Massachusetts Consumer Education Materials

Marijuana Strains & Cannabinoids

Marijuana comes in hundreds of different strains that are constantly changing but are typically classified into four groups: Sativa, Indica, Hybrid, and Cannabidiol (“CBD”). Each group is made up of a variety of strains, all with different cannabinoid profiles, terpenes, and flavonoids.

Sativa

Sativas are reported to increase energy and focus, generally recommended for daytime use.

Indica

Indicas are reported to promote relaxation and promote sleep for evening use.

Hybrid

Hybrid strains are produced when cultivators cross-breed different indica and sativa strains to increase the desired traits and breed out the undesired to meet specific needs.

CBD

CBD strains are uniquely bread to produce higher percentages of CBD with less psychoactive effects. For more information on Pleasantrees specific product offerings, cannabis education, and more visit

Methods of Administration & Dosing

There are three primary ways to consume marijuana and each has its own unique use case and benefits. Different products will vary in potency, cannabinoid profile, and effects. Consumers should experiment to find the ideal dose for their desired effects and are encouraged to keep a log of consumption methods, strain information, and effects. A consumer’s tolerance will vary based on a variety of factors including weight, body chemistry, and metabolism. Low and slow is how all new cannabis users should approach dosing. All marijuana products will be lab tested and clearly labeled to ensure consistent dosing and packaging.

Inhalation

Inhalation is the most popular consumption method with the quickest effect. As the user inhales, the cannabinoids are introduced into the bloodstream, having an almost instant effect. The effects can last anywhere from ninety (90) minutes to several hours, and peak effects are usually felt after thirty (30) minutes. It is good practice to wait at least 45 min before increasing dosage.

Combustion

Combustion is the most common way marijuana is inhaled.

Vaporizing

Vaporizing is an alternative way of inhaling marijuana that involves heating the marijuana flower or concentrates to a temperature that produces vapor without combustion. Vaping eliminates many of the harmful    carcinogens and tars that are often present in smoke.

Oral

Oral consumption of marijuana is a popular administration method for consumers who prefer not to inhale anything and are looking for longer lasting effects. Within oral consumption there are two VERY different categories.

Edibles

Marijuana Infused Products (MIPs) are food products such as chocolates, lozenges, pastries, or capsules that can be swallowed and processed by the liver creating a new more potent cannabinoid. This process takes much longer (2-3 hours) and produces a much stronger effect. Low and slow and it is recommended to not increase the does until at least 2-3 hours have passed.

Sublingual marijuana products are designed to be taken orally but held under the tongue for a few minutes allowing the cannabinoids to enter through the blood brain barrier. These effects are felt within 15-30 min and have a similar effect to smoking because it did not pass through your liver. This is a great option for first timers giving you the ability to micro dose easily.

Topical

Topical marijuana products are absorbed through the skin to target specific areas. Often, topicals do not produce psychoactive effects or a “high” for consumers and is one of the safest consumption methods.

For more information on Pleasantrees specific product offerings, cannabis education, and more visit one of our Massachusetts dispensaries.

Tolerance, Dependence, & Withdrawal

Although different drugs have different physical effects, the symptoms of addiction are similar. If you recognize the signs and symptoms of substance abuse, consider talking to someone about your drug use. Some examples of signs and symptoms of substance abuse are:

• Neglecting responsibilities at school, work, or home because of drug use;
• Using drugs under dangerous conditions or taking risks while high;
• An increase in drug tolerance;
• Taking drugs to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms, which may include nausea, sweating, shakiness, and extreme anxiety;
• Causing problems in relationships;
• Abandoning enjoyed activities;
• Continue using drugs, despite knowledge of potential   and actual harms; or
• Losing control over drug use.

Physical dependence to marijuana has not been substantiated by extensive research, but frequent or heavy use of marijuana can lead to increased tolerance resulting in the need for higher doses and different strains. For additional information on tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal, visit: https://drugabuse.com/marijuana-abuse/.

HelpGuide.org is a non-profit dedicated to improving mental and emotional health and provides resources to recognize abuse and addiction. Help Guide provides a guide to common signs and symptoms of drug abuse and addiction. For more information about substance abuse and addiction, visit: https://www.helpguide.org/home-pages/addictions.htm

The Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline can be reached at 800-327-5050. Resources are also available on the Massachusetts Use Helpline website: https://helplinema.org/.

The Law

• Marijuana has not been analyzed or approved by the FDA, there is limited information on side effects, there may be health risks associated with using Marijuana, and it should be kept away from children;
• Consumers should speak with a healthcare provider before using marijuana, especially if they are using medications.
• Consumers have reported a variety of side effects associated with the use of marijuana including dry mouth, dizziness, paranoia, anxiety, slowed reactions times, and impaired motor skills. Side effects can vary for different consumers.
• It is illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana (M.G.L. c.90, s.24).
• Marijuana consumption is not permitted in public, and furthermore, consumption is not permitted in or around Pleasantrees’s facilities.
• Consumers may possess on their person up to one ounce of marijuana flower, 500mg of THC in edibles, or five grams of marijuana concentrate. That carry limit is also the purchase per day limit per customer.
• At home, consumers may possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana flower (or its equivalent) that should be kept away from children and locked to avoid accidental ingestion.
• Individuals can only share or gift up to 1 ounce of marijuana flower (or its equivalent) with adults ages 21 and over, without any form of compensation.
• Like alcohol, consumers may not have an open container of adult-use marijuana/marijuana products in the passenger area of their car.
• An “open container” includes a package with its seal broken or a package from which the contents have been partially removed. The “passenger area” does not include a trunk or a locked glove compartment.
• Consumers are not allowed to cross state lines with marijuana or marijuana products.

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