Cannabis 101

The use of cannabis can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where it was valued for its medicinal, spiritual, and recreational properties.

As a relatively new industry, medicinal cannabis is growing in leaps and bounds in Australia thanks to normalisation and legalisation.

What is cannabis?

Cannabis is a flowering plant that has been cultivated and used by humans for thousands of years.

It belongs to the Cannabaceae family and is indigenous to Central and South Asia, although it is now cultivated worldwide.

Cannabis contains over 100 different chemical compounds called cannabinoids, the most well-known of which are THC and CBD.

These cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, influencing various physiological processes such as mood, memory, pain perception, and appetite.

How cannabis is used.

The use of cannabis can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was valued for its medicinal, spiritual, and recreational properties. Today, cannabis is consumed in various forms, including vaporizing, eating, and topical application.

It is used for a wide range of purposes, including pain management, stress relief, relaxation, creativity enhancement, and recreational enjoyment.

However, the legal status of cannabis varies greatly around the world, with some countries and regions having strict prohibition laws, while others have legalised it for medical and/or recreational use. 

As scientific research into cannabis continues to advance, there is growing recognition of its therapeutic potential and an evolving understanding of its effects on health and society.

Botanical Characteristics

One of the most captivating aspects of cannabis is their incredible diversity.

From Sativas to Indicas and everything in between, cannabis offers a vast array of strains, each with its own unique characteristics and effects.

Additionally, hybridisation between these species has led to a wide range of cannabis varieties with diverse characteristics and effects.

There are three primary species of cannabis found around the world.

Cannabis Sativa

Cannabis sativa is one of the three primary species of cannabis and is native to regions with equatorial climates, such as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central America.

Sativa plants are known for their tall and slender stature, with long, narrow leaves that have thin fingers. They typically grow taller than other cannabis species, sometimes reaching heights of up to 3.6.

Sativa plants have a longer flowering period compared to indica varieties, often taking 10-16 weeks to mature. They are well-suited for outdoor cultivation in warm climates with plenty of sunlight.

Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energising effects, making them popular among consumers seeking a cerebral and creative high. They are often used during the day for activities that require focus and mental clarity.

Common sativa strains include Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, and Durban Poison.

Cannabis Indica

Cannabis indica is another primary species of cannabis that originated in the Hindu Kush mountain range, which spans Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.

Indica plants are characterized by their shorter and bushier stature, with broader leaves that have thicker fingers. They typically grow to a height of 1-1.8 meters and have a compact and dense structure.

Indica plants have a shorter flowering period compared to sativa varieties, usually taking 8-12 weeks to mature. They are well-suited for indoor cultivation and thrive in cooler climates with shorter daylight hours.

Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedating effects, often inducing feelings of calmness and physical relaxation. They are commonly used in the evening or at night to unwind and promote sleep.

Common indica strains include OG Kush, Northern Lights, and Granddaddy Purple.

Cannabis Ruderalis

Cannabis ruderalis is the third primary species of cannabis, although it is less well-known and less commonly cultivated compared to sativa and indica.

Ruderalis plants originate from regions with harsh climates, such as Siberia and other parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Ruderalis plants are characterised by their small and bushy stature, with thin leaves and sparse branching. One distinctive trait of ruderalis is its autoflowering capability, meaning it automatically transitions from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage based on age rather than changes in light cycles. 

While ruderalis plants have lower THC content compared to sativa and indica varieties, they are valued for their hardiness and ability to withstand adverse growing conditions.

Ruderalis genetics are often crossed with sativa and indica strains to create hybrids with autoflowering properties and other desirable traits.

Anatomy of a Cannabis Plant

Cannabis plants are herbaceous annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle within one year. They typically have a tall and slender stature, though some varieties may exhibit a more compact and bushy growth habit.

  • Stems

    Cannabis stems are fibrous and contain vascular tissues responsible for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.

  • Leaves

    Cannabis leaves are one of the most recognisable features of the plant. They are typically broad and fan-shaped, with serrated edges.

  • Flowers

    Cannabis flowers, also known as buds, are the reproductive structures of the female plant. The flowers are densely packed clusters.

Anatomy of a Cannabis Bud

Cannabis buds, also known as flowers, are the reproductive structures of the female cannabis plant. These dense clusters of bracts, calyxes, pistils, and trichomes contain the highest concentrations of cannabinoids, including the famed THC and CBD, as well as a plethora of aromatic terpenes.

