Hemp & Cannabis Glossary
119 terms explained in plain English β from THCA and decarboxylation to COAs, terpenes, and concentrates. No jargon, no fluff.
Anandamide
An endocannabinoid produced naturally by the human body that binds to CB1 receptors β the same receptors activated by THC. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word 'ananda,' meaning bliss. Anandamide plays a role in mood regulation, memory, pain perception, and appetite. THC produces its effects partly by mimicking anandamide and preventing its rapid breakdown. Some terpenes and lifestyle factors (including exercise) may support anandamide levels.
Aroma Profile
The combination of scents produced by a cannabis strain, driven primarily by its terpene composition. Aroma profiles range from fruity and citrus to earthy, diesel, or floral and are often used to predict effects through the entourage effect.
Autoflower
A cannabis or hemp plant that flowers automatically based on age rather than changes in light cycle. Autoflowering genetics (derived from Cannabis ruderalis) begin flowering after a set number of weeks regardless of how many hours of light they receive. They are faster to harvest, smaller in stature, and easier to manage than photoperiod plants β though typically lower in potency and yield.
Badder
A cannabis concentrate with a soft, batter-like consistency similar to cake frosting. Badder (also spelled 'batter') is made by whipping extracted cannabinoids during the purging process, resulting in a smooth, opaque texture. Popular for dabbing.
Batch Number
A unique identifier assigned to a specific production run of a hemp product. Batch numbers allow consumers to match a product to its Certificate of Analysis and allow brands to trace any quality or safety issues to a specific production lot. A COA without a matching batch number cannot be verified as applicable to the product in hand. Reputable brands print the batch number on both product packaging and the associated COA.
BHO (Butane Hash Oil)
A cannabis concentrate produced by passing butane (a hydrocarbon solvent) through plant material to strip cannabinoids and terpenes, then purging the solvent under vacuum heat. BHO can be processed into various textures β wax, shatter, budder, crumble, and sauce β depending on how it is handled post-extraction. When properly purged, residual solvent levels are below safety thresholds. BHO extractions are highly efficient and can preserve strong terpene profiles.
Bioavailability
The proportion of a consumed substance that enters the bloodstream and produces an active effect. Inhaled cannabinoids have higher bioavailability (~50-60%) than edibles (~10-20%) because they bypass first-pass liver metabolism.
Blunt
Cannabis flower rolled in a tobacco or hemp leaf wrap. Traditional blunts use cigar paper or tobacco wraps; hemp blunts use tobacco-free hemp wraps for a cleaner smoke. Blunts burn slower than joints and hold more flower. The tobacco in traditional wraps adds nicotine, which can alter the experience and adds health considerations. Hemp wraps have become a popular tobacco-free alternative in the hemp market.
Body High
A cannabis effect characterized by physical sensations of relaxation, heaviness, warmth, and reduced muscle tension rather than cerebral or cognitive effects. Body highs are most associated with indica-dominant strains, high myrcene content, and higher doses. Many users prefer body-dominant effects for pain relief, sleep, and physical relaxation. A strong body high without significant mental effects is sometimes called being 'stoned' as opposed to 'high.'
Bong
A water pipe used to smoke cannabis flower. Smoke passes through a water chamber before inhalation, which cools and partially filters it, producing a smoother hit than a dry pipe or joint. Bongs typically consist of a bowl (where flower is packed), a downstem, a water chamber, and a mouthpiece. They deliver large, direct doses and are popular among experienced consumers.
Broad Spectrum
A type of hemp extract containing multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but with THC removed or below detectable limits. Broad spectrum products aim to preserve the entourage effect while eliminating THC entirely.
Bubble Hash
A solventless concentrate made by agitating cannabis in ice water to separate trichomes, then filtering the mixture through fine mesh bags ('bubble bags'). The result is a pure, potent extract free of solvents. Quality is graded by melt β the best grades (full-melt) liquefy completely when dabbed.
