The Charter of the French language and its regulations govern the consultation of English-language content.
The Charter of the French language and its regulations govern the consultation of English-language content.
The main cannabinoids in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
They are produced naturally by the plant and are mainly found in the trichomes, which are densest on female flowers. Depending on several factors, including growing conditions, the concentration of the cannabinoids varies from product to product and sometimes even within a given product.
THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It causes most of the psychotropic and physical effects sought by users, including a feeling of euphoria. Experiencing these effects is often referred to as being stoned, high or buzzed. The higher the percentage of THC, the more strongly the effects will be felt.
Consuming THC exposes you to certain health risks. It may also have occasional undesirable side effects, such as feeling paranoid or anxious.
The effects of a given product can vary from person to person based on a number of factors. For more information, see Effects.
Usually found in lower concentrations than THC, CBD has few if any euphoric effects. In higher doses, it may have medicinal uses and may favour mental and physical relaxation and better sleep. It may also moderate some of THC’s unpleasant psychotropic effects (paranoia, anxiety, etc.). Note, however, that none of these claims has been proved. CBD is currently the subject of several studies aimed at better identifying its potential properties.
The THC and CBD in dried cannabis (flowers, ground and pre-rolled) do not have noticeable effects until exposed to high temperatures like those encountered when the cannabis is burned, vaporized or decarboxylated.
While it may not have many if any euphoric effects, CBD remains a psychoactive cannabinoid that can have an impact on psychological and cognitive functioning.
You can easily check the cannabinoid levels by looking for these icons.
A hundred or so minor cannabinoids are also produced by cannabis plants. These include CBG, THCV, CBC and CBN. In theory, they may influence the effects felt by users. However, little research on this has been carried out and no clear conclusions can be drawn.
Did you know that the human body also produces cannabinoids? These endogenous cannabinoids are secreted by the body’s endocannabinoid system. The system also has receptors that the cannabinoids found in cannabis bind to. Each of us has a unique endocannabinoid system. That may be one of the reasons why cannabis users do not always react to a product in the same way.
It is important to choose a cannabis product and consumption method based on your level of experience, state of health and tolerance for potentially unpleasant effects. For personalized advice, speak with an in-store advisor or see the "Types of Products" section.
