The world of cannabis is fraught with crazy terminology, whacky abbreviations, and weird scientific words. Navigating them and understanding their meanings can be incredibly difficult, especially if you’re a newbie.
But never fear. We’ve compiled a simple and easy-to-read glossary to every cannabis term and marijuana slang used in the industry to make sure you never have to be confused again.
What does CBD mean? What the hell is anandamide? Where does landrace fit into all this? We’ve answered these questions (and many more) below.
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2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)
2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is an endocannabinoid “particle” produced in your body that binds to and activates your cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors. Present in high levels throughout your entire central nervous system and also the most abundant. It’s the body’s equivalent to THC. Thought to help regulate your appetite and maintain healthy immune function, as well as manage pain.
420
420 is a cannabis slang term for the celebratory consumption of marijuana and hashish products. Held annually on the 4th of April, traditionally at 4:20 pm but will most likely happen all day and night. Many events take place on this day. Some organized, some not.
5-HT1A receptors
5-HT1A receptors (also known as serotonin 1A receptors or 5-hydroxytryptamine1A) are a subtype of the serotonin (5HT) receptor found in certain regions of the brain, as well as the spleen and kidneys. CBD activates these receptors, resulting in stress-relief, antidepressant, and anti-anxiety benefits.
710
710 is a slang term for dabbing or smoking cannabis concentrates e.g. hash oil, shatter, wax, crumble, live resin. Similar to 420, consumption of cannabis concentrates falls annually on a set day of the year (in this case 10th July or 7/10). If you reverse “710” and flip it upside down, it resembles the word “oil”.
A
Access point
Access points are also known as state-authorized cannabis dispensaries or cannabis shops, where medical marijuana patients or recreational users can purchase cannabis for medicinal or recreational use. You can purchase a range of high-THC (more than 0.3% THC) marijuana products, such as marijuana flower, marijuana edibles, marijuana concentrates. Access points can only be found in US states with legalized medical or recreational marijuana.
Adult-use
Adult-use is a term selectively used by some state legislatures to describe recreational cannabis dispensaries for those over the age of 21.
Aroma
Similar to the mixture of smells associated with cooking, aroma refers to the assortment of scents associated with varieties of cannabis, typically when smoked or vaped. Certain hemp or marijuana strains give off certain “aromas” depending on the terpene profile. Some aromas can be sweet, skunky, or earthy, while others can be woody, piney, or citrusy. Again, it all comes down to which terpenes are present (or dominant).
Alcohol extraction
Alcohol extraction is a commonly utilized method of cannabis extraction. Manufacturers use ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, or ethanol to strip the cannabis of its trichomes and essential oils. Once this stage is complete, the leftover mixture goes through various filtering phases, creating a cannabis oil or concentrate.
Anandamide
Anandamide (also known as N-arachidonoylethanolamine or AEA) is an endocannabinoid produced within your own body that interacts with your CB1 and CB2 receptors. It’s commonly referred to as the “bliss molecule” for its mood-enhancement qualities. It’s also structurally similar to THC.
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Balm
Balms are a type of cannabis topical (CBD, marijuana, or otherwise), designed to be placed directly on the skin. They carry waxes and fatty oils ingredients for extra thickness e.g. beeswax, carnauba wax, or candelilla wax (for vegans), as well as coconut oil or vegetable oil. The extra thickness from these ingredients requires deeper massaging to get all the cannabis extract goodness into your skin, while also trapping more moisture for enhanced skin suppleness. Cannabis balms are best for moderate-to-severe skin discomforts, as well as muscle and joint pain and inflammation.
Blunt
Snoop Dogg’s favorite kind of smokable cannabis product. Composed of cannabis flower inside a cigar wrap, blunt wrap, or tobacco leaves with a crutch (filter, tip) at the bottom, usually made from stiff paper rolled into a small tube. A blunt is different from a joint or spliff. It’s generally bigger and carries way more cannabis flower (roughly six joint’s worth). Best for experienced cannabis users requiring a much larger dose or in large groups of people who enjoy passing that “shit to the left”.