Budder
A cannabis concentrate with a creamy, butter-like consistency β slightly firmer than badder. Budder is produced by whipping extracted oil at low heat, creating a smooth, easy-to-handle texture. Known for preserving terpenes well, giving it strong flavor.
Cannabinoids
Chemical compounds naturally produced by the cannabis plant that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. There are over 100 known cannabinoids, including THCA, THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and Delta-8. Each has distinct properties and effects.
Cannabis
The plant species that produces cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Legally classified into two categories: hemp (β€0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight) and marijuana (>0.3% delta-9 THC). THCA products sold by Leaflyx are derived from federally legal hemp.
Cart / Cartridge
A pre-filled vape cartridge containing cannabis oil or distillate, designed to attach to a standard 510-thread battery. Carts offer a discreet, convenient way to consume cannabinoids without combustion. Quality varies widely β always verify with a COA.
Caryophyllene
A spicy, peppery terpene found in black pepper, cloves, and hops. Caryophyllene is unique among terpenes because it is the only one known to directly bind to CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, giving it potential anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties. It is associated with calming effects and may help reduce cannabis-induced anxiety. Often dominant in strains like GSC and OG Kush.
CB1 Receptor
A cannabinoid receptor found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. CB1 receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system and are the primary target of Delta-9 THC β the binding of THC to CB1 receptors is what produces psychoactive effects. THCA in its raw form does not bind effectively to CB1 receptors, making it non-intoxicating. Caryophyllene is notable for NOT binding CB1 while still producing therapeutic effects through CB2.
CB2 Receptor
A cannabinoid receptor found primarily in the immune system, peripheral nervous system, and organs. CB2 receptors are associated with immune function, inflammation regulation, and pain modulation. Unlike CB1 receptors, CB2 activation does not produce psychoactive effects. Caryophyllene is the only known terpene that binds CB2 receptors directly. CBD and CBG also interact with CB2 receptors, contributing to their non-intoxicating therapeutic effects.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
A minor cannabinoid produced from CBGA alongside THCA and CBDA. CBC is non-intoxicating and does not bind strongly to CB1 receptors. Early research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and neuroprotective properties. CBC is most effective when combined with other cannabinoids β it is considered a key contributor to the entourage effect. It appears in small quantities on most full-spectrum COAs.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
The second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis. CBD is non-intoxicating and does not bind strongly to CB1 receptors. It is commonly used for relaxation, sleep, and general wellness. CBD became widely legal after the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp.
CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)
The raw, acidic precursor to CBD found in living hemp plants before decarboxylation. Like THCA, CBDA converts to its active form (CBD) when exposed to heat. CBDA may have its own distinct properties including potential anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory effects. It appears on COAs for full-spectrum hemp products alongside THCA and other raw cannabinoids.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Often called the 'mother cannabinoid' because CBGA is the precursor from which THCA, CBDA, and CBCA are synthesized. CBG itself is non-intoxicating and found in small quantities in most strains. Associated with focus and calm.
CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)
The first cannabinoid produced by the hemp plant and the direct precursor to THCA, CBDA, and CBCA β earning it the nickname 'the mother cannabinoid.' CBGA is synthesized early in the plant's life cycle and converted by enzymes into other cannabinoid acids as the plant matures. By harvest, most CBGA has already converted, leaving only trace amounts. CBGA itself may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
CBN (Cannabinol)
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed as THC oxidizes and degrades over time. CBN is associated with sedation and is often found in aged cannabis. Not typically present in significant amounts in fresh flower.
Cerebral
A descriptor for cannabis effects that are primarily mental and cognitive rather than physical β characterized by elevated mood, creative thinking, enhanced sensory perception, and mental energy. Cerebral effects are most associated with sativa-dominant genetics and terpenes like limonene and pinene. Highly cerebral strains can occasionally trigger anxiety or paranoia in sensitive users, particularly at high doses.
Chemovar
A more scientifically precise term for cannabis 'strain' that classifies plants by their chemical composition β specifically their cannabinoid and terpene ratios β rather than by genetics or physical appearance. Chemovars are divided into three types: Type I (THC-dominant), Type II (mixed THC/CBD), and Type III (CBD-dominant). The chemovar framework is increasingly preferred by researchers because strain names are inconsistent and do not reliably predict chemistry.
