Why Chicago Dispensaries Are Evolving Beyond Just High THC

In the old days, consumers had a very basic understanding of cannabis. It didn’t extend beyond “indica or sativa” or “THC or CBD.” People would ask the plug for the highest THC bud they could find. They’d look for the “no stick, no stem sticky icky” portrayed in popular music, television, and movies.

But today’s cannabis consumer is far more educated. You’re a connoisseur of phytocannabinoids and terpenes. These impact strain-specific characteristics like flavor and effect. You’re not looking to get as stoned as possible with the highest THC content. Instead, you want a controlled experience that incorporates the full impact of each cannabis strain.

In response, Chicago dispensaries carry a wide array of products. These take advantage of each strain’s unique composition. Each product is expertly crafted using our proprietary techniques. And it’s done in a high-tech cleanroom environment to ensure the highest possible quality.

Here’s everything you need to know about modern cannabis. It’s available in your favorite Chicago dispensary.

Understanding the Cannabinoid Spectrum

Cannibinoids are the active ingredients that separate the cannabis and hemp plants from others in nature. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are the most popular, and they’re the two most often mentioned in the laws. But these are only two of over 100 different cannabinoids we’re currently aware of. You may also know delta nine tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabigerovarinic acid (CBGVA), and cannabichromenenic acid (CBCA).

Each cannabinoid reacts differently with your body’s natural enzymes to produce a different effect. And every cannabis strain has a unique combination of cannabinoids. This plays a large role in what effect the strain has on your body.

Some are single-cannabinoid products (like delta-8 vape cartridges). Others include various ratios of cannabinoids, including full spectrum, THC and CBD blends. Customers have various needs and preferences. The more you understand about the effects of each individual cannabinoid, the better your cannabis experience will be.

Ask your Chicago dispensary agent for recommendations. We carry a broad spectrum of cannabinoids. You can figure out what works best for your body’s unique chemistry.

Experiencing Terpenes and Flavonoids

Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in every plant. Extracting them to make essential oils is an age-old industry. These aromatic, unsaturated hydrocarbons are biosynthetic building blocks. They compose a plant’s unique flavor and scent, and they’re what makes our perfumes, candles, and foods so desirable. Beyond aroma and taste, they also have ayurvedic effects.

There are over 200 terpenes commonly found in the cannabis plant. Like cannabinoids, the exact combination depends on the particular strain. Lemon haze, for example, contains high levels of limonene, beta-pinene, and terpinolene in its terpene profile. This gives the sativa strain a tangy, citrusy scent and flavor.

In addition to terpenes, cannabis also contains flavonoids–polyphenolic compounds. These give each strain its unique color. They also protect the plants from pests and UV rays. Specifically, cannflavins are flavonoids unique to the cannabis plant. They provide antioxidative and neuroprotective effects.

Flavonoids and cannflavins aren’t commonly listed on cannabis products. Ask your Chicago dispensary agent for the terpene profile of any strain you buy.

Creating Premium Cannabis Extracts

Cannabis extracts are increasingly popular. The timing and extraction technique used creates a unique flavor profile even when the same strain is used. You’ve likely heard of solvents like CO2, butane, and water being used to create extracts. There are also solventless solutions, like rosin. Rosin relies on a heat press to liquidize and separate the cannabinoids from the plant matter.

Each method creates a different flavor profile. The purging process can be controlled to create diamond dust or badder. Each type can be used in different situations. Customers often switch the concentrate type based on individual needs.

Changing (or removing) the solvent isn’t the only way concentrates can be manipulated during production. Traditional concentrates are made from cured buds and trim. Live resin is made by extracting the plant prior to curing. This creates a more terpene-rich concentrate that increases the aroma and flavor.

Regardless of the methods used, we perform all extractions in a clean laboratory environment. This removes any purities. It ensures we produce the highest quality products in the cannabis industry.

Experiencing the Full Cannabis Effect

Everyone has unique personal needs and preferences when it comes to cannabis. It can change over time or based on the scenario. Whether vaping, smoking, using edibles, topicals, or more, we create the finest top-shelf products. They’re made with the best ingredients carefully grown, nurtured, and monitored throughout the supply chain.

Our craft cannabis stands out among Chicago dispensaries. We have consistent quality and use of pure, organic ingredients. We use small-batch, all natural cannabis. It’s meticulously cultivated, harvested, cured, and trimmed to the highest standards. This ensures our finished products provide an unmatched flavor, aroma, and experience.

Shopping for strains by searching for the highest THC content isn’t the way to go. Instead, carefully research each strain’s unique profile of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This helps you find the right ingredients for the effect you want. You can search through our extensive inventory. We have the right edible, vape, concentrate, topical, flower, or more to fit your individual needs.