My Cannabis Dictionary: A Lexicon for the Marijuana Industry
Updated: September 1st, 2023
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and mature, cultivators, processors, dispensaries, and customers are all expanding their vocabulary to ensure when we use a specific cannabis term – we’re all on the same page as to its definition.
It’s also important for all of us to be educated and to educate to responsibly advance the cannabis industry. In the words of Dr. Seuss’, The Lorax, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
To build this extensive, cannabis glossary, we’ve reached deep into the pot to research a wide range of terms and definitions. We’re all in this together, so if there’s a word you think we should add, let us know in the comments!
Absorption
The journey and transfer of a given substance from the site it was administered to the bloodstream where it is made available to the body.
Absorption Methods
Under the tongue (sublingual), topically through the skin, metabolized in the liver, or inhaled from vaporized or combusted cannabinoids.
Agonist
A molecule or compound that binds to and activates a receptor is called an agonist. These molecules bind to and fully activate (full agonist) or partially activate (partial agonist) a receptor. Examples include pain medications such as morphine and oxycodone. Natural agonists, or ligands, include analgesic neurotransmitters like anandamide.
Anandamide
Of the naturally occurring endocannabinoids, anandamide (discovered by Raphael Mechoulam) is the most well-known and studied. Anandamide resembles THC, one of the most popular phytocannabinoids produced by decarbing THCA – which is biosynthesized inside a cannabis plant’s trichomes.
Anandamide is used by the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate pain, appetite, mood, fertility, and more. It does this by binding to the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors found throughout our primary and peripheral nervous systems. This categorizes anandamide as a natural ligand and agonist.
Antagonist
Natural and synthetic molecules that bind to receptors and prevent the activation of that receptor are called antagonists. These compounds block neuro-signaling at the site of a targeted chemical receptor in an effort to reduce or reverse the effects of an agonist. For example, if someone is suffering an overdose of heroin, an agonist, then an antagonist like naloxone is administered. Naloxone binds to the opioid receptors, removing them and then blocking their ability to re-bind to the receptors.
Bioavailability
The percent and rate that cannabinoids (or any other compound) are absorbed into the body and made available within the bloodstream or intended physiological site.
Biomass
Biomass is plant or animal material used for energy production, or in various industrial processes as raw material for use in manufacturing a range of products. It includes wood, waste from farm crops, food processing waste, animal material, or human waste from sewage facilities.
Biosynthesis
The process by which a living organism (including cells) produce complex molecules or substances from simpler molecules or materials. Examples of biosynthesis include photosynthesis (light-energy into glucose) and the conversion of CBGA to THCA or CBDA by means of enzymes within the trichomes including THCA synthase.
Broad Spectrum
This term refers to an oil, vape or other cannabis product that contains more than one cannabinoid but does not contain all the terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids native to the plant before processing.
Broad spectrum cannabis products often contain various ratios of THC and CBD, and terpenes such as myrcene and limonene. This is sometimes preferred to isolates so the customer can experience a partial entourage effect.
Buds
The botanical growth found on a hemp plant that usually becomes a trichome covered flower. A cluster of buds is referred to as a “cola.”
Bucking
Bucking is a term used in the cannabis industry that refers to the process of removing the stems from cannabis flowers. Bucking helps prevent damage to large crown cannabis buds. Proper bucking will also reduce the loss of trichomes (or kief.)
Bucking machines have greatly increased de-stemming efficiency and can save cultivators hundreds of workhours a month. It also saves time and reduces errors in preparing cannabis plants for processing.
Cannabis
A plant genus from the Cannabaceae family that’s indigenous to central Asia, especially India. Commonly recognized species include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis. (Although ruderalis is often argued to be a sub-species of sativa.)
Cannabis sativa and indica are known for their psychoactive properties. Cannabis has long been used in medicinal, religious, and recreational use cases. Hemp, a subspecies of Cannabis sativa, is used to manufacture industrial rope, oils, textiles, and more.
(But you already knew what cannabis was, amirite?)
