What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a product of the cannabis sativa plant ( also known as marijuana, pot, bud, green, herb, or flower), and comes in many forms, including dried flowers, hash, extracts (honey oil, phoenix tears, shatter), edibles.

Cannabis contains hundreds of chemical substances. More than 100 chemicals, called cannabinoids, have been identified as specific to the cannabis plant. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid and is most responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Another cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD). CBD has little or no psychoactive effects, so you do not feel high. CBD counteracts some of the negative effects of THC.

The Chemistry: THC vs. CBD 

Cannabis contains hundreds of chemical substances. More than 100 chemicals, called cannabinoids, have been identified as specific to the cannabis plant: 

THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive cannabinoid. It is primarily responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. 

CBD (cannabidiol): A cannabinoid with little or no psychoactive effects, meaning it does not cause you to feel high. CBD can counteract and ease some of the negative effects of THC, such as acute anxiety or panic. 

There are still many unknowns about cannabis and its long-term effects on lung health, but we do know that the inhalation of smoke is harmful to lung health as the combustion of materials releases toxins and carcinogens. These are released regardless of the source – whether it is burning wood, tobacco or cannabis. Knowledge about the long-term effects of cannabis smoke is still limited but early research studies have demonstrated harm that can lead to chronic bronchitis. Other studies suggest that frequent and heavy cannabis smoking is associated with cough, sputum production, wheezing and a decline in lung function.

Methods of Consumption 

Cannabis can be used in many different ways depending on the desired effect and timeline: 

Smoking: It may be rolled into a paper cigarette (called a joint), mixed with tobacco and rolled (called a spliff), or packed into a pipe or water pipe (called a bong) and smoked. 

Vaping & Dabbing: Cannabis can be vaped using electronic vaporizers. Concentrated extracts (such as oil or shatter) are also frequently flash-vaporized through an oil rig pipe, a process commonly known as "dabbing.”. 

Ingestion: Cannabis can be infused directly into ingredients to create foods and drinks, commonly referred to as edibles. 

Practicing Harm Reduction 

If you choose to use cannabis, you can protect your respiratory health by practicing evidence-based harm reduction. Avoid deep breath-holding or "deep inhalation," as this does not increase your high 95% of THC is absorbed within the first few seconds but it drastically increases the amount of toxic tar deposited in your lungs. Consider non-combustible alternatives, such as regulated edibles, to eliminate smoke exposure entirely. 

Social Determinants of Health

Cannabis use and its health effects can be influenced by social determinants of health, including income, education, housing, employment, access to healthcare, social support, and geographic location. These factors can affect a person's access to health information, prevention resources, treatment, and harm reduction services. Understanding the role of social determinants of health helps support equitable access to care and informed decision-making about cannabis use and lung health.