Medical Cannabis
Education Hub

Learn key terms like cannabinoids, terpenes, and strain types, plus format basics and safety, so you can browse and filter medical cannabis products with confidence.

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Learn The Basics

Cannabinoids and terpenes are naturally occurring compounds in cannabis. Strain type is a common label used to describe products. Use these basics to navigate with more confidence.

THC

THC is one of the main cannabinoids in cannabis and is the primary compound associated with intoxicating effects. It can also influence how cannabis affects the brain and body.

Why it may be authorized

A healthcare practitioner may authorize THC-containing products as part of a plan to support symptom relief. Suitability depends on your health history and other medications.

CBD

CBD does not produce a high or intoxication.

Why it may be authorized

A healthcare practitioner may authorize CBD-dominant products when a non-intoxicating option is preferred, depending on symptoms and individual factors.

CBG

CBG is a minor cannabinoid found in smaller amounts in cannabis.

Why it may be authorized

A healthcare practitioner may consider products containing minor cannabinoids as part of an individualized plan, based on patient experience and product availability.

CBN

CBN can form as THC changes over time.

Why it may be authorized

A healthcare practitioner may consider CBN-containing products when sleep support is a patient goal, depending on overall treatment plan and tolerance.

CBC

CBC is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis.

Why it may be authorized

A healthcare practitioner may include CBC-containing products when exploring formulations that contain a broader cannabinoid profile.
Pinene

Pine-like notes bring to mind fresh forest scents and fragrant eucalyptus.
Myrcene

Peppery and musky notes similar to those of thyme, hops, and lemongrass.
Caryophyllene

Fresh spicy aroma like that of cracked pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.
Limonene

Delightful zesty lemon and orange scents dominate in this fresh, sweet terpene.
Humulene

Aroma similar to fresh-cut hops with lovely earthy and woody undertones.
Ocimeme

Sweet, fragrant herbaceous aromas abound, supported by notes of citrus and wood.
Nerolidol

Presents woody and fruity aromas evoking the scents of apple, citrus, and rose.
Guaiol

Floral and woody scents combine in this pine-dominant terpene with hints of rose and mint.
Bisabolol

Presents a sweet, soothing, chamomile-like aroma.
Linalool

Presents pleasing lavender-like floral aromas with a hint of spice and earthiness.
Terpinolene

Fresh floral and herbal scents with pleasant lilac and tea tree undertones.
Farnesene

Presents sweet, woody, and green apple-like aroma.

Indica

Traditionally described as shorter, bushier plants with broader leaves, often associated with cooler climates.
Often recommended when patients are looking for options suited to quieter, rest-focused moments.

Note: Strain type labels aren’t a reliable predictor of individual effects.

Sativa

Traditionally described as taller plants with narrower leaves, often associated with warmer climates.
Often recommended for patients seeking options suited to daytime use, active routines, or higher-engagement moments.

Note: Strain type labels aren’t a reliable predictor of individual effects.

Hybrid

A broad label used for products that combine characteristics of different plant types. Many products today fall into this category.
Generally described as: A mix of effects—often described as “balanced,” but it depends on the product.

Note: Strain type labels aren’t a reliable predictor of individual effects.

Filter by cannabinoids, terpenes, or strain type to find what fits your needs.

 Browse products with filters

Choosing a Format

Flower

Dried cannabis flower from the plant, typically ground before use.

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

People who want quicker effects and the ability to adjust in smaller increments.
Shop Flower

Oils

Cannabis extract blended into an oil for measured oral use (as directed).

Onset/Duration*

Slower (often 30–120 min) / Longer (often several hours)

Best for

Smoke-free, measured use—often preferred when longer-lasting effects are desired
Shop Oils

Capsules

Pre-measured cannabis oil/extract in a capsule for oral use.

Onset/Duration*

Slower (often 30–120 min) / Longer (often several hours)

Best for

A simple, discreet option with consistent, no-measuring dosing.
Shop Capsules

Pre-rolls

Ground flower pre-rolled for convenience (no preparation needed).

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

People who prefer an inhaled format and want a ready-to-use option.
Shop Pre-rolls

Infused Pre-rolls

A pre-roll that combines flower with added cannabis extract to increase potency.

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

Patients comfortable with inhaled formats who are authorized for higher-potency products
Shop Infused Pre-rolls

Edibles

Cannabis extract added to food products (e.g., gummies, chocolate) for oral use.

Onset/Duration*

Slow (often 45–180 min) / Longer (often several hours)

Best for

Smoke-free, discreet use—best for people comfortable waiting for onset
Shop Edibles

Beverages

Cannabis extract formulated into a drink; effects can vary by product.

Onset/Duration*

Variable (often 30–120 min) / Longer (often several hours)

Best for

A smoke-free alternative to edibles with a familiar “sip” routine.
Shop Beverages

Vapes (510 cartridges & all-in-ones)

Cannabis extract in a pre-filled cartridge (510) or an all-in-one device, used by inhalation.

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

People who want faster effects in a smoke-free inhaled format and prefer convenience
Shop Vapes

Concentrates

Highly concentrated cannabis extracts (varies by product), used in small amounts.

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

Patients who are comfortable with stronger products and are authorized for higher-potency options.
Shop Concentrates

Topicals

Cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions applied to the skin.

Onset/Duration*

Varies; may take longer to notice effects and can last for hours.

Best for

People who want a non-inhaled option applied to a specific area. Follow label directions.
Shop Topicals

Inhalers

Metered devices that deliver a measured amount of cannabis extract by inhalation.

Onset/Duration*

Fast (often minutes) / Shorter (often a few hours)

Best for

People who want a smoke-free, controlled, and discreet inhaled option.
Shop Inhalers

*Onset and duration vary by person, product, and whether taken with food. Always follow your healthcare practitioner’s guidance.

Consume Safely

Possible Short Term Health Effects

While cannabis may be an appropriate treatment option for some patients, it can also cause effects that are negative, unwanted, or unpleasant.

Short-term effects can include:

  • Confusion
  • Sleepiness or fatigue
  • Impaired ability to: remember, concentrate, pay attention, or react quickly
  • Anxiety, fear, or panic
If you experience uncomfortable effects

Stop using cannabis, rest in a safe place. If symptoms feel severe or don’t improve, contact a healthcare practitioner or seek urgent medical attention.

Safety note: Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness while under the influence of cannabis.

Effects can vary based on the product, amount used, and individual response.

Interactions

Cannabis can interact with alcohol, prescription medications, and other substances. Cannabis can interact with alcohol, prescription medications, and other
substances. These interactions may
increase side effects or change how
you feel.

Interactions may lead to:

  • Increased drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
  • Greater impairment (for example, slower reaction time)
  • Stronger or unexpected effects

To reduce risk:

  • Avoid mixing cannabis and other substances, like alcohol or drugs.
  • If you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, speak with a healthcare practitioner or pharmacist before using cannabis
If you feel unwell

Stop using cannabis, rest in a safe place, and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or don’t improve.

Talk to your healthcare practitioner

Your healthcare practitioner is the best source of guidance for using medical cannabis safely.

Talk to a healthcare practitioner if you:

  • Have questions about how cannabis may affect you
  • Take any medications or use other substances
  • Have a medical condition or are unsure what’s appropriate for your needs
  • Experience side effects that are persistent, severe, or concerning