Smoking Cannabis and the Science of Experience
By now, we’ve explored how cannabis is more than just THC and CBD, but when it comes to smoking, getting a specific effect is even more complex. Many consumers don’t realize that THCA flower—the dominant form of hemp flower in a hemp state—is the same fresh cannabis you’d buy in a legal marijuana dispensary. Ironically, much of the cannabis sold in commercial dispensaries across the country, including states like California, would still be compliant under the 2018 Farm Bill.
Individual Reactions to Cannabis Vary
Cannabis affects everyone differently. One person may experience an uplifting, cerebral high, while another might feel couch-locked from the same strain. This is because cannabinoids, terpenes, and the body’s unique chemistry all interact to shape the experience. It’s important to experiment and take note of how different strains affect you personally rather than relying on general classifications like indica or sativa.
Cannabinoid Content and Age Matter
When smoking cannabis, considering the full cannabinoid profile is key. Over time, cannabis undergoes chemical changes. For example, an older sativa strain may contain more CBN, a cannabinoid known for its sedative effects, making it feel more like an indica. Freshly harvested indica strains with the right terpene profiles can actually be uplifting. So, checking the harvest date and understanding cannabinoid content can help predict effects more accurately.
The Role of Terpenes and Sensory Perception
Terpenes—the aromatic compounds in cannabis—play a massive role in the smoking experience. Just like the smell of barbecue can make you hungry, the aroma of cannabis can influence how your body reacts. Take the time to smell the flower before buying; your senses can guide you toward strains that will work best for you. Once you start smoking, pay attention to the aroma and flavors, as they are direct indicators of the terpenes present.
Smoking Technique: Maximizing the Experience
How you smoke also matters. When inhaling, be sure to hold the smoke in for at least two full seconds before exhaling. Releasing the smoke too early can reduce the effects, as your body needs time to absorb the cannabinoids properly. Paying attention to how a strain makes you feel with different inhalation techniques can help refine your experience.
Managing Tolerance Through Variety
If you always smoke the same strain, your tolerance will skyrocket much faster. Mixing up strains and exploring different terpene and cannabinoid profiles can keep your tolerance in check while also broadening your cannabis experience. By alternating between strains, you allow your endocannabinoid system to reset and prevent diminishing returns from overuse of a single type of cannabis.
The Takeaway: Experiment and Learn
Smoking cannabis is a deeply personal experience influenced by strain, age, terpenes, cannabinoids, and even how you inhale. Understanding these factors helps maximize effects and allows for a more enjoyable, well-rounded cannabis experience. So, experiment, pay attention to your senses, and explore the variety that cannabis has to offer.