Cannabinoid
Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD are the chemical compounds secreted by cannabis flowers that provide relief to an array of symptoms including pain, nausea, anxiety, and inflammation. We currently believe there are over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
Cannabinoids bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system that exists in all vertebrates.
Cannabinoid Vapor Points
The temperature a given cannabinoid boils and turns to vapor. The vapor point (or boiling point) of each desired cannabinoid should be considered when setting the temperature for your vaping device.
Popular cannabinoid vapor points include:
- THC – Boils at 157°C, 315°F
- CBD – Boils between 160-180°C, 320-356°F
- CBN – Boils at 185°C, 365°F
- CBC – Boils at 220°C, 365°F
Keep in mind, solvents, terpenes, and flavonoids all have their own vapor points as well.
Cannabeer / Weed Beer
Cannabis-infused beer. After alcohol is first removed from the beer, the beverage is infused with a flavorless, colorless THC, or CBD isolate in liquid form. The compounds are generally nano-emulsified, which breaks down the particles small enough to be water-soluble and relatively stable once mixed with the beer.
The nano-emulsification also makes the cannabinoids more bioavailable, which improves the rate at which the cannabinoid effects take hold.
Cannabutter
Cannabutter is cannabis-infused butter! Butter, like other types of fat, makes a great transport system for cannabinoids. It’s most commonly used for baking edibles. Cannabutter can be homemade or purchased at medical marijuana or recreational marijuana dispensaries. Cannabutter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months.
Canoeing
When the term canoeing references cannabis leaves, it describes the leaves tendency to curl up like a claw (also known as “clawing.”) Most times, this is the result of over-watering or too much heat emanating from your light source. “Lumen burn” can occur in the presence of grow lights or too much sunlight.
When the term canoeing references the behavior of a burning joint, it describes the effect where one side of the joint burns faster or slower than the other side. This creates a canoe shape and creates more work for the customer to rotate the joint in an attempt to even the burn. In worst cases, unburnt plant material may need re-rolled.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
Much like CBD, CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that can assist patients with inflammation and pain relief. Although very commonly found, it’s usually in very small quantities.
CBCA (Cannabichromenic Acid)
CBCA is one of the three most abundant cannabinoids, even if coming in a low third place behind THCA and CBDA. CBCA is formed within the trichome alongside its cannabinoid counterparts and decarbs into the cannabinoid CBC.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD is the second most commonly used cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is not psychoactive and can even counter the psychoactive effects of THC. CBD has been effectively used to treat epilepsy and autism, as well as other conditions.
CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)
Produced by the cannabis plant and found suspended within the resin that is secreted by trichomes (cannabis resin glands). Scientifically referred to as cannabidiolic acid. CBDA is the natural state of “CBD” before heat has been applied. CBDA is being researched for its anti-inflammatory properties.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG is one of the rarest and most expensive cannabinoids on the market. CBG, like all other cannabinoids, comes from CBGA. One of the reasons CBG is so rare, is because CBGA is usually converted into THCA and CBDA before the cannabis plant is harvested.
CBG is known to have a great deal of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. It is also able to interact directly with CB receptors without intoxicating effects (where CBD interacts indirectly with the endocannabinoid system.)
CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)
CBGA is the grandparent of the cannabinoids you know and love, THC and CBD. CBGA becomes THCA or CBDA through an enzymatic process within the trichome as the plant grows and matures. Through the natural introduction of an enzyme, CBGA will become varying concentrations of THCA, CBDA, or CBCA.
Read our full article on CBGA →
CBN (Cannabinol)
CBN or Cannabinol, is the byproduct of THC if it is allowed to break down due to exposure to heat, light, or both. The process by which THC breaks down into CBN is called oxidation.
Clone
A clipping from a mature, vegetating cannabis plant. While your plant is vegetating, you want to carefully clip an auxiliary shoot (branch) above the node. Be careful not to cut your terminal shoot, as it’s the main structure of your mother plant.
