Hemp Education - The 101

It’s a versatile plant from the cannabis family which doesn’t get you high. Instead, it’s bursting with nutritional benefits, industrial uses, and many health-promoting compounds.

What is a Cannabinoid?

Cannabinoids are a wide array of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant family. We have identified over 100 different cannabinoids, all with their own unique properties and effects. The two big cannabinoids are CBD and THC. THC brings about the happy, out-of-it feeling associated with cannabis, but CBD doesn’t get you high.

Think of cannabinoids as the “secret sauce” in cannabis plants. Cannabinoids work by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in our bodies. They’re the reason why cannabis has such a range of effects, from the psychoactive high of THC to the soothing calm of CBD.

Do phytocannabinoids come from hemp?

You bet! Phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids that come from plants, and hemp is loaded with them. There are over 100 different phytocannabinoids found in hemp, including the famous CBD, but also lesser-known (yet still amazing) compounds like CBG and CBN.

What’s the difference between Endocannabinoids and Phytocannabinoids?

It’s all about where they come from. Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that your body produces naturally, while phytocannabinoids come from plants like hemp.

Both types play key roles in keeping your body’s systems balanced and running smoothly. When your Endocannabinoid System is out of balance and not producing adequate endocannabinoids, the ones from hemp can support you in restoring that balance to your being.

What’s the Endocannabinoid System?

Raphael Mechoulam and the team from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem were checking out the brain and they found a unique transmitter they named “cannabinoid.”

Dr. Mechoulam and his team found that there was a huge system of cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors in the human body.

We call this network the Endocannabinoid System.

Endocannabinoid System (ECS), keeps your body and mind in harmony by regulating functions like mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.

The ECS consists of three main components:

• Endocannabinoids: These are internal cannabinoids produced by the body.
• Receptors: Two primary cannabinoid receptors, known as CB1 and CB2, are found in different areas of the body. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are predominantly found in immune cells and peripheral tissues.
• Enzymes: Enzymes, such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), are responsible for the synthesis of both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids.

What Does The Endocannabinoid System Do?

It helps maintain your overall well-being by regulating pain, inflammation, stress response, memory, and more.

The ECS does this by using endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids to communicate with different parts of your body, making sure everything’s working together in perfect sync.

Early research suggests that the ECS is just as important as your digestive system and lymphatic system, it is one of the most important aspects of your health.

In short, it plays a huge role in keeping your body in tip-top shape.

What Is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the health promoting member of the cannabinoid family. It’s a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp, with a boatload of potential health benefits, like easing anxiousness, reducing inflammation, improving sleep quality and boosting your overall wellness.

Best of all, CBD won’t get you high – it’s all about promoting relaxation and balance.

What are the effects of CBD?

CBD can work wonders for a whole range of issues. People use it to manage stress and anxiety, relieve pain and inflammation, improve sleep quality, and even promote brain health.

Here are some of the most reported benefits of CBD:

• Relaxation and Stress Reduction
• Pain and Inflammation Relief
• Improved Sleep Quality
• Support for Mental Health
• Potential Neuroprotective Properties

Keep in mind that people’s experiences can be different, and more research is needed to get a better idea of CBD’s effects.

How is CBD Different from marijuana?

Ah, the age-old question. While both CBD and marijuana come from the cannabis family, they’re like distant cousins with very different personalities.

The main difference is that CBD comes from hemp plants and contains less than 0.3% THC (the compound that gets you high). On the other hand, marijuana is rich in THC and can cause psychoactive effects.

So, to sum it up, CBD lets you enjoy the perks without any mind-altering experiences.

How Does CBD Actually Work In Your Body?

CBD works in many different ways to support your overall wellness. While it interacts with your endocannabinoid system, it doesn't bind strongly to the main CB1 and CB2 receptors like THC does.

CBD primarily works by:

• Preventing the breakdown of your body's natural endocannabinoids (like anandamide) by inhibiting the FAAH enzyme.

• Acting as a negative allosteric modulator at CB1 receptors, which helps reduce THC's psychoactive effects.

• Working as a modulator for the CB2 receptors, supporting anti-inflammatory effects.

