Glossary: Marijuana/Cannabis Terms

ACCESS POINT –

An access point is a state recognized facility that provides safe access to medical marijuana. The retailing of the medical marijuana is highly regulated to ensure each facility enforces the state’s laws and guidelines pertaining to the dispensing of medical cannabis. An access point also educates and guides its clients about the science of medical cannabis as well as the application and certification process.

ALCOHOL EXTRACTION

It is a method for extracting marijuana harsh oils by using alcohol as a solvent to strip THC, CBD, Terpenes, Chlorophyll and wax compounds from the botanical plant material(cannabis). The solution containing both solvent and dissolvable plant material is filtered, and the filtrate subjected to low-pressure distillation to recover the concentrate in its desired consistency.

BACKCROSS –

Backcross is a type of breeding that involves crossing a progeny with one of the most desirable original parental genotypes mostly the mother plant. In cannabis breeding, a hybrid plant is bred with one of its parents to maintain the desired traits of the original parent and enhance those with recessive genes.

BLUNT –

A blunt is a slang term for a marijuana cigar that comes rolled with tobacco leaf wraps from an inexpensive cigar. The hollowed out cigar is filled with marijuana hence users smoke a mixture of cannabis and tobacco in varying degrees. It’s also referred to as Dutch, El-P or L among many cannabis users. Originally the term blunt came from a Phillies Blunt. A Phillies Blunt is a type of cigar that can be purchased at the store. Many cannabis enthusiasts commonly take the tobacco leaves from a blunt and use it to create a marijuana, cannabis cigarette or “blunt.”

BONG –

Also known as a water pipe, a bong is a special device used to smoke cannabis, tobacco, or other herbal substances. It is one of the most common forms of consuming cannabis that enables a user to pass the smoke through water to remove various toxins and cool the smoke allowing smokers to take in larger bouts of smoke and hold it in the lungs for longer periods.

BONG WATER –

It is water that is used in a bong to serve both as a coolant and filter for undesirable smoke particles. Bong water does not contain THC as THC is insoluble in water.

BOWL –

A bowl is a part of the marijuana pipe made from clay, meerschaum, briar wood or corn cob where the cannabis is loaded in order to be smoked. It has a small hole called the carb that the user covers when inhaling the marijuana smoke then releases after inhaling to clear the chamber.

BUBBLER –

A bubbler is a portable smoking pipe made of hand-blown glass, used to filter and purify the smoke just like a bong does. A bubbler, however, is smaller than a bong and does not have a removable bowl.

BUDDER –

Budder is a solvent-extract cannabis product with a THC concentration of up to 99.6%. The marijuana concentrate that is similar to wax but more pliable retains more of the terpenes, so it tends to be more flavorful than other types of harsh oils.

BUDS –

This refers to the small stem on a cannabis branch containing the most resinous trichomes with the highest concentration of active cannabinoids such as THC, CBD and CBG. They are harvested and used recreationally or as a medicinal drug making them the most resinous trichomes with the highest concentration of active cannabinoids such as THC, CBD and CBG. They are harvested and used recreationally or as a medicinal drug making them the most desired part of the plant.

BUDTENDER –

A budtender is a medical marijuana dispensary worker who stays behind the counter, is knowledgeable about the different cannabis strains, what they do and recommends the ideal medicine to purchase and in what quantity. He/she should understand the practical aspects of compliance and be primed on the various effects achieved through different methods of ingestion.

BUTANE HASH OIL –

BHO is a strong concentrate of cannabinoids that is obtained by immersing the cannabis plant in a solvent, normally butane leaving a stick and resinous liquid after the extraction process. It has a high concentration of THC going up to 80% and is also referred to as honey oil, wax or shatter, depending on the mode of production. Butane hash oil can be smoked, vaporized directly or ingested by mixing it with other edible products. BHO can be used to treat chronic pain.

CALYX –

A calyx refers to the sepals found in the cannabis flower that are usually covered in resinous trichomes, containing high concentrations of THC and other cannabinoids. In case of fertilization, the calyxes become the housing structures for the forming seeds. Growers can really benefit by maintaining seedless calyxes as it increases the potency of the resulting buds.

CANNABINOIDS –

Cannabinoids are a group of active chemical compounds found in marijuana that interact with specific cannabinoid receptors present in the central nervous system leading to altered moods, pain relief and other medical benefits. The cannabis plant has at least 111 cannabinoids with THC or tetrahydrocannabinol being described as the most common cannabinoid known for its psychoactive properties.