Cloning
A process by which cannabis cultivators replicate a particular species or strain of marijuana through precision cutting and trimming of a healthy, “mother” plant. Rather than waiting weeks for seeds to germinate, through precision cutting and trimming, you can create more plants with identical genetic characteristics and keep your best produce fruitful for years. No seeds required.
Cola
A cluster of buds, usually found on a female hemp plant.
CO2 Extraction
CO2 extraction uses low temperatures and high pressure to force carbon dioxide to change from its gaseous state to a liquid. CO2 in liquid form is then used as a solvent to pull the desired cannabinoids from the marijuana or hemp plant. This includes pulling the plant’s waxes, cannabinoids, and terpenes.
CO2 extraction doesn’t carry some of the same dangers associated with other solvents (such as butane). As a result, consumers benefit from a premium-quality, clean oil with no toxic by-products. As an added benefit, the CO2 extraction process kills bacteria, mold, mildew, and any remaining insects. This results in a safer product for patients and consumers.
Crystals
Another term for trichomes or kief.
Curing
Curing cannabis is the next step after drying and can increase cannabis potency. When done properly, curing can help enhance flavors and the quality of vaping aromas (terpenes). Chlorophyll also breaks down during curing, additionally improving the scent and vapors.
As a curing rule of thumb, cultivators will keep freshly harvested cannabis in temperatures between 60 and 70°F and humidity levels between 45-55%. This assists the conversion of non-psychoactive cannabinoids to THCA, allowing your plant to gain potency.
Dabbing
“Dabbing,” smoking or vaping concentrated marijuana extracts commonly known as “wax” or “hash” has become more popular because of its higher potency. The side effects are also likely to be more intense because the THC concentration is much higher than that of vaping cured flower.
Medical or adult use cannabis users with little or no experience should consider avoiding this method of cannabis delivery until they better understand the effects of cannabis on their body as everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different.
Dank
An increasingly popular term that refers to “very high quality.” Just as “Dank Memes” are damn good memes, “Dank Weed” has been dried and cured perfectly, commanding higher prices for premium aroma and effects. If you bought your cannabis from a licensed dispensary, it’s very likely you have some dank medicine.
Decarboxylation
A thermochemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide and changes THCA to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. When decarbing, smoking or vaping, the heat causes THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) to lose 1 carbon and 2 oxygen atoms.
The resulting molecule is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) which is absorbed into our bodies via our cannabinoid receptors and then interacts with our natural endocannabinoid system, producing the desired effects.
When decarboxylating cannabis for edibles or extractions, we must activate these psychoactive cannabinoids on our own before consumption takes place. One common method of decarbing weed is to bake ground cannabis flowers around 220° for about 45min. Some choose to bake at lower temperatures for a longer duration to help better preserve terpenes.
Distillate
In short, a distillate is a product resulting from the distillation process. From a cannabis processing perspective, a distillate is a refined cannabis oil that has targeted specific cannabinoids by exploiting their various boiling points.
Cannabis distillation can be used to create distillates that contain some terpenes and other beneficial cannabinoids. For those that do not like the aroma of terpenes or want the benefits of a single cannabinoid (such as CBD without trace amounts of THC), a distillate can be further refined into an isolate.
Distillation
Distillation is a refinement process by which components are separated using their unique boiling points. Evaporation and condensation are used to create a distillate or isolate. Often used to create cannabis oils focusing on a specific set of cannabinoids or even a single cannabinoid (isolate.)
Drinkables
Drinkables are a subset of edibles that are ingested by means of a common beverage such as sparkling water, tea, soda, beer, wine, etc… Drinkables combine cannabinoids and sometimes terpenes with a water-based beverage using an emulsifier, bonding the cannabis oil with the beverage of choice. For a more stable solution, drinkables may additionally be homogenized, increasing the percent of oil molecules coated in the emulsifier compound.
Dronabinol (Marinol)
FDA-approved THC, is synthetically derived and administered to reduce nausea, vomiting, and pain for cancer patients. Marinol is also prescribed to help increase appetite in HIV patients.
