The popularity of cannabis has skyrocketed in recent years and some states, such as New York and Colorado, have even legalized recreational marijuana. However, some individuals prefer to avoid the high and opt for hemp-derived products such as CBD.

Let’s dive right in.

What is cannabis?

Cannabis refers to products derived from the species cannabis sativa. As pointed out by Britannica, “In addition to C. sativa, some scientists consider the genus as including a second species, C. indica, and even a third, C. ruderalis. These two species are also sometimes treated as subspecies of C. sativa.”

Indica vs Sativa

Indica-dominant marijuana calms the user down whereas sativa-dominant energizes and fuels creativity. For this reason, Indica-dominant is utilized by many at bedtime.

What to Know: Start Low and Slow

Since we all have a unique Endocannabinoid System, there is no universal dose for everyone to take. Therefore it takes some experimentation to discover your optimal dose, or “sweet spot,” as CBD users call it.

If you do decide to consume cannabis, start low and slow. Do your research and start with a small dose when you are at home so you can see how it will affect you.

For instance, start with a drop or two of CBD rather than the entire dropper as the bottle may suggest. Remember your optimal dose is the lowest dose that resolves your issue or condition.

There are various types of CBD products.

Types of CBD Products

Isolate

Isolate, as its name suggests, is isolated CBD. Thus, you do not receive the benefits of the entourage effect (the synergistic benefit of multiple cannabinoids combined).

Broad Spectrum

Broad spectrum also contains multiple other cannabinoids and terpenes but not THC. It is basically the full spectrum without the THC.

What to Know About the Rising Industry of Cannabis

Cannabis is a major industry on the rise. Flowhub explains, “The marijuana industry will add nearly $100 billion to the economy.” Because cannabis is now legal in some states, the state government is allowed to collect taxes on the sales. Colorado, for example, brought in 325 million dollars just from cannabis tax revenue in 2023. In turn, they are able to use this money to improve state-funded programs, like roadways, schools, and more. Plus, cannabis has been legalized in 21 states, and due to subsequent sales, billions of dollars have been collected in taxes. Another bonus is because of the increase in sales, cannabis prices are dropping. 

All these factors are leading more and more people to try cannabis products for medical conditions (e.g., anxiety, pain) or just to enhance well-being. 

A Wide Array of Products

All things considered, there is a wide selection of cannabis products, something for nearly everyone out there. In fact, there are even variations of THC out there, legal alternatives to the Delta 9 in marijuana (Delta 8, Delta 10).

However, since much of the market is unregulated, do your research and be knowledgeable enough to make purchases of cannabis with third-party lab tests available. When you go shopping, be sure to utilize the resources available, such as budtenders and doctors who prescribe cannabis.