Cannabis 101: Plant Anatomy, Basics, and the Endocannabinoid System

Your Guide to Cannabis and Its Therapeutic Potential

Learn Cannabis Anatomy, Cannabinoids, and the Endocannabinoid System for Informed, Safe Use

At Homestead Health, we focus on education and transparency, guiding patients through every step of their medical cannabis journey. From understanding qualifying conditions to accessing approved products and adhering to dosage limits, we are committed to ensuring that our patients feel informed, confident, and empowered throughout the process.

Lab technician in a medical cannabis lab closely examining samples under a microscope, ensuring product safety and quality

From Plant to Product: Processing in Alabama’s Medical Cannabis Program

At Homestead Health, our work begins once raw cannabis material—grown by licensed cultivators—arrives at our facility. As a licensed processor, we transform plant material into approved medical cannabis products under Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) regulations.

Understanding Cannabis Compounds

Cannabis contains naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids and terpenes:

  • Cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are among the most studied.

  • Terpenes are aromatic compounds that contribute to the plant’s distinct scent and flavor profile.

Research into how cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the body is ongoing. Homestead Health does not provide medical claims about these compounds, but we ensure that every product we process is tested for quality, consistency, and compliance.

Our Role as Processor

Once plant material reaches our facility, Homestead Health manages the following key steps:

Extraction

We use advanced methods, including CO₂ extraction, to carefully separate cannabinoids from the raw plant. This process allows us to obtain extracts without the use of harsh solvents.

Refinement & Formulation

Extracts are refined, purified, and standardized into precise formulations. This ensures consistency across batches and compliance with state-mandated standards.

Quality & Safety Testing

Every batch is rigorously tested—both internally and by third-party laboratories—for:

  • Potency

  • Purity

  • Absence of contaminants

Only material that meets AMCC standards moves forward into final product form.

Healthy individual representing wellness, standing confidently, emphasizing the benefits of a balanced lifestyle and medical cannabis support

Approved Product Forms in Alabama

Under AMCC guidelines, cannabis products may only be manufactured into specific forms. As a processor, Homestead Health produces compliant product categories, which may include:

  • Capsules and Tablets – Pre-measured, standardized doses.

  • Tinctures – Liquid preparations for oral or sublingual use.

  • Topical Creams or Lotions – Applied to the skin for localized application.

  • Transdermal Patches – Designed for gradual absorption through the skin.

  • Suppositories – Rectal or vaginal dosage forms.

  • Inhalers (oil-based) – Metered devices permitted under AMCC rules.

Products such as smokable flower, gummies, brownies, and other edibles are not approved in Alabama’s program and are not part of Homestead Health’s offerings.

Commitment to Compliance

Homestead Health is dedicated to:

  • Regulatory Adherence – Following all AMCC requirements from processing through final packaging.

  • Transparency – Sharing clear information about how our products are made.

  • Quality Assurance – Ensuring every batch is consistent, safe, and lab-verified before reaching dispensaries.