It is unclear why dronabinol is federally legal to prescribe, while naturally occurring THC is classified as a Schedule 1 drug with no redeeming value or medical uses. Dronabinol is more costly to manufacture and does not include the other therapeutic cannabinoids found in natural cannabis.
Drying
Drying is the process that occurs after harvesting and overlaps with curing. Drying could be considered the first phase of curing. Taking the time to dry your harvested cannabis properly has many benefits such as reducing the opportunity for mold and bacteria to grow and contaminate your product.
Most importantly, taking the time to properly dry and cure your buds will greatly extend their flavors and shelf life.
Edibles
We’re pretty sure you already know what edibles are! Magic brownies, pot cookies, space cakes — if it goes in your stomach and has THC, it’s an edible! Edibles can (and often do) contain other cannabinoids as well. Although edibles frequently refer to solid food products, infused beverages have been adding to the variety of edibles. See Cannabeer.
Edibles take longer to become bioavailable and once their effects take hold, they last much longer than cannabinoids that are inhaled. This makes edibles perfect for an extended-release effect.
Emulsion / Emulsification
Cannabis oil, whether solventless or distilled, does not dissolve or mix in water-based solutions. The key to manufacturing a cannabis-infused solution is to use an emulsifier agent. An emulsifier is an additive whose molecule has a polar (ionic) end, while the other end is a hydrocarbon. The polar end of the molecule is soluble in water, and the hydrocarbon end is soluble in oils and fats.
This can be seen in laundry and dish detergents, which are emulsifiers. One end of the detergent molecule clings to oils and dirt, and the other end of the detergent molecule clings to the water. As you rinse the water away, it pulls the dirt and oil compounds down the drain with it.
Emulsion is a critical component of cannabis-infused drinks as it helps to bond the cannabis oil with the water component of the beverage. This helps to prevent the cannabis oil to float to the top (because it is less dense) facilitating a more consistent mixture.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Found in humans and all vertebrates, the endocannabinoid system helps balance a wide range of biological processes. Endocannabinoids are manufactured by the body, and naturally bind to and interact with cannabinoid receptors found throughout the body and nervous system.
The cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant interact with the ECS to affect and regulate pain, memory, stress, appetite, and other biological processes.
Endogenous Cannabinoids
These cannabinoids are naturally occurring in mammals. These molecules are created by the body to help regulate mood, appetite, pain, and many other biological systems. The most well-known endogenous cannabinoid is anandamide.
Entourage Effect
Cannabis flower and full-spectrum concentrate contain all the plant’s essential oils and compounds that include cannabinoids such as THC and CBD, as well as terpenes and flavonoids such as pinene and linalool. Different combinations of THC, CBD, and terpenes have different effects on the endocannabinoid system.
The Entourage Effect is still considered theoretical; however, it is strongly believed to allow different strains of cannabis to treat different medical symptoms such as anxiety, inflammation, mental alertness, etc.
Eukaryotic Life
When a species exists as a single-celled or (in most instances) multicellular organism, it is part of the Eukaryota kingdom. Eukaryotic life includes animals, plants, fungi, etcetera. The cells of eukaryotes contain a nucleus, organelles, and chromosomes (8 for Aspergillus) contained within a nuclear membrane. This type of cellular structure is the basis of all eukaryotic life.
Extraction
Extraction is the process of dissolving and/or removing the cannabinoids, terpenes, and trichomes from cannabis plant. The extracted cannabinoids are then used in tinctures, extracts, and concentrates. The most common methods for extraction are:
- Alcohol (Ethanol) as a solvent. Commonly used to make tinctures. After dissolving the cannabis’ cannabinoids, the alcohol is then evaporated. One of the downsides of using Ethanol Extraction is it can also dissolve water soluble components of the plant such as the chlorophyll.
- CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) as a solvent. Commonly used to make hash-oils, vapes, and salves. Bringing carbon dioxide to a supercritical, liquid state allows a processor to center-in on specific compounds. One downside to CO2 extraction is the upfront cost of the equipment and maintaining safety as there is a lot of pressure involved!