CBD also interacts with several other important systems in your body:

• 5HT1A serotonin receptors, supporting mood regulation and stress response.

• TRPV1 receptors, which are involved in pain and inflammation management.

• PPARγ receptors, helping regulate inflammation and metabolism.

• GPR55 (sometimes called the orphan cannabinoid receptor), which influences pain and inflammation.

Want to get the most from your CBD? Take it with food, especially something containing healthy fats. Research shows that high-fat meals can:

• Increase CBD absorption by up to 5 times.

• Lead to higher CBD concentrations in your bloodstream.

• Help maintain CBD levels in your system longer.

What’s the right amount of CBD for me?

Finding the perfect dose of CBD is like finding your favorite pair of jeans – it’s all about personal comfort. It varies depending on factors like your body weight, tolerance, and desired results.

The best approach is to start low and go slow, gradually increasing your dose until you find the sweet spot that works for you.

We recommend a starting dose of .75ml of our CBD Oils for beginners.

Remember, the journey to wellness is all about finding what works best for you and your unique needs. So, take it easy, experiment, and listen to your body.

And as always, consult with a healthcare professional before diving in if you’re taking medications or have any health concerns.

What is Delta-9 THC and How Does It Work?

Delta-9 THC is the most well-researched and well-known form of THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the “high”.

THC works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, which is responsible for maintaining balance and homeostasis.

Delta-9 THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, leading to a range of effects, such as euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, increased appetite, and altered perception.

ECS has three primary components: endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are molecules that are naturally produced by the body and act as messengers between cells.

Cannabinoid receptors are proteins that are located on the surface of cells and receive signals from endocannabinoids or phytocannabinoids, such as THC.

Enzymes break down endocannabinoids or cannabinoids after they have completed their function.

There are two main types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.

CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and central nervous system and CB2 receptors, which are mostly found in the immune system and peripheral tissues.

Delta-9 THC has a high affinity for CB1 receptors, which means it can bind strongly to them and activate them. This activation leads to the release of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate, which affect mood, cognition, memory, and perception.

Delta-9 THC can also modulate the activity of other neurotransmitter systems, such as GABA, opioid, and serotonin, which can influence pain sensation, anxiety, and sleep.

Delta-9 THC can also bind to CB2 receptors, but with a lower affinity for them.

CB2 receptors are involved in regulating inflammation, immune response, and cell growth.

CBD however, has a higher affinity to CB2 receptors which means CBD + THC Gummies provide more profound, deeper effects than either by itself.

For example, CBD can counteract some of the negative effects of THC, such as anxiety and paranoia.

What Are The Benefits Of THC?

Delta-9 THC can have a range of benefits for you by interacting with your endocannabinoid system.

More and more people are using Delta-9 THC for recreational or wellness purposes. Here are the most common benefits of THC Gummies that people report:

• Relaxation and peace: Stress and anxiety fade away, and a calm and serene mood takes over, when people take THC gummies. They relax and feel peaceful, as if they were on a beach, listening to the waves, and feeling the breeze on their skin.
• Pain and inflammation relief: Pain, inflammation, and soreness are eased, thanks to THC gummies. They change how people perceive pain, by working with the endocannabinoid system.
• Better sleep quality and duration: Sleep quality and duration are improved, when people take THC gummies. They make people sleepy and adjust their sleep-wake cycle. They help people fall asleep faster and sleep longer and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
• Appetite and digestion boost: THC Gummies activate the CB1 receptors in the brain and gut. Most people report enjoying their food more.
• Improved mood: Mood is enhanced, when people take THC gummies. They release dopamine, a chemical that makes us feel good and rewarded. They help ease symptoms of anxiety, or low self-esteem, and make you feel happier and more content.
• Creativity and inspiration stimulation: Delta-9 THC can stimulate creativity and inspiration. They increase focus and productivity, and change how people think and see things. They can help people solve problems, write songs, or paint pictures, and unleash their inner genius.
• Spiritual practice and awareness support: Spiritual practice and awareness are supported, when people take THC gummies. They help people practice meditation, yoga, or any other form of spirituality, and deepen their experience.
• Sensory experience and perception heightening: Sensory experience and perception are heightened, when people take THC gummies. They make everything more vivid and enjoyable, such as music, art, and nature. They help people savor every moment of life.
• Deep meditation: Many people are choosing THC. They quiet the mind and body, and allow people to enter a state of profound relaxation and awareness. They help people explore their inner self and transcend their ego.

