Cannabis Glossary
Over 100 cannabis terms explained in plain English — from cannabinoids to vaping.
A
Anandamide
A naturally occurring endocannabinoid produced by the human body. Often called the 'bliss molecule' as it plays a role in mood regulation, appetite, and memory.
Autoflowering
A type of cannabis plant that automatically switches from vegetative growth to flowering based on age rather than light cycle. Often crossed with Cannabis ruderalis.
B
Banger
The quartz or titanium nail used in a dab rig. Heated with a torch before applying concentrate.
BHO (Butane Hash Oil)
A cannabis concentrate made by extracting cannabinoids using butane as a solvent. Known for its high potency and purity when properly produced.
Blunt
A cigar rolled using a hollowed-out tobacco wrap filled with cannabis. Larger and slower-burning than a joint.
Body High
The physical sensation of relaxation or heaviness associated with indica strains, caused by cannabinoids interacting with CB1 receptors throughout the body.
Bong
A water pipe used for smoking or vaping cannabis. The water filters and cools the smoke for a smoother hit.
Bubble Hash
A solventless cannabis concentrate made by agitating cannabis in ice water and filtering through micron screens. Named for the way it bubbles when heated.
Bud
The dried flower of the cannabis plant, trimmed and cured for consumption. Also called flower or nug.
C
Cannabinoid
Chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. THC and CBD are the most well-known.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)
A rare condition in long-term heavy cannabis users characterised by cyclic nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Symptoms often improve with hot showers and resolve on stopping cannabis use.
Cannabinoid Receptors
Proteins in the body that cannabinoids bind to, producing their effects. CB1 receptors are mainly in the brain and central nervous system; CB2 receptors are mainly in the immune system.
Cannabis
A genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae. The three main species are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.
Cannabis Cup
An awards competition organised by High Times magazine recognising the best cannabis strains, products, and brands. One of the most well-known events in cannabis culture.
Cannabis Ruderalis
A lesser-known cannabis species native to colder climates. Small in stature, low in THC, and autoflowering — used in breeding for its hardy genetics.
Cannabutter
Butter infused with decarboxylated cannabis, used as a base ingredient for edibles. The fat in butter binds with cannabinoids for efficient absorption.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
A minor cannabinoid being studied for anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and pain-relieving properties. Non-psychoactive like CBD.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
A non-psychoactive cannabinoid commonly used for its potential therapeutic benefits. Legal in the UK when derived from hemp and containing less than 0.2% THC.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Often called the 'mother cannabinoid' as it's the precursor from which other cannabinoids like THC and CBD are synthesised. Early research suggests anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential.
CBN (Cannabinol)
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed when THC ages and oxidises. Known for its sedating effects and often promoted as a sleep aid.
Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency
A theoretical condition where the body doesn't produce enough endocannabinoids, potentially contributing to conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and IBS.
CO2 Extraction
A method of extracting cannabinoids and terpenes using carbon dioxide under high pressure. Considered one of the cleanest and safest extraction methods.
Concentrate
A highly potent cannabis extract containing concentrated levels of cannabinoids and terpenes. Examples include wax, shatter, and oil.
Curing
The controlled drying and aging process after harvesting cannabis. Proper curing preserves terpenes, improves flavour, and creates a smoother smoke.
D
Dabbing
A method of consuming cannabis concentrates by vaporizing them on a heated surface (nail or banger) and inhaling the vapour.
Decarboxylation
The process of heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids. Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which convert to THC and CBD when heated.
Delta-8 THC
A psychoactive cannabinoid similar to delta-9 THC but generally reported as less potent with a clearer head high. Legal status in the UK remains untested and unclear.
Delta-10 THC
A less common psychoactive cannabinoid similar to delta-8 and delta-9 THC, reported to produce an uplifting, sativa-like effect.
Dispensary
A retail store that sells cannabis products. Not currently legal in the UK outside of licensed pharmacies for medical patients.
Dronabinol
A synthetic version of THC (Marinol) prescribed in some countries for nausea and appetite stimulation. Not commonly prescribed in the UK.
Dry Herb Vaporiser
A device that heats cannabis flower to a temperature where cannabinoids and terpenes vaporise without combustion. Considered safer than smoking as no tar or carbon monoxide is produced.
E
Edible
Food or drink products infused with cannabis extracts. Effects take longer to onset (30-90 minutes) but last significantly longer than inhalation.
Endocannabinoid System
A biological system in the human body that regulates functions like mood, appetite, sleep, and pain. Cannabis interacts with this system through cannabinoid receptors.
Entourage Effect
The theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work together synergistically to produce enhanced therapeutic effects compared to isolated compounds.