Clone
A cutting taken from a cannabis mother plant and rooted to produce a genetically identical new plant. Cloning ensures the exact genetic expression β same cannabinoid ratios, terpene profiles, structure, and growth characteristics β of the mother plant. Commercial hemp cultivators use clones to maintain consistency batch to batch. Clones bypass the seedling stage, shortening the grow cycle.
CO2 Extraction
A supercritical fluid extraction method that uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull cannabinoids and terpenes from hemp plant material. CO2 is considered a cleaner extraction method than hydrocarbon solvents because it leaves no toxic residual solvents. CO2 extracts are commonly used in vape cartridges and tinctures. The process is expensive and equipment-intensive, but produces consistent, food-safe extracts.
COA (Certificate of Analysis)
A third-party lab report that verifies the chemical composition and safety of a cannabis product. A legitimate COA lists cannabinoid percentages (THCA, THC, CBD, etc.), terpene profiles, and confirms the absence of pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and mold. Always request a COA before purchasing hemp products.
Concentrate
Any cannabis product made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material to produce a highly potent form. Concentrates include wax, shatter, badder, rosin, live resin, diamonds, and distillate. Typically consumed by dabbing or vaporizing.
Couch Lock
Slang for an intensely sedating cannabis effect where the user feels physically heavy, deeply relaxed, and unmotivated to move. Couch lock is most associated with high-myrcene indica strains consumed at higher doses. It is driven by the combined effect of cannabinoids and terpenes on the body's CB receptors and muscle relaxation pathways. While some users seek couch lock for sleep and pain relief, others prefer to avoid it for daytime use.
Crumble
A dry, brittle cannabis concentrate with a honeycomb or crumbly texture. Crumble is produced by purging extracted oil at low heat for an extended period, resulting in a product that is easy to handle and portion but lower in terpene content than wetter extracts.
Cultivar
The technically correct term for what is commonly called a 'strain.' A cultivar (short for cultivated variety) is a plant selectively bred for specific traits β terpene profile, potency, yield, or growth pattern. Using 'cultivar' signals precision; 'strain' remains the everyday term.
Curing
The post-harvest process of slowly drying cannabis flower in controlled humidity and temperature conditions over days to weeks. Proper curing preserves terpenes, prevents mold, and improves the smoothness and potency of the final product.
Curing
The process of slowly drying harvested cannabis flower in a controlled environment over several weeks to preserve and develop its cannabinoid and terpene profile. Proper curing reduces chlorophyll, eliminates harsh flavors, and allows terpenes to fully develop β significantly improving taste, aroma, and smoothness. Flower that is under-cured tastes grassy; over-dried flower loses terpenes and burns harsh.
Dab / Dabbing
A method of consuming cannabis concentrates by applying a small amount ('dab') to a heated surface (nail or banger) and inhaling the resulting vapor. Dabbing delivers concentrated doses of cannabinoids and is favored for its potency and flavor.
Dab Rig
A specialized water pipe designed for consuming cannabis concentrates. A dab rig uses a heated nail or banger β typically made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic β instead of a bowl. A small amount of concentrate (a 'dab') is placed on the heated surface and vaporized. Dab rigs deliver very high doses of cannabinoids rapidly and are primarily used by experienced consumers. Electronic versions are called e-rigs.
Decarboxylation
The chemical process of removing a carboxyl group from THCA, converting it into the psychoactive compound THC. Decarboxylation occurs when cannabis is heated β through smoking, vaporizing, or cooking. Raw THCA flower is not psychoactive until it undergoes decarboxylation.
Delta-10 THC
A minor cannabinoid isomer of THC with the double bond on the 10th carbon chain. Delta-10 THC is found in extremely small concentrations in cannabis and is primarily produced through chemical isomerization of CBD. It is considered less potent than Delta-9 THC and is associated with more uplifting, cerebral effects with less anxiety than Delta-8. Delta-10 THC occupies a legal gray area similar to Delta-8.
