Gone are the days of a “dime bag of wackey-tabackey,” and we are now looking at terms such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids while contemplating what we would like to purchase online for our cannabis needs. Examining all the consumption methods, dosing, and contraindications can be overwhelming. But fear not, our team of experienced cannabis educators here at Canada House are ready to break it all down for you, ensuring you make informed decisions.
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with your endocannabinoid system. The most popular, of course, is THC, which binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are prominent in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in immune system cells and tissues.
Terpenes are chemical compounds found in plants’ oils. Working alongside cannabinoids, they can have certain health benefits but also give cannabis its aroma and flavor. Whether pinene (which smells like pine trees) or limonene (which tastes citrusy), you can find dried flowers you purchase through your licensed producer with a terpene profile. These are the individual terpenes that you will find in each strain. You can learn more about cannabinoids and terpenes in our other blogs here: Cannabis Blogs & Education – CH Clinics – News, Blogs & Education
So, what is a flavonoid? Flavus comes from the Latin word yellow, so as you might have guessed, yes… color! From the purple hues found in strains like Granddaddy Purple to the pinks in Pink Kush.
What determines the color of plants? A combination of light absorption, pH levels, growing conditions, and pigments. Pigments are specialized molecules that result in the vibrant colors we see in plants, such as red, blue, purple, yellow, brown, pink, and orange.
Flavonoids are more than just a few shades of the rainbow; they have been found to have significant health benefits and help protect the cannabis plant. They can also protect the human body from toxins (antioxidants) and reduce inflammation (anti-inflammatories), empowering you with the knowledge of how cannabis can contribute to your well-being.
Anthocyanins are a group of about 400 water-soluble pigment molecules classified as flavonoids. Depending on these strains and their different pH levels, they may appear:
Think of leaves in autumn. As temperatures drop, they change from green to red, orange, yellow, or gold.
Colors of the cannabis plant not only seduce the eye but also offer information about the plant’s chemical composition and growing environment.
Let’s translate the meaning of marijuana colors:
Green
- Pigment/Compound: Chlorophyll
- Common Varieties: Green Goblin, Green Haze, Green Crack
Green is the color most associated with cannabis and reflects its vigorous and adaptable nature. This predominant hue is the result of the presence of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for photosynthesis.
Deep-green cannabis strains often indicate healthy growth and optimal growing conditions. In addition, cannabis’s green can vary in hue, from bright green to a darker, earthy green, depending on factors such as strain genetics and stage of maturation.
In terms of effects, green strains are incredibly versatile. Depending on each strain’s unique chemical composition, they can offer anything from energetic and uplifting sensations to deep relaxation and sedation, sparking your curiosity to explore the diverse effects of cannabis.
Violet/Purple
- Pigment/Compound: Anthocyanins
- Common strains: Purple Urkle, Granddaddy Purple, Tropicanna Cookies
Purple is one of the most wanted colors in cannabis, as it evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication.
Strains exhibiting purple hues are usually Indica-dominant and are distinguished by their unique fruity aroma and flavor. This characteristic color develops in response to cooler temperatures during the flowering phase, which stimulates the production of anthocyanins.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, purple cannabis is often associated with relaxing and sedative effects.
Red
- Pigment/Compound: Anthocyanins
- Common strains: Red Dragon, Red Poison, Pink Panther
Red hairs appear more frequently, but red buds and leaves are surprisingly less common. The red color in cannabis is a rarity, as it is only produced by a specific genetic mutation.
It is usual for some buds to have reddish pistils, but strains that exhibit red hues are usually carefully created hybrids that combine Ruderalis, Indica, and Sativa varieties. This distinctive color is visually striking and can indicate a high concentration of certain compounds, potentially resulting in powerful effects.
Medicinal users often seek out red strains because of their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
You can also cheat by changing the leaves and buds of plants to red by manipulating the nutrients. Phosphorus deficiencies can cause this, but it won’t be as pretty as the real thing.
Orange
- Pigment/Compound: Carotenoids
- Common Varieties: Orange Cookies, Orange Haze, Orange Dream
This vibrant color is due to carotenoids, compounds in fruits and vegetables such as carrots and pumpkins.
Orange hues in cannabis can indicate specific growing conditions, such as alkaline pH levels or nutritional deficiencies. Orange will primarily affect hairs and buds.
In terms of effects, strains with orange hues can offer uplifting and stimulating experiences, perfect for combating stress and improving mood. In addition, their citrus aroma and sweet and sour taste give these strains a different touch.
Yellow
- Pigment/Compound: Carotenoids
- Common strains: Lemon Haze, Golden Lemon, Strawberry Banana
Carotenoids give cannabis those citrus shades of yellow, gold, and orange.
You need higher alkaline conditions to get these colors. If these colors are predominant in the plant, they will come out naturally when the flowering phase is over and the chlorophyll starts to fade.
Yellow strains often have high THC concentrations, which can result in a euphoric and stimulating experience.
Blue
- Pigment/Compound: Anthocyanins
- Common Strains: Blue Haze, Blue Cheese, Blue Dream
Cannabis strains that exhibit blue hues are prized for their exotic appearance and relaxing effects.
This characteristic color is produced by high concentrations of anthocyanins, which develop in response to cooler temperatures during the flowering phase.
The blue color in cannabis is typically indicative of predominantly Indica strains, which offer a deep and calming physical high. Consumers seeking relief from stress and muscle tension often gravitate toward blue strains for their ability to induce a sense of calm and serenity.
Black
Some rare strains turn so dark that their bud color appears black.
The origin of these genetics can be traced back to Vietnamese landraces, such as Vietnamese Black. Other hybrid-derived strains, such as Black Willy and Black Tuna, share the characteristic dark buds and leaves.
In addition, black strains are noted for their intense, semi-psychedelic cerebral highs. If you want visual effects, this lineage is a sure hit.
The inky appearance comes from an overabundance of all colors on the leaves. With warmer temperatures, dark reds and purples are sometimes replaced by lighter reds and golds.
When navigating through cannabis strains for medical conditions, start taking flavonoids into consideration! If you have any further questions, contact us at Canada House to educate and inform you about all things cannabis.