Since legalization in 2018, the selection of different types of cannabis products has been steadily increasing. While many people may think of joints and vapes when they consider cannabis, there are actually a number of other forms to choose from at your local cannabis shop, including topicals, oils, and capsules.
Leanne and Paul Thompson, co-founders of Little Leaf Cannabis Co. Inc. shed some light on these useful products.
“This is cannabis with purpose that can be used for your homeostatic balance,” explains Paul.
Lotions, Creams, and Balms
Topicals, which is a broad term used for cannabis products that are applied to the skin like lotions, creams, or even bath bombs, are not used to get stoned, rather they are used for wellness purposes. Some people find relief for stiffness, aches, and skin issues when they use cannabis topicals.
There are a number of products in this category, including relief creams, moisturizing lotions, scalp oil, skin care, soap bars, intimate lubricants, bug relief, tattoo aftercare balm, and massage oils. Most of the products are scented with natural oils like mint or cucumber and do not leave a cannabis smell on the skin.
“Topicals is such an underrated category. Many of our customers find the relief they experience to be immediate and highly effective. In my opinion, topicals should be in everyone’s wellness cabinet at home and should be the first thing that people reach for when they have stiffness, minor scrapes, bumps, or bruises,” says Leanne.
Leanne adds that they have samples of many topicals available in store and often a customer will feel positive results shortly trying it.
Many Different Types of Oils
Cannabis oils, which are intended to be ingested, are incredibly versatile because they use a wide range of cannabinoids in countless formulation. These products are also very easy to adjust the amounts used since they are ingested by the drop. It typically takes 15 minutes to half an hour to feel the effects of cannabis oil.
Paul explains, “The oil is taken orally and kept under the tongue for a minute or two, after which time you can eat, drink, or even brush your teeth without interfering with the effects. This is convenient for people who don’t like the taste of the oil, though some of them do come with added natural flavours.”
Since oils come in a wide range of formulations, individuals use them for a number of reasons. Some report that it helps them to fall asleep easier or have a more restful night. Others report experiencing more calm in stressful situations.
Cannabis Capsules
Capsules are similar to oils except the product is enclosed in a traditional capsule. They aren’t as versatile as oils because it is a premeasured rather than by the drop, but many prefer this format.
“Capsules are a familiar way for people to use cannabis because it feels a lot like taking any other pill or vitamin,” says Paul.
Capsules or oils are often used along with topicals in order to experience both immediate and long-term results.
Consultation is Key
When it comes to cannabis and wellness, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced expert who understands cannabinoids and how they work.
The team at Little Leaf Cannabis is always happy to help you select the best products for your own individual needs. They even have a private consultation room for anyone who would like some extra privacy. Wellness is top of the list at Little Leaf all the time, but you can expect more of a focus on this topic over the next month.
Little Leaf Cannabis, Stratford’s only locally owned and operated cannabis lifestyle company, is located at 804 Ontario Street in Stratford or you can shop online.