How much Delta-9 gets you high?

The amount of Delta-9 THC needed to get high varies from person to person, and it depends on several factors, such as:

• Tolerance: If you’re a frequent user of THC, you may develop a tolerance to Delta-9 THC, which means you will need a higher dose to feel the same effects as before.
• Body weight: Generally, the more you weigh, the more Delta-9 THC you will need to feel the effects, as THC is stored in fat cells and distributed throughout the body.
• Metabolism: The rate at which your body breaks down and eliminates Delta-9 THC affects how long and how intensely you feel the effects. A faster metabolism means a shorter and weaker high, while a slower metabolism means a longer and stronger high.
• Individual biochemistry: Everyone has a unique endocannabinoid system, which is the network of receptors and enzymes that interact with cannabinoids like Delta-9 THC. The number and sensitivity of your CB1 receptors, which are mainly located in the brain and nervous system, influence how you respond to Delta-9 THC.
• Sensitivity: Some people are more sensitive to Delta-9 THC than others, due to genetic variations, environmental factors, or personal preferences. Sensitivity can also change over time, depending on your cannabis use history and current mood.
  
  Because of these factors, there is no definitive answer to how much Delta-9 THC you need to get high.

Cannovia advises the approach of “start low and go slow” to avoid overconsumption and potential side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, or nausea. We recommend starting with a lower dose, such as 1/2 of our 5mg THC 20mg CBD gummy. to gauge how your body reacts, and then, if necessary, gradually increase the dosage, always being mindful of your individual response and comfort level.

You should also consider the method of consumption, as different forms of cannabis, such as edibles, tinctures, or vapes, have different onset times and durations of effects.

What is the strongest Delta-9 THC gummy?

Cannovia’s gummies are the strongest Delta-9 THC gummies on the market, because they use Cellular Deconstruction™ Technology to extract Nano-Ionized™ Whole Spectrum™ cannabinoids from hemp plants.

They have smaller and more bioavailable molecules that can deliver faster and longer-lasting effects, as well as a more potent and natural entourage effect.

What Types of Delta-9 Edibles Are There?

There are many types of Delta-9 edibles available on the market, such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, brownies, caramels, beverages, tinctures, capsules, and more. Each type of edible has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as taste, onset time, duration, potency, and dosage.

Cannovia’s gummies are known for their potent effects and delicious flavors, such as black cherry. They are compliant with the Farm Bill and rigorously tested by third-party labs, ensuring both quality and legality. They are ideal for those seeking a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of THC.

Cannovia’s Delta-9 gummies represent the pinnacle of hemp-derived cannabinoid innovation. Moreover, we are exploring new Delta-9 products, including potential offerings like chocolates, mints, and seltzers, further expanding our commitment to cannabinoid innovation.

What’s The Difference Between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC

Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are two forms of tetrahydrocannabinol, a compound that affects the brain and body when you consume cannabis. Both forms can be found in gummies and other edible products that contain THC.

The main difference between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC is the location of a double bond in their molecules. This small difference changes how they bind to the receptors in your nervous system, and may result in different effects.

Delta-8 THC products are typically made by synthetically converting CBD or Delta-9 THC into Delta-8 THC. Delta-8 THC is psychoactive, but much less potent than Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC is thought to have roughly half of the potency of Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC products may have the following benefits:

• Less potent than Delta-9 THC, with reported milder psychoactive effects.
• May be less likely to cause anxiety or paranoia compared to Delta-9 THC.

Both Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are subject to legal restrictions in many countries and states. The legality of Delta-8 THC is especially unclear, as it may fall under the definition of hemp or synthetic cannabinoids, depending on how it is derived and marketed.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants—including hemp—and are responsible for each plant’s distinctive aroma and flavor.