CANNABINOID RECEPTORS –

Cell membrane receptors that bind cannabinoids to trigger cell responses. There are two major types of receptors found in the human endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system along with some peripheral tissues. CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system.

CANNABIS –

It is a generic term used to refer to a plant genus producing different species of flowering herbs that include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Sativa and indica are the most preferred species due to their recreational and medicinal benefits. Cannabis ruderalis is not as popular as the other species due to its lower THC levels and small stature. Cannabis is available in three primary forms listed as marijuana, hashish and hash oil. It can be smoked in joints, through bongs and vapers or mixed with edibles e.g. cookies, cakes, drinks etc.

CANNABIS FLOWERS –

This refers to the flowering part of the cannabis plant that can either be male or female. Female flowers usually produce THC and other cannabinoids in higher amounts than the other parts of the plant. The female flowers are fertilized by the male plants to produce cannabis seeds. If left unfertilized, the female flowers continue to produce the resin that contains active cannabinoids until their point of harvest.

CANNABIS OIL –

It refers to a sticky, dark-red potent concentrate commonly consumed by dabbing or vaporizing. It is extracted by the use of solvents e.g. butane, ethanol or naphtha to separate the cannabinoids and essential oils from the plant material. Cannabis oil has high concentrations of THC and CBD making it ideal for a broad range of medical conditions like cancer, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, convulsions etc. It releases pleasure hormones, relaxes the mind and induces a sense of calm and relaxation. Cannabis oil is usually consumed in vape pens, bongs and bubblers.

CARB CAP –

A carb cap is a dabbing tool used to vaporize concentrates at low temperatures to optimize the flavor and give a smoother experience. The concentrate is placed onto the nail (hot surface) and the device creates a chamber with restricted airflow for the concentrates to vaporize within. It is made of glass, ceramic, quartz or titanium and features a hollowed-rounded head (cap) and a pointed handle that doubles as a dabbing tool to help with concentrate application.

CASHED –

This refers to the state of depleted marijuana whose contents have been thoroughly used up leaving behind an ash residue. Marijuana smokers use the term to describe a bowl of marijuana that has been smoked out until all resin is gone and there is nothing but ash. Marijuana that has reached its cash point should be emptied and repacked.

CBD –

Also known as cannabidiol, CBD is one of the many other cannabinoids found in marijuana and hemp proven to support health and homeostasis counteract the psychoactive effects of THC. The non-psychoactive cannabinoid has shown remarkable potential in its abilities that is now being studied by scientists.

CBG –

CBG also known by its full scientific name Cannabigerol is one of many cannabinoids found in the hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike THC CBG does not get you high or stoned but researchers are uncovering unexpected benefits of CBG on the human endocannabinoid system.

CBN –

CBN or cannabinol is a metabolite of THC obtained when THC breaks down due to oxidation or aging. On the flip side, while THC is known for its high psychoactive effects, CBN produces less of a ‘high’ effect and has numerous medical benefits. It is popular for its sleep-inducing properties making it an ideal treatment for insomnia cases. The cannabinoid can also serve as an anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory.

CHERRIED –

This refers to a bowl of marijuana that stays lit without further ignition. It requires one to light the marijuana in a certain way so that it stays lit through many rounds of smoking.

CLONE –

A clone is a cutting from a female cannabis plant, which has a genetic information similar to that of a parent plant from which it was created. Cannabis growers replant the clones and raise them to produce buds. Cannabis is already farther along in the development than a seed as they are taken from the mother while in a vegetative state, shortening the entire growing cycle by around a month.

CLOSED LOOP EXTRACTION –

This refers to a highly efficient BHO extraction method that recycles the hydrocarbon solvent in a closed system ensuring that no gases are released into the atmosphere. The method extracts the maximum possible resin from a cannabis plant and is much safer than open blasting. This technique is used to produce commercial BHO and its application in concentrate production is being recommended.

C02 EXTRACTION –

Also known as supercritical CO2 extraction, CO2 extraction is a technique that freezes and compresses CO2 to its super critical state then passes the cold CO2 liquefied gas through marijuana, pulling all of the essential cannabinoids, terpene oils and waxes out of the plant material into collection receptacles. The method leaves no residue and produces an amber-colored oil (CO2 oil) which can be vaporized in several ways.