- BHO (Butane or Propane) as a solvent. Used to make similar extracts as CO2, including butane hash oil. Cannabis is mixed with heated, pressurized butane. After the cannabinoids are dissolved, the butane or propane is then evaporated. One downside is that you are working with a highly explosive, pressurized system. Danger, Will Robinson! Not to mention that uncombusted butane is toxic to humans. Still, butane is superior at dissolving terpenes, making BHO extraction ideal for those highly focused on preserving flavors.
- Grinding and sieving (Solvent-Free) extraction. Commonly used to collect trichome heads (kief) and make blocks of hash. The most basic of all extraction methods. This method removes the cannabinoid-rich trichomes from the bud by means of grinding or the use of a very fine sieve.
There are other methods of extraction. Be sure to use the one that best fits your processing operation’s budget, capabilities, and product offering.
Flower
Flower is the term used most often for ground buds. Grinding buds into flower is the first step before all manner of processing or consumption. Flower is used in pre-rolls, extraction, and in rosin presses.
Fresh Frozen (Cannabis Flower)
When cannabis is frozen immediately after harvest, it is considered, “fresh frozen.” Frequently, fan leaves are trimmed and the buds are removed prior cold storage, however, whole plants can be frozen as well. Freezing cannabis directly after harvest preserves the plant’s cannabinoid and terpene profile and prevents oxidation and terpene evaporation. Fresh frozen allows for live rosin oils, hash, and other products to be manufactured honoring the original strain. You cannot create RSO or other “live” rosin or resin products without using fresh frozen as your starting material.
Fresh frozen is an ideal choice for cannabis manufacturers who produce solventless products. If a processor is manufacturing THC or CBD isolates, fresh frozen may not prove cost-effective because the manufacturer is paying for terpenes and cannabinoids they do not plan to integrate into their final product.
Hashish / Hash
Hash is a cannabis concentrate composed of compressed or purified resin glands (trichomes) found on the cannabis plant. The “kief” is collected from dried cannabis plants either by hand (sieving), by mechanical agitation, or by submerging cannabis plants in icy water and then using small sieves to remove the trichomes or crystals.
The kief is typically pressed into “cakes,” or blocks, which can then be vaporized and inhaled. Almost always, Hash has a much higher concentration of THC and other cannabinoids than vaping just the ground buds.
Hemp
Hemp (also, Industrial Hemp) is a subspecies of Cannabis sativa that is bred and tested to ensure it contains less than .03% THC by dry weight. Industrial hemp is used to make rope, paper, wax, and cloth for furniture or clothes. Sterilized hemp seeds can be made into oil for shampoo, soap, or body lotion. The seeds can also be mixed in with food for animals.
Homogenizing
Homogenization takes a prepared solution and evenly disperses its cannabinoids, which are often grouped together. Before homogenization, terpene and cannabinoid atoms from the carrier oil exist in random order. This results in “hot spots” and irregular doses.
After homogenization, these newly formed molecules are evenly dispersed throughout the end product. Homogenized products offer more consistent and precise dosing.
Hybrids
A hybrid of Cannabis indica and sativa strains. Used as a balance between calming pain relief, while still supporting daily activities.
Hydroponic Farming
“Hydroponic cannabis” simply refers to plants grown using a nutrient-water solution and an inert growing medium rather than soil. “Hydroponic cannabis” simply refers to cannabis plants grown using a nutrient-water solution instead of dirt and soil.
Hydroponic cultivation solutions reduce pests and can out-product soil-based farming. It’s also generally more expensive.
Ice Water Exaction / Ice Water Hash
Ice water hash (or bubble hash) involves agitating and stirring cannabis in a container of extremely cold water to freeze and break off the cannabinoid-filled trichomes from the plant. It is then strained to separate the resin-filled trichomes, making them available to press into hash.
Indica
A species of cannabis known for its more docile and relaxing psychoactive effects. Often prescribed for pain, PTSD, anxiety, and general sedation.
Isolate
Cannabis oil that has been refined down to a single cannabinoid is an isolate. CBD is a popular cannabinoid that is often isolated from all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and THC through a refinement process. For those wanting the benefits of a broader spectrum, see distillate.