Bong
Also known as a binger or bubbler, a bong is a type of water pipe designed for cannabis but can also be used for tobacco or other herbal substances. Works the same way as a hookah pipe. The bong is filled with water to cool the smoke upon inhalation, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable smoke. Made of wood, glass, or ceramic. Gives you a very strong hit of cannabis. Not recommended to beginners.
Broad-spectrum extract
Broad-spectrum is a type of hemp extract. It carries a large range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other valuable plant compounds minus any THC. The lack of THC doesn’t necessarily make it less desirable, per se. May produce a partial entourage effect experience for enhanced effects and benefits.
Butane hash oil (BHO)
Butane hash oil (BHO) is a type of cannabis extract created from butane, a colorless gas used by cannabis manufacturers under safe and controlled conditions. No one BHO extract is the same. Depending on the materials and techniques used, BHO can form into a variety of extracts or concentrates including badder, crumble, sauce, or shatter. Also used as the base extract/concentrate for live resin. BHO extracts are best-used for dabbing or vaporizing. Carries a very high concentration of THC if sourced from marijuana plants.
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Camphor
Camphor is a lesser-known but essential terpene found in not only varieties of cannabis but also Kapur trees and rosemary leaves. Highly flammable and incredibly aromatic. Almost overwhelming. In cannabis-derived topical products, camphor is useful for wound treatment and combating signs of wrinkles. Also a potential pain-reliever and anti-inflammatory.
Cannabichromene (CBC)
Cannabichromene (also known as pentylcannabichromene and abbreviated to CBC) is a beneficial, non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in varieties of cannabis. CBC won’t cause a “high” or “otherworldly” experience the same way THC does. Structurally similar to CBD and THC. Not particularly active at your CB1 or CB2 receptors but does activate other receptor sites in your body (TRPA1, TRPA3, TRPA4). Provides you with pain relief, anti-inflammation, anti-depression (with CBD + THC), and anti-acne qualities.
Cannabicyclol (CBL)
Cannabicyclol (CBL) is a very under-studied cannabinoid present in varieties of cannabis. It’s the result of decarboxylated cannabicyclolic acid (CBLA-C 5 A). Very similar to other cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, etc. Doesn’t have much therapeutic or medicinal benefit. One 1970s study on rabbit test subjects showed CBL caused no positive benefit whatsoever.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
The star of the show (alongside THC). CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol. One of the most abundant cannabinoids in varieties of cannabis. Also one of, if not the most popular cannabinoids used around the world. Totally non-intoxicating and won’t produce a “high” the same way THC does. Doesn’t activate or bind to CB1 receptors the same way THC does either but can affect the size and shape of the receptor to prevent THC’s intoxicating effects. However, it does bind to other receptor sites in the body e.g. serotonin (5HT1A) and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors, resulting in anti-anxiety and analgesic benefits.
Cannabidivarin (CBDV)
Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is a cannabinoid very closely related to CBD. It shares an almost identical molecular structure. The only difference is CBDV has a propyl chain (three-carbon side chain) and CBD has a pentyl chain (five-carbon side chain). Like CBD, it’s non-intoxicating and doesn’t produce a “high”. Found in select landrace strains (strains grown in and adapted to their native environments), specifically African and Asian varieties. Also found in high-CBD strains. Has potent anti-epileptic benefits.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
Cannabigerol (CBG) and its precursor acid, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), are both commonly known as the “Stem Cells” or “Mothers of all Cannabinoids”. Without CBG or CBGA, there would be no CBD, THC, or CBC (among others). Though similar to CBD insofar as therapeutic benefits, CBG is said to actually have some affinity with your CB1 and CB2 throughout the central nervous system, resulting in anti-inflammatory benefits. May also help treat glaucoma. In mature cannabis plants, CBG makes up only 1% of the total cannabinoid profile, making it a “minor” cannabinoid (with huge potential).
Cannabinol (CBN)
Cannabinol (CBN) is the “Sleepy Cannabinoid”. A “minor” cannabinoid, making up about 0.3-1% of the cannabis plant’s cannabinoid profile and a derivative of THC in older, more mature cannabis plants, particularly landrace varieties left out to the elements (oxidation via natural exposure to oxygen). Said to have sedative effects when consumed but research on this is too old and inconclusive to be 100% accurate. However, researchers believe it possesses pain-relief and anti-inflammatory qualities in conjunction with CBD, THC, and other plant compounds. Totally non-intoxicating and won’t produce a “high” despite being a derivative of THC.