CONCENTRATE –

It is a highly potent THC concentrated mass obtained by the use of a solvent to dissolve essential oils and resinous cannabinoids from the plant material. Cannabis concentrates are loved for delivering high THC levels and allowing individuals to take them in ways other than smoking joints including dabbing and use of vaporizers. Concentrates are referenced under different names like BHO, wax, oil, shatter, crumble etc.

CONE –

It is a cone-shaped joint that starts straight and thin at the tip but widens as it gets to the base. It has a filter that keeps the weed from falling through the bottom of the cone. It can also refer to the process of smoking marijuana from a bong or pipe as a metallic cone-shaped item is normally included.

COTTON MOUTH –

It is a common effect of marijuana that causes one to have a dry and sticky feeling in the mouth. Consuming marijuana, regardless of the method dries out the mucous membranes and may cause one’s salivary glands to produce less spit/saliva. The condition also known as dry mouth or hypo-salivation can be managed by drinking plenty of water.

COUCH LOCK –

Couch lock refers to feeling so relaxed and calm that you feel like you literally can’t get up off the couch. This is usually from consuming a indica or indica-hybrid strain of cannabis. Indicas in general are known to make one sleepy. That is why people often call indicas “in da couch.”

DAB/DABBING –

The process of smoking cannabis concentrates like butane harsh oil, budder, wax or shatter by placing a ‘dab’ of cannabis concentrate onto a heated surface known as a nail. The super-high concentrates are made by extracting THC (a strong psychoactive chemical compound) through a process that uses hydrocarbons as the solvent. Dabbing provides a different and more powerful high than smoking buds or flowers thus one should know their limits so as not to overdo it.

DANK –

It is an expression used by marijuana smokers to refer to high quality and extremely potent cannabis. Originally dank referred to marijuana dipped in formaldehyde, dried then smoked.

DECARBOXYLATE-DECARBING –

This refers to the process of converting the THCA found in dried buds to THC (a psychoactive compound with many medical properties). Decarbing will most often occur when cannabis is smoked or heated though drying and curing cannabis overtime also causes partial decarboxylation. Decarboxylation is essential to making potent cannabis oils, butters, and tinctures.

DOME –

It’s a dabbing tool with a glass hood that is placed around the nail, and a tiny opening in the top that helps capture and direct the vapor through the rig when it comes off the nail. Domes can often be very intricate pieces of art as they are made of glass.

DOWNSTEM –

It is a long tube used in water filtration dabbing systems to connect the bowl to the water source. The smoke moves from the bowl containing the cannabis concentrates through the down stem of a bong or bubbler into the water for a lighter and smoother inhale.

DRY SIEVE HASH –

Dry sieve hash or dry sift is a form of non-solvent hash comprised of extracted cannabis trichomes, parts of the cannabis plant that contain the active compound THC and other cannabinoids like CBD,CBN and CBG. It is done through a technique involving the use of a screen or sieve that mechanically splits the trichome heads from the marijuana plant. The powdery, crystalline resin is captured as it falls from the plant and is referred to as the dry sieve hash.

DUGOUT –

A dugout is a small wooden box with a rotating top. It has a two deep compartments, a narrow hole to keep your marijuana pipe and another area for keeping your cannabis. It’s a convenient way to get everything together for a quick hit while on the road.

E-NAIL –

Also known as an electric nail, e-nail is functionally similar to a dome nail only that it uses a wall plug in place of a torch to heat the nail to the desired temperature. The e-nail allows a user to set an exact temperature instead of using variable temperatures as observed when using a blow torch.

EDIBLES –

These are food items that are infused with marijuana and come in many forms like brownies, cookies, candies, gummies, chocolate bars, drinks and more. Unlike smoking cannabis, edibles take longer to take effect but result in a more intense high that could last longer. This is because eating cannabis introduces cannabinoids through the gastrointestinal tract where it is digested much more slowly for a longer-lasting variation of THC. They are consumed for both recreational and medical purposes.

EIGHTH –

An “eighth” (1/8) of an ounce refers to a specific quantity of weed which equates to 3.5 grams. Dispensaries will sell their products to consumers and patients using this amount. Other common amounts are a “quarter” or (1/4) of an ounce.

