By William Brown, Certified Cannabis Educator

This article is meant to help one describe the effects of Cannabis more accurately than using the terms "indica," "sativa," or "hybrid'.

In my humble opinion, it is more effective to highlight the (specific) chemical components of the plant, particularly cannabinoids and terpenes. These compounds have a direct influence on how Cannabis affects the mind and body.

Now, let's take a look at a little background and some suggested ways one can go about identifying what works beyond a name, utilizing the following terms and information for chemical profiling...

Utilizing Chemical Profiling

1. Cannabinoid Profile: 

a) THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):

The well-known misunderstood intoxicating compound in Cannabis is responsible for the feeling of being "high." Varieties high in THC can produce euphoria, altered perception, pain relief, reduced inflammation and stress, and induce relaxation, etc. THC can also cause anxiety or paranoia in some users, especially in higher doses. It is best to start low and go slow with THC dominant varieties until personal awareness is built. Tracking your dose and frequency is very helpful in guiding personal awareness and reaching your optimal dose.

b) CBD (Cannabidiol):

Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating and is often used for its therapeutic effects, such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain, to mention a few. Varieties high in CBD and low in THC are less likely to cause intoxication.

2. Ratio:

Some varieties have a balanced ratio of THC and CBD (kind of rare these days to be honest), which can modulate the intoxicating effects and provide therapeutic benefits without overwhelming intoxication. For example, a 1:1 THC/CBD ratio might offer relaxation and pain relief with milder intoxication. As the THC goes lower in any ratio of cannabinoids, the intoxication level also lessens.

3. Terpene Profile:

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in Cannabis that contribute to its flavor, smell, and, importantly, its therapeutic effects.

The following is a short list of a few common terpenes and their potential effects...

a) Myrcene:

Often associated with sedative and relaxing effects, it is commonly found in varieties that might have been labeled as "indica."

b) Limonene:

Known for its citrus scent; is thought to have mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties, which might be more energizing, often found in varieties that might be labeled "sativa."

c) Pinene:

Associated with alertness, memory retention, and focus. Often found in varieties that might be labeled "sativa."

d) Linalool:

Known for its floral scent, linalool has calming and anti-anxiety properties, often found in varieties that provide relaxation. Often found in varieties that might be labeled "indica".

e) Caryophyllene:

This spicy, peppery terpene is unique because it can interact directly with the body's endocannabinoid system and has anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving effects. It is often found in any variety that might be labeled a "hybrid," which is just a Cannabis variety that is a combination of the chemical components that may be labeled as "indica" or "sativa" individually.

Utilizing Individual Descriptors

1. Effect-Based Descriptions:

Instead of using "indica," "sativa," or "hybrid," try to describe the expected effects based on a chemical profile built from the descriptions above.

a) Relaxing:

Ideal for evening use, relaxation, stress relief, sleep aid, etc.... Varieties high in myrcene or linalool, with a high THC content, might fall into this category.

b) Energizing:

Suitable for daytime use, providing focus, creativity, or an uplifting mood. Varieties high in limonene or pinene with moderate THC levels might be labeled as energizing.

c) Balanced:

Offers a mix of relaxation and mental clarity, suitable for use at any time of day. Varieties with a balanced THC ratio and diverse terpene profiles might provide these effects.

d) Therapeutic:

Targeted for specific medical symptoms like pain, inflammation, anxiety, or seizures. These varieties often have a higher CBD and/or other cannabinoid content and are chosen based on the specific condition being treated.

2. Using "Strain" Names as a Starting Point:

While "strain" names are still most commonly used, they should absolutely be supplemented with information about the variety's cannabinoid and terpene profile and expected effects. Moving away from the "strain name" provides a more comprehensive understanding than relying solely on traditional "strain" information and may help us clarify and understand what works for us as individuals.

Conclusion

Based on what I have gathered here, it seems the most accurate way to describe the effects of Cannabis goes well beyond a few choice words.

If we keep the focus on the cannabinoid and terpene profiles, coupled with the use of effect-based descriptions of what works for us as individuals, we are certainly on our way to a greater understanding. Not only of self but of how Cannabis can be the medicine it is.

So, in the end, this function of form WILL provide a more effective way to understand and possibly predict the effects of different Cannabis varieties to improve our well-being and our quality of life in the most enjoyable, effective, and responsible manner possible.

 If you would like further guidance on how this practice can be beneficial, please peruse our directory of vetted Cannabis coaches and educators who are always willing to lend a hand.

Additional Resources

1. Cannabinoid-Terpene Synergy (Entourage Effect):

Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential Cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. This study discusses how terpenes, such as myrcene, limonene, and pinene, interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to modulate psychoactive and therapeutic effects, creating the so-called "entourage effect." 

2. The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids and Terpenes:

Ferber, S. G., Namdar, D., Hen-Shoval, D., Eger, G., Koltai, H., Shoval, G., Weller, A., & Mechoulam, R. (2020). The “entourage effect”: Terpenes coupled with cannabinoids for the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety disorders. This study highlights the role of terpenes and cannabinoids in modulating the effects of Cannabis, especially in therapeutic contexts for anxiety and mood disorders. 

3. Terpenes and their influence on Effects:

Booth, J. K., & Bohlmann, J. (2019). Terpenes in Cannabis sativa – From plant genome to humans. This paper explores how terpenes contribute to the effects of Cannabis and interact with cannabinoids to produce diverse psychoactive effects.

4. The Role of Cannabinoids:

Atakan, Z. (2012). Cannabis, a complex plant: Different compounds and different effects on individuals. This review provides insights into THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, highlighting how they influence the mind and body differently.

5. Relevance of Chemical Profiling in Cannabis:

Lewis, M. A., Russo, E. B., & Smith, K. M. (2018). Phytocannabinoids and terpenoids: The future of Cannabis-based therapeutics. This article explains why focusing on the full chemical profile of Cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes, is a better predictor of effects than simply using strain names.

About William Brown:

William owns and operates WbC Therapeutics, a company based on the therapeutic application of Cannabis as medicine. He is also a patient and authorized caregiver in his state. William is a certified Cannabis educator and coach.

Contact William at WbC Therapeutics through the e-mail link below to learn more about his services.

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.