Delta-8 THC
A naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts in cannabis, chemically similar to delta-9 THC but with a double bond on the 8th carbon chain instead of the 9th. Typically synthesized from CBD derived from hemp. Produces mild psychoactive effects and is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, though several states have banned it.
Delta-9 THC
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the 'high' associated with marijuana. Delta-9 THC content determines legal classification: hemp must contain β€0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight under federal law. THCA converts to delta-9 THC when heated.
Diamonds
THCA crystalline concentrates that form naturally during specific extraction processes. Diamonds are among the purest, most potent cannabis concentrates available β often 95-99% THCA. They are frequently paired with terpene-rich sauce for flavor.
Distillate
A highly refined cannabis extract purified through distillation to isolate specific cannabinoids (typically THC or CBD). Distillate is nearly odorless and tasteless, with potency often exceeding 90%. Commonly used in vape cartridges and edibles.
Dry Herb Vaporizer
A device that heats whole cannabis or hemp flower to a precise temperature, vaporizing cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion. Unlike vape pens (which use oil cartridges), dry herb vaporizers use ground flower directly. They preserve terpenes better than smoking, produce less odor, and allow temperature control β lower temps (330β370Β°F) favor terpenes and flavor; higher temps (370β430Β°F) maximize cannabinoid extraction.
Edible
Any food or beverage infused with cannabinoids. When consumed, cannabinoids are metabolized by the liver, converting THCA-derived THC into 11-hydroxy-THC β a more potent, longer-lasting compound. Edible onset is typically 30-120 minutes with effects lasting 4-8 hours.
Eighth
One-eighth of an ounce of cannabis flower, equal to 3.5 grams. The eighth is the most common retail unit for flower in both the cannabis and hemp markets. It is enough for approximately 7β10 joints depending on rolling size, or multiple sessions from a pipe or vaporizer. Pricing an eighth is the standard way to compare value across products and brands.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
A biological signaling system present in all vertebrates that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, pain, memory, and immune function. The ECS consists of endocannabinoids (produced by the body), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. Plant cannabinoids like THCA and CBD interact with this system.
Entourage Effect
The theory that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds work synergistically to produce effects greater than any single compound alone. A full-spectrum extract is thought to deliver stronger, more nuanced effects than a THC or CBD isolate.
Ethanol Extraction
A method of extracting cannabinoids from hemp using food-grade ethyl alcohol as a solvent. Ethanol is a highly efficient broad-spectrum solvent that pulls cannabinoids, terpenes, chlorophyll, and waxes from plant material. The resulting crude extract is further refined to remove unwanted compounds. Ethanol extraction is widely used for producing full-spectrum oils, tinctures, and distillate due to its scalability and regulatory familiarity.
Flavonoids
A class of phytonutrients found in cannabis alongside cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabis-specific flavonoids called cannaflavins may contribute to color, UV protection, and potentially anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoids are part of what makes full spectrum extracts more complex than isolates.
Flower
The smokable, harvested bud of the female cannabis plant. Flower contains the highest concentration of trichomes (which produce cannabinoids and terpenes) and is the most traditional form of cannabis consumption. THCA flower looks and smells identical to marijuana but is derived from legally compliant hemp.
Flush
The practice of watering cannabis plants with plain water only during the final days or weeks before harvest, without adding nutrients. Flushing is believed to allow the plant to use up any nutrients stored in the tissue, potentially resulting in a cleaner-tasting end product with fewer mineral residues. The practice is debated β some cultivators consider it essential for flavor, while others dispute its effect on final product quality.
Full Spectrum
A cannabis extract that retains the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds β including trace amounts of THC (β€0.3%). Full spectrum products are associated with the entourage effect and are considered more effective than isolates by many users.
Hash
A concentrated cannabis product made by separating and compressing trichome resin from plant material. Traditional hash is produced mechanically (dry sift, hand rolling) or with ice water (bubble hash). Hash has been used for centuries and ranges from soft and pliable to firm and crumbly.