ENDOCANNABINOID –

Endogenous, naturally synthesized ligands of cannabinoid receptors that are produced by both humans and animals. Some endocannabinoids are arachidonyl-ethanolamide (anandamide), 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG), 2-arachidonylglyceryl ether (noladin ether), arachidonyl-ethanolamine (virodhamine), and N-arachidonyl-dopamine (NADA).

ETHANOL EXTRACTION –

Is the process of extracting essential oils and cannabinoids from the marijuana plant by using ethyl or isopropyl as the solvent. Once the plant material is removed, the alcohol is evaporated leaving behind a sticky and highly potent substance. Further purification is done to obtain the various forms of hash oil including oil, shatter, budder or wax.

EXTRACTION –

Is the process of obtaining THC-rich cannabis concentrates from the marijuana plants. The concentrates are produced in a scientific manner that utilizes solvents like butane, alcohol or carbon dioxide. The methods for extraction include BHO, ethanol or supercritical CO2, water processes.

FEMINIZED –

Feminized marijuana seeds refer to seeds that have been bred to create female plants enabling the grower to be completely sure that their crop is going to be a female strain and make buds. They are especially helpful to growers with no access to clean clones or for those who don’t want to clone their own. Feminized seeds also result in less wasted space on plants that need to be eliminated (male plants).

FLOWERING CANNABIS –

This refers to fully grown marijuana plants that have reached the flowering phase. The phase is characterized by the sprouting of large, lush, crystal-like resin covered buds. When the flowers are allowed to be fertilized by the male plants they produce seeds. Otherwise, the buds will keep increasing in size and producing more resin.

GANJA –

Ganja is a street name for marijuana. The bud and all of the flowering part is consumed as ganja, a term that originated from India among the Hindi, Urdu and Sanskrit languages.

GERMINATION –

It is the process by which a cannabis plant grows from a seed. Environmental conditions like warmth, moisture and air trigger the root that is curled up inside the seed to sprout in search of more moisture. Growing mediums that are too soggy will cut off the oxygen supplies making the seeds to drown. Well-nurtured cannabis seeds germinate within 2 to 7 days.

GLASS –

It is a term used generally to refer to a glass pipe, bong or bubbler used for marijuana smoking. They come in different design, color and size with a fitted bowl piece which is where the marijuana is loaded.

GRINDER –

This refers to a device that is used to break down marijuana buds to create a fine texture, so it burns evenly for better airflow and trichome exposure. A grinder has two halves with pegs aligned systematically to ensure the plant material is shredded effectively when turned. Grinders come in various types of materials like metal, acrylic, aluminum or wood. They are available in different shapes and sizes with the cylindrical shape being the most common.

HALF-OUNCE –

It is a unit of measurement that is equivalent to 14 grams of cannabis. This term refers to half of ounce of cannabis or marijuana flower.

HASH –

Hash or hashish is the resin collected from the trichomes of the cannabis plant, which can be rolled into a joint or vaporized in a bong or bubbler. The brown and sticky product is highly potent as it contains large quantities of THC, the main active ingredient in cannabis among other cannabinoids. Hashish can be ingested orally, smoked or be employed as an ingredient for making edibles

HASH OIL –

It is arguably one of the purest forms of solvent extracted hash. It contains the psychoactive THC as well as other useful cannabinoids used for numerous medical conditions. Most of the THC found in hash oil is absorbed and catalyzed within a few seconds of entry into the body hence its high psychoactive effects. Hash oil can be consumed by ingestion or smoking and vaporization through a technique called dabbing. Hash is derived from the term hashish.

HAZE –

Haze is a popular, sativa-dominant strain known for its sweet taste, high THC and low CBD content offering uplifting and intense psychedelic effects for its users. Due to its long flowering phases and tall stature that makes it difficult to cultivate, haze is in most cases bred into many hybrid forms like Northern Lights, Super Lemon Haze and XXX.

HEIRLOOM –

Heirloom refers to a local variety of cannabis that was taken from its native land and propagated in another geographic location while maintaining its original genetics. This means that the strain is pure, having never been crossed and always grown in its natural environment. The landrace strains are commonly named after their native regions (e.g. Afghani, Thai, Colombian, Hawaiian). The traces of these native strains are sometimes detectable in the names of its crossbred progeny.