Cannabinoid
Cannabinoids are important and valuable chemical compounds present in varieties of cannabis (hemp and marijuana). There are just under 150 individual cannabinoids, though scientists are still discovering more to this day. The best-known cannabinoids are CBD and THC. This, however, is beginning to change. CBN, CBC, CBG, delta-8-THC, and CBDV, are all beginning to gain the spotlight, especially in isolated form. When consumed, cannabinoids interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), providing a whole host of benefits such as anti-anxiety, anti-inflammation, relaxation, pain relief, and improved sleep.
Cannabinoid receptors
Cannabinoid receptors are vital components of your endocannabinoid system. There are two different types: cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid 2 (CBD). CB1 is primarily found throughout your central nervous system, while CB2 is found in the gastrointestinal and immune systems. When you consume cannabis products, the cannabinoids and some terpenes interact with these receptors, causing a variety of different effects. THC, for example, interacts heavily with CB1 receptors, causing the famous “high” feeling. CBG binds to CB2, causing some pain-relief benefits.
Cannabis
There’s a lot of confusion over the use of the term “cannabis”. Some believe cannabis solely refers to just hemp and marijuana but this is slightly inaccurate. Cannabis (with an upper-case “C”) is actually the genus of plants in the Cannabaceae family. There are three recognized species in this family: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Sativa and India are mostly used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Hemp is also a variety of Cannabis sativa but specially bred to carry trace THC (<0.3%). Ruderalis is less often used on its own but will be combined with cannabis Indica or Sativa to create hybrid strains.
Caryophyllene
Caryophyllene is generally the most common terpene in varieties of cannabis. Also found in black pepper, oregano, cloves, and basil. Known for its deep, spicy taste and aroma. The only terpene that acts the same way as a cannabinoid. Said to interact with your CB2 receptors to produce anti-inflammatory effects. Doesn’t produce a “high” or any euphoria. Totally non-intoxicating.
CO2 extraction
CO2 extraction (also known as carbon dioxide extraction) is one of the most popular, clean, and effective solvent extraction methods across the cannabis industry. During extraction, the cannabis plant matter gets put into a container or vessel and a mixture of heat and pressure forces the CO2 into a “supercritical” state i.e. a state of being a liquid and a gas. The CO2 essentially pulls all the valuable cannabinoids, terpenes, etc, from the plant matter, leaving you with a plant compound-rich extract.
Cold-pressed (extraction)
Cold-pressed extraction is a solventless extraction method using only low heat and high pressure to, well, press and squeeze cannabis plant matter to obtain all the valuable plant compounds. The end result is a very natural oil extract carrying an abundance of terpenes (more so than CO2 and ethanol extraction). Particularly useful for CBD oils and edibles.
Concentrates
Concentrates (otherwise referred to as cannabis concentrates) are almost what they say on the tin: products with a high-concentration of desired cannabinoids, terpenes, etc. These products are the result of what’s left after all the unnecessary plant material has been extracted. Depending on the type of cannabis concentrate, some will have between 40-99% CBD if derived from hemp or 40-85% THC if derived from marijuana. Common concentrates include shatter, wax, crumble, and live resin.
Crude marijuana extract (CME)
Crude marijuana extract (CME), also known as crude cannabis extracts, are raw, unprocessed cannabis extracts that haven’t gone through a filtration or purification process. It’s the most “natural” extract. Very thick (similar to gooey oil).
Crumble
Crumble is a type of cannabis concentrate characterized by its dry, crumbly, and almost powdery consistency. When handled, crumbles quite literally fall apart in between your fingertips. Often referred to as the “honeycomb” variety of cannabis concentrates for its appearance (they both do look exactly the same!). Carries anywhere between 20-65% CBD. Great for dabbing or vaporizing. Can also place it in a joint, spliff, or blunt for extra potency.
Crutch
A crutch is another term for the filter or tip used at the end of a cannabis spliff or joint to stop plant material, tobacco, or other unwanted substances from entering into your mouth. You can purchase reusable crutches made from glass or make them out of small, moderately thin pieces of card.
