Is pot safe?
A group called Drug Policy Facts (originally known as Drug War Facts) is a project of the Real Reporting Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding harm reduction and informing the debate over public policy in the areas of public health, healthcare, justice, and human and civil rights. RRF disseminates factual information and comment on existing laws, policies, and practices through Drug Policy Facts and its sister website World Health Systems Facts.
What does Drug Policy Facts say about cannabis?
"Tetrahydrocannabinol is a very safe drug. Laboratory animals (rats, mice, dogs, monkeys) can tolerate doses of up to 1,000 milligrams per kilogram. This would be equivalent to a 70 kg person swallowing 70 grams of the drug. That is like a 150 pound person taking 3 ounces of THC! Astronomically more than people use to feel good. 5,000 times more! There are very few if any instances of people dying from an overdose."
What does Drug Policy Facts say about alcohol?
"In 2021, a total of 54,258 people died of alcohol-induced causes in the United States . . . This category includes deaths from dependent and nondependent use of alcohol, and deaths from accidental poisoning by alcohol. It excludes unintentional injuries, homicides, and other causes indirectly related to alcohol use, and deaths due to fetal alcohol syndrome. For a list of alcohol-induced causes, see Technical Notes.”
If you are a newbie, or someone returning to your youthful past
If you are a newbie and want to find out what it’s all about, consider the edible cannabis products like gummies, drink mixes, and lozenges. Take one, wait for a while, and you will slowly notice the aahhhh feeling. Do not take two as if nothing is happening. Take it easy. Set and setting are important. Try Smokiez with no high fructose corn syrup and real fruit flavor. Verano makes great gummies. Their Bits are excellent. All stores have some kind of edible.
If you are an old hand who tried weed back in college, you might wonder whether it is as much fun now as it was then. You remember it felt good and wonder if it will make your arthritis feel better. Consider trying the vape technology. Vapes use distilled resins from the plant using a gadget the delivers a fine mist of THC to inhale. No fire, no smoke, no plant, no paper, no ash, and no smell, no coughing, no sore throat. The cannabis high from a vape is highly refined, giving a very pure mellow feeling without smelling up the house. Fernway Purple Haze or Fernway Mango are delightful.
If you need help with sleep, there are gummies like Zonked that have THC, CBD, and melatonin. Or Camino gummies for sleep. You’ll sleep like a baby. Looking for a creativity boost? Try Sativa strains. Want a relaxation helper? Try an Indica with floral accents.
Glossary of Cannabis Terms:
- Cannabis
The plant species that produces marijuana and hemp. Cannabis is used for medical, recreational, and industrial purposes. - THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the “high” or euphoric feeling. - CBD (Cannabidiol)
A non-psychoactive compound in cannabis known for its potential therapeutic properties like reducing anxiety or pain. - Indica
A type of cannabis plant known for its relaxing, sedative effects. Often used for stress relief and sleep. - Sativa
A type of cannabis plant known for its uplifting, energizing effects. Often used for daytime use or to boost creativity. - Hybrid
A crossbreed between indica and sativa strains, with effects that can vary based on the specific balance of genetics. - Strain
A specific variety of cannabis with distinct effects, flavors, and aromas, such as Blue Dream or OG Kush. - Terpenes
In addition to the active chemical in cannabis, the plant also produces thousands of aromatic compounds that contribute to the plant's scent and flavor. Those are called terpenes. Many of them have specific odors and flavors. Some, like Lavender soothe the senses. Others like Sour Diesel are – well - sour diesel… - Cannabinoids
The chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids. - Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
A system in the human body that regulates a variety of physiological processes, including mood, memory, and pain. The ECS is activated by cannabinoids like THC and CBD. - Edibles
Cannabis-infused food or drink products. Common forms include gummies, chocolates, and beverages. These take longer to kick in compared to smoking or vaping. - Vaping
Inhaling vaporized cannabis using a vape pen or vaporizer. This method is often seen as a healthier alternative to smoking. - Concentrates
Highly potent cannabis products that contain high levels of THC or CBD. Examples include hash, wax, shatter, and live resin. - Dab
A method of consuming cannabis concentrates by heating them and inhaling the vapor. - Flower
The dried buds of the cannabis plant, which are typically smoked or vaporized. - THC Percentage
The concentration of THC in a cannabis product, usually expressed as a percentage. Higher THC percentages indicate stronger potency. - CBD Percentage
The concentration of CBD in a cannabis product, typically used for therapeutic purposes like pain relief or anxiety management. - Full-Spectrum
A type of cannabis extract that contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the plant. - Decarboxylation
The process of heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids, making them more effective when consumed. - Microdosing
The practice of consuming very small amounts of cannabis to experience subtle effects, often for therapeutic purposes. - Tolerance
The diminishing effect experienced with regular cannabis use, requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effects. - Overconsumption
Consuming too much cannabis, which can lead to negative side effects like dizziness, anxiety, or nausea. - Legality/Legalization
Refers to the status of cannabis in a particular jurisdiction, determining whether it is legal to possess, sell, and consume cannabis. - Medical Cannabis
Cannabis used for medical purposes, typically under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It may be prescribed for conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, or seizures. - Recreational Cannabis
Cannabis that is legally available for non-medical use. Recreational users may consume cannabis for enjoyment or relaxation. - Dispensary
A licensed business like a storefront that sells cannabis products to consumers, often including flowers, edibles, concentrates, and accessories. - BudTender
A person working at a dispensary who helps consumers select cannabis products based on their preferences and needs. - Legal Limit
The maximum amount of cannabis that an individual can legally possess or purchase in a state where it is legal.
