Everything You Need To Know
About Cannabis
What It Is & What It Contains
The Cannabis Plant
Cannabis is a plant in the Cannabis sativa species that produces a wide range of natural compounds. People often focus on THC and CBD, but cannabis chemistry is much bigger than that. The plant contains:
Cannabinoids (like THC, CBD, CBG)
- Terpenes (aromatic compounds that contribute to scent and flavor)
- Flavonoids (plant pigments and compounds found across nature)
- Other plant-based molecules that help shape the plant’s overall profile
This combination is one reason cannabis is often described as a complex botanical.
Plants produce chemical compounds for many reasons, often related to survival and adaptation. In nature, these compounds may help plants:
- Respond to environmental stress like heat, intense sunlight, drought, or poor soil conditions
- Deter pests and herbivores by creating bitter flavors, strong aromas, or protective coatings
- Protect against pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, and mold that can damage plant tissue
- Attract pollinators by producing scents and other signals that support reproduction
Cannabis is especially known for producing resinous compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes, which are concentrated in the plant’s trichomes and contribute to its distinct aroma, chemistry, and overall profile.
Cannabinoids and terpenes are most concentrated in the plant’s trichomes, which are tiny glandular structures that form on the plant (especially on flowering portions). Trichomes produce the sticky resin where many key compounds are found.
THC, CBD & More
Cannabinoids 101
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds produced by cannabis. They’re often discussed because they can interact with the human body’s internal regulatory network called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
There are three main categories of cannabinoids:
- Phytocannabinoids: cannabinoids from plants (like THC and CBD)
- Endocannabinoids: cannabinoids made by the human body
- Synthetic cannabinoids: cannabinoids made in a lab
THC is a cannabinoid associated with intoxicating or psychoactive effects. It may influence mood, perception, and sensory experience, and it can affect people differently depending on dose and individual sensitivity.
CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is not typically associated with intoxicating effects (a “high”) in the same way. People often describe CBD’s effects as more subtle than THC, and some individuals report feeling a sense of calm or relaxation, a more balanced or “steady” feeling, or less mental or physical tension. Experiences can vary widely from person to person and may depend on factors like serving size, cannabinoid ratios, product formulation, and individual body chemistry. Research on CBD is ongoing, and this information is provided for general education only—not medical advice.
Yes. Cannabis may contain other cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, CBC, THCV, and more. Research is ongoing.
“Minor cannabinoids” refers to cannabinoids that may appear in smaller amounts than THC or CBD. Even in low amounts, they can contribute to the overall chemical profile of a product. Research is still developing, and experiences can vary widely depending on the person, serving size, and formulation.
Examples include:
- CBG (cannabigerol): Sometimes called a “parent cannabinoid” because it plays a role in early plant chemistry. Some individuals describe CBG as feeling more clear-headed or “neutral,” and it’s often discussed as a cannabinoid that may feel less intoxicating than THC.
- CBN (cannabinol): Often discussed because it can form as THC changes over time. Some people associate CBN with a more calming or “wind-down” feeling, though individual responses vary.
- CBC (cannabichromene): A cannabinoid studied for how it may interact with the ECS and other pathways. CBC is not typically described as intoxicating, and some people report subtle effects compared to THC.
- THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin): Structurally similar to THC but may behave differently depending on dose and formulation. Some individuals describe THCV as feeling more energizing or “clear,” but experiences can vary significantly.
Important: research on minor cannabinoids is still developing, and people can respond differently.
Explained Simply
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The ECS is a natural system in the body involved in regulation and balance. It helps the body respond to change and maintain stability across many processes.
The ECS includes:
- Endocannabinoids (signals your body naturally produces)
- Receptors (often described as “locks” that cannabinoids can interact with)
- Enzymes (which help break down endocannabinoids after they’ve done their job)
CB1 and CB2 are two commonly discussed receptor types:
- CB1 receptors (brain + nervous system):
CB1 receptors are found mostly in the brain and central nervous system. Because of where they’re located, they’re often connected to effects people notice more quickly—such as changes in mood, perception, focus, and how the body processes sensory information. This is one reason THC is commonly associated with more noticeable psychoactive (“high”) effects.