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Dabs (dabbing)
Dabs or dabbing is a cannabis slang term to describe a short, sharp dose of flash vaporized cannabis concentrate using a “dab” rig, vape kit, or vape pen. Not to be confused with the infamously stupid celebratory movement performed by sports stars and 10-year-old Tik-Tokkers.
Decarboxylation
Put simply, decarboxylation is the process of converting cannabinoid acid precursors present in raw cannabis (CBDA, THCA, CBGA) into fully-fledged cannabinoids (CBD, THCA, and CBGA). The process is conducted via exposure to natural or artificial light, heat, and oxygen.
Delta-8 THC
Delta-8-THC (also known as delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol or Δ8-THC) is a “minor” cannabinoid and a homolog of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Produced in the plant via degradation of THC over time. It’s intoxicating and does cause a high, though it’s less potent than THC due to partial binding at CB1 receptors. Produces a clearer “head high” with subtle euphoria useful for mood-enhancement, concentration, and focus. If you’re looking to purchase delta-8 THC products, you only need a moderate amount to get its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nausea benefits.
Dispensary
A dispensary (often referred to as an access point or cannabis dispensary) is a storefront designed exclusively to provide and dispense legal medical and recreational marijuana. Only found in US states with legalized adult-use marijuana. Medical marijuana dispensaries usually have an age limit of 18+, while recreational dispensaries have an age limit of 21+. Typical marijuana products you can obtain from dispensaries include cannabis flower, cannabis edibles, cannabis vapes, cannabis oils, and cannabis concentrates.
Dosing
Dosing refers to how much cannabis you consume over any given period of time e.g. a single dose of 10mg of CBD oil or a daily dose of 100mg of CBD oil. You should always make sure you dose your cannabis correctly, especially if you’re consuming THC. If you go over your THC dosing limit, you could have a nasty and scary high on your hands.
Dronabinol
Dronabinol (marketed as Syndros, Marinol, and REDUVO) is a synthetically-made variation of delta-9-THC for medical purposes. Commonly used for appetite stimulation, nausea and vomiting, and sleep apnea. Requires a prescription to be purchased and consumed.
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Edibles
Edibles are hemp or marijuana-infused foods and drinks. An incredibly popular way of consuming cannabis. Common cannabis edible foods include cannabis brownies, cannabis candies, and cannabis chocolate. Common cannabis edible beverages include cannabis water, cannabis beer, cannabis wine, and cannabis kombucha, as well as cannabis tea and coffee. Provides you with gradual, slow-releasing doses of hemp or marijuana-derived compounds that can last up to 6-8 hours depending on how much you choose to consume.
Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are a group of compounds (neurotransmitters) produced by your own body that interact with and bind to the same receptors as the cannabinoids found in cannabis. Don’t let the name fool you, though. Endocannabinoids are not the same as cannabis cannabinoids. They’re “particles” with a similar shape and size as cannabinoids. Anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are the two most recognized endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoid system (ECS)
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex, naturally-occurring biological system present in all vertebrate (and some invertebrate) animals. Regulates and maintains your body’s core physiological functions such as sleep, mood, stress levels, memory, and appetite. When you consume cannabis products, the chemical compounds interact with your ECS to produce internal balance, health, and wellbeing — also known as homeostasis.
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Flower(s)
Flower (also known as cannabis flower or “bud”) refers to the smokable (or vapable) part of female cannabis plants. Used when rolling your own cannabis joints, blunts, or spliffs, as well as when vaping “dry herb”. Great flavors. Amazing aromas. Almost immediate effects and benefits after inhalation.
Full melt bubble hash
Full melt bubble hash (also known as full melt ice water hash) is a type of hash made using ice water extraction and no solvents. The ice water “freezes” the necks or bases of the trichomes, making it easier to knock them off the plant material during the sifting process. This leaves you with a highly-concentrated cannabis resin extract with an abundance of valuable plant compounds. When dabbed, this concentrate quite literally melts away like butter. It’s very potent. Also used to make live rosin extracts.
Full-spectrum (extract)
Full-spectrum extracts contain a large range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds. Unlike broad-spectrum extracts, a legal limit of <0.3% THC is also included here. Consumption of full-spectrum extract products produces the entourage effect, a phenomenon where all plant compounds work alongside THC to produce enhanced physiological benefits (in theory).
