Cannabis Glossary: Weed Terms Explained

THC and CBD are two terms you constantly hear when it comes to cannabis, but do you know the difference? THC and CBD are both phytocannabinoids--plant-based compounds that include the active constituents of cannabis. CBD, or cannabidiol, gives the user a physically relaxed feeling without the high, and is often used for wellness purposes. On the other hand, THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol) is the molecule that gets you high. THC is commonly used for recreation and as a mood booster.

Indica and Sativa are the two subspecies of cannabis. Sativa is more THC-heavy and creates more of a mind high. Sativa cultivars usually have a sweet or herbal scent. Indica is more CBD-heavy and produces a physical high effect. Sativa is commonly used for mental stimulation, while Indica is usually used to promote bodily relaxation.

The majority of strains out there are hybrids, or cultivars that blend the genetics of both Indica and Sativa. Depending on the strain, hybrids can be Indica dominant or Sativa dominant.

Terpenes

Terpenes are organic hydrocarbons that naturally occur in plant essential oils and are responsible for giving cannabis its aroma. Terpenes work with cannabinoids to give cannabis its pain-relieving and mood-boosting properties. Different terpenes produce different aromas and have different wellness properties.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are closely related compounds found in cannabis which contain the active constituents of cannabis. CBD and THC are both cannabinoids.

Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny hair-like structures covering the cannabis plant that give it a sticky feel and crystalline sheen. Trichomes are responsible for producing terpenes.

Wax

Wax is a type of cannabis extract that is highly concentrated and potent. It comes in the form of a waxy substance that can be more creamy or can be harder and flaky. Wax gives an intense high - consume with caution. It doesn’t take a lot to feel the effects of wax.

Resin

Resin is a concentrate made using the sticky substance found on the trichomes of a cannabis plant where the majority of THC is located. The resin extraction process removes impurities and leaves you with a highly potent product that takes the form of a sticky brown substance that can be vaped or dabbed.

Shatter

Shatter is a potent cannabis extract that comes in a brittle form reminiscent of glass. It is translucent and can range in colour from bright yellow to dark amber. Shatter produces an intense high and is popular for dabbing.

Oil

Oil is a cannabis concentrate that has a sticky, thick texture with high levels of CBD and THC. It is popular for dabbing but can also be consumed orally, vaped, or applied topically. Oil is especially popular for therapeutic use.

Budder

Budder is a type of cannabis wax that is soft and creamy in texture. Budder is highly potent and generally used in cooking and baking for homemade edibles. Budder has a high terpene content, which makes it particularly aromatic.

Cannabis edibles and beverages

Cannabis edibles and beverages are any food/drink that is infused with cannabis. There are more and more diverse products out there, from gummies to gourmet chocolates to beer. Edibles and beverages are a good choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of cannabis but can’t or do not want to smoke.

Smoking and vaping

Smoking and vaping are the most common ways that people consume cannabis. Smoking is convenient and generally gives you a stronger high than vaping, while vaping gives you a cleaner flavour, fewer respiratory health risks, and no smoke odour.

Dabbing

Dabbing is the process of applying a cannabis product such as shatter or resin to a hot surface in order to flash vaporize it, then inhaling the vapor. Dabbing produces a very intense high. Dabbing is popular with seasoned cannabis users and is generally not the best place for beginners to get started.

Subscribe