How does cannabis REALLY work? Sativa & Indica myths: THC, terpenes, consumption, dosage & co.

You’ve probably heard: sativa makes you active, indica makes you tired. But is that really true – or is it just a myth from the coffee shop? Stephan, founder of CannaZen, dispels the clichés and explains what really matters when you want to order cannabis online: from cannabinoids to mood – here you can find out how to really understand how cannabis works. What really gets you high? Let’s take a look at it.

1. cannabinoids: THC, CBD & Co – what actually works?

The famous THC is the active ingredient that gets you high – it binds to receptors in your brain and provides the typical head sensation. But that’s not all. CBD has a more relaxing effect, can alleviate anxiety and helps you to tolerate THC better.

There are also other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBN or THCV, which are often overlooked but have an influence on sleep, appetite or mood. The decisive factor is the interaction – depending on the ratio, the strain has a calming, balancing or really intense effect.

Here is our brief infographic on cannabinoids:

Here are a few more details about THC:

2. terpenes: When the scent decides how you feel

Terpenes don’t just give your favorite strain its aroma – they directly influence your mood. And that’s exactly why you shouldn’t underestimate the terpene profile.

A high myrcene content tends to have a sedative effect, while limonene puts you in a good mood. Pinene can even boost your concentration. And best of all: together with THC, the entourage effect is created – a kind of teamwork between fragrance and active ingredient that noticeably changes the effect.

• Myrcene – calming
• Lime – lifts the mood
• Pinene – clears the mind
• …
• Here you can find all terpenes

3rd form of consumption: Vaporized or swallowed – big difference

How you consume cannabis changes everything. When vaporizing (e.g. with a vaporizer) you feel the effect almost immediately. It lasts for two to three hours – ideal if you want to stay in control.

Edibles or drops are different: here it takes 30-90 minutes before you notice anything – but the effect lasts much longer and can be more intense. The reason for this is the stronger 11-hydroxy-THC that your liver produces when breaking it down.

Depending on how you consume cannabis, everything changes: effect, speed, intensity. You get the fastest and most direct effect when inhaling – i.e. smoking or vaporizing. The THC enters the bloodstream directly via the lungs. If you swallow it, you need patience – but the effect is often more intense and longer.

• Vaporizer: fast & controlled
• Smoking: fast but inaccurate
• Edibles/droplets: strong & long, but delayed

Yes, cannabis can also be prepared deliciously, read more about cannabis food (edibles & recipes) here.

4. dosage: less is often more

A little tip: too much THC can quickly be too much – especially in combination with certain terpenes. It’s better to start low and feel your way around. When you have your first experience with cannabis, 2-5 mg THC is often enough.

• Low Dose – chilled
• High Dose – can hit the spot

By the way, long-term consumption increases your tolerance – so: conscious consumption is better than shooting up every day.

5. every body is different – biochemistry decides

How strongly cannabis affects you also depends on you. Your endocannabinoid system, your genetics, hormones, daily form – all of these influence how you react to a strain. That’s why two people can smoke the same flower and react very differently to it.

Important: If you are prone to anxiety or are sensitive to stimuli, start really slowly – especially with THC-rich strains.

6. set & setting: how you feel changes everything

The environment plays a huge role. If you are relaxed, feel comfortable and safe, the effect is usually pleasant. If you are stressed or insecure, even a mild strain can have an unpleasant effect.

The set and setting are just as important as the strain itself. That’s why many people recommend trying it out in a safe environment first – with music, friends or a cozy couch.

Cannabis studies: what the science says

Sativa or indica is just a label. What really counts are cannabinoids, terpenes, your body, the dose – and the mood you’re in. If you keep that in mind, you’ll find a strain that suits you perfectly. And if you’re ready for more knowledge, check out our post on cannabis effects according to studies – we go even deeper.