In the case of cannabis, scientists have identified more than 200 terpenes that contribute to its characteristic scent and taste.

Beyond just the aromatic properties, terpenes also together with cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) in what’s called the “entourage effect,” enhancing or each other’s overall benefits.

Interestingly, terpenes are secreted in the same resin glands as cannabinoids (the sticky parts of the flower), and different cannabis strains (like Indica and Sativa strains) can have unique terpene profiles that may offer specific therapeutic properties—ranging from supporting relaxation to helping regulate inflammation.

Factors like climate, soil quality, and a plant’s stage of growth can all influence terpene production, which explains why terpenes have varying fragrances.

Some terpenes smell more citrusy while others have an earthy or pine-like scent.

Limonene has a citrusy smell and is popular for its mood enhancing and mentally relaxing effects. While Myrcene, which is another monoterpene with an earthy scent, is preferred for its physical relaxation and sleep promoting benefits.

Caryophyllene on the other hand has a “spicy” aroma which can be described as a mixture of black pepper and cloves. It’s well-known for its positive influence on discomfort and inflammation.

So, when we talk about the nuances of different hemp or cannabis strains, we’re often referring to their terpene makeup just as much as their cannabinoid content.

Blue Dream: Balanced and Uplifting

Myrcene

• What It Does: Often associated with relaxation, mild sedation, and enhanced absorption of other compounds. It also helps THC cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively.

• How It Feels in Blue Dream: The myrcene content contributes to a soothing undercurrent that helps prevent jitteriness, yet it’s not typically so dominant that it puts you to sleep.

Limonene

• What It Does: Linked to mood elevation, stress relief, and a bright, citrusy aroma.

• How It Feels in Blue Dream: Adds an uplifting, clear-headed quality that can help maintain focus and positive mood.  

Beta-Caryophyllene

• What It Does: Known for its interaction with CB2 receptors, which may support pain relief and reduce inflammation.  

• How It Feels in Blue Dream: Encourages a mild body relaxation and stress relief without overwhelming sedation.

Alpha/Beta Pinene

• What They Do: Pinene is noted for alertness, memory retention, and a crisp, pine-like aroma.

• How They Feel in Blue Dream: They often keep the experience mentally clear, balancing out the more sedative aspects of myrcene, so you don’t feel too heavy.

Camphene & Linalool (Sometimes Present)

• What They Do: Camphene may offer antioxidant properties, while linalool is associated with calmness and stress management.  

• How They Feel in Blue Dream: These are typically minor players, but they can add subtle layers of relaxation or soothing effects.

Overall Experience: Blue Dream’s terpene balance produce a slightly uplifting, but smooth experience—often described as clear-headed and calm cerebral high. This is why many enjoy it during the day or for creative tasks, as it offers some relaxation without total couchlock.

Shop Delta-9 THC Blue Dream Gummies

Pineapple Express: Terpene Breakdown and How It Feels

Myrcene

• What It Does: Myrcene is commonly associated with relaxation, mild sedation, and can even enhance the absorption of other compounds.

• How It Feels in Pineapple Express: The myrcene presence helps smooth out the experience, adding subtle body relaxation that keeps you calm but not couch-locked.

Alpha-Pinene (and Beta-Pinene)

• What It Does: Pinene is linked to alertness, clearer breathing, and sharp mental focus.

• How It Feels in Pineapple Express: It brings a crisp, energizing note that can spark creativity or help you stay on task. Many fans of this strain mention feeling mentally clear, countering any heavier sedative elements from other terpenes.

Beta-Caryophyllene

• What It Does: This spicy-scented terpene can bind to CB2 receptors, which may help reduce inflammation and stress.

• How It Feels in Pineapple Express: It adds a gentle body buzz that feels soothing but not overpowering. Caryophyllene’s presence can offer balance, helping relieve minor aches while maintaining the strain’s overall brightness.

Limonene

• What It Does: Often linked to citrusy aromas, limonene is associated with mood elevation and stress relief.

• How It Feels in Pineapple Express: Though not always dominant, the limonene in this strain can add a refreshing, upbeat tone to the experience, helping keep your spirits lifted.