Extract
A concentrated cannabis product made by separating cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material using solvents, heat, or pressure.
F
FECO (Full Extract Cannabis Oil)
A full-spectrum cannabis oil containing all cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds. Typically taken orally and used in medical cannabis programs.
Finger Hash
Traditional hashish made by rubbing live cannabis plants between the hands to collect resin. Small batches, considered artisanal.
Flavonoid
A group of compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants) that contribute to colour, flavour, and potential health benefits through antioxidant properties.
Flower
The dried, cured buds of the cannabis plant that are typically smoked or vaporized. Also called bud or herb.
Full Spectrum
A cannabis extract containing the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds. Believed to produce stronger effects than isolates due to the entourage effect.
G
Genotype
The genetic makeup of a cannabis plant that determines its potential characteristics — cannabinoid profile, terpene expression, growth pattern, and yield.
Germination
The process by which a cannabis seed sprouts and begins to grow. Requires moisture, warmth, and darkness to trigger root emergence.
Green Out
An unpleasant experience caused by consuming too much THC, characterised by dizziness, nausea, anxiety, and disorientation. Not medically dangerous but very uncomfortable.
Grinder
A small device with interlocking teeth used to break cannabis flower into smaller pieces for even burning or vaporisation.
Grow Medium
The material in which cannabis roots grow. Common mediums include soil, coco coir, perlite, and hydroponic systems.
H
Hash Oil
A concentrated cannabis extract made using solvents, ranging from thin liquid oils used in vape cartridges to thick, tarry oils used in edibles.
Hashish
A concentrated cannabis product made by compressing the resin glands (trichomes) of the plant. Can be solid, soft, or powdery depending on production method.
Hemp
A variety of cannabis sativa grown for industrial use. Contains very low THC (below 0.2% in the UK) and is used to make CBD products, textiles, and building materials.
Hemp Flower
The dried buds of hemp plants, legal in the UK when containing less than 0.2% THC. Smoked or vaporised for CBD-dominant effects.
High
The psychoactive experience produced by THC, including euphoria, altered perception, increased sensory sensitivity, and changes in thought patterns.
Hybrid
A cannabis strain bred from both indica and sativa genetics, producing a blend of their respective effects. Most modern strains are hybrids.
Hydrocarbon Extraction
An extraction method using liquid hydrocarbons like butane or propane to separate cannabinoids from plant material. Produces high-purity concentrates.
I
Indica
A species of cannabis traditionally associated with relaxing, sedating effects. Often recommended for evening or nighttime use.
Infused
A product that has been infused with cannabis extract, such as infused butter, oil, honey, or beverages. Used in edible production.
Isolate
A purified form of a single cannabinoid — typically CBD or THC — separated from all other plant compounds. Comes as a white crystalline powder.
J
Joint
A hand-rolled cigarette containing ground cannabis flower, wrapped in rolling paper. The most common method of smoking cannabis.
K
Kief
The collected resin glands (trichomes) of cannabis flowers. Highly potent and can be pressed into hashish or sprinkled on top of flower.
L
Landrace
A pure, native cannabis strain that developed naturally in a specific geographic region without human crossbreeding. Examples include Hindu Kush, Durban Poison, and Acapulco Gold.
Limonene
A common cannabis terpene with a citrusy aroma. Believed to contribute uplifting, mood-enhancing effects and may have anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.
Live Resin
A cannabis concentrate made from fresh, flash-frozen plants rather than dried and cured material. Preserves more terpenes for a more flavourful product.
M
Marijuana
An older term for cannabis, derived from Mexican Spanish. While still commonly used, many in the cannabis community prefer the scientific name 'cannabis' due to the term's history in prohibition-era rhetoric.
Medical Cannabis
Cannabis-based products prescribed by a doctor for therapeutic purposes. In the UK, it's legal by prescription through private clinics for various conditions.
Moonrock
A cannabis product made by coating a cannabis flower in cannabis oil and then rolling it in kief. Extremely potent, often containing 40-60%+ THC.
Munchies
The increased appetite commonly experienced after consuming THC, caused by cannabinoids interacting with appetite-regulating neurons in the hypothalamus.
Myrcene
The most common terpene found in cannabis, with an earthy, musky aroma. Believed to contribute sedating effects and enhance the absorption of cannabinoids.
N
Nabilone
A synthetic cannabinoid medication prescribed in some countries for nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Available on the NHS in the UK.
Nug
A single, intact cannabis bud. Higher-quality flower is sold as nugs rather than pre-ground material.
O
Oils
Cannabis extracts suspended in carrier oils like MCT or olive oil. Taken orally or sublingually for precise, adjustable dosing.