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Ganja
Ganja is the Hindi name for hemp and one of the oldest terms used for a variety of cannabis. The name has been used in modern cannabis culture to refer to THC-rich marijuana. It’s the most common term for marijuana in Jamaica.
Green out
Greening out is when you’ve consumed too much THC and you experience symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Your skin also turns a nice shade of pale and you may experience physical shaking and trembling. Not a particularly nice experience and commonly quite scary but does subside after a short amount of time.
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Hash
Hash is one of the oldest cannabis concentrates. Made throughout history using manual extraction techniques to separate the trichomes from the plant matter ready to be compressed into a sticky brown substance. Hash is very rich in THC and much stronger than traditional cannabis flower. First originated in Eastern countries such as Lebanon, Afghanistan, Iran, and Morocco, as well as India and Nepal.
Hemp
Hemp (also known as industrial hemp) is a variety of Cannabis sativa. Very strong and fibrous. Used historically for rope, cloth, clothing, cosmetics, textiles, and paper. Specially bred and cultivated to carry high levels of CBD (between 12-18%) but very little THC (<0.3%). Hemp-derived CBD products produce no intoxication, nor do they cause any euphoria due to the limited THC content. Federally legal in the US to grow, cultivate, distribute, possess, and consume. Also legal in the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Israel.
Hemp source
Hemp source refers to where a cannabis company (CBD, cannabis, or otherwise) sources its hemp. Some brands source their hemp from farms they own, while others source from third-party white-label suppliers. Some even import their hemp from overseas. The three most popular US hemp sources are Colorado, California, and Oregon.
High
A “high” is the mental and physical experience you get after consuming varieties of cannabis carrying a large percentage of THC. This experience can cause positive feelings of euphoria, happiness, relaxation, and amusement. It can also cause negative feelings such as paranoia, anxiety, overwhelming fatigue, sickness, and nausea. The strength of a high directly correlates with your tolerance to THC and how much you’ve consumed.
Hybrid
Hybrid is the genetic combination (cross-breed) of two or more cannabis strains of two different sexes (male cannabis plant + female cannabis plant). Cannabis breeders create Hybrid strains to get the desired qualities of each plant. Popular Hybrid strains include Dutch Treat, Banana Kush, and Blue Dream.
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Indica
Indica is a subspecies of cannabis. Short and compact plants but still reach two meters in height. Originally native to India, Pakistan, and Turkey. Consumption causes a sedating “body high” e.g. relaxation, sleepiness, etc. Common Indica strains include Hindu Kush, Northern Lights, and Purple Punch.
Isolate
Isolate is a type of hemp extract carrying only CBD and no other plant compounds. No THC. No CBN. No terpenes. No flavonoids. Can come in concentrated white powder or crystals, which holds up to 99.9% CBD. Very potent. Useful for dabbing or vaporizing, as well as in foods and drinks due to its flavorless and odorless nature.
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Joint
A joint is arguably the most popular way of smoking cannabis (aside from blunts). Composed of cannabis rolled inside non-tobacco rolling paper with a crutch (a piece of rolled paper also known as a filter) at the tip. No tobacco is placed inside the rolling paper. Very short and portable.
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Kief
Kief is a collection of resinous trichomes from varieties of cannabis (mainly marijuana). Sometimes referred to as cannabis crystals. Looks similar to dust. Extremely potent. You can smoke or vaporize it on its own for a very intense high or use it to make hashish.
Kush
Kush is one of the most famous landrace varieties of Cannabis indica. Originally discovered in the Hindu Kush mountain region, which spans across 500 miles of Eurasia including Afghanistan, Northern Pakistan, and northerly parts of India. Spawned the famous OG Kush strain after being brought over to America in the 1970s.
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Landrace
Landrace is a variety of cannabis naturally grown in and adapted to its original native land e.g. Hindu Kush in Pakistan, Pure Afghan in Afghanistan, and Durban Poison in Africa. Uncommon in the US. Most landrace strains are combined with other strains to create Hybrids e.g. OG Kush, Cherry Durban, etc.