- CB2 receptors (body + immune-related tissues):
CB2 receptors are found more often throughout the body, especially in areas related to immune function and peripheral systems. CB2 is often discussed in cannabis education because it helps explain how cannabinoids may be experienced beyond the brain and may contribute to the broader “whole-body” effects some people describe.
This is one reason THC and CBD can be discussed differently: cannabinoids may interact with these receptors in different ways.
Because the endocannabinoid system (ECS) varies from person to person, the same cannabinoid product can feel different for different people. Factors that can influence how someone experiences cannabinoids include:
- Metabolism: How quickly your body processes cannabinoids can affect how fast effects begin and how long they last.
- Tolerance and prior exposure: People who use THC-containing products more often may notice milder effects than someone who is new or uses them rarely.
- Body composition: Cannabinoids can be processed and stored differently depending on factors like body fat and hydration levels.
- Genetics: Natural differences in receptors and enzymes can affect sensitivity and how strongly someone responds.
- Product format and cannabinoid profile: Oils, capsules, and topicals can be absorbed differently, and the balance of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids can change the overall experience.
- Dose and timing: Small differences in serving size, how often someone uses a product, and whether it’s taken with food can make a noticeable difference.
This is also why two people can take the “same” product and still have very different experiences.
Terpenes & Plant Compounds
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found throughout the plant world—not just in cannabis. They contribute to the scent and flavor characteristics of many plants.
Examples you’ve probably encountered:
- Citrus peels (bright, zesty aromas) often high in limonene
- Pine needles (fresh, sharp aromas) often associated with pinene
- Lavender (floral aromas) often rich in linalool
- Rosemary (herbal aromas) commonly contains pinene and terpinene
Cannabis produces terpenes too, which contribute to its recognizable aroma profiles.
Terpenes are part of a product’s overall profile, and many patients like learning about them for educational purposes. Research is ongoing, and terpenes may influence how a product is experienced, especially in combination with cannabinoids.
Some commonly discussed terpenes include:
- Myrcene: Often described as earthy or musky (sometimes “herbal” or “clove-like”).
- Limonene: Commonly associated with bright, citrus-like aromas.
- Pinene: Often linked to fresh, pine or evergreen-like scents.
- Linalool: Commonly described as floral, similar to lavender.
- Caryophyllene: Often described as peppery or spicy, like black pepper or cloves.
A key point: terpene profiles can vary widely from product to product, and terpene content may depend on factors like plant genetics, cultivation conditions, and how the product is manufactured and stored.
Some commonly discussed terpenes include:
- Myrcene: Often described as earthy or musky (sometimes “herbal” or “clove-like”).
- Limonene: Commonly associated with bright, citrus-like aromas.
- Pinene: Often linked to fresh, pine or evergreen-like scents.
- Linalool: Commonly described as floral, similar to lavender.
- Caryophyllene: Often described as peppery or spicy, like black pepper or cloves.
A key point: terpene profiles can vary widely from product to product, and terpene content may depend on factors like plant genetics, cultivation conditions, and how the product is manufactured and stored.
The “entourage effect” is the idea that cannabis may be experienced differently depending on the full mix of compounds in the product—not just the THC or CBD number on the label. Cannabis contains many naturally occurring compounds, including major cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), minor cannabinoids (like CBG or CBN), terpenes (aroma compounds), and other plant components.
The entourage effect suggests that these compounds may influence each other when they’re present together. So instead of thinking of cannabis as “one ingredient doing one thing,” the concept is more like a “team effect,” where the overall experience can change based on the combination and balance of compounds.
This is one reason two products can have the same THC amount but feel different to someone—because the terpene profile, cannabinoid ratios, or minor cannabinoid content may be different. Some people also use this idea to explain why full-spectrum products (which include a wider range of plant compounds) may feel different than isolates (which focus on one main compound).
