CANNABIS 101

Cannabis sativa L. is a species of flowering plant that originated in Asia, but thanks to its
medicinal and recreational properties, it is widely cultivated worldwide.
Technically, Cannabis sativa L. encompasses many different genetic variations, including those
grown for seed, fiber, medicine, and fun. It’s hemp. It’s medical marijuana. It’s bud. It’s everything in between.
But we are obviously not here for hemp hearts or clothing.

THE SCIENCE OF CANNABIS

Why does cannabis make us feel the way it does?
It all comes down to this plant’s natural chemical profile. Cannabis organically produces more than 400 known compounds, including 100+ cannabinoids and 150+ terpenes. These compounds interact with the human body to produce a wide variety of sensations, experiences, and for some, medicinal benefits.

CANNABINOIDS

These are the active compounds produced by cannabis, with the most notable being THC and CBD. Cannabinoids communicate directly and indirectly with our endocannabinoid system. This internal system manages mood, memory, pain, inflammation, and much more. So what’s so interesting about THC or CBD? While not the only cannabinoids, they are currently the most researched. You’ll see these cannabinoids listed on each package label, and they both play a crucial role in the product’s effects.

WHAT IS THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a formerly notorious but now much-beloved cannabinoid known for its psychoactive effects. It’s what’s responsible for the ‘high.’ Its effects range from mild relaxation to powerful relief depending on dose, tolerance level, and other factors. If you are new to THC, we’d love to teach you more.

WHAT IS CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is THC’s quiet cousin. It doesn’t trigger a high but instead works silently in the background to calm nerves and return the endocannabinoid system to a place of balance. Speaking of balance, CBD also counters some of the most psychoactive effects of THC, which means these two work beautifully together.

TERPENES

The flavor and aroma we all associate with cannabis come from the power of terpenes. The fresh scent of a lemon, the warming notes from cloves, and the aroma of a forest are all produced by terpenes. These are all thanks to the essential oils produced by plants for botanical purposes. And when it comes to cannabis, terpenes are responsible for that telltale fragrance.

THE ENTOURAGE EFFECT

It all boils down to the Entourage Effect, famously presented by cannabis research extraordinaire Ethan B. Russo. According to this scientific theory, the many compounds found in cannabis are more valuable together than when broken down into their individual parts. For example, THC’s intensity is soothed by a dose of CBD, while terpenes add a bit of nuance to the overall experience. The Entourage Effect helps explain why one strain sparks creativity while another puts you straight to sleep.

THE LAW

Recreational cannabis, also called adult-use cannabis, is legal in Canada, thanks to the Cannabis Act passed in 2018. What are the specifics? Here is what you need to know:
WHO
You must be 19 years or older to buy, use, possess, and grow. Don’t forget your ID when you
shop for cannabis in Vankleek Hill.
WHERE
You can buy cannabis in Vankleek Hill at Ingram & Sons Cannabis Co. — and all other licensed
establishments in Ontario.
WHAT
You can buy cannabis and carry up to 30 grams of dried flower or equivalent in public.
What does equivalent mean? Up to 450 grams of edibles, 2,100 grams of weed drinks, 5 grams
of concentrates, and up to 30 cannabis seeds.

DON’T MIX WITH DRIVING

In the words of the Ontario government, “Driving a vehicle while you’re impaired by cannabis is
illegal and dangerous. This includes cars, trucks, boats, snowmobiles, and off-road vehicles.”
Even a little high is too high. So stay sober on the roads, and stay safe.

DON’T CROSS THE BORDER

We know the US border is only 45 minutes away, but it’s still illegal to bring cannabis across
international borders. Do not, under any circumstances, try to bring your stash over the border
to New York.