HEMP –

Refers to a cannabis plant that is typically cultivated for its industrial uses such as oils and topical ointments, as well as fiber for clothing, paper, rope, building materials and more applications which don’t involve intoxication. Hemp is naturally a high-growing plant and usually grown outdoors to maximize its size and yield. The focus is not on producing buds but on building the length of stalk for fiber production. It has very low levels of THC but much higher CBD concentrations.

HYBRIDS –

This refers to the crossbreed of more than one cannabis plant. Some hybrids contain an equal mix of the two species, providing an overall head and body high. Other hybrids are dominated by either sativa or indica.

HYDROCARBON EXTRACTION –

This refers to an extraction process that utilizes hydrocarbon solvents such as butane, propane and hexane to separate the trichomes from the plant material. It is used to make a variety of cannabis concentrates. The process should be carried out in controlled environments as hydrocarbon solvents are volatile solvents and heavier than air hence tend to pool on the floor of a space that isn’t properly ventilated, resulting in dangerous explosions when ignited.

HYDROPONICS –

Hydroponics refers to a growing medium that utilizes a soilless system to cultivate cannabis plants. The method involves placing the growing seedlings in a solution of water and nutrients enabling the grower to control the environment that the plants are grown in. With hydroponics, variables like pH, nutrient levels and temperature are easily controlled unlike a soil ecosystem that can be difficult to control plant’s environment.

INDICA –

Refers to one of the three species of cannabis namely sativa, ruderalis and indica. The plant traces its origin from the Hindu Kush Mountains in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Majority of the indica plants are small with broad leaves and produce a lot of bud. The plant has higher levels of THC compared to CBD and has many medical benefits like relaxing muscles, treating chronic pain and helping with sleep due to its sedative properties.

INFUSED PRODUCT –

This refers to a product that is combined with concentrated marijuana oils during its preparation. It includes edibles, beverages, botanicals, tinctures, cannabis kitchens, & more. Edibles are the most common form of infused products and if not careful could result to consumption beyond the normal levels.

JOINT –

A joint is a marijuana filled cigarette. Usually, it is rolled up by hand using rolling papers, though machine-rolled joints also do exist. The paper for joints rolling is available in different shapes, designs, colors and sizes.

KIEF –

Kief is a concentrated form of cannabis that is obtained by separating the trichomes from the cannabis flowers. It consists of tiny, sticky crystals with resin glands that contain a high concentration of cannabinoids compounds as well as terpenes (aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinct earthy aroma). Kief offers intense psychoactive experiences for its consumers as it’s a more concentrated form of THC. It has multiple medical uses and is also a primary ingredient in the preparation of hash.

KIND –

It is a term for high-quality bud with high levels of THC. Usually, it’s very effective even with small dosages. Often people use the term “kind bud” to refer to a very pungent, high-THC, quality cannabis flower.

KUSH –

Kush is a subcategory of cannabis indica that traces its origin from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan and Northern Pakistan. It is mostly available in USA as an indica-dominant hybrid strain called OG Kush (viewed as a high-grade marijuana strain). It has a distinct aroma with relaxing, sedating and pain relieving effects.

LANDRACE –

It refers to cannabis strains that are indigenous to a particular geographic location e.g. Afghan Kush and the Hindu Kush both originated in the Kush Mountains of Afghanistan. This makes them unique as the strain can take on specific traits best suited for the particular area in which it develops. Most of the hybrids known today are a crossbreed of varying types of landraces.

LIVE RESIN –

Live resin refers to fresh, frozen cannabis flowers that are used in the extraction of THC concentrates only hours after being cut down from the main plant. The process results in extracts with unique aroma and flavorful taste, being different from extracts made with buds that were dried and cured. Live resin captures and delivers a stronger and pure collection of cannabinoids and terpenes from the trichomes present on the buds and flowers. A live resin is thought to have the highest possible potential for medicinal and psychoactive effects.

MARIJUANA –

It is a term referring to dried pieces of the cannabis plant consisting of flower buds and leaves specifically used for its potent resinous glands (trichomes). It is less powerful as compared to hashish or concentrates as it contains lower levels of THC. It can be rolled in joints, blunts, be smoked in pipes or bongs or be infused with edibles to be consumed for medical purposes. Due to its different effects, marijuana is categorized as a depressant, stimulant and hallucinogen. It also goes by many street names including pot, grass, ganja, weed etc.