Isomer
Two or more chemical compounds that share the same molecular formula are called isomers. Although they share the same chemical formula, the atoms are arranged differently. This can give each isomer unique chemical characteristics and properties.
For example, the terpenes β-caryophyllene and humulene are both sesquiterpenes and both have the chemical formula C15H24. However, they interact with the endocannabinoid system differently.
Isoprene Unit
A compound consisting of five carbon atoms that form its molecular skeleton. Isoprene units are one of nature’s building blocks and are strung together head to tail to form increasingly complex terpenes.
For example, a single isoprene unit is classified as a hemiterpene. And terpenes consisting of two isoprene units are classified as monoterpenes. The classification of a terpene is dependent on how many isoprene units are in the molecule.
Kief
Another word for trichomes. Often collected deliberately or as fall-off during trimming. Kief can be consumed itself or added to any number of products such as pre-rolls and manually rolled joints.
Legal-For-Trade Scales / NTEP Scales
Legal-for-trade scales are approved by the National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) and comply with the NIST Handbook 44. All that fancy jargon is short for the scales working accurately, consistently, and adhering to the rigorous standards set by The Committee on Specifications and Tolerances.
If you are selling a product by weight, you need a legal-for-trade scale. It’s an easy way to prevent fraud. And in the marijuana industry, every gram counts!
Lumen Burn
Lumen burn occurs when the leaves of your cannabis plant curl or “claw” upward in an attempt to protect it from excessive heat and light. This is often caused by having your grow lights too close to your plants or when cannabis plants receive too much direct sunlight.
Marijuana
A slang term synonymous with cannabis. The term marijuana is sometimes considered controversial; however, the cannabis community has been reclaiming the term.
Fortunately, there are plenty of other words we like to use for the magic hemp plant, including ganja, tea, maryjane, weed (because it can grow just about anywhere), kush, Maui wowie, reindeer dust, oregano… we’ll let you finish out the list with your favorites.
Microdosing
Doses of THC (or other psychoactive compounds) that are small enough to avoid the psychological effects, but still offer therapeutic benefits. Microdosing also encourages your brain to increase its natural cannabinoid receptors.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a monoterpene, meaning it consists of two isoprene units. This also classifies the terpene as a hydrocarbon like most other terpenes. Myrcene is widely known for its relaxing, sedative effects that often result in some form of “couch lock.” Beta-myrcene is the most common terpene found in cannabis strains, often consisting of anywhere between 20-60% of a cannabis plant’s terpene profile.
Pre-Rolls
Although we don’t recommend people smoke medical cannabis (vaping is safer, more efficient use of flower, and more flavorful), we know some folks will anyway. A pre-roll is just that. A joint that is packed with a dispensary’s flower and ready to go!
Some people are skeptical of pre-rolls, worried they were made with a lower quality bud or processing leftovers. However, this is infrequently the case. Pre-rolls are convenient and professionally assembled by your dispensary. If it’s time for your next dose of medicine, light’em if you got’em!
Potency
As it pertains to medical and adult-use cannabis, potency is how we measure the effects of cannabis in terms of how much of a given cannabinoid is needed to reach a desired effect or intensity. In other words, it takes more low-potency cannabis to achieve the same effects as high-potency products. (Just remember, start low and slow.)
Primary Metabolites
The cannabis plant’s primary metabolites are the nutrients, sugars, and other elements the plant uses to grow during its vegetative cycles, and form buds when flowering. These vitamins and carbohydrates are essential to a plant’s growth, development, and survival. Hence, primary metabolites are also referred to as, “essential metabolites.”
Processing (cannabis, of course)
“Processing” is an umbrella term that covers all the methods by which we extract cannabinoids from a cannabis plant and make them available for consumption. This includes CO2 extraction, butane extraction, sieving, ice-water baths, tumbling, decarboxylation, baking edibles, making gummies, and more!