Head High
Synonymous with cerebral effects β a cannabis experience felt primarily in the mind rather than the body. Head highs are energetic, uplifting, and cognitively stimulating. They are common with sativa-leaning strains high in limonene, terpinolene, or pinene. At high doses, head-dominant effects can become overwhelming for some users, leading to racing thoughts or heightened anxiety.
Hemp
Cannabis plants containing β€0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill. Hemp is federally legal to grow, process, and sell in the United States. THCA products sold on Leaflyx are derived from hemp plants that meet this federal definition.
HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
A semi-synthetic cannabinoid created by hydrogenating THC β a process that replaces double bonds in the THC molecule with hydrogen atoms. HHC occurs naturally in trace amounts in hemp pollen but is primarily produced commercially through chemical conversion. Its effects are reported as similar to Delta-9 THC but potentially longer-lasting. HHC exists in a legal gray area and is subject to evolving state regulations.
Humulene
An earthy, woody, hoppy terpene found in hops, ginseng, and cloves. Humulene is responsible for the distinctive aroma of beer and many cannabis strains. It is associated with anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties β making it notable among terpenes for potentially reducing hunger rather than stimulating it. Often appears alongside caryophyllene in the terpene profile.
Hybrid
A cannabis strain bred from both indica and sativa genetics. Most modern strains are hybrids, with effects leaning toward one or the other depending on the specific genetics and terpene profile. Hybrids are generally described as balanced or as sativa-dominant or indica-dominant.
Indica
A cannabis subspecies traditionally associated with shorter, bushier plants and sedating, body-heavy effects. Common descriptions include relaxed, sleepy, and pain-relieving. Modern research suggests that effects are primarily driven by terpene profile rather than the indica/sativa designation.
Indoor Cultivation
The practice of growing cannabis or hemp plants inside a controlled environment. Indoor grows allow precise management of light spectrum and intensity, temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and nutrient delivery β resulting in consistently dense buds, high trichome production, and potent cannabinoid profiles. Indoor-grown THCA flower is considered the premium tier of the market. The tradeoff is higher cost due to energy and infrastructure.
Infused Pre-Roll
A pre-rolled joint that has been enhanced with cannabis concentrate to significantly boost potency. Common infusion methods include coating the outside with kief, rolling the paper in distillate or oil before adding flower, layering hash rosin inside the roll, or dunking the tip in concentrate. Infused pre-rolls typically test significantly higher in THCA than standard flower pre-rolls and are best suited for experienced consumers.
Isolate
A purified cannabis extract containing a single cannabinoid β typically CBD or THC β at 99%+ purity. Isolates contain no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or plant material. While highly potent, they do not produce the entourage effect associated with full or broad spectrum products.
Isomerization
A chemical process that converts one cannabinoid into another by rearranging its molecular structure. Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC are most commonly produced through isomerization of CBD derived from hemp. The process requires chemical reagents and controlled conditions. Isomerized cannabinoids have the same molecular formula as their source cannabinoid but different structural arrangements, resulting in different effects and legal classifications.
Landrace
A cannabis strain that has developed naturally in a specific geographic region over centuries without significant human crossbreeding. Landrace strains are genetically distinct and adapted to their native environment. Examples include Afghani (indica), Durban Poison (South African sativa), and Thai. Most modern strains are hybrids descended from multiple landraces. Landrace genetics are valued for unique terpene profiles and as breeding stock.
Limonene
A citrus-scented terpene found in lemon rinds, oranges, and many cannabis strains. Limonene is associated with mood elevation, stress relief, and energizing effects. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in sativa-leaning hemp strains and may interact with serotonin receptors. Strains high in limonene tend to feel uplifting and social.
Linalool
A floral, lavender-scented terpene found in lavender, coriander, and many indica-dominant hemp strains. Linalool is one of the most studied calming terpenes, associated with sedation, anxiety relief, and sleep support. It works synergistically with cannabinoids to enhance relaxing effects. Strains high in linalool are frequently recommended for nighttime use and stress management.
