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What is Cannabis?

Waferz Author

Updated: Mar 12, 2024


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Cannabis is a plant that is derived from the Cannabaceae family, as well as Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis dates back hundreds of years ago and has been cultivated throughout the world for medicinal purposes. There is a wide range of varieties of cannabis and it all comes from the natural compounds known as cannabinoids. The human body’s receptor system, which is known as the endocannabinoid system, is found throughout the body, such as in the brain, organs, immune cells, connective tissues, and glands. 


How Does Cannabis Affect People?

Cannabis affects everyone differently, meaning that everyone has their own unique way of experiencing cannabis. However, it is important to realize that the unique chemical compounds in a certain strain of cannabis generally give consumers ideas of its particular effects. Because there are hundreds of compounds within compounds, known as cannabinoids and terpenes, these unique compounds can influence a cannabis strain’s chemical makeup and how one will experience it.

In addition, here are some other factors that may affect the way you experience cannabis:

  • Your body’s chemistry

  • The type of cannabis strain consumed

  • The dosage of the cannabis consumed

  • The method of consumption

  • The setting in which you are when consumed

  • Your intention for consumption

Can Cannabis Be Consumed?

Cannabis can be consumed in a variety of ways, including smokable flowers, oils and tinctures, edibles, vaporized liquids, topicals and creams, and much more. There are strict regulations surrounding cannabis throughout the United States and this is due to it being part of the federal drug schedule. However, although there are strict regulations surrounding cannabis, it continues to be one of the most popular and widely known medicinal and recreational substances throughout the country and world.


person smoking marijuana joint

What is Cannabis Used For?

As previously mentioned, cannabis has been used for spiritual or medicinal purposes for thousands of years; however, it is also widely used for recreational purposes. Generally, the use of cannabis is categorized into two different uses: medicinal and recreational. Those who use cannabis for recreational purposes may use it for a variety of reasons, including stress relief, enjoyment, creative stimulation, and more. On the other hand, individuals who use cannabis medicinally generally use it for pain relief, anxiety, overcoming the loss of appetite, depression, nausea, insomnia, and more.

Cannabis is comprised of a great number of active compounds, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, among hundreds of others. The three compounds: cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are responsible for cannabis’ medicinal properties and benefits. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are two other compounds found in cannabis are also responsible for unique purposes, resulting in a wide range of effects.

Beyond its medicinal and recreational qualities, cannabis also serves as a vital agricultural resource. This means that hemp, which is the fibrous properties found in a form of the cannabis plant, provides us with a wide variety of agricultural purposes and has been cultivated to create clothing, textiles, ropes, building and construction materials, and so much more. In addition, the seeds that are derived from hemp have many nutritional benefits, as they are rich in essential amino fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and so much more. The byproducts of cannabis can serve civilization in a number of ways, including cooking oils and even biofuel. 

The robust plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors around the world. Its iconic features, which include seven leaves, which are seen for most of its life, soon profess to flowers (which produce buds) at the later stages of the plant’s life cycle. The buds are then harvested, dried, and cured, and then can be found at dispensaries in certain parts of the country.


What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol is the psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, which results in a state of euphoria, tranquility, and many other interesting effects brought on by cannabis. THC is the compound that is responsible for causing a “high” when consuming cannabis products. Ultimately, the level of THC consumed depends on certain factors, such as your body’s chemistry, cannabis strain, dosage, and method of consumption, among other factors.


What Does the Cannabis Plant Look Like?

The cannabis (marijuana plant) is characterized by the following characteristics:

  • Leaves that are firmly sprouted, wide, and may feature small buds that are covered in tiny crystals or fibers

  • Generally look like fat, short bushes from afar

  • More branches to promote flower and THC production

  • Requires warm, humid, and controlled environment in order to grow

  • Grows with spaced between other plants

About the Cannabis Plant

The cannabis plant is quite complex, making it an interesting plant that can be produced into a number of different products. The flowering plant is categorized by its male or female reproductive organs, which means that the male plant must pollinate the female plant in order to produce seeds. However, there is an exception to the rule if the plant is comprised of rare hermaphroditic qualities.


A female plant that fails to collect pollen during its reproductive cycle is known as sinsemilla, which is a Spanish term that means “without seed.” If the cannabis plant is female and seedless, then it can produce buds that are large and have a texture similar to resin, which can be smoked, compressed into oil, or vaporized. 


The History of Cannabis

Cannabis has a long history and researchers have traced back its use for thousands of years, specifically in both Babylonian and Assyrian cultures. It has been known and cultivated for both spiritual and medicinal purposes for centuries.


About Waferz

Waferz strives to be a reputable resource for education, providing valuable insight about cannabis and related news. We are dedicated to keeping you abreast of the latest news, information, and developments surrounding cannabis, ensuring that you stay informed and connected. Our goal is to continue being a reputable resource in the cannabis industry, utilizing years of experience, skills, and research to help you stay informed and connected. Learn more about hemp with Waferz at




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CANNABIS AND MARIJUANA ARE FOR USE ONLY BY PERSONS 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. SUCH USE MAY BE PROHIBITED IN YOUR LOCATION. THE STATEMENTS ON THIS WEBSITE HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. PRODUCTS SOLD OR ADVERTISED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.  ​LICENSE NUMBER: C11-0000572-​LIC GOLD PROCESS, LLC

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