Oven Decarb
The most common home method for decarboxylating cannabis — heating flower in an oven at 110-120°C (230-250°F) for 30-40 minutes to activate cannabinoids before making edibles.
P
Phenotype
The observable physical characteristics of a cannabis plant, influenced by both genetics and growing conditions. Different phenotypes can emerge from the same strain.
Photoperiod
A type of cannabis plant that requires specific light cycles to transition from vegetative growth to flowering. Most traditional cannabis strains are photoperiod.
Phytocannabinoid
Cannabinoids produced by plants (phyto- = plant), as opposed to endocannabinoids produced by the human body. THC and CBD are phytocannabinoids.
Pinene
A terpene found in cannabis and pine needles, with a distinctive pine aroma. Believed to promote alertness and memory retention, and may counteract some effects of THC.
Potency
The concentration of cannabinoids — typically THC — in a cannabis product. Measured as a percentage for flower (e.g. 20% THC) or mg/g for concentrates.
Pre-roll
A ready-made cannabis joint, typically purchased from a dispensary or pharmacy. Convenient but often less fresh than grinding flower yourself.
Q
QWET (Quick Wash Ethanol)
A home extraction method using high-proof ethanol to make cannabis tinctures and oils. Faster than butter infusions and preserves more cannabinoids.
R
Recreational Cannabis
Cannabis used for non-medical purposes — relaxation, enjoyment, socialising, or creativity. Not legal in the UK for recreational use.
Resin
The sticky, cannabinoid-rich substance produced by cannabis trichomes. Also refers to the residue that builds up in pipes and vaporisers from repeated use.
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)
A full-extract cannabis oil made using a solvent wash method, named after its creator. Known for high potency and used in some alternative cancer treatment protocols.
Rosin
A solventless cannabis concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower or hash. Considered one of the purest forms of concentrate.
S
Sativa
A species of cannabis traditionally associated with energetic, uplifting effects. Often recommended for daytime use.
Shatter
A glass-like cannabis concentrate known for its translucent, brittle texture. One of the purest forms of BHO extraction.
Skunk
A term originally referring to a specific strain known for its strong, pungent aroma. Now used colloquially to describe any high-potency cannabis.
Solventless
Cannabis concentrates made without chemical solvents, using only mechanical separation methods like heat, pressure, or ice water.
Strain
A specific variety of cannabis with distinct genetics, effects, and characteristics. Examples include Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Girl Scout Cookies.
Sublingual
A method of consuming cannabis tinctures or oils by holding them under the tongue for 60-90 seconds. Allows rapid absorption through the mucous membranes for quicker onset.
T
T-Break (Tolerance Break)
A period of abstaining from cannabis to reset your tolerance. Even 48-72 hours can noticeably lower tolerance; a full reset typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Terpenes
Aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants that produce distinctive smells and flavours. Also believed to contribute to the effects of different strains.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis responsible for the 'high'. Illegal in the UK without a medical prescription.
THC-A (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
The non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw cannabis. Converts to THC through decarboxylation (heating).
THC-V (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
A lesser-known cannabinoid similar to THC but with a shorter side chain. Early research suggests it may suppress appetite and help regulate blood sugar.
Tincture
A liquid cannabis extract typically taken sublingually (under the tongue). Offers precise dosing and quick onset (15-30 minutes).
Tolerance
The body's reduced response to cannabis after repeated use, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Tolerance develops with regular use and reverses with breaks.
Topical
Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and lotions applied to the skin. Generally non-psychoactive and used for localised pain or inflammation relief.
Trichome
Small, crystal-like resin glands on cannabis flowers and leaves that produce cannabinoids and terpenes. The potency of cannabis is largely determined by trichome density.
Trim
The small leaves trimmed from cannabis buds during harvesting. Lower in cannabinoids than the flower but can be used for making edibles, extracts, or kief.
V
Vape Cartridge
A pre-filled container of cannabis oil designed to be used with a vape battery. Common in medical cannabis programs.
Vaporiser
A device that heats cannabis flower or concentrate to release cannabinoids and terpenes as vapour without combustion. Includes portable dry herb vapes, desktop units, and dab rigs.
Vaping
A method of consuming cannabis by heating flower or oil to a temperature that vaporises cannabinoids without combustion. Considered safer than smoking.
W
Water Pipe
A smoking device that uses water to filter and cool smoke before inhalation. Includes bongs, bubblers, and hookahs used with cannabis.
Wax
A soft, waxy cannabis concentrate with a consistency similar to beeswax. Usually amber or gold in colour and highly potent.
Whole Flower
Cannabis buds sold intact rather than ground or pre-rolled. Generally preferred by experienced users for better freshness, flavour, and quality assessment.