Looking for information about marijuana? You’ve come to the right place!

With so much conflicting information in the marketplace, we are here to talk through the basic facts and uses for marijuana. We’ll also discuss the legality and side effects of marijuana and other cannabis-infused products.

What is marijuana?

Hemp. Cannabis. Mary Jane. Weed. Pot. Marijuana goes by a lot of names, but here’s the bottom line: All marijuana and cannabis-infused products are derived from the powerful hemp plant. Humans have used marijuana and cannabis-infused products for thousands of years, both recreationally and medicinally, to promote relaxation and address issues related to sleep, appetite, mood, and energy.

Producers harvest the seeds and leaves of the hemp plant to make marijuana. Dried cannabis leaves, as well as the oils they produce, can be smoked, brewed as a tea, applied topically, or ingested in the form of edible candy or capsules. The potency and makeup of cannabis-infused products can vary, depending on how it is grown and processed.

What’s the difference between CBD and THC?

The hemp plant is known to contain at least 120 active ingredients. Its most commonly recognized compounds are Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In this article, we’ll primarily explore the uses and side effects associated with THC, but you can learn more about CBD by browsing our blog at happycampercbd.com.

The main difference for users is that CBD is not a psychoactive compound. In other words, it won’t get you “high.” Meanwhile, THC does have psychoactive properties, and has been known to cause feelings ranging from drowsiness and extreme calm to euphoria and anxiety.

These side effects can vary by strain. If a product contains more of the indica hemp strain, it is more likely to produce a calming effect. If it is sativa-heavy, on the other hand, it can promote more stimulation. The presence of CBD can also alter the effects of a THC-infused product.

Is marijuana legal?

This depends on where you live. In certain states (including Colorado), marijuana and cannabis-infused products can be sold legally by authorized retailers like The Happy Camper. However, the FDA still forbids the selling of products containing THC or CBD as dietary supplements, and marijuana cannot be sold legally via interstate commerce. In 2014, CBD was legalized at the federal level, but certain states and jurisdictions maintain control over the sale and distribution of CBD products.

For more information, read the FDA’s statement on the regulation of cannabis and cannabis-derived products, including CBD. If you’re interested in visiting The Happy Camper dispensary in Palisade, Colorado, here are some important tips for visitors and tourists.

Is marijuana harmful?

While there’s still much research to be done, many health care providers recommend using both CBD and THC to promote healthy sleep and appetite. The research that currently exists is overwhelmingly positive.

Here’s how cannabinoids work: Every human and animal is born with an endocannabinoid system (ECS). Our bodies naturally produce some cannabinoids, which behave similarly to neurotransmitters, sending messages to parts of the brain that regulate coordination, attention span, and reaction to outside stimuli.

THC and other cannabinoids trigger receptors in the ECS, encouraging the release of dopamine and affecting sensory perception, which can potentially help alleviate stress and anxiety by replacing unpleasant thoughts and sensations with more positive ones.

Because THC causes these effects in the brain, a person should not drive or operate heavy machinery after using cannabis or cannabis-infused products. In addition, smoking or vaping any substance—including marijuana—can cause damage to the lungs and other major organs. For that reason, many users opt for cannabis-infused edible products and transdermal creams.

For more information on marijuana strains, dosage, and responsible use, visit our resource page.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.