Cannabis 101: What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis has been used by people for thousands of years, but many customers are still learning how it works, what different products do, and how to choose the right experience. Whether you are completely new to cannabis or simply looking to understand it better, this guide covers the basics.
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, memory, and discomfort.
The two best-known cannabinoids are:
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary compound responsible for the intoxicating or “high” feeling associated with cannabis. Depending on the product, dose, and individual, THC may produce feelings of relaxation, happiness, creativity, increased appetite, or altered perception.
CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, does not typically produce an intoxicating high. Many people choose CBD products for relaxation, recovery, or general wellness. Some cannabis products contain mostly CBD, while others combine CBD and THC.
Cannabis also contains many other cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, and CBC, which researchers continue to study.
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its smell and flavor. They are also found throughout nature in fruits, herbs, flowers, and trees.
For example:
Limonene often has a bright, citrus-like aroma.
Myrcene may smell earthy, herbal, or musky.
Pinene has a fresh scent similar to pine trees.
Linalool has a soft, floral aroma also found in lavender.
Caryophyllene often smells spicy or peppery.
Terpenes may also influence the overall cannabis experience. This is one reason two products with similar THC percentages can still feel very different.
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid
Cannabis products are commonly described as indica, sativa, or hybrid.
Indica products are traditionally associated with calming, relaxing, or nighttime experiences.
Sativa products are traditionally associated with uplifting, energetic, or daytime experiences.
Hybrid products combine characteristics commonly associated with both.
These categories can be useful as a starting point, but they do not tell the entire story. Cannabinoid content, terpene profile, serving size, personal tolerance, and body chemistry can all have a major impact on how a product feels.
Instead of choosing based only on indica or sativa, think about the experience you want. Are you looking to relax, socialize, sleep, create, or stay active? A knowledgeable budtender can help guide you toward products that match your goals.
Common Types of Cannabis Products
Cannabis is available in several forms, each offering a different experience.
Flower
Flower is the dried portion of the cannabis plant. It can be smoked in a joint, pipe, or other smoking device. Flower usually takes effect quickly, making it easier to understand how a particular product is affecting you.
Prerolls
Pre-rolls are ready-to-use joints filled with cannabis flower. They are convenient for customers who do not want to grind or roll flower themselves. Some pre-rolls are also infused with concentrates for added potency.
Vaporizers
Vape cartridges and disposable vaporizers heat cannabis oil without burning flower. They are portable, convenient, and typically produce less odor than smoking.
Edibles
Edibles include gummies, chocolates, beverages, baked goods, and other foods infused with cannabis. They can take longer to produce noticeable effects, and the experience may last much longer than inhaled cannabis.
Because edibles can take time to work, avoid taking more simply because you do not feel the effects immediately.
Concentrates
Concentrates are highly potent cannabis extracts available in forms such as wax, resin, rosin, shatter, and oil. These products are generally better suited for experienced consumers because of their higher cannabinoid content.
Topicals
Topicals include cannabis-infused creams, balms, lotions, and patches that are applied to the skin. Many topicals are designed for localized use and do not produce the same intoxicating effects as inhaled or edible THC products.
Understanding Potency
Higher THC does not automatically mean a better product.
A product’s quality and overall experience depend on much more than one number. Freshness, cultivation methods, cannabinoids, terpenes, dosage, and personal preference all matter.
For newer consumers, lower-potency products may provide a more comfortable and enjoyable introduction to cannabis. You can always consume more later, but you cannot reverse a serving you have already taken.
Start Low and Go Slow
Cannabis affects everyone differently. Experience, metabolism, body chemistry, food intake, tolerance, and product type can all change how quickly effects begin and how long they last.
Start with a small amount, give the product enough time to work, and avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol or other substances. Never drive or operate machinery while impaired, and always keep cannabis products secured away from children and pets.
Finding What Works for You
There is no single cannabis product that is perfect for everyone. Finding the right option may require some exploration, patience, and honest conversations about the experience you are looking for.
At Greene Street, we believe cannabis should feel approachable—not intimidating. Our team is here to answer questions, explain products, and help you make an informed decision without pressure or judgment.
Cannabis is personal. Your experience should be too.
Cannabis products are intended only for adults of legal age. Effects vary by person and product. This content is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice.