Shop Cannabis Processing Supplies →
Resins
Resin is the sticky substance that originates within the trichomes that you encounter when touching or handling a cannabis bud. Also referred to as “sap,” resin is the substance within the trichomes that includes the cannabinoids and terpenes. Kief that is collected and pressed is also sometimes referred to as resin.
Resin is produced by the female cannabis plant within its resin glands (trichomes) to protect it from harmful UV rays, repel pests, and be less attractive to herbivores.
Root Bound
When cannabis roots circle a plastic pot, causing overcrowding and stunting the growth of your plant. Root bound cannabis plants also have lower yields because water and nutrient absorption is greatly hindered. Fabric pots such as “Smart Pots” mitigate the threat of root-bound plants.
Root Rot
Root rot occurs when cannabis roots do not receive enough oxygen, creating an environment where the roots literally rot by means of bad bacteria in the soil. Root rot can be prevented with properly aerated soil, and by growing your cannabis in fabric pots.
Growing clones and germinating seeds in pots that are too large can also cause root rot. This is true for plastic or fabric pots. Small plants and seedlings cannot absorb the water retained in the soil of large pots.
Rosins
Rosin is produced by applying heat and pressure to cannabis resin. There are no solvents or chemicals used in the rosin extraction process. Most rosins are highly sought after for its concentration of cannabinoids and preservation of terpenes.
Rosin Press
A tool used to turn resin into rosin by using a heated press to extract the cannabinoids and terpenes from the kief (or trichomes). This method is admired for not using solvents and preserving a plant’s flavors and aromas. Rosin presses are not unlike industrial hair-straighteners.
Ruderalis
Although commonly accepted as its own species of cannabis, some argue that ruderalis is a subspecies of sativa. Cannabis ruderalis naturally contains very low amounts of THC. However, its environmental resistance and ability to grow like a “weed” make it an intriguing prospect for cultivators.
Sativa
A species of cannabis known for its uplifting head-high is often used to enhance creativity, productivity, and physical activities.
Sesquiterpene
A sesquiterpene is a hydrocarbon consisting of three isoprene units. In most instances, sesquiterpenes have the chemical formula C15H24.
Shake
The term “shake” is often disputed as it can vary wildly in quality. The basic definition of the term is flower and trichomes that have fallen off buds while trimming. Shake can also be created by simply transporting or moving jars of buds.
If recovered in a reasonable timeframe, “shake” is great when added to pre-roll flower or for use in making cannabutter and oils. The tiny bits of bud and flower are prone to drying out faster, so it’s best to use or sell any shake as soon as possible.
Smart Pots
The term “Smart Pot” is used to reference fabric pots used in growing cannabis. Fabric pots allow for the natural development of cannabis roots planted in a soil medium. They provide superior aeration and prevent root damage and disease such as root rot and root-bound.
“Smart Pot” is also the brand name of one of the most popular fabric pot manufacturers. Its popularity resulted in cultivators using its name as a general term for non-woven fabric pots.
Sieving
A solvent-free extraction method by which someone processes cannabis into hash. Hash is another product similar to rosin that is composed of pure, unadulterated trichome heads (kief). Hash created by means of sieving is considered one of the purest forms of cannabis to vaporize and inhale. Sieving preserves all terpenes and cannabinoids of the plant.
Strains
Many in the cannabis industry believe there are more than one species of cannabis including sativa, indica and ruderalis. Then, there are those from the school of thought that chemically, all the species are actually a single cannabis species that parents multiple sub-species (such as hemp and occasionally ruderalis.)
Sublingual
A method of cannabinoid consumption and absorption. An activated cannabinoid product (usually in the form of a liquid / tincture) is placed under the tongue where it is immediately absorbed into the bloodstream and made bioavailable.
Terpenes
Aromatic oils found suspended in the resin found within the trichomes that are responsible for flavor and scent.
Read our full article on Terpenes →
THC
The cannabinoid molecule resulting from THCA after heat is applied (decarbing). After THCA is decarbed (partially or wholly) it releases a CO2 molecule and becomes THC. The new, smaller THC molecule (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is now capable of entering the human endocannabinoid system by way of binding to the CB1 receptors.
