Cannabis Explained: Terminology, Classification, History, Cannabinoids, Uses

What is Cannabis / Marijuana?

To begin with, do not get confused. Colloquially, Cannabis is often as Cannabis does. Just as the term tomato could inter-changeably be used to refer to the plant, its fruit, whole or sliced, diced, dried, or pureed, so too, Cannabis could refer to the plant or any of it’s parts, in any of its forms, concentrations, extractions, or incantations.

Generally though, as the Order name Rosales might suggest, it’s the flower or bud that produces the trichomes that contain the Cannabinoids and Terpenes and their aromas that attract the attention of us homo sapiens and given access, most mammals. It is the bud or flowers that are mostly dried and then used for infusions, extractions, tinctures, creams, ingested, smoked, or vapourized.

There are any number of regionally or language-specific synonyms for Cannabis the most common English ones however are: Marijuana, Ganja, Weed, Pot, Dope, Sweet Mary Jane, Herb, Bud, Reefer, Blunt, Joint, and in South Africa: Dagga, Zol, and Boom.

All these terms are often used interchangeably to refer to dried bud, oil, and edibles. However, “Cannabis” is the most scientifically accurate and widely used term to refer to the plant and its products.

The Scientific Classification of Cannabis Explained

As far as the scientific classification of life on earth and more specifically plants are concerned, i.e. kingdom, division, class, order, family, genus, and species. Cannabis firstly falls under the Kingdom: Plantae or plants then the Division: Magnoliophyte or flowering plants of which some 300 000 species have been identified. The Class: Magnoliopsida or dicotyledons follows.

Thereafter comes the Order: Rosales, with some 7700 species which include many of our favorite fruits and berries, like apples, pears, peaches, plums, apricots, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, mulberries, figs, almonds, and even hops.

Then comes the rather small Family: Cannabaceae comprising about 170 species grouped in about 11 genera, one of which is the Genus: Cannabis. Here is where things get a bit mucky though, some consider Cannabis Sativa to be the main species with the 3 others, Hemp, Indica, and Ruderalis being subspecies thereof. Still, others believe that given their unique characteristics and distinct evolutionary histories as well as their localities of origin. That Indica and Ruderalis are indeed separate species in their own right.

Thereafter, decades of selective breeding and crossbreeding have resulted in there literally being thousands of different strains / sub-species of cannabis, each with varied combinations and concentrations of, cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, etc.) and terpenes (aromatic compounds found in the plant), all of which contribute to many unique characteristics, effects, and aromas. New strains are also constantly being created and released onto the market.

To further complicate matters. There are strains that are classified as pure Indica or Sativa, though pure strains are rare nowadays. Then there are strains that are Hybrids of both, found in varying degrees of Dominance. I.O.W. A Strain could be described as 70% Indica dominant, with 30% Sativa characteristics or 60/40 Sativa dominant. Others are said to be balanced 50/50, Sativa/Indica.

The introduction of Hemp and Ruderalis has further broadened the consumers’ horizons. Strains that balance cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, known as 1:1 strains and CBD strains that contain virtually no THC, CBD are now available on the marketplace. These strains offer the benefits of the Cannabinoids without the High

This discord and confusion are in no small measure due to the high level of genetic diversity within the Cannabis plant. Whilst there is ongoing research on the relationships between different strains and their classification. There is also much uncertainty about the origins and evolution of many of the different Cannabis subspecies, which makes classification somewhat uncertain. This may change as more research is conducted into the genetics and evolution of the Cannabis plant. However, given the past and current ever-expanding pool of genetic traits extracted by breeders and whisked around the world by airplanes in the sky, ships on the oceans, and the wind, we doubt the puzzle will ever fully be solved. The spread of the Cannabis plant and or its seeds have indeed outrun science.

With over 500 different chemical compounds found in Cannabis, 120 or so of which are phytocannabinoids. The answer most probably lies somewhere in the concentration or combination of Cannabinoids and terpenes present in any given strain.

The 3 Species of Cannabis Explained:

For our purposes, we will follow the commonly held belief that there are three main species of the Cannabis Genus namely Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis. Hemp given its lanky stature is classified as a subspecies of Cannabis Sativa.

1. Cannabis Sativa:

Native to Central America, South America, and perhaps Africa. Cannabis sativa is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 4-5 meters. Characteristically a tall, slender plant with thin leaves and a longish flowering period (6 months). Though native to hot, humid climates Sativas grow well in tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean climates.

Famed for producing high levels of THC the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” that accompanies the consumption of Marijuana.

