Lucy’s Dank-tionary
The cannabis world has changed a lot over the past eighty years. Not only are there dozens of new slang terms for our old favs, there are new methods, tools, and information that can sometimes make this herbal landscape seem like a whole new world. Here is a list of common terms you’ll want to pick up and add to your vocab. Pro-tip: Bookmark this page for easy reference!
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. Bioavailability is important because the higher the rate, the easier it is for your body to process the product and enjoy the benefits.
Broad-Spectrum
Broad-spectrum is one of the three types of CBD extract and refers to any 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. While most broad-spectrum CBD products do not contain THC, some have trace amounts. Because of this, broad-spectrum products could potentially lead to a false positive on a drug test.
Cannabinoid
Cannabinoids is the official term for chemicals found in the cannabis plant that influence cell receptors and can change how those cells behave in out bodies. Each plant strain contains its own, unique cannabinoid profile that can vary slightly with each harvest. When we medicate with cannabis, the cannabinoids from the plant bind to the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in our body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a desired effect. There are approximately 113 cannabinoids that have been identified thus far and the number continues to grow as research advances our understanding of this plant.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome or CHS
A medical condition believed to be a side effect of frequent, prolonged cannabis use characterized by a strong, and often enduring, sensitivity to cannabinoids, particularly THC. CHS causes ongoing abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, and vomiting. According to Dr. Ethan Russo, it is possible CHS isn’t a functional gastrointestinal disorder, but a “manifestation of gene and environmental interaction in a rare genetic disease, unmasked by excessive THC exposure.” Further research is needed on this topic, which is why it is federal legalization is so important.
Cannabinoid Receptors
Cannabinoid receptors are the like our cell’s landing pad for cannabinoids, i.e. the source for that plant magic. The receptors are found in our endocannabinoid system, and depending on their location, play a role in regulating our mood, appetite, pain sensation, vascular and nonvascular smooth muscle tone, and immune function. Currently, research has identified two types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
Cannabis Coach/Concierge
An experienced guide that can provide information and advice on how to medicate with cannabis. Without a cannabis coach, the process can feel like an expensive guessing game since each person reacts differently to each strain and medication method. Having a guide to help you on your journey can clear up your cannabis confusion and help you take control of your healing.
Cannabis
Cannabis is a word that can change meanings depending on how it is used. One definition is the scientific, botanist version describing it as a tall, Asian plant that has been cultivated for centuries both for production of hemp and for recreational and medicinal purposes. The term cannabis, however, actually has a broader definition and encompasses three species and not just one variety. The three species of flowering cannabis plants are Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica are used to produce both recreational and medical cannabis. Historically, Cannabis ruderalis was not grown as often because the species tend to have a lower THC content and smaller stature. However, as the market’s demand for strains with lower concentrations of THC grows, so has its popularity with cultivators.
Cannabis Journal
A tool used by both medical and recreational cannabis enthusiasts that want to record and track what strains and methods work best with their body. Keeping a cannabis journal is a great way to learn what cannabinoids and terpenes fit your needs so that you can start to track what strains and cannabinoid profiles will help you reach your personal health goals. Once you see the patterns, you are able to make a selection of what products and strains work for you so you can make an informed decision during your next purchase. This is particularly helpful when your preferred product is out of stock or the strain has been retired.
CB1 Receptors
The CB1 receptors are primarily located on nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, but they are also found in some peripheral organs and tissues such as the spleen, white blood cells, endocrine gland and parts of the reproductive, gastrointestinal and urinary tracts. They play a major role in the brain’s ability to regulate the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate
CB2 Receptors
The CB2 receptors are primarily located in our body’s immune cells and help reduce inflammation. A 2015 study shows there are CB2 receptors and their genes are located in neurons that contain dopamine in the ventral tegmental area, a brain area that is involved in reward and drug addiction. CB2 receptors are found in the brain only when there is inflammation or injury.
CBC or Cannabichromene
CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that can assist patients with inflammation and pain relief. Although very commonly found in cannabinoid profiles, it is usually in very small quantities. Recent studies have found CBC can reduce edema (swelling) as well as inflammation, particularly in the intestinal tract, without activating the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. CBC appears to fight inflammation without activating cannabinoid receptors, CBC produces a stronger effect when combined with other cannabinoids.
CBD or Cannabidiol
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that can assist with inflammation, pain relief, and anxiety. It is the second most abundant cannabinoid found in the plant, the first being THC. Despite its many medicinal benefits, CBD can cause unwanted side effects, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. CBD can interact with other medications you’re taking, such as blood thinners. If you plan to use products containing CBD, talk to your doctor.
CBDA or Cannabidiol Acid
The natural state of CBD before it is decarboxylated to activate the cannabinoid. CBDA is being researched for its anti-inflammatory properties.
CBG or Cannabigerol
This 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.