Limonene
Limonene is a common terpene in varieties of cannabis. Also found in orange, lemon, and lime peel, as well as mint and dill. As you can imagine, it has a sweet, citrusy aroma. Very pleasant to smell. Has a number of physiological effects and benefits as well, making it a useful terpene to have in cannabis products. Good for inflammation, cardiovascular health, stress, and appetite reduction.
Live resin
Live resin is an exciting cannabis concentrate making serious waves in the industry. Unlike any other cannabis concentrate (wax, shatter, etc). Made using a flash-freeze method of extraction where manufacturers freeze freshly-picked cannabis without it going through a curing or drying phase. This preserves all the natural cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other essential plant compounds. The end result is a potent and highly effective product, one that’s as close to the cannabis plant as you can get.
Live rosin
Live rosin is similar to live resin but with one significant difference: it’s made using a form of full melt bubble hash and no solvents are used throughout the entire process. Creates very clean, highly resinous cannabis concentrate that’s as close, if not closer to the cannabis plant as live resin extracts. Full of natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial plant compounds without residual solvents in the mix.
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Marijuana
Marijuana is a term that refers to the dried leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds of cannabis plants containing a high percentage of THC (anywhere up to 35% THC). Consuming marijuana and marijuana-derived products will cause a high or “otherworldly” feeling — it’s very intoxicating.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene not only present in cannabis but also in lemongrass, hops, basil, and mangos. Abundant in varieties of cannabis. Can make up around 18-20% of the plant or strain’s total terpene profile. Very musky, earthy flavor and smell. May have pain-relieving qualities, as well as sleep and sedation benefits when mixed with limonene and THC.
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Nug
Nug is a slang term referring to high-quality marijuana or hemp bud (mostly marijuana).
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Oil
Oil refers to cannabis oils you orally or sublingually consume (some can be placed into foods and drinks as well). Not to be confused with tinctures, which look exactly the same. Why? Because tinctures use alcohol as the base carrier, while oils use, well, oil as the carrier. Carrier oils include medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), hempseed oil, and sunflower oil. MCT is generally considered the best.
OG
OG is an abbreviation for either “Original Gangster” or “Ocean Grown” (depending on who you ask) and is a name used to market the world-famous OG Kush strain.
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Pot
Pot is a slang term for cannabis or marijuana. Originally used throughout the 1930s.
Pinene
Pinene (also known as alpha-pinene or α-pinene) is a common terpene present in varieties of cannabis. Its name is similar to how it smells. Woody, pine aroma. Very useful in cannabis. Has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities.
Pre-roll
Pre-rolls are products you find in dispensaries. They’re exactly what they say on the tin. Hand or machine-rolled joints, blunts, or spliffs, usually by expert rollers who know exactly what they’re doing. Pre-rolls are perfect if you haven’t learned how to roll yourself. Beginners will benefit here.
Psychoactive
Psychoactive means a drug or medicine that changes or alters how the brain works and causes a difference in mood, thoughts, awareness, or memory. In cannabis, THC is the obvious one. Binds to your brain’s CB1 receptors, causing all kinds of cognitive mischief. CBD is also psychoactive, despite many people believing it isn’t. It influences or binds to certain receptors in the brain and all throughout your central nervous system, causing subtle changes in mood, and is known to modulate symptoms of stress, anxiety, psychosis, and epilepsy.
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Ruderalis
Ruderalis is a lesser-known but very robust cannabis subspecies. Typically grows in harsher, more hostile environments (think poor soil conditions, extreme heat and cold). On their own, Ruderalis varieties are inferior to Indicas and Sativas. Low terpene percentage. Neutral flavor. No distinct aroma. However, because they’ve adapted to extreme conditions, they’re capable of “auto-flowering” i.e. able to naturally grow flowers very quickly without needing daylight cycles. This is why growers cross-breed Ruderalis with Sativas and Indicas.
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Salve
Salves are a form of cannabis topical designed to be applied directly to your skin for targeted, localized relief. Almost identical to balms but with less wax, giving it a smoother consistency for an equally smoother application to the skin. Salves are often used in lip balms.
Sativa
Sativa is a shortened, perhaps less formal name for cannabis Sativa, which is a species of cannabis known for its “mind high” effects — it’s also known to carry some pretty awesome anti-anxiety qualities too. Most Sativa plants grow outside of Middle Eastern and Asian countries and generally tend to be found in Africa, Thailand, and South America.
