Product Terminology

Cannabis Product Terminology: Understanding THC, CBD, Terpenes & More

Walking into a cannabis store can introduce you to a whole new vocabulary. From THC and CBD to indica, sativa, hybrids, and terpenes, product labels often include terms that aren’t always easy to understand.

Whether you’re exploring cannabis for the first time or simply want to make more informed choices, understanding these common terms can help you read product labels, compare products, and have more confident conversations with knowledgeable staff.

Let’s break down the basics.

1. THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol

THC is one of the best-known cannabinoids found in cannabis. It is primarily responsible for the intoxicating effects commonly associated with cannabis.

You’ll often see THC listed as a percentage on flower, concentrates, and other product labels.

What to know:

THC percentages indicate the concentration of THC in a product.
Higher THC percentages do not automatically mean a better experience.
Individual responses can vary depending on tolerance, product type, and other factors.

2. CBD: Cannabidiol

CBD is another naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD is not considered intoxicating.

CBD products are popular among adults interested in exploring cannabis products without the typical THC-related high.

What to know:

CBD does not produce the same intoxicating effects as THC.
Products may contain CBD alone or in combination with THC.
CBD can still interact with certain medications, so consult a healthcare professional if needed.

3. Terpenes: The Natural Aromas

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds responsible for many of the distinctive aromas and flavors found in cannabis.

They are also present in everyday plants, fruits, and herbs.

Some commonly discussed terpenes include:

Myrcene: Often associated with earthy, herbal, and musky aromas.
Limonene: Known for its bright citrus-like aroma.
Pinene: Commonly associated with pine and fresh forest scents.
Linalool: Recognized for its floral, lavender-like aroma.
Caryophyllene: Often described as spicy, peppery, and woody.

Terpenes contribute to a product’s aroma and flavor profile, but they should not be treated as guarantees of specific effects.

4. Indica, Sativa & Hybrid

These three terms are commonly used to describe cannabis flower varieties.

Indica: Traditionally associated with shorter, bushier cannabis plants and broader leaves.

Sativa: Traditionally associated with taller plants and narrower leaves.

Hybrid: A variety bred from both indica- and sativa-associated genetics.

While these terms are widely used in stores, they don’t reliably predict how a product will make someone feel. Cannabinoid content, terpene profiles, and individual differences also matter.

5. Understanding Cannabis Product Labels

Cannabis packaging contains useful information that helps adults understand what they’re purchasing.

Here are a few common terms you’ll encounter:

THC Percentage: The amount of THC relative to the product’s total weight.
CBD Percentage: The concentration of CBD in the product.
Total Cannabinoids: The combined concentration of measured cannabinoids.
Strain Name: The name given to a particular cannabis variety.
Batch Number: A unique identifier used to trace a specific production batch.
Harvest Date: When the cannabis flower was harvested.
Testing Information: Details about laboratory testing, potency, and product safety.
Serving Size: The amount of product identified as one serving, where applicable.

Always check the packaging and laboratory testing information rather than relying on product names or marketing descriptions alone.

6. Common Cannabis Product Types

Cannabis comes in several different forms, each with its own characteristics.

Flower: The dried cannabis buds commonly used in smoking or vaporizing.
Pre-Rolls: Ready-to-use cannabis flower rolled in paper.
Concentrates: Products made by extracting cannabinoids and other compounds from cannabis.
Edibles: Food and beverages infused with cannabis extracts.
Vaporizers: Devices that heat cannabis material or extracts to create an inhalable aerosol.
Tinctures: Liquid cannabis products, often taken using a measured dropper.
Topicals: Creams, balms, and other products designed for application to the skin.

Different product types can have different onset times, durations, and levels of exposure.

7. A Note on Responsible Adult Use

Understanding cannabis terminology is only one part of making informed decisions.

Keep these responsible-use reminders in mind:

Only purchase and use cannabis if you meet the legal age requirements in your location.
Start with a low amount, particularly when trying an unfamiliar product.
Be patient with edibles, as their effects can take considerably longer to appear.
Keep cannabis products securely stored away from children and pets.
Never drive or operate machinery while impaired.
Avoid combining cannabis with alcohol or other intoxicating substances.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have questions about potential interactions or health considerations.

Knowledge Makes Every Choice More Informed

Cannabis terminology doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand the basics of THC, CBD, terpenes, product types, and packaging labels, navigating a product menu becomes much easier.

Our knowledgeable team is here to help explain product information, answer questions, and make sure you have the information you need to make responsible, informed decisions.

Stay curious. Learn the terminology. Make informed choices.