Cannabis Sativa has for centuries and is often used for spiritual, social, and recreational purposes and is also used medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions.

2. Cannabis Indica:

Native to the Midddle East, Himalayas, and other parts of Asia. Cannabis Indica is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 1.2 meters. Characteristically a bushy, broad-leafed, short, and stocky of stature plant. With a shorter flowering period, 3-5months, than Cannabis Sativa, Indica strains are well suited to indoor cultivation and cooler climates that suffer shorter summers.

Though originating from somewhat colder climates most Indicas do well in Tropical, Sub-Tropical, and Mediterranean climates.

Cannabis Indica typically has a higher ratio of CBD to THC, whilst some would say that this may produce less psychoactive effects compared to Sativa strains. Most Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sometimes highly sedative effects.

Cannabis Indica has for centuries been, and is often used for spiritual, social, and recreational purposes and is also used medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions.

3. Cannabis Ruderalis:

Cannabis Ruderalis is native to the higher altitudes of Central and Eastern Europe. The harsh environment and short summers that Ruderalis has adapted to have given it a unique trait. Ruderalis, unlike its cousins which are known as photoperiod, and which require at least 12 hours of light to produce flowers, switches to flower automatically after a few weeks of growth and is fast flowering, 2-3 months are required for mature flowers.

Given its truly diminutive stature, yield, and potency Cannabis Ruderalis is of little commercial or social interest.

Except, for what it has in its genes. Cannabis Ruderalis has adapted to a near Arctic summer climate and the associated conditions. Some years winter might come early or summer late. Therefore, Ruderalis has evolved to automatically switch to flower and to have a short flowering period. This, combined with its evolved hardiness, and then crossbred with Sativa and Indica strains has produced a new type of marijuana, Auto-Flowering Cannabis, the arrival of which for beginner and indoor growers alike has been the proverbial game changer.

What is Hemp?

Hemp is a subspecies of the Cannabis Sativa plant, and because it contains negligible amounts of THC is grown specifically for its fibers, seeds, and oil. It is a type of non-psychoactive cannabis which has industrial, commercial, and agricultural applications such as rope, textiles, paper, bioplastics, biofuels, animal feed, cosmetics, and medicines. In some countries, Hemp is classified as that variety of Cannabis with a THC content of below 0.3%. Despite this hemp was almost always included in the prohibition and criminalization of Cannabis in the early 1900s.

Hemp is often confused with marijuana, but there are several key differences between the two. In addition to its lower levels of THC, hemp plants are typically taller and leaner than marijuana plants and have longer and slimmer leaves. Hemp is also typically grown for its fibers and seeds, while marijuana is grown for its psychoactive effects and medicinal properties.

The History of Cannabis Explained:

The Cannabis Genus is quite old, fossilized pollen dating back some ninety million years has been unearthed and some evidence might suggest that Cannabis has been used for industrial, spiritual, medicinal, and recreational purposes for thousands of years.

Prohibition Era

Cannabis has a long and complex history of prohibition, criminalization, and legal regulation by colonial governments and others from as early as the 1600s. In the early 20th century, however, many countries began to regulate and criminalize Cannabis, in part due to concerns about its potential negative effects and alleged links to crime among others, though often motivated by economic or social, and even racial concerns or control. And, some would argue, because it posed a significant threat to the cotton industry.

In the Southern African context, it is known that Khoisan and Bantu peoples were using Cannabis before the arrival of the Dutch and others in 1652 and onwards. Cannabis, therefore, has been regulated in one way or another since the arrival of Dutch colonialists. Cannabis experienced a major crack-down during the apartheid years and was stigmatized along racial lines.

Liberalization Era

Only recently has the balance of opinion and legislation begun to sway in favour of the legalization of Marijuana.

Unfortunately, much of the knowledge that was gathered over the preceding centuries regarding the traditional use of Cannabis as a medicine has been lost through suppression during the roughly 80-year period of prohibition.

Whilst there is still much to be learned about Cannabis, at least it could be said that the tide is turning.

Why do people consume cannabis explained?

For a variety of reasons, including spiritual, medicinal, psychological, and recreational purposes.

Some people use cannabis to relax and enhance their mood or creativity, or for meditation purposes while others use it to cope with depression, stress, anxiety, or pain. Cannabis is also often used to help with sleep and to increase appetite.

In the medical field, cannabis, and its derivatives, such as CBD (cannabidiol), have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease. Some psychological studies have also suggested that cannabis may be useful in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

It’s important to note that whilst there is arguably a treasure trove of anecdotal evidence about the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use, research is arguably in it’s infancy, and there is an ongoing debate over the safety and efficacy of cannabis as a treatment for various conditions.