CBGA or Cannabigerol Acid
This cannabinoid is the precursor to THC and CBD. It 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.
CBN or Cannabinol
This cannabinoid 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. CBN has been known for its medicinal value in combating insomnia and stimulating appetite.
Concentrate (or Extract)
Slang for any material created by refining cannabis flowers, such as hash, dry sieve, and hash oils. Concentrates or extracts have much higher potency and have a variety of slang terms depending on the manufacturing method and the consistency of the final product.
Clone
Slang for a genetic copy of another cannabis plant. Like most plants, clones can be created by removing a cutting of the original (or “mother” plant) and cultivating that cutting like you would a cannabis plant which had freshly sprouted from seed.
CO2 Extract
A method that extracts cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids from the plant material leaving a potent concentrate commonly known as oil. This is the second purest form of extract and a great way to obtain a full-spectrum extract from the plant.
Cultivar
Technical term for a plant stain that results from the process of crossbreeding and genetic stabilization to express desired traits. The common term for this is strain.
Dab or Dabbing
A relatively new way to medicating with cannabis concentrates involving a preheated surface, usually glass. The name comes from using only a “dab” or a small amount of concentrate.
Decarboxylation or Decarb
The process where cannabinoids are converted out of their acidic state through heat. They are then considered “activated” and can be processed by your endocannabinoids system.
Distillate
A viscous, liquid concentrate that is made my manipulating the extraction process to eliminate everything from plant lipids to terpenes. Each cannabinoid has a different vaporization temperature, which allows processors to extract solely one cannabinoid. The product is often used either in a vape pen/cartridge, as a dab, or placed on top of flower for an added punch.
Dispensary
A store that can legally sell cannabis products, either medical, recreational, or both.
Edible
Cannabis products that are orally consumed. Edibles can contain THC, CBD, or a combination of both. When you digest cannabis instead of smoking or vaping it, the cannabinoids go through a transformation. Specifically, your liver processes the THC and turns it into delta-11-tetrahydrocannabinol. This means it takes longer to start feeling the effects than other medication methods, but it also means the effects will last longer–generally 6-8 hours. Because delta-11-tetrahydrocannabinol can be four times more psychoactive than delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (aka THC), make sure to always follow the Alice in Wonderland Rule: You can always eat more, you can’t eat less.
Endocannabinoids
The term given to the cannabinoids created by our bodies, which also interact with our body’s cannabinoid receptors.
Entourage Effect
The name given to the effect one feels when consuming a product that has kept all the original oils and compounds in the cannabis flower and full-spectrum concentrates. This includes all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Research indicates the benefits are greater when there is an entourage effect.
ECS or Endocannabinoid System
A group of receptors that make up a very complex regulatory system throughout the brain, body, and central and peripheral nervous systems. The endocannabinoid system creates and maintains the body’s internal stability (homeostasis) by adjusting the flow of neurotransmitters and regulating bodily functions, including appetite, sleep, emotion, and movement.
Extraction
The different processes by which cannabinoids within the plant can be extracted for use. These processes include alcohol extraction, CO2, heat, butane hash oil extraction, etc.
Flavonoid
These are compounds found in the plant and are responsible for both odor, flavor, and even pigmentation. They provide qualities to each strain that distinguish it from others and are part of the synergistic effect of the plant.
Flower
This is the part of the plant you probably know the best, but you know it as a nug or a bud. Why do we say flower now? It’s what we use! Even though the cannabis leaf is society’s symbol for the plant, the flower is where it’s at. The flower, or the hairy or sticky parts of the plant, are what is harvested for consumption.
Full-Spectrum
Full-spectrum is one of the three types of CBD extract and refers to any oil, vape or other cannabis product that contains all the terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids native to the plant before processing, including up to 0.3% THC. This type of extract is legal under federal law, but still outlawed in some states.
Hash
Short for hashish, hash is a concentrate derived from cannabis plants made by taking kief, or a collection of the plant’s trichomes, separating it from the plant material, and pressing together to be used either on its own or mixed with flower. The trichomes are removed by either sieving or filtering.
Hash or Honey Oil
Similar to hash, this concentrate separates the trichomes from the plant chemically by using a solvent.
Hemp
The plant of the genus cannabis or any part of the plant, whether growing or not, where the concentration of THC does not exceed 0.3%.
Hybrid
This is the term used for cannabis strains that have a lineage that contains both “indica” strains and “sativa” strains. Recent studies indicate that terms like indica, sativa, and hybrid are misnomers and that terpenes, cannabinoid profiles and flavonoids have a greater effect. Further research is needed.
Indica
This is the term used for cannabis strains that tend to create a more relaxing physical effect and sedative quality. Recent studies indicate that terms like indica, sativa, and hybrid are misnomers and that terpenes, cannabinoid profiles and flavonoids have a greater effect. Further research is needed.
Isolate
Cannabis oil that has been refined down to a single cannabinoid is