  • Bracts

    Bracts are the modified leaves that surround and protect the reproductive organs of the cannabis plant. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, contributing to the overall appearance of the bud.

  • Calyxes

    Calyxes are the small, cup-shaped structures that house the ovules, or potential seeds, of the female cannabis plant. They are densely packed with resin glands, where cannabinoids and terpenes are synthesized and stored.

  • Pistils

    Pistils are the hair-like structures that protrude from the calyxes of female cannabis flowers. While not directly involved in cannabinoid production, pistils contribute to the overall aesthetic of the bud.

  • Trichomes

    Trichomes are the resinous glands that coat the surface of cannabis buds, leaves, and stems. These microscopic structures are responsible for producing and storing cannabinoids and terpenes, giving cannabis buds their sticky texture and potent aroma.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are a group of chemical compounds unique to the cannabis plant. The two most well-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), but there are over 100 known cannabinoids, each with its own potential effects and medicinal properties.

Cannabinoids are synthesized within the glandular trichomes, which are tiny, mushroom-shaped structures found on the surface of the flowers and, to a lesser extent, on the leaves of the marijuana plant.

These trichomes contain cannabinoid-rich resin glands that produce and store cannabinoids as well as terpenes. They act as a defense mechanism against predators and environmental stressors.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They contribute to the distinct smell and flavour of different marijuana strains and play a significant role in the overall effects of the plant.

Like cannabinoids, terpenes are synthesized within the glandular trichomes of the marijuana plant. They are produced through the same biosynthetic pathways and are stored alongside cannabinoids in the resin glands.

There are over 100 terpenes identified in cannabis, each with its own aroma and potential therapeutic properties. Common terpenes found in marijuana include myrcene, limonene, pinene, and linalool, among others.

Cannabinoid & Terpene Influences

  • Genetics

    Different marijuana strains have varying genetic profiles, resulting in differences in cannabinoid and terpene composition. Breeders select and cross strains to enhance specific traits, including potency, flavor, and aroma.

  • Environmental

    Environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, and nutrient availability can influence cannabinoid and terpene production. Optimal conditions can help maximize the synthesis of these compounds.

  • Harvest Timing

    The timing of harvest plays a crucial role in cannabinoid and terpene content. Cannabinoid levels typically peak during the flowering stage, with terpene production increasing as the plant matures. Harvesting at the optimal time ensures the highest potency and quality.

  • Processing Methods

    Post-harvest processing techniques, such as drying, curing, and extraction, can affect cannabinoid and terpene content. Proper drying and curing preserve the integrity of these compounds, while extraction methods can concentrate cannabinoids and terpenes for various products such as oils, tinctures, and concentrates.

The Green Triangle are regions known for their ideal climate and conditions for cannabis cultivation.

Emerald Triangle (California, United States)

Perhaps the most famous Green Triangle, the Emerald Triangle refers to the area in Northern California encompassing Humboldt, Mendocino, and Trinity counties.

This region has a long history of cannabis cultivation and is renowned for producing some of the world's finest cannabis.

The Mediterranean climate, with mild temperatures and abundant sunlight, creates ideal conditions for outdoor cultivation.

Golden Triangle (Thailand, Laos, Myanmar)

The Golden Triangle is a region in Southeast Asia where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

Historically known for opium production, the region is also a major hub for cannabis cultivation.

The tropical climate and mountainous terrain provide optimal conditions for growing cannabis, although much of the cultivation in this region is illegal.

Hindu Kush (Afghanistan, Pakistan, India)

The Hindu Kush mountain range, which spans Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of India, is another renowned cannabis-growing region.

This area is home to landrace indica strains known for their potency and resin production.

The rugged terrain and harsh climate contribute to the development of hardy cannabis plants with unique characteristics.

Northern Rivers (New South Wales, Australia)

The Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia, is known for its lush rainforests, fertile valleys, and subtropical climate.

This area has become a hotspot for cannabis cultivation. The warm temperatures, ample rainfall, and rich volcanic soil create ideal growing conditions for cannabis.

The information provided by Solstrain is for informational and educational purposes and is of a general nature. If you are interested in accessing Medicinal Cannabis therapies please talk to your doctor.