Welcome to the wonderful world of cannabis! As a fellow enthusiast, it’s essential to learn the lingo and understand the key terms associated with our beloved plant. This comprehensive glossary covers everything from cannabis plant anatomy to common slang. So, let’s dive in and expand your cannabis vocabulary!
Key Terms and Definitions:
- Cannabis plant anatomy:
a. Sativa: A subspecies of the cannabis plant known for its tall, narrow leaves and energizing effects. Sativas typically have higher THC levels and lower CBD levels.
b. Indica: Another subspecies of the cannabis plant characterized by its short, broad leaves and relaxing effects. Indicas usually have higher CBD levels and lower THC levels.
c. Hybrid: A cannabis plant that is a genetic mix of both Sativa and Indica strains, often combining the desired traits of both subspecies.
d. Ruderalis: A lesser-known subspecies of cannabis that is typically low in THC and often used for breeding autoflowering cannabis strains.
e. Cannabinoids: The chemical compounds found in cannabis plants, such as THC and CBD, that are responsible for various effects.
f. Terpenes: Aromatic compounds found in the cannabis plant and many other plants that influence the flavor, aroma, and potentially some effects of cannabis.
- Growing and cultivation terminology:
a. Germination: The initial stage of a cannabis plant’s life cycle when the seed sprouts and begins to grow roots.
b. Vegetative stage: The phase of cannabis plant growth when the plant focuses on developing leaves, stems, and roots.
c. Flowering stage: The phase of cannabis plant growth when the plant produces flowers, also known as buds, which contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids.
d. Harvesting: The process of cutting down the cannabis plant and removing the flowers (buds) for consumption.
e. Curing: The process of drying and aging the cannabis buds after harvesting to improve their flavor, aroma, and overall quality.
f. Trichomes: Tiny, crystal-like structures found on cannabis buds that produce and store cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Consumption methods:
a. Smoking: The traditional method of consuming cannabis by lighting the flower and inhaling the smoke.
b. Vaping: A method of consuming cannabis that involves heating the flower or concentrate to a specific temperature, creating a vapor that is inhaled.
c. Edibles: Cannabis-infused food products, such as brownies, cookies, or gummies, that are ingested for their effects.
d. Tinctures: Liquid cannabis extracts that are typically administered under the tongue or mixed into food and beverages.
e. Topicals: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions that are applied directly to the skin for localized relief.
- Cannabis products:
a. Flower: The dried and cured buds of the cannabis plant that are used for smoking or vaping.
b. Concentrates: Highly potent cannabis extracts, such as wax, shatter, or oil, that contain elevated levels of cannabinoids.
c. Hash: A cannabis concentrate made by compressing the resinous trichomes from the cannabis plant into a solid form.
d. Kief: The powdery, crystal-like substance that collects at the bottom of a cannabis grinder, consisting of trichomes and cannabinoids.
e. Pre-rolls: Pre-packaged, ready-to-smoke joints or blunts that contain ground cannabis flower, typically rolled in paper or a tobacco leaf.
Common cannabis slang:
a. 420: A term for cannabis or cannabis culture, often associated with the time 4:20 PM or the date April 20th.
b. Dank: A slang term used to describe high-quality cannabis that has a strong aroma and potent effects.
c. Nug: A term used to refer to a single bud of cannabis.
d. Munchies: The intense craving for food that often occurs after consuming cannabis.
e. Roach: The small, remaining end of a joint or blunt after it has been smoked.
Conclusion:
Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with these key terms and definitions, you’re well on your way to becoming a true cannabis connoisseur! Remember, this glossary is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the vast and ever-evolving world of cannabis. Stay curious and keep exploring!
