What is cannabis?

Cannabis comes from the cannabis plant and contains roughly 400 chemicals, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Other names for cannabis include marijuana, weed, or pot.

THC causes both psychoactive and physical reactions; it is responsible for the "high" or feelings of euphoria and relaxation.

CBD does not cause a “high” like THC, and its effects are still being studied.

How is it consumed?

Smoking cannabis illustration

Smoking

Dried cannabis bud is rolled into papers or put in a pipe or bong, then lit and smoked. The smoke is inhaled and absorbed through the lungs. Effects are felt almost immediately and can last 2 to 4 hours, though the length of effect depends on many factors such as dosage and cannabis potency.

Vaping cannabis illustration

Vaping

Vaporizers heat the oils or ground buds of cannabis to release the active compounds. The vapor is inhaled and absorbed through the lungs. The effects are almost immediate, although it can take up to 30 minutes to feel the full effects, and they can last 2 to 4 hours. The length of effect depends on many factors such as dosage and cannabis potency.

Vaping liquids can contain very high levels of THC (60% and higher). Higher potency products should not be used by anyone new to cannabis, as they have greater health and safety risks.

Dabbing cannabis illustration

Dabbing

Concentrated THC, also known as hash oil, concentrates, or shatter, is heated and the vapor inhaled. These concentrates contain very high levels of THC (60% and higher) and take effect very quickly. Higher potency products should not be used by anyone new to cannabis, as they have greater health and safety risks. The length of effect depends on many factors such as dosage and cannabis potency.

Topical cannabis illustration

Topical

Cannabis-infused salves, lotions, and balms are applied to the skin. These products won’t make you high. There may be health effects and risks associated with cannabis topicals, but these are not fully known or understood at this time.

Eating cannabis illustration

Eating

The effects of edible cannabis products (such as teas, baked goods, or capsules) take longer to manifest than smoking or vaping, sometimes up to 4 hours. The effects of edibles last much longer than smoking or vaping—up to 12 hours, with some residual effects lasting up to 24 hours. The length of effect depends on many factors such as dosage and cannabis potency.