EmpireCoffeeshop · Haarlem

Knowledge Base

Knowledge Base

Know what you use

Honest information about cannabis, hash and responsible use. Information, not an offer: we only discuss varieties and prices in the shop.

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What is cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for thousands of years. The active substances are mainly found in the flower buds.

The plant

The flower buds carry tiny resin glands (trichomes). They hold the highest concentration of active substances.

THC and CBD

THC causes the high. CBD does not cause a high, works more relaxing and can soften the effect of THC. The ratio differs per variety.

Effects

Cannabis works through your body's own endocannabinoid system. The effect depends on the variety, the dose and your personal sensitivity.

Sativa, indica and hybrid

Sativa

Known for an energetic, uplifting and creative effect; often chosen for daytime. The plant comes from warm regions and has long, thin leaves.

Indica

Known for a relaxed, calming and physical effect; often chosen for the evening. The plant comes from cooler mountain regions and has short, broad leaves.

Hybrid

A cross between sativa and indica, nowadays the most common. The effect depends on the ratio between the two.

All about hash

Hash is a concentrated cannabis product, made from the resin glands of the plant.

Traditional hash

Made by sieving or rubbing the resin glands. Well-known examples are dry-sifted Moroccan and hand-rubbed Afghan hash.

Water hash

Here the resin glands are separated with ice water and fine mesh bags. The finer the mesh, the purer the result; very pure water hash melts completely when heated.

Rosin

Made by pressing cannabis or hash under pressure and heat, without solvents. The result is a golden, glass-like concentrate.

How to recognise quality

Joints and edibles

Joints

A joint is cannabis rolled in paper, pure or mixed with tobacco. Good to know:

  • The effect starts within minutes
  • Pure (without tobacco) gives a stronger experience
  • The effect usually lasts 2 to 4 hours, shorter than edibles
  • Start with a few puffs and see how it feels
  • Do not combine with alcohol

Edibles

Edibles are food products containing cannabis. Good to know:

  • The effect only starts after 30 to 90 minutes
  • The effect can last 4 to 8 hours
  • Start with a small piece and wait at least an hour
  • Eat something first; not on an empty stomach
  • Not feeling anything yet? Do not take more

Responsible use

Tips for beginners

Start with a low dose and a mild variety. Do not smoke on an empty stomach, drink enough water and use in familiar surroundings. Feel free to ask our team for advice.

Rules and legislation

In the Netherlands: a maximum of 5 grams per person per day, 18 and over only. Do not take cannabis abroad and do not use it in traffic. See also our house rules.

Help and information

Questions about use, or worried about yourself or someone else? These independent sources offer reliable information and help.

Reliable sources

Ask our team

Our team is trained in product knowledge and is happy to give you personal advice in the shop, calmly and without rush.

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