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New to Cannabis?

Cannabis 101: Your Guide to Understanding the Plant, Products & Experience

Whether you're brand new to Cannabis or looking to expand your knowledge, we're here to break down the basics and demystify the experience. Cannabis has come a long way from its underground roots—it’s now legal, regulated, and evolving fast. Here’s everything you need to know to get started on the right foot.


What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a naturally occurring plant that contains a variety of chemical compounds called cannabinoids—the two most common being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

  • THC is the main psychoactive component—the one that makes you feel “high.”

  • CBD is non-intoxicating and used widely for wellness purposes like reducing inflammation, promoting calm, and improving sleep.


How is Cannabis Consumed?

There are many ways to consume Cannabis, and each method delivers a different experience. Here’s a quick rundown:

Inhalation (Smoking or Vaping)

  • Flower: The dried buds of the Cannabis plant, usually smoked in joints, pipes, or bongs.

  • Vapes: Cannabis oil in a cartridge or pod system. This offers a smoke-free way to inhale cannabinoids.

Key Difference: While both involve inhalation, vaping does not produce smoke or combustion. Instead, it heats the cannabis oil to create vapor.

Edibles

  • These are Cannabis-infused foods or drinks like gummies, chocolates, and beverages.

  • The effects take longer to kick in (30 minutes to 2 hours), but they last longer.

Oils & Tinctures

  • Usually taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to food.

  • Provide a smokeless, controlled dosing experience.

Topicals

  • Creams, balms, and bath products infused with Cannabis for localized relief. Great for soreness and inflammation without psychoactive effects.


Cannabinoids Explained

There are over 100 cannabinoids in Cannabis, but here are the main players:

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

  • Psychoactive

  • Known for its euphoric, uplifting, or relaxing effects.

  • Available in varying potencies across different strains and products.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

  • Non-intoxicating

  • Used for anxiety, pain relief, inflammation, and sleep support.

  • Often combined with THC for a balanced effect.

Other Notable Cannabinoids:

  • CBG: Potentially anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective.

  • CBN: Associated with sleep and relaxation.

  • THCV: May offer energetic effects and appetite suppression.


Terpenes: What Gives Cannabis Its Personality

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in Cannabis that give each strain its unique smell and flavor. But they do more than that—they also influence the effects.

Some common terpenes include:

  • Myrcene (earthy/musky – calming)

  • Limonene (citrusy – uplifting)

  • Pinene (pine – alertness)

  • Linalool (floral – soothing)


Choosing Your THC/CBD Ratio

Your ideal product will depend on your desired experience. Here's a simple guide:

Experience Level Recommended Ratio Effect
First-time users CBD-dominant (20:1 or 10:1) Gentle, non-intoxicating
Balanced effects 1:1 (equal parts CBD and THC) Mild euphoria with wellness benefits
Recreational use THC-dominant (5:1 or stronger) More intense psychoactive experience

Tip: Always start low and go slow, especially with edibles.


Common Cannabis Terminology

  • Strain: Refers to the variety or genetic profile of a Cannabis plant. Common types include Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid.

  • Sativa: Uplifting, energizing—daytime use.

  • Indica: Relaxing, calming—great for evening use.

  • Hybrid: A mix of both effects.

  • Flower: The actual bud of the plant you smoke or vape.

  • Pre-Roll: A ready-to-smoke joint.

  • Concentrate: Highly potent extracts (like shatter, wax, live resin).

  • Tincture: A liquid extract, usually consumed under the tongue.

  • Edible: Any food or drink infused with cannabinoids.


Devices and Accessories

Just like in vaping, Cannabis accessories can enhance your experience:

  • Grinder: Breaks down flower for a consistent smoke or vape.

  • Pipe/Bong: Traditional ways to smoke flower.

  • Dry Herb Vaporizer: Heats flower without combustion for a cleaner inhale.

  • Oil Vape Pen: Convenient and discreet—preloaded with cannabis oil cartridges.

  • Rolling Papers: Used to roll joints (available in hemp, rice, or flax materials).

  • Storage Containers: Keep your Cannabis fresh and odor-free.


Steeping? Not Quite—But Curing Matters!

While vape juice might steep, Cannabis flower goes through curing. This post-harvest drying and aging process is essential for flavor, potency, and smoothness. Premium flower is always properly cured before it hits our shelves.


Final Thoughts

Cannabis is more than just a product—it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and a community. Whether you’re here for wellness, creativity, focus, or relaxation, there’s a product and experience that’s right for you. At Flamingo+, we’re proud to offer premium Cannabis products and guidance you can trust.

Have questions or need help choosing the right product? We’re here for you.

Reach out to us anytime at: [email protected]


Welcome to the Flamingo+ Cannabis family. Let’s grow together.