Education
Glossary: A Guide to Cannabis Terminology
This glossary is a concise guide to common cannabis terms. It covers different species, strains, and products to help you navigate the market and make informed decisions. Whether you're an experienced consumer or new to the scene, understanding terms such as THC, CBD, and concentrates is essential. Get to know these terms and find the perfect products for you.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive component in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” feeling. THC levels vary in different strains of marijuana.
CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive component of cannabis that is known for its therapeutic benefits.
Indica: A species of cannabis that is known for its relaxing effects and is commonly used for its sedative properties. Indica strains typically have higher CBD and lower THC levels.
Sativa: A species of cannabis that is known for its energizing and uplifting effects. Sativa strains typically have higher THC levels and are often used for recreational purposes.
Hybrid: A type of cannabis that is a cross between Indica and Sativa strains, resulting in a blend of different effects. Hybrids can be either balanced, leaning towards either Indica or Sativa, or evenly split between both.
Flower: The part of the cannabis plant that is dried and used for consumption. Flowers can be smoked, vaporized, or used to make edibles.
Concentrates: High potency products that are made by extracting THC, CBD, and other compounds from the flower using solvents. Concentrates come in many forms, including wax, shatter, and oil.
Edibles: Cannabis-infused food products, such as gummies, brownies, and chocolates, that are consumed orally. Edibles have a delayed onset time but the effects last longer than inhaled cannabis.
Topicals: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and salves that are applied directly to the skin. Topicals are used for localized pain relief and skin conditions.
Pre-rolls: Pre-rolled joints that are ready to smoke, often filled with a blend of flower and concentrates.
Dabbing: A method of consuming concentrates by heating them on a hot surface, such as a dab rig, and inhaling the vapor.
Tinctures: Alcohol-based or oil-based liquids that are infused with cannabis and taken orally. Tinctures are a fast-acting alternative to edibles.
Vaping: The process of inhaling vapor produced by heating flower or concentrates in a vaporizer. Vaping is less harsh on the lungs than smoking and can be discreet.
BHO (Butane Hash Oil): A type of concentrate that is made by using butane as a solvent to extract THC and other compounds from the flower.
CO2 Oil: A type of concentrate that is made by using CO2 as a solvent to extract THC and other compounds from the flower.
Rosin: A type of concentrate that is made by using heat and pressure to extract THC and other compounds from the flower.
Hash: A type of concentrate that is made by separating trichomes from the flower and compressing them into a solid form.
Terpenes: Organic compounds that are found in many plants, including cannabis, and are responsible for the unique aroma and flavor of each strain.
Terpene Profile: A list of the terpenes that are found in a particular strain of cannabis, often used to describe the aroma, flavor, and effects of the strain.
Decarboxylation: The process of heating cannabis to activate the THC and other compounds, making them available for consumption.
Trichomes: Tiny crystal-like structures on the surface of the cannabis flower that contain high concentrations of THC, CBD, and other compounds.
Cloning: The process of taking a cutting from a mature cannabis plant and growing a new plant that is genetically identical to the original.
Grow Room: A controlled environment where cannabis plants are grown, often with specific lighting, temperature, and humidity levels.