Live Resin
A cannabis concentrate made from fresh-frozen plant material rather than dried and cured flower. By freezing the plant immediately after harvest, live resin preserves the full terpene and cannabinoid profile. Known for superior flavor and aroma compared to other concentrates.
Live Rosin
A solventless concentrate made from fresh-frozen cannabis by first creating bubble hash, then pressing it with heat and pressure. Live rosin is considered a premium product due to its complex terpene profile and clean, solvent-free extraction process.
Microdosing
The practice of consuming very small amounts of a cannabinoid to achieve subtle effects without significant intoxication. Microdosing is popular with THCA edibles and tinctures, allowing users to find their minimum effective dose and maintain functional clarity throughout the day.
Moonrocks
Cannabis flower buds coated in concentrate (typically oil or distillate) and then rolled in kief. The result is an extremely potent product β often exceeding 50% THC equivalent β that burns slowly and is not recommended for beginners.
Myrcene
The most abundant terpene found in cannabis. Myrcene produces an earthy, musky, herbal scent and is closely associated with sedating, relaxing effects. It is also found in mangoes, hops, and lemongrass. High-myrcene strains are typically indica-leaning and associated with the 'couch-lock' effect.
Ocimene
A sweet, herbal, and woody terpene found in mint, parsley, orchids, and some cannabis strains. Ocimene is often present in strains with complex, exotic scent profiles and is associated with uplifting, energizing effects. It has potential antifungal and antiviral properties. Less common than myrcene or limonene, ocimene tends to appear in unique, aromatic cultivars.
Onset Time
The time between consuming a cannabis product and feeling its effects. Onset varies significantly by consumption method: inhaled products (flower, vapes) take effect in 1β5 minutes; sublingual tinctures in 15β45 minutes; edibles in 30 minutes to 2 hours due to first-pass liver metabolism.
Ounce
Twenty-eight grams of cannabis flower. An ounce (also called a 'zip' or 'O') is the largest standard retail unit and offers the best per-gram pricing. Purchasing at the ounce level is most common among high-frequency consumers or those who grow their own tolerance. In the hemp market, ounce pricing on premium indoor THCA flower varies widely by strain and cultivator.
Phenotype
The physical expression of a cannabis plant's genetics β including its size, structure, color, aroma, terpene profile, and potency. Two plants from the same seed batch can express different phenotypes based on growing conditions. Growers select ('pheno-hunt') the best phenotype to clone and reproduce.
Phytocannabinoids
Cannabinoids produced naturally by the cannabis plant (as opposed to endocannabinoids produced by the human body, or synthetic cannabinoids made in a lab). THCA, THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN are all phytocannabinoids.
Pinene
A sharp, fresh pine-scented terpene found in pine trees, rosemary, and basil. Alpha-pinene is the most common terpene in nature. In hemp strains, pinene is associated with alertness, mental clarity, and focus. It may counteract short-term memory impairment associated with THC. Strains high in pinene tend to feel clear-headed and energizing rather than sedating.
Potency
The concentration of cannabinoids in a cannabis product, typically expressed as a percentage. THCA potency in flower commonly ranges from 15-30%. Higher potency generally means stronger effects, though tolerance and consumption method also play a significant role.
Pre-Roll
A pre-made cannabis cigarette filled with ground flower (or sometimes infused with concentrate). Pre-rolls offer convenience and consistent dosing without requiring a grinder or rolling skills. THCA pre-rolls are made from the same compliant hemp-derived flower as loose flower products.
Quality Testing
The process of verifying the safety, potency, and purity of a hemp product through laboratory analysis. Quality testing for THCA products includes cannabinoid potency panels, terpene profiling, pesticide screening, heavy metals testing, residual solvents analysis, and microbial contamination checks. Third-party quality testing β conducted by an independent ISO-accredited laboratory β is the industry standard and the basis for a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Quarantine Testing
A pre-release testing protocol where a batch of hemp product is held and not sold until laboratory results confirm it meets safety and compliance standards. Quarantine testing ensures that THCA and Delta-9 THC levels, contaminant levels, and other parameters are within acceptable limits before product reaches consumers. Reputable brands quarantine every batch pending COA results.