MEDICATED –

Being medicated refers to the state of consuming medical marijuana for thetreatment of a variety of medical conditions. Normally, it will entail the use of medical marijuana with the supervision of a professional.

NAIL –

A nail refers to a piece of metal usually made from quartz, titanium or glass that is used in vaporizing marijuana concentrates in a process called dabbing. The nail is heated using a handheld torch or an electric coil. Some nails are fitted within a dome that traps the vapor for inhalation while others are domeless with holes that allow better air flow directing the vapor to move into the pipe for a much easier experience.

OG –

OG or Ocean Grown Kush is a renowned marijuana strain known for its unique medical benefits and rich flavor. It is arguably believed to have originated from Southern California and has been used to create many phenotypes passing on the unique bud structure we see in many strains today. Some of the different OG Kush strains include SFV OG, Tahoe OG, Larry OG and more.

ONE HITTER –

A one hitter is a narrow pipe with a small bowl size for holding enough weed for just about one hit. It is a great pipe for those starting out in smoking marijuana, but it also is valued by seasoned consumers since it is light, portable and can easily be used as a go-smoking kit.

OUNCE –

An ounce is a unit of measurement referring to 28 grams of marijuana. It is believed that there is about 0.7 grams in a typical cigarette, leading to about 40 joints per ounce of cannabis. However, given that most joints vary in size there is no way to say this officially.

PERCOLATOR –

A percolator is an additional water sub-chamber within the shaft of a water pipe which increases the water filtration process, helping to cool down the smoke for a smoother and thicker inhale. It allows two levels of water filtration using pressure to increase the smoke-water interaction process, making the smoke to rise evenly and in a cooler form. There are different types of percolators coming in various shapes, sizes and designs perfect for every bong.

PHENOTYPE –

A phenotype describes the outward physical manifestation of a marijuana plant including body type, structure, and appearance. The structural formation of any individual plant is influenced by genetics and the surrounding environment. Everything from color, shape, size, smell and resin production is triggered by the interaction between genotype and environment. Cannabis growers can create a specific strain based on a preferred phenotype (physical characteristics).

PINNER –

A pinner is a thin joint rolled tightly with a small amount of marijuana. If one is low in cannabis content but still wants to roll the last bit of the supply, it results in a pinner. Some use the term to refer to the lowest quality of marijuana cigarette.

PISTIL –

A pistil is a female part of the cannabis plant seen as tiny hair-like strands on the flower or bud. The small structure captures the pollen released by the male plants, fertilizing the ovum inside the calyx to form seeds. In absence of fertilization, the calyxes grow dense resulting in sinsemilla cannabis. A pistil main role is the reproductive function. It contributes nothing in terms of potency or aroma of the marijuana plant.

POT –

Pot is a slang term for marijuana intended for use as a psychoactive drug or a medication. The word came into existence in the 1930s as a shortening of the Spanish potiguaya or potaguaya (a wine or brandy with steeped marijuana buds). Pot also goes by the names of ganja, weed, reefer etc.

POWDERY MILDEW –

Powdery mildew is a white powdery growth that forms on the surface of the marijuana leaves. The fungus first appears as small bumps on the upper side of the affected leaves, and if left unchecked it can extend to the petioles, stems and finally the buds, completely destroying the resin and crippling the plant entirely. Also known as Odium or White Mold, the pest affects both indoor and outdoor cannabis. It is necessary for farmers to take preventative measures from the beginning to keep powdery mildew at bay.

PRE-ROLL –

A pre-roll refers to a pre-formed joint or blunt that is made beforehand and sold in medical dispensaries and retailer stores. The ready-made smokables come in handy for consumers who like joints but are not good with the rolling process.

PRESSED HASH –

Pressed hash refers to compressed resin of the female cannabis plant that is obtained through the application of heat and pressure on kief or dry sift hash to create small, dense blocks containing high concentrations of THC and other cannabinoids. Pressed hash is consumed in much the same way as cannabis buds by smoking in a joint, pipe, bong or consuming it as an edible to offer similar effects. It can result in a different color ranging from dark yellow to brown or even black depending on the amount of plant and foreign material in the final product.

RESIN –

Resin may refer to the dark to light brown substance which is scraped off the surface of the trichomes of a cannabis plant. Further, it is widely used to describe the by-product that sticks by the sides of a bowl or other marijuana holding pieces after smoking the product over a period of time. Some people scrap the resin off their paraphernalia, roll it into balls and smoke. It consists of tar, ash, carbon, and less potent cannabinoids, and is considered unhealthy for smoking.

