Know the words, choose better

Cannabis glossary, in plain language

The words you'll actually run into when choosing — THC, CBD, terpenes, strain types and the different forms. Short, plain explanations with a source to read further.

Cannabis: A plant containing active compounds such as THC and CBD, used as flower, extracts or edibles.
Tetrahydrocannabinol: The main cannabinoid behind the high — it determines how strong the psychoactive effect feels.
Cannabidiol: A non-intoxicating cannabinoid, often associated with a relaxed feeling and thought to soften the effect of THC.
Cannabinoid: The family of compounds in cannabis that act on the body through the endocannabinoid system — THC and CBD among them.
Terpene: The aroma and flavour compounds found in cannabis and many other plants — believed to shape how each strain feels.
Entourage effect: The idea that the compounds in cannabis work together, shaping the overall experience more than any single compound does.
Cannabis sativa: Traditionally described as the uplifting, heady type — though the actual feel depends more on terpenes and cannabinoid ratios than on the label.
Cannabis indica: Traditionally described as the relaxing, sleepy type — though newer research points to terpenes mattering more than the label.
Hybrid: A cross between sativa and indica — which today covers most strains on the market.
Cannabis strain: A cannabis variety bred for its own character — aroma, flavour and the way it feels.
Flower (bud): The dried flower of the cannabis plant, usually smoked — the most common form.
Pre-roll: A ready-rolled joint — handy if you'd rather not roll your own.
Edible: Cannabis you eat. Slower to come on than smoking but stronger and longer-lasting — start low and wait before taking more.
Rosin: A solventless cannabis extract pressed with heat and pressure — highly concentrated.
Myrcene: One of the most common terpenes in cannabis, often associated with a relaxed feeling.
Limonene: A citrus-scented terpene, often associated with a fresh, upbeat feeling.

Want to go deeper?

Longer reads on strains, terpenes and choosing by feel live on our knowledge pages.

Browse the strain library