Quarter
One-quarter of an ounce of cannabis flower, equal to 7 grams. A quarter is twice the volume of an eighth and is a common purchase size for regular consumers who want better per-gram pricing. Also referred to as a 'quad.' Buying by the quarter is typically 10β20% less expensive per gram than buying by the eighth.
Resin
The sticky, trichome-rich substance produced by cannabis flower that contains cannabinoids and terpenes. 'Fresh resin' refers to the live resin from fresh-frozen plants, while 'reclaim' refers to residue left in a dab rig. Resin is the source material for most concentrate extraction methods.
Rosin
A solventless cannabis concentrate produced by applying heat and pressure to flower, kief, or hash to squeeze out the resin. Because no solvents are used, rosin is considered a clean, natural extract. Flavor and potency vary based on starting material and pressing conditions.
Sativa
A cannabis subspecies traditionally associated with taller plants, longer flowering times, and energizing, cerebral effects. Common descriptions include uplifting, creative, and focused. Like indica, modern evidence suggests effects are more accurately predicted by terpene profile than by subspecies designation.
Shatter
A glass-like cannabis concentrate with a hard, brittle, translucent texture that 'shatters' when broken. Shatter is produced through solvent-based extraction and extensive purging. It is typically high in potency (70-90% THC or THCA) and is consumed by dabbing.
Smalls
Smaller cannabis buds that develop lower on the plant and receive less light during cultivation. Smalls have the same genetics, terpene profile, and potency as top-shelf buds from the same strain but are sold at a lower price point due to their size.
Smokable Hemp
Hemp flower intended for smoking or vaping rather than processing into extract or fiber. The legality of smokable hemp varies significantly by state β some states prohibit its sale or possession entirely despite federal hemp compliance. Smokable hemp includes whole flower, pre-rolls, and smalls. THCA flower is the premium tier of smokable hemp, valued for its high cannabinoid content and terpene profiles.
Solventless
A class of cannabis concentrates made without chemical solvents such as butane, propane, or COβ. Solventless extraction methods β including ice water extraction, dry sifting, and heat pressing β are considered the cleanest approach. Products include bubble hash, rosin, dry sift, and live rosin.
Spliff
A hand-rolled cigarette containing a mixture of cannabis or hemp flower and tobacco. Common in European cannabis culture, less prevalent in the United States. The tobacco in a spliff adds nicotine and changes the burn characteristics and flavor profile. Some users prefer spliffs for the combined effect; others avoid them due to the tobacco content.
Strain
A specific variety of cannabis with distinct genetics, appearance, aroma, and effects. Strains like OG Kush, Blue Dream, or Gelato each have characteristic terpene and cannabinoid profiles. Breeders develop new strains by crossbreeding existing varieties.
Sublingual
A method of consuming cannabis by placing a product (typically a tincture or oil) under the tongue, where it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through mucous membranes. Sublingual absorption is faster than edibles (15β45 minutes) and bypasses first-pass liver metabolism for higher bioavailability.
Sauce
A cannabis concentrate with a liquid, syrup-like consistency rich in terpenes. Sauce often contains THCA diamonds suspended in a terpene-heavy liquid, making it one of the most flavorful concentrate types. The high terpene content makes it popular with connoisseurs who prioritize taste.
Terpenes
Aromatic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants that create distinct scents and flavors. Beyond aroma, terpenes may influence the effects of cannabis through the entourage effect. Common cannabis terpenes include Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, and Pinene.