RIG –

A dab rig is a unique water pipe used for consuming cannabis concentrates with the aid of a nail or skillet. It consists of a glass chamber, a male or female down stem and a nail where heating takes place to vaporize the concentrate before smoking. The nails that are usually made of titanium, quartz or glass can withstand high temperatures as they are heated with a handheld torch until the nail is red hot. Dabbing with a rig enables the users to enjoy the THC-rich concentrates in an optimal manner.

ROACH –

A roach refers to the tip of a joint, blunt or spliff that is left over after smoking. Instead of disposing them, some smokers preserve them and roll the remaining weed in a different joint later on. A roach clip can be used to safely hold the end of the joint so as not to burn the fingers. A roach is considered to have the most resin and more strength than the rest of the joint because the THC smoke passes through and settles on it with each intake.

RUDERALIS –

Ruderalis is one of the three species of cannabis besides indica and sativa. Originally, ruderalis was considered as a wild breed of cannabis that can survive human activities and even adapt to extremely harsh conditions. The plant has small leaves and a short stature that only grows to about 2 feet tall hence the name dwarf cannabis. Ruderalis most notable characteristic is its ability to begin flowering based on changes in the plant instead of its environment (auto-flowering). The plant has low THC concentrations making it less favorable for recreational or medical use. It’s native origin is traced back in Russia.

SATIVA –

Sativa plants are tall with long, narrow leaves and loosely attached branches. Sativa is a native to the temperate warm climates of Mexico, Central America, and Southeast Asia. It is usually grown outdoors due to its tall stature, going to heights of up to 18 feet. Since its vegetation period is much longer, these plants typically produce a much higher yield than Indica strains. The plant has lower THC to CBD levels, explaining its stimulating properties characterized by uplifting, euphoric and cerebral highs.

SCHWAG –

Schwag is a brown, low-quality marijuana with many seeds and bad taste. This type of marijuana is usually very stalky, dry and has low potency levels as its clearly not covered in trichomes. Users will in most cases have to remove the seeds and stalks before smoking. Also called “ditch weed.”

SHATTER –

Shatter is a sticky, glassy liquid that results from the process of over purging wax (the process in which residual solvents are removed from the wax). When you cook down the wax, it starts to melt into a finer product that looks like a glassy, amber-colored liquid. This product is very sticky and difficult to handle unless it’s frozen.

SINSEMILLA –

Sinsemilla is a term describing the cannabis plants that are not pollinated hence lacking seeds. If a female cannabis plant is not fertilized it will contain seedless pods with large amounts of resin resulting in a more potent marijuana. A sinsemilla strain is produced by removing the male flowers from existence before they release pollen grains, enabling the plant to focus all the seed producing energy into bud producing energy. It is preferred among marijuana growers due to its high resin content.

SKUNK –

It refers to a hybrid of Sativa and Indica strains of cannabis that are distinguished by its powerful, pungent smell likened to a spray from a skunk. It is a unique, high-quality strain that delivers excellent yields, making it used in the breeding of more strains like Super Skunk, Early Girl, Northern Lights, and Jack Herer. It is believed to have originated from the USA among the Dutch growers.

SPLIFF –

A spliff is a joint that is part tobacco and part cannabis. It uses tobacco paper distinguished by its thick texture and dark brown color. Smoking a spliff results in a mild high as one is consuming less bud that has been combined with nicotine. The term is also used to refer to a nicely rolled marijuana joint.

STRAIN –

A strain is a naturally occurring or artificially bred variety of sativa, indica cannabis or a combination of both species. A strain is produced to increase the unique characteristics of the plant e.g. the yield of the plant, its tolerance to different environments, its potency levels, physical attributes etc. Medical marijuana has various strains that produce different results for each condition, meaning that while one strain is perfect for muscle spasms, another may be great for chronic pain. Breeders give distinct names that could either bear a similar name to the parent or reflect the plant’s place origin.

TERPENES –

Terpenes refer to the fragrant oils found in a cannabis plant, responsible for the plant’s aroma, taste and color. A cannabis plant has over 100 different terpenes and every strain has a distinct terpene type and composition. This unique combination of the aromatic compounds and other cannabinoids helps one to distinguish between different cannabis strains. Besides contributing to the plant’s aromatic diversity, terpenes play a vital role in influencing the medical and psychoactive effects of the cannabis plant. some of the popular terpenes include limonene, pinene, borneol, myrcene etc.