Shatter
Cannabis or CBD shatter is a type of concentrate. Its name comes from its brittle, fragile, and almost glass-like appearance and texture. Like all concentrates, it’s extremely versatile. You can consume it orally, inhale it (otherwise known as dabbing or vaporizing), or you can cook with it. The choices are damn-near limitless. When shatter is heated, it turns into a goo-like liquid substance.
Spliff
A spliff is essentially the same as a joint but with tobacco mixed in with the cannabis ready to be placed inside the rolling paper. The tobacco gives you an extra buzz with your high. If you purchase a pre-roll cannabis spliff, be careful of how much tobacco is held inside. If there’s too much, the buzz might be a little bit overwhelming, especially with marijuana.
Strain
A strain is a particular cannabis variety characterized by its aroma and effects. Different strains interact with your body in a variety of ways depending on several aspects such as the amount of CBD and THC and the percentage of terpenes (among others).
Sublingual
Sublingual refers to placing a cannabis oil, tincture, or concentrate under your tongue and holding it there for 15-20 seconds before swallowing. This allows some of the cannabis extract to absorb directly into your bloodstream without needing to travel through your digestive system, providing you with some immediate relief. It’s a popular CBD delivery method and one that’s preferred by many users.
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Tetrhydrocannabinolic acid (THCA)
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the precursor acid of THC. Totally non-intoxicating and won’t cause a high. Found in raw, maturing varieties of cannabis. The decarboxylation process (exposure to UV light, heat, etc) causes THCA molecules to convert to THC, which is why you won’t consume it in high quantities when you smoke or vape cannabis flower. The best way to get a strong dose is via juicing raw cannabis i.e. blending and/or squeezing raw cannabis into a juice without the use of heat. Could be good for inflammation, neuroprotection, and decreased nausea symptoms.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is the main psychoactive and psychotropic cannabinoid present in varieties of cannabis. It’s also the most abundant (aside from CBD) in marijuana varieties. Less abundant in hemp and Ruderalis strains. Causes strong intoxication i.e. a significant “high” by activating and binding to CB1 receptors in your brain, which is why careful dosing is recommended. Research suggests THC has a wide range of benefits and is the most important cannabinoid responsible for the entourage effect phenomenon.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic hydrocarbons. There are roughly 150 different terpenes present in cannabis, each with its own unique and distinctive smell and flavor. Caryophyllene, for example, is deep, rich, and spicy, while limonene is citrusy, sweet, and almost mouthwatering. They also have physiological benefits too. Caryophyllene is beneficial for inflammation, limonene for anxiety, and pinene for cognitive impairment caused by THC consumption.
Tincture
Tincture products are similar to cannabis oils with one small but significant difference: the baseline carrier ingredient used is alcohol instead of natural oils such as MCT oil.
Topicals
Topicals is an umbrella term for any hemp or marijuana-derived product applied to the skin. Popular topicals include balms, salves, lotions, and creams infused with hemp or marijuana extract. Other beneficial ingredients are also used, including menthol and peppermint for skin cooling, witch hazel for skin inflammation, or ginger extract for muscle and joint pain. Definitely a worthy addition to your skincare regimen.
Trichomes
Cannabis plants have tiny white “outgrowths” located on the stalks, stems, buds, and leaves. These outgrowths are called trichomes (resin glands) containing valuable cannabinoids (CBD, THC, CBN, etc), terpenes, flavonoids, and other essential compounds. They’re sticky, shiny, and highly aromatic.
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Vaporizer
A vaporizer is an electronic device designed to inhale “vaporized” substances. Usually plant substances such as tobacco, cannabis, and other herbal elements, but can also be e-cigarette e-liquid or cannabis vape juice made with propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, alongside cannabis extract (for the latter). Vaporizers come in all shapes and sizes. The most common ones are e-pens, e-cigs, and dab rigs.
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Wax
Cannabis or CBD wax is a type of concentrate. It’s very different to shatter but somewhat similar to live resin in terms of color, texture, and consistency.
Weed
Weed is another slang term for marijuana — it’s generally not used as a slang word for hemp or hemp-derived products.