Overall Experience: Pineapple Express strain profile pairs a bright, tropical aroma with a reliably uplifting effect, making it a go-to for those chasing productivity, mild stress relief, and a bit of carefree enjoyment.

Granddaddy Purple: Relaxing and Soothing

Myrcene  

What It Does: Myrcene’s sedative qualities can become more pronounced when combined with other soothing terpenes.  

How It Feels in GDP: In Granddaddy Purple, myrcene typically leads to a heavier, more body-centric relaxation, which many report is great for evening use or managing aches.

Limonene

• What It Does: Limonene can elevate mood and relieve stress.  

• How It Feels in GDP: Although GDP is known for its sedative effects, limonene can cut through some of the heaviness with a gentle mood lift, preventing the experience from becoming too drowsy.

Beta-Caryophyllene

• What It Does: Anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties when binding to CB2 receptors.

• How It Feels in GDP: Enhances the soothing, physical comfort GDP is known for, adding to its reputation as a go-to strain for winding down in the evening or easing tension.

Overall Experience: The terpene profile of Granddaddy Purple tilts heavily toward full-body relaxation, people often describe it as “soothing,” “weighty,” and ideal for nighttime.

While limonene does provide a slight lift, the myrcene and caryophyllene synergy tends to dominate, offering deep relaxation and relief from stress or discomfort.

How You Actually Feel These Terpenes

1. Entourage Effect: Terpenes don’t act alone. They influence how cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) bind to receptors and how they’re absorbed, creating layered effects beyond just “THC = high”.

2. Balance vs. Emphasis: In Blue Dream strain, Iinene and Limonene can balance out myrcene’s sedative qualities, creating a functional, uplifting effect. By contrast, GDP’s higher emphasis on myrcene and caryophyllene tends to produce deeper relaxation.

Blue Dream: More balanced, daytime-friendly, offering mild body relaxation with a cerebral high.

Granddaddy Purple: Heavier, more physical relaxation, often used in the evening to help with stress, discomfort, or sleep.

Ultimately, the effects come from how these terpenes “steer” the overall experience, working alongside cannabinoids to shape everything from mood to body feel. 

Understanding each terpene’s general influence can help you pick a strain that matches your desired vibe—whether that’s an active, creative buzz or a calm, end-of-day unwinding session.

What Are “Strains” of Cannabis?

When people talk about different “strains” of cannabis (such as Blue Dream or Granddaddy Purple), they’re typically referring to specific cultivars or varieties of the Cannabis plant, each with its own characteristic blend of cannabinoids (including minor cannabinoids) and terpenes. 

A strain’s unique chemical profile is what influences its aromas, flavors, and potential effects on the body and mind. 

Are they strains of THC?

Calling them “strains of delta-9 THC” isn’t accurate, though, because delta-9 THC is just one cannabinoid among many found in cannabis—it doesn’t define the entire plant.

In essence, every strain is more accurately a chemovar or cultivar of Cannabis sativa L. 

These chemovars can differ widely in their cannabinoid ratios (like CBD:THC:CBG:CBN) and terpene composition, which is why two strains can smell and feel so different, even if they both qualify as “hemp” (low THC) or “marijuana” (higher THC) under legal definitions.

Indica vs. Sativa: How Are They Defined?

Historically, cannabis has been divided into two main botanical types—Indica and Sativa—based on physical traits such as plant height, leaf shape, and growing patterns.

• Sativa plants are often described as taller, with thinner leaves. They were traditionally thought to produce more “uplifting” or “energizing” effects.

• Indica plants are typically shorter, with broader leaves, and have been associated with “relaxing” or “sedating” qualities.

In modern practice, however, most cannabis is hybridized, meaning that a strain might show both “indica-like” and “sativa-like” characteristics. 

"Simple indica/sativa labels are outdated. It's the unique profile of terpenes and cannabinoids that truly determines a strain's effects. A strain labeled “indica” might end up feeling quite energizing if it’s rich in pinene and limonene, while a so-called “sativa” could feel far more sedative if it’s high in myrcene."

• Trevor Baum, Co-founder of Cannovia MS in Cannabis Science & Therapeutics (2026).