Research is still evolving, and not all conclusions are definitive, but the entourage effect remains a helpful framework for understanding why cannabis products can vary so much in how they’re experienced.
So You Don't Feel Lost
Understanding Labels
“mg” means milligrams and is used to measure cannabinoid content.
A label might show:
- mg per serving
- mg per container
THC mg and CBD mg separately
It describes how much THC is present relative to the total product amount (depending on labeling standards). In oil-based medical products, you may also see THC measured in milligrams (mg).
Both can be helpful—but the best way to understand a label is to look at:
- total cannabinoids
- mg per serving (if listed)
- how much is in the full container
A ratio describes the relationship between the amounts of THC and CBD in a product.
Examples:
- 1:1 means equal parts THC and CBD
- 2:1 means twice as much THC as CBD
- 1:2 means twice as much CBD as THC
Ratios are a helpful way to understand product composition, but they don’t predict an identical experience for every person.
Generally, “full-spectrum” refers to a product that contains a broader range of naturally occurring cannabis compounds, rather than focusing on only one cannabinoid. In addition to major cannabinoids like THC and CBD, full-spectrum products may also include minor cannabinoids (like CBG or CBN) and terpenes, depending on how the product is made and what the final formulation includes.
People often use the term “full-spectrum” to describe products that aim to preserve more of the plant’s original chemical profile, which may affect the overall experience compared to a product made from a single isolated compound. Because labeling standards and manufacturing methods can differ, the exact meaning of “full-spectrum” can vary between products, so it’s always a good idea to review the product label and cannabinoid information for specifics.
Broad-spectrum generally refers to products that contain more than one cannabis compound, but are typically formulated to reduce or remove certain components compared to full-spectrum products. In many cases, broad-spectrum products may include a mix of cannabinoids (such as CBD along with minor cannabinoids) and may also include terpenes, depending on the formulation.
People often describe broad-spectrum as a “middle option” between:
- Full-spectrum (a wider range of plant compounds), and
- Isolate (mostly one primary compound)
Because definitions and processing methods can vary by manufacturer and program rules, it’s always best to review the label to understand exactly what cannabinoids are included and how the product is formulated.
An isolate is a product made to contain one primary cannabinoid (most commonly CBD, but sometimes another cannabinoid) with most other cannabis compounds removed during processing. That means isolates typically contain little to no additional cannabinoids, terpenes, or plant compounds compared to broad-spectrum or full-spectrum products.
People often describe isolates as a more “single-compound” option because the formulation is designed to focus on one main cannabinoid rather than the broader chemical profile of the plant. Because labeling and manufacturing methods can vary, it’s always best to review the product’s cannabinoid information to understand what’s included.
A batch number or lot number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific production run of a product. It helps track the product from manufacturing through testing and dispensing, and it supports traceability and quality control in regulated medical programs.
Batch/lot numbers are important because they allow products to be connected to things like:
- testing results
- manufacturing records
- expiration or stability information (when applicable)
If a product ever needs to be reviewed or verified, the batch/lot number helps identify the exact run it came from.
Effects & Timing
New Patient Comfort Questions
It depends on THC content, your sensitivity, and how your body responds. Experiences vary.
People may report experiences such as:
- changes in perception
- altered sense of time
- relaxation or mental “shift”
- increased sensory awareness
Some people may also experience unwanted effects, such as discomfort or feeling “too high,” especially if they are new or take more than intended.
CBD is not typically associated with intoxicating effects (a “high”) in the same way THC is. Many people describe CBD as subtle and may not notice an immediate or dramatic change, especially at lower amounts. Depending on the individual and the product formulation, some people report feeling more calm, relaxed, or “balanced,” while others mainly notice that CBD feels gentler or less impairing compared to THC-containing products.
CBD experiences can vary widely based on factors like serving size, cannabinoid ratios, how the product is taken, and individual body chemistry. Research is ongoing, and this information is provided for general education only, not medical advice.
