbing. STRAIN Marijuana is the general term for female cannabis plants A strain, also known as cultivar, chemovar, chemotype, or their dried flowers. Females are distinct from male is a specific variety of a plant species. Strains are plants in that they are the ones that produce flowers developed to produce distinct desired traits in the plant which contain the high percentage of cannabinoids that and are usually named by their breeders (or by creative hold both their medicinal and psychoactive properties. consumers). Strain names often reflect the plant’s PRE-ROLL appearance, its promised buzz, or its place of origin. Pre-roll is a commonly used term that refers to a pre- THC rolled cannabis cigarette, also known as a joint. Many THC is an abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol. It is dispensaries have pre-rolls available for purchase. the most well-known and most abundantly available PULL cannabinoid in cannabis plants. THC is also the To inhale or a draw from a joint or vape pen. component in cannabis that is responsible for the euphoric effects, or the “high.” SATIVA Sativa is the less scientific name for the cannabis sativa species of cannabis plant. In general, these plants originated outside of the Middle East and Asia

41 TINCTURE since there is no smoke to ingest, but this method still A tincture is a liquid cannabis extract usually made with produces near instant effects. With new, more compact alcohol or glycerol that is often dosed with a dropper. models on the market, vapourizing is growing in Tinctures can be flavoured and are usually placed under popularity. the tongue, where they are absorbed quickly. Effects can WEED be felt within minutes. Tinctures can also be mixed into a Weed is a slang term for cannabis. drink, but in these cases effects will take longer because the tinctures will be absorbed by the digestive system.

TOKE To take a drag or puff off a joint or vape pen.

TOPICAL A topical is a type of cannabis product where the active properties of the flowers have been extracted and added to a product such as a lotion or a cream that’s applied to the skin. The medicinal properties are absorbed through the skin and can be used to treat muscle aches, long term soreness, or ailments like dry skin.

TRICHOME Trichomes are the production glands of the cannabis plant. In Greek the word means “growth of hair,” and while these sticky little protrusions can make plants appear a little hairy, they are not hairs, nor are they “crystals,” which is how they are often described. THC, CBD and other cannabinoids are all produced in these glands.

VAPOURIZER A vapourizer is a device used to consume cannabis. It heats either flowers or cannabis-infused oils to a temperature that produces a cannabinoid-laced vapour to inhale. Vapourizing is healthier than smoking

43 RESOURCE GUIDE

□ The Pot Book: A Complete Guide to Cannabis by □ Medicaljane.com Julie Holland MD □ CannaSOS.com □ The Emperor Wears No Clothes by Jack Herer □ ProjectCBD.org □ Cannabis Policy: Moving Beyond Stalemate □ Cannabis Industry Journal □ Marihuana: The First Twelve Thousand Years by □ Phylos Bioscience Ernest Abel

□ The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World Films by Michael Pollan □ The Culture High (2015) □ Heart of Dankness: the Race for the by □ Grass: The History of Marijuana (1999) Mark Haskell Smith □ The Union: The Business Behind Getting High (2007) □ A New Leaf: The End of Cannabis Prohibition by □ 420: The Documentary (2013) Alyson Martin □ American Drug War 2: Cannabis Destiny □ Humboldt: Life on America’s Marijuana Frontier by Emily Brady □ When we Grow, This is What We Do □ Smoke Signals, A Social History of Marijuana by □ Weediquette (Vice TV series) Martin A. Lee □ A Normal Life (2011) □ The Cannabis Pharmacy by Michael Backes, □ Clearing the Smoke: The Science of Cannabis (2011) □ The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids by □ The Scientist The Life and Work of Raphael the National Academies of Sciences Mechoulam (2015) □ The Cannabis Health Index by Uwe Blesching, PHD □ Prescribed Grass (2009)

Websites □ The Cannabis Trade Alliance of Canada: sustainablecannabis.ca □ TheWeedblog.com

45 NOTES

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