THC Activation
Another term encompassing the conversion of THC-A to THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid most commonly associated with cannabis. Activation occurs by means of a convection or chemical heat reaction.
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
Produced by the cannabis plant and found suspended within the resin that is secreted by the trichomes (cannabis resin glands.) Scientifically referred to as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. THCA is the natural state of “THC” before heat has been applied (decarboxylation.)
Tinctures
Extracting cannabinoids and terpenes by means of dissolving them in an alcohol solvent produces cannabis products known as tinctures. Tinctures are excellent for precise dosing.
Tinctures are another form of concentrated cannabinoids and can be taken sublingually for a quicker effect or swallowed to experience longer-lasting effects as with edibles. Or both! This makes tinctures a flexible, convenient method of cannabis use.
Toke / Toking
Taking a “toke” is the same as drawing a breath. The term is specifically used when referring to drawing a breath from a joint, bowl, or any time of marijuana product where you are consuming cannabis via inhalation. Example: “The author finished his book while toking on his favorite pre-roll strain.”
Trim
“Trim” is part of the cultivation trinity in cannabis harvesting, trim, shake, and flower. Trim is usually removed from the cannabis branch first and consists mostly of stems and leaves. Quality trim can still contain trichomes, making it great for the production of cannabutter. Trim is also used as a filler in pre-rolls and joints in small amounts. It’s generally accepted that no more than 15-20% of your pre-roll fill should be trim.
Trimming
There are two primary trimming methods used by cannabis cultivators. Wet trimming involves trimming your buds straight after harvest while the plant is still green and fully hydrated.
Dry trimming, on the other hand, involves trimming your buds after drying and before curing. It’s generally recommended to trim wet cannabis plants, as it’s easier to avoid losing resin from the natural agitation generated by handling dry buds.
Trichomes
The cannabis plant is covered in magic potion bottles. These little, crystal containers have been dispensing fairy dust for millennia and go by the name, “Trichomes.”
Maybe they are not little glass bottles and maybe they are not filled with fairy dust, but it sure seems that way given the intricate medicines found inside. They contain resin, which is a sap-like substance that contains the aromatic terpenes, as well as the therapeutic cannabinoids.
The “dust” that falls from an agitated cannabis plant is kief, which is a collection of trichomes that fell off the flower. Trichomes, kief, and hash are technically the same thing. From an evolutionary perspective, trichomes protect the plant from UV rays, herbivores, and insects.
Twax Joints
What are twax joints? For cannabis users who have higher tolerances to flower, joints can be both pre-bought and modified into a twax-joint. These have a much higher potency due to their having kief or bubble hash added to the flower before being rolled. Alternatively, concentrates can be rolled like a bit of putty, and “snaked” around the outside of the joint in a spiral shape. Due to the shape, the twax should be slowly rotated when toking, so the concentrate does not melt and fall from the joint.
There’s arguably no wrong way to use concentrates to level up your favorite joint or pre-roll. Concentrates can quickly change the effects of a joint, so if it’s your first time consuming or making a twax, follow the wise “go low and slow” mantra.
Ultrasonic Washers
Ultrasonic washers use high frequency sound waves to facilitate an effect called, “Cavitation.” Ultrasonic cavitation uses sound waves (compression waves) to rapidly create and collapse tiny bubbles.
When used along with ultrasonic cleaning solution, these compression waves clean and scrub delicate lab and processing equipment. See “Ultrasonic Washers: How Do They Work?”
Vaping
Vaping cannabis and smoking cannabis are two very different methods of inhalation. While inhalation of cannabis by means of combustion (smoking) is still illegal in medically sanctioned states, vaping is the legal option for the fast-acting administration of cannabinoids via the lungs.
Vaping allows patients and adults (in adult-use states) to inhale cannabinoids and terpenes at the precise temperatures where the trichome resins change from a viscous liquid to a gas or vapor.
Vaping works by using very precise heat to only vaporize the desired cannabinoids without allowing the plant material to combust, which releases smoke and toxins into the lungs.