Terpinolene
A complex, multi-note terpene with aromas of pine, floral, herbaceous, and citrus. Terpinolene is found in apple, tea tree, and some cannabis strains. Despite its uplifting aroma, it has mildly sedating effects at higher concentrations. It is less common than myrcene or limonene and tends to appear in strains with unique, layered scent profiles. Jack Herer is a well-known terpinolene-dominant strain.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the intoxicating effects associated with marijuana. THC is produced when THCA undergoes decarboxylation from heat. Delta-9 THC content above 0.3% by dry weight classifies a plant as marijuana under federal law.
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
The non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw, unheated cannabis. THCA is the most abundant cannabinoid in fresh flower. It is not intoxicating on its own but converts to psychoactive delta-9 THC when heated (smoked, vaped, or cooked) through a process called decarboxylation. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, THCA hemp flower is federally legal if the plant's delta-9 THC content is β€0.3% by dry weight.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
A minor cannabinoid structurally similar to THC but with a shorter side chain, producing notably different effects. At low doses THCV acts as a CB1 antagonist β meaning it can blunt or suppress THC's effects and reduce appetite. At higher doses it may act as a weak CB1 agonist with mild psychoactive properties. THCV is often marketed as an 'energetic' or 'diet weed' cannabinoid and is most prevalent in certain African sativa landrace strains.
Third-Party Testing
Independent laboratory analysis of cannabis products conducted by a lab with no financial relationship to the brand. Third-party testing verifies cannabinoid potency, terpene profiles, and screens for contaminants (pesticides, heavy metals, microbials, residual solvents). A COA from a third-party lab is the gold standard for product verification.
Tincture
A liquid cannabis extract made by infusing cannabinoids into a carrier oil (MCT, hemp seed, or olive oil) or alcohol. Tinctures are taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to food and drinks. They offer precise, easy-to-adjust dosing and a faster onset than traditional edibles.
Tolerance
The reduced response to a cannabinoid that develops with regular use, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Cannabis tolerance is driven by downregulation of CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Tolerance breaks β periods of abstinence β can reset sensitivity within days to weeks.
Tolerance Break
A deliberate period of abstinence from cannabis consumption to allow CB1 receptor sensitivity to recover, reducing tolerance to THC. Also called a 'T-break.' Even a 48β72 hour break can noticeably reduce tolerance in moderate users; regular users may need 2β4 weeks for significant receptor reset. Tolerance breaks are recommended when consumers notice diminishing effects at their usual dose, or when they want to lower their baseline consumption.
Total THC
A calculated value representing the total potential Delta-9 THC in a hemp product after complete decarboxylation β accounting for both existing Delta-9 THC and the THC that THCA would become if fully heated. The formula is: Total THC = (THCA Γ 0.877) + Delta-9 THC. Some states use Total THC (rather than just Delta-9 THC) as the legal threshold for hemp compliance, which can make high-THCA flower non-compliant even with low raw Delta-9 levels.
Trichomes
The tiny, mushroom-shaped glands on cannabis flower that produce and store cannabinoids and terpenes. Trichomes appear as a frosty, crystal-like coating on buds and sugar leaves. Dense trichome coverage is a visual indicator of high-quality, potent cannabis.
Trim
The small leaves and plant material removed from cannabis buds during the post-harvest trimming process. Trim is lower in cannabinoids than flower but still contains enough trichomes to be used for making concentrates, edibles, or kief. 'Hand-trimmed' flower is a quality indicator on product labels.
Uplifting
A descriptor for the effect profile of certain hemp strains and terpene combinations that produce energizing, mood-elevating, and mentally stimulating experiences rather than sedation. Uplifting effects are most associated with sativa-dominant genetics and high concentrations of limonene, pinene, and terpinolene terpenes. These strains are typically recommended for daytime use.
UV Degradation
The breakdown of cannabinoids and terpenes caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. UV radiation accelerates the conversion of THCA and THC into CBN and other degraded compounds, reducing potency and altering the effect profile of stored hemp products. UV degradation is one of the primary reasons premium hemp products are packaged in opaque or UV-blocking containers and should be stored away from direct sunlight.
Definitions are provided for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Cannabis laws vary by state and locality. Always verify current regulations in your area before purchasing or consuming hemp products.
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