Zen Glossary of Cannabis Terms
Dab, entourage effect, THCA, bioavailability – cannabis lingo has grown tremendously over the decades, to the point that it seems a new language!
We compiled some of the most common cannabis terminology to keep you looking like a green thumb when it comes to lingo. Be sure to check back in, new terms are added frequently!
B
Bioavailability
the percentage of active ingredient that reaches its target destination – often the bloodstream.
C
Cannabidiol (CBD)
a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant.
Cannabinoid
a compound produced by the cannabis plant.
Cold Start Dabbing
the process of loading a concentrate in the nail before heating it. The carb cap should then be placed on top of the nail, with heat applied for approximately 10 seconds.
Crumble
a concentrated form of cannabis identified by its honeycomb-like texture that “crumbles” when manipulated.
D
Dabbing
the flash vaporization of cannabis concentrates.
Dab rig
a water pipe intended for use with concentrates; instead of a bowl for flower, a nail is used.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
the most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant.
Distillate
crafted through extensive extraction and post-extraction processes, distillate is a concentrated form of cannabinoids, most often THC. It is the active ingredient in many cannabis products, such as topicals, edibles, and vapes.
E
Edibles
food infused with cannabis.
E-nails
short for electronic nails, are used in place of the traditional blow torch. Preferred as they heat the nail to an accurate temperature that can be maintained.
Endocannabinoid
a compound that binds to cannabinoid receptors. Endocannabinoids are naturally produced in the body.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
a body-wide signaling system built of receptors and the compounds that interact with them, endocannabinoids and cannabinoids. It’s responsible for establishing and maintaining homeostasis within the body.
Entourage Effect
the combined effect of the various cannabis compounds produced by the plant. The compounds work together synergistically when consumed as a whole to produce a greater effect than those provided by isolated compounds.
Ethanol
solvent used in extraction processes.
F
Flavonoids
a lesser-known and less-abundant class of cannabis compounds that may hold therapeutic value.
Full Spectrum Extracts
also referred to as whole plant extracts, FSE maintain the full chemical profile of the cannabis plant.
G
Genotype
the genetic, inherited characteristics of an organism.
I
Indica
subspecies of cannabis that typically grows short plants with thick stems and broad leaves. Also used to describe relaxing effects of cannabis.
N
Neuroplasticity
the formation of new neural connections in the brain throughout life.
P
Purging
removing residual solvents, a post-extraction process.
R
Receptors
an organ or cell able to respond to external stimulus and transmit a signal to a sensory nerve.
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)
A full spectrum extract created in 2003 by Rick Simpson, who used it to treat his skin cancer. RSO can be applied topically or consumed orally for generally sedating effects.
Rosin
a cannabis concentrate created by isolating trichome heads and applying heat and pressure.
S
Sativa
subspecies of cannabis that typically grows taller plants with narrow leaves.
Shatter
a cannabis concentrate that is brittle in texture and shatters like glass when handled.
Solvent
a liquid capable of dissolving solids within it, used to extract cannabis compounds. Common solvents include BHO, CO2, and ethanol.
Solventless
concentrates created without the use of solvents, typically solely with heat and pressure.
T
Terpene
compound abundant in all plants. Terpenes lend the scent and flavor profiles of cannabis strains, provide strain-specific effects, and may provide therapeutic benefits to the human body.