Timing can vary based on the product format and the individual. Some formats may be absorbed more quickly, while others may take longer to be felt. Factors like serving size, metabolism, whether you’ve eaten recently, and individual sensitivity can also affect how fast effects begin and how long they last. Because experiences vary, many patients take a cautious approach and allow enough time to understand how a product affects them before taking more.
How long effects last can vary based on several factors, including:
- Product format: Different formats are absorbed differently, which can affect both duration and intensity.
- Dose/serving size: Larger amounts may feel stronger and may last longer than smaller amounts.
- Metabolism: Everyone processes cannabinoids at a different speed, which can change how long effects remain noticeable.
- Whether you’ve eaten recently: Taking a product on an empty stomach versus with food can sometimes change timing and duration.
- Individual sensitivity: Body chemistry, tolerance, and prior experience can all affect how long effects last.
Because of these differences, two people can use the same product and still have different experiences. Some products may feel shorter or longer lasting depending on how they are absorbed and how your body responds.
That can happen, especially for new patients or when using a product with a more subtle cannabinoid profile. Some people may not notice effects right away because timing can depend on factors like product format, serving size, metabolism, and whether you’ve eaten recently. In some cases, the effects may be gradual rather than immediate. If you’re unsure what to do next, a qualified healthcare professional can help you think through safe adjustments and what to monitor.
Yes. Some people notice that repeated exposure, especially to THC-containing products, can change how strongly they feel effects over time. This is often referred to as tolerance, and it can vary widely from person to person. Factors like frequency of use, serving size, and individual body chemistry can all influence how quickly tolerance develops and how noticeable it becomes.
First, try not to panic—this can happen sometimes, especially for new patients or if someone takes more than they intended. Many uncomfortable effects are temporary and may improve with time. If you feel uneasy, it can help to sit or lie down in a comfortable place, stay hydrated, and give yourself time to rest until you feel back to normal.
If your symptoms feel persistent, unusually intense, or you’re unsure what to do next, it’s always a good idea to contact a qualified healthcare professional for guidance. And if you ever feel like you’re experiencing a true emergency or severe symptoms, seek urgent medical care right away.
Safety, Storage & Responsible Use
A common educational approach for new patients is “start low and go slow.” This means beginning with a small amount and giving yourself enough time to understand how your body responds before making any changes. Because cannabinoids can affect people differently—and some product formats may take longer to be felt—going slowly can help reduce the chance of taking more than you intended.
Many beginners also find it helpful to keep things consistent at first (same time of day, same format, same serving size) so it’s easier to notice patterns and understand what feels right for them. For personalized guidance on serving size, timing, or how medical cannabis fits into your care plan, patients should consult a qualified healthcare professional.
It may. Always speak with a healthcare professional about possible interactions, especially if you take medications that affect the central nervous system or are processed through the liver.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel impaired.
Store securely, away from children and pets, and follow label storage instructions.
Patients should consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.
Work & Drug Tests
Real-Life Situations
It can. Many drug tests detect THC, and low-THC products may still trigger a positive result.
Not necessarily. Employers may still enforce drug-free workplace policies.
Many patients aim for that, but individual responses vary. A healthcare professional can help guide decisions.
Costs, Payments & Planning Ahead
Typically no, medical cannabis products are not generally covered by insurance.
It depends on your plan rules. Check with your provider for details.
Costs may vary due to formulation, testing, manufacturing processes, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Rules & Updates
Staying Informed
Yes. Medical cannabis programs can evolve. It’s always smart to check official Georgia sources for updates.
Official Georgia program resources provide the most current information about eligibility, card status, and regulations.
That’s completely normal. Medical cannabis can feel complicated at first, especially in a regulated program like Georgia’s. Education is a great first step, and we encourage patients and caregivers to keep learning, ask thoughtful questions, and work with qualified healthcare professionals for guidance.
This content is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. Medical cannabis decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional, and patients should follow Georgia program requirements.