THC –

THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is recognized as the primary psychoactive compound in a cannabis plant. THC is usually thought of as the compound that makes you “high.” It is one of the many chemical compounds referred to as cannabinoids, usually found in the resinous trichomes of a female cannabis flower. When THC enters the body, it attaches itself to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain resulting in euphoria, hallucinations or heightened sensory experiences. THC serves as a potent anti-inflammatory hence is used to treat a host of conditions including cancer, chronic pain, arthritis, convulsions, glaucoma, insomnia and more.

TINCTURE –

Tinctures are alcohol extractions of the whole cannabis plants (generally the flowers and leaves) that serve as a great alternative to smoking or vaporizing as it can be ingested orally. Some are made with the highest proof and clearest alcohols, and offer an intense body-buzz combined with the effects of the alcohol. Tinctures are commonly used for medical rather than recreational use and are often dosed using a dropper.

TOPICAL –

A topical is a marijuana-infused oil, cream, salve, lotion or balm applied on the skin to provide therapeutic benefits for pain and inflammation. It is preferred by people who would like to avoid the psychoactive effects associated with other cannabis products as it does not reach the bloodstream but only penetrates to the system of CB2 receptors. Topical is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, itching, muscle soreness, tension, arthritis, pain and inflammation.

TRICHOME –

Trichomes are translucent resin glands protruding from the buds and leaves of a cannabis plant. They contain a high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes responsible for the many medical and recreational benefits of the cannabis plant. When looked under a microscope, they appear like mushroom protrusions lying on the surface of the buds, leaves and stalk with each part giving certain value to the plant. It is believed that the trichomes serve as a plant’s defense mechanism, protecting it from threats and natural predators in the environment.

TRIM –

It refers to the removal of excess leaves from the marijuana buds either before or after drying them. Removing the extra leaf matter will significantly improve t se bud’s smoothness when smoking. Growers prefer to extract the trimmed leaves separately so that they don’t waste on any of the compounds. The leaves however have a much less THC concentration as compared to the real bud. Whether you use your hands or an automatic trimmer, proper trimming is vital to ensure the bud cures correctly for the optimal potency of the resulting trichomes.

VAPE PEN –

A vape pen is a portable, handheld vaporizer that contains a battery powered heating element that vaporizes pre-filled cannabis oils, waxes and dry herbs without releasing smoke. As they work just like e-cigarettes, vape pens can be used discreetly in public places like restaurants, sporting events or recreational parks. The three main types of vape pens include oil vaporizer pen, wax vaporizer pen and dry herb vape pen. The names indicate what product they are used to vape.

VAPORIZOR –

A vaporizer is a device that functions by heating the flowers or oils to a specific temperature causing them to release an odorless vapor that is then inhaled directly. Studies have shown that vaporizers are an healthier alternative to smoking as the devices are designed to produce an inhalable vapor that preserves the active ingredients of marijuana without destroying the material which could lead to intake of harmful substances.

VEGETATIVE STATE –

The vegetative state refers to the growing phase of the marijuana plants characterized by the establishment of a solid root system and full leaf development in preparation for the flowering stage. The vegetative cycle of a marijuana plant takes about 4-6 weeks depending on plant strain and surrounding environment. Growing plants should have access to at least 18 hours of light in a 24-hour cycle to maximize photosynthesis to produce as much leafy foliage as possible. The vegetative stage is also an ideal time to get clones if you are interested in a particular strain.

WATER HASH –

Water hash refers to a product that is extracted using the same principle as that of dry sift hash, only that it uses an ice water extraction method that uses water and ice to remove the resinous trichomes from the plant material through a series of silk screen bags. It’s also known as bubble hash or ice wax or melt.

WAX –

It is a general term used to refer to extracts that are solid, opaque and with soft texture. In its preparation, marijuana buds are packed tightly into a tube and then blasted with butane (a highly flammable liquid) that separates the trichomes from the material resulting in a concentrated substance. It is available in different consistencies and variations like honeycomb, crumble, earwax, sugar etc. with the difference arising from the extraction and purging process used in each variety’s production. Marijuana wax is consumed in bongs and vaporizers.