If you're new to the world of cannabis, you may be overwhelmed by the variety of strains, flavors, and effects that are available. There’s a lot to take in. Few know everything about marijuana flower, but there’s a lot to explore with a curious and open mind.
The best way to learn is to experiment, sample, and ask questions. Whether you pick up your first pre-rolls or investigate other ways to enjoy the plant, there’s something for everyone. The next time you're at a dispensary, don't hesitate to talk to a budtender for advice.
There's always something new to learn about cannabis, so let's explore the possibilities.
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What is Cannabis Flower?
When it comes to marijuana, we use many terms to describe the flower of the plant, such as bud, weed, THC, and, of course, flower. Most refer to the same thing: the part of the marijuana plant that is typically smoked or consumed in other ways. Let’s unpack some common terminology to start:
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![Cannabis bud - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
BUD
Bud refers to the flowering part of the cannabis plant.
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![Weed, aka cannabis or marijuana - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
WEED
Weed also refers to cannabis flower. In the 90s, this term began to replace the terms of dope or grass, which became “outdated” at that time.
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![THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the cannabinoid molecule that produces the psychoactive effects of marijuana. Found in varying concentrations between strains, it typically ranges from 10% to 30% in cannabis flower.
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![Cannabis flower - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
CANNABIS FLOWER
Cannabis flower is the dense, resinous part of the plant that contains the chemicals that deliver the desired effects and flavors of marijuana. These chemicals, called cannabinoids (producing the effects) and terpenes (flavors and aromas), are found in tiny, tightly packed pods within the flower.
How To Choose High-Quality Marijuana Flower
Marijuana flower quality varies by the strain, the appearance of the buds, and aromas. Let’s review how to choose high-quality products that provide the effects and flavors that you're looking for.
Color Signal Quality
Cannabis grows in a variety of colors, not just green. Different strains may be brown, orange, purple, red, and more. Familiarizing yourself with marijuana helps you spot the diversity between different strains and varieties. One thing to look out for is colorful buds. These may indicate a higher quality product with a rich concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Marijuana flower has a beauty in its own way, and it certainly packs a powerful kick.
Use Your Nose
The dynamic aromas of marijuana flower can be a useful guide when selecting a strain or variety. Before making a purchase, take the time to stop and smell the flowers. Look for intricate and exciting scents like citrus, juniper, or even diesel. If you pick up a stale or musty aroma, it may not be the freshest bud available. Stick to the stronger, more potent aroma that awakens your senses.
Cannabis Flower Variations
Like any flower species, marijuana flower comes in many different strains, each with its own unique effects and potency. You may have heard of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains, but telling them apart and deciding which is right for you may still be fuzzy. We’ll break it down.
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![Indica Cannabis - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
INDICA
Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects, which can be helpful for winding down after a long day or for promoting sleep. A helpful shorthand is remembering "in-da-couch," because it can make you feel like you're sinking into your couch and relaxing. If you're looking for a mellow and calming experience, indica may be the right choice for you.
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![Sativa Cannabis - EMBR Cannabis Dispensary]()
SATIVA
Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. This can make them a good choice for social occasions or for activities that require creativity and focus. If you're looking for a strain that will help you feel more alert and active, sativa may be your go-to.
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![Hybrid EMBR LA MESA]()
HYBRID
A hybrid strain is a mixture of indica and sativa strains, which produces a combination of relaxation and stimulation, great for those “in between” situations.
Technically, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that indica and sativa strains have distinct effects. These are just botanical terms that differentiate the two. Why do we still use them? Well, they are easy to understand and have since been widely accepted as part of the mainstream vocabulary. The truest characteristics of a marijuana flower can be determined by its specific cannabinoid and terpene profile.
So how can you know how a particular cannabis strain will affect you? Try it for yourself! Everyone's body chemistry is different, so the effects of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains can vary from person to person. You may find that indica strains provide a relaxing, mellow experience, while sativa strains give you that more uplifting and energetic high. Hybrid strain may offer a balance of both effects. Ultimately, it is your own experience that will determine which strains are best for you.
A budtender at your local dispensary is a great initial resource for you. They can offer some guidance on which strains to try based on the desired effects, but it is impossible to predict how they will actually affect you. The best approach is to start small and see how each strain makes you feel. Keep track of your experiences and note which strains you prefer or dislike. With so many different flavor and effects profiles to explore, the process of finding the right strains for you can be a fun and exciting adventure. The possibilities are endless.
How To Start Enjoying Cannabis Flower
There are many different ways to enjoy cannabis flower, and the best method for you will depend on your personal preferences. Some common ways to consume cannabis flower include smoking, vaporizing, and consuming edibles. Ultimately, the choice is yours, so feel free to experiment and find the method that works best for you.
All Natural
One popular way to consume cannabis flower is by smoking it. You can either roll your own joint or purchase a pre-roll from a dispensary. This is a handy, portable way to enjoy when it’s convenient for you.
Some prefer to use equipment, smoking marijuana flower with a pipe or a bong. With this method, you first break the flower into small, loose pieces using your hands or a grinder. Pack the pieces into the bowl of the pipe or bong (gently, please!), light it, breathe the smoke in, and enjoy.
Concentrates & Extracts
In addition to consuming marijuana flowers in their natural state, they can also be transformed into concentrates through extraction methods, some of which use solvents. The potency of these extracts is significantly higher than that of pure marijuana flower, with some extracts being up to four times as potent (or higher!). While the high potency of concentrates can be intimidating, there is nothing to be afraid of as long as you start with a small dose. Plus, there are many different ways to consume concentrates, such as hash, shatter, diamonds, and other products, which do not require much additional accessories.
How Concentrates Are Made
To extract the desired compounds from cannabis flower, the plant goes through a process called purging. This can be done with chemicals, also known as the solvent method, or by using heat, pressure, and filtration to extract cannabinoids and terpenes without the use of solvents. While some people may consider the solventless method to be more natural, both methods can be effective. When purchasing concentrates from a dispensary, it is important to note that both methods are regulated for safety.
The Many Products of Concentrates
The specific method of extraction used determines the final product that is created. For instance, using butane to extract essential oils from marijuana flowers can enhance the concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. This extract can then be transformed into what we know as wax, live resin, shatter, sauce, budder, or crumble.
One example of a solventless extraction method is dry sift. This involves rubbing marijuana flowers over a sieve to gather the plant's resin glands. These concentrated particles are called kief and have a crumbly, powdery appearance. Dry sifted kief can be smoked on its own or in a bowl or added to a pre-roll for a stronger effect. It can also be further processed into rosin with added heat and pressure.
Exploring the world of cannabis can be thrilling, with countless varieties, different aromas, intriguing flavors, and a host of effects. Your individual body chemistry plays a role in determining how marijuana will affect you. Take the time to learn your optimal dosage and which benefits you may experience. If cannabis culture is new to you, here are some tips to help you get started.
A Guide To Dosages, Effects, and Benefits of Cannabis Flower
Dosage
Just starting out? Start small. With new strains or when exploring concentrates for the first time, take it slow. Pay attention to how it affects you, and then decide whether you want to continue. If treating medical conditions, it is particularly important to be mindful of dosage and consult with a medical provider as well.
Benefits
Marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes for over 3,000+ years. More recently, this dynamic plant has finally been recognized as a legal treatment option for many conditions. If you experience chronic pain, marijuana may be able to provide relief. If you encounter social anxiety, cannabis can help you feel more relaxed in social situations. Talk to your primary care physician or medical provider about your specific medical history and the potential health benefits cannabis may provide.
Effects
The effects of cannabis flower vary between the types and dosages you consume. Some people may experience a feeling of euphoria, relaxation, increased creativity, or stimulation. Others may notice reduced anxiety, an increased appetite, or relief from pain and inflammation. If you are not sure which marijuana products will work best for you, talk to your budtender about the effects you are looking for and they can help you find the right product.
Get Hybrid, Indica & Sativa Strains Locally
From sowing to significance, EMBR showcases elite cannabis flowers. Nurtured meticulously, our devoted cannabis experts provide unparalleled guidance to our clients. Those 21 and older, or 18 with a medical card, can discover our premium flower collection. Delve into distinct, sustainably-grown buds in a refined shopping environment. Our cannabis flowers cater to all price ranges and ensure unmatched quality. As a notably female-led initiative, we rank among the most respected dispensaries nationwide.
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With a better understanding of cannabis flower, its various strain types, and how it is refined into diverse products, you can feel more confident when visiting your local dispensary. Remember that there are no wrong questions to ask. Bring your curiosity and eagerness to learn, and enjoy!
Get Flower Deals & Discounts at EMBR
Although you might be tempted to type "where to buy cannabis nearby" in a search engine, not every result will meet your specific criteria. Instead of a generic "cannabis flower shop near me" search, consider refining your marijuana experience with a dispensary recognized for its eminent reputation.
EMBR takes great pride in being acknowledged as a leading cannabis dispensary in its vicinity. We showcase a selection of meticulously curated, top-tier cannabis flowers, with the aim of providing an unmatched shopping experience for our patrons.
Featuring a diverse range of flowers with different strains and distinct aromas, EMBR presents options that every discerning shopper can value.