In conclusion, we along with most mammals have receptors in our brains, internal organs, and spinal cords, that allow the compounds or Cannabinoids found in Cannabis to alter our mood and perception and potentially our health. We derive pleasure and potentially other health benefits from Cannabis consumption. Many would ask, why would we have an endocannabinoid system in our bodies if there were no benefits to be gained?

Moderation and research could be key.

What are Cannabinoids and Terpenes?

Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant that can attach to the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is responsible for regulating our health and well-being.

We now know that there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis, but the most well-known are, THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD cannabidiol (cannabidiol). THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the plant’s intoxicating effects. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and has been shown to have several potential therapeutic benefits.

Terpenes are a class of aromatic compounds found in many plants. They are responsible for the unique aromas of different strains of cannabis and are thought to have several potential therapeutic benefits.

It is important to note that Cannabinoids and Terpenes work together to produce the unique effects of different strains of cannabis. This phenomenon is known as the Entourage Effect. The various combinations and concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes in a particular strain of cannabis can produce varied effects, ranging from relaxing and calming to energizing and uplifting.

Both cannabinoids and terpenes are of interest for their potential therapeutic benefits and are active areas of study.

Here is a list of 10 of the most abundant and researched Cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant:

1. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the plant’s intoxicating effects. It is the most abundant cannabinoid in the plant and is found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis.
2. Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has a number of potential therapeutic benefits. Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis and is widely used in medical cannabis products.
3. Cannabinol (CBN): CBN is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is produced when THC breaks down. Found in lower concentrations in the plant it is thought to have sedative effects.
4. Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): THCV is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is present in lower concentrations in the plant. Thought to have energizing effects and may have potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as obesity and diabetes.
5. Cannabigerol (CBG): CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs in lower concentrations in the plant. Thought to have several potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
6. Cannabichromene (CBC): CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is found in low concentrations in the plant. It is thought to have several potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
7. Cannabidivarin (CBDV): CBDV is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is chemically similar to cannabidiol (CBD) and has been shown to have some potential therapeutic properties, including anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research on CBDV is still in the early stages, and studies investigating its potential as an anti-seizure medication, it has also been suggested that it may be effective in treating other neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Fingers Crossed.
8. Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA): CBDA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the raw, unheated form of cannabis. It is the precursor to cannabidiol (CBD) and is converted to CBD through decarboxylation, typically achieved by either heat or the passage of time. At the time of publishing Preclinical Studies have shown CBDA to have anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and anti-proliferative properties (Cancer inhibiting). It also has potential anti-anxiety and antipsychotic properties. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
9. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA): THCA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is found in the raw, unheated form of cannabis. It is the precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and as in CBDA heat or time converts THCA to THC. THCA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties in preclinical studies, as well as potential as an antipsychotic and analgesic. Further studies are needed to establish this definitely. It can be consumed in its raw form THCA which is not psychoactive, however, beware consuming high doses of THCA could cause some psychoactive effects.
10. Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is considered the “parent” or “stem cell” cannabinoid of the cannabis plant. CBGA is the precursor to the three main branches of cannabinoids: tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromenic acid (CBCA). Through a process called biosynthesis, CBGA is converted into these three acids, which are then further converted into their corresponding neutral cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBC) through decarboxylation. CBGA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and analgesic properties in preclinical studies.
11. Some of the lesser present and known Cannabinoids are: Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP)
12. Cannabicyclol (CBL)
13. Cannabielsoin (CBE)
14. Cannabitriol (CBT)
15. Cannabicitran (CBT)
16. Cannabifuran (CBF)
17. Cannabigerol-type (CBG-type)
18. Cannabichromene-type (CBC-type)
19. Cannabicyclolic acid (CBLA)
20. Cannabicitran acid (CBTA)

Here is a list of 6 of the most abundant and researched Terpenes found in the Cannabis plant:

1. Myrcene: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its musky, earthy aroma and is thought to have sedative effects.
2. Limonene: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its citrusy aroma and is thought to have uplifting and energizing effects.
3. Pinene: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its piney aroma and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.
4. Linalool: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its floral aroma and is thought to have sedative and anxiolytic effects.
5. Caryophyllene: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its spicy, woody aroma and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
6. Terpinolene: Found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis. It is known for its woody, floral aroma and is thought to have sedative and anxiolytic effects.
7. Humulene: Humulene is a terpene found in the essential oils of many plants, including hops, coriander, and ginseng, as well as in certain strains of cannabis. It has a woody, earthy aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Humulene is also known as an appetite suppressant, which could be useful for people trying to lose weight. It’s also been studied for its antibacterial properties, and its ability to act as an immunomodulator, meaning it can help modulate the immune system. Humulene is found in high concentrations in certain strains of cannabis, such as certain types of OG Kush, and in combination with other terpenes, it can produce different effects. It’s important to note that while humulene is one of the terpenes found in cannabis, its effects and concentrations vary depending on the strain, and it’s usually found in trace amounts. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of humulene and its potential therapeutic properties.
8. Ocimene: Ocimene is a terpene found in a variety of plants, including mint, parsley, basil, and oregano, as well as in certain strains of cannabis. It has a fresh, herbaceous aroma with a hint of sweetness, and is known for its antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. In preclinical studies, Ocimene has been shown to have pain-relieving properties, and it’s also been studied for its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. It’s also been used in aromatherapy for its refreshing and invigorating effects.
9. Nerolidol: Nerolidol is a terpene found in various plants, including ginger, lavender, and jasmine, as well as in certain strains of cannabis. It has a woody, earthy aroma with a hint of floral and fruity notes, and is known for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties. Nerolidol has been studied for its potential as an anti-fungal and anti-malaria agent. It has also been found to have strong sedative properties, making it a good candidate for sleep-inducing products.
10. Bisabolol: Bisabolol is a terpene found in several plants, including Chamomile and Candeia trees, as well as in certain strains of cannabis. It has a floral, fresh aroma and is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, and analgesic properties. Bisabolol has been studied for its potential as a wound healing agent, it has been found to have a soothing effect on the skin, and it’s also been used in the formulation of cosmetics and skin care products.
11. Here is a list of some of the lesser known Terpenes that are found in cannabis: Bisabolene
12. Fenchol
13. Ledol
14. Isopulegol
15. Sabinene
16. Borneol
17. Camphene
18. Phellandrene
19. Terpineol
20. Valencene

Remember that Cannabinoids & Terpenes are found in varying degrees in various cannabis strains and that it is the combination of terpenes and cannabinoids in any particular strain of cannabis that can produce a range of effects, known as the entourage effect.

What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?

Interestingly the discovery of Cannabinoids preceded the discovery of the ECS. Israeli researchers Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni isolated and synthesized delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) back in 1964.

The ECS is a complex network of receptors and signaling molecules that plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. When the body is in a state of homeostasis, all of its systems are functioning properly and working together to support overall health and well-being. The ECS is made up of three main components: endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are signaling molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors, which are found on the surface of cells. The human body has 2 types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 receptors are found mainly in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and other organs.

Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they have been used. This process is important because it self-regulates the activity of the ECS.

Discovered in the 1990s, the ECS was obviously named for the Cannabis plant, and the cannabinoids it contains that interact with the ECS.

Researchers continue to uncover more about the ECS and its vital role in various physiological processes. It is now known to play a role in a wide range of functions and is also involved in the body’s response to stress and the immune system.

There are more than 550 chemical compounds in cannabis, more than 100 Phyto-cannabinoids, and more than 100 different aromatic terpenes. Yet many of these compounds have only recently been discovered and lifetimes of study lie in wait.

What are 1:1 Cannabis Strains and why are they becoming so popular?

1:1 cannabis strains are strains that have an equal ratio of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that is believed to have a number of potential health benefits.

1:1 strains are becoming increasingly popular because they offer the potential for a balanced, harmonious experience that combines the psychoactive effects of THC with the potential health benefits of CBD. Some users report that 1:1 strains provide a more mellow, relaxing high that is less intense than strains with higher levels of THC.

1:1 strains may be particularly appealing to people who are looking for the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis but are concerned about the psychoactive effects of THC. They may also be a good choice for people who are new to cannabis or who have a low tolerance for THC.

1:1 cannabis strains are strains that have an equal ratio of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that is believed to have a number of potential health benefits.

1:1 strains are becoming increasingly popular because they offer the potential for a balanced, harmonious experience that combines the psychoactive effects of THC with the potential health benefits of CBD. Some users report that 1:1 strains provide a more mellow, relaxing high that is less intense than strains with higher levels of THC.

1:1 strains may be particularly appealing to people who are looking for the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis but are concerned about the psychoactive effects of THC. They may also be a good choice for people who are new to cannabis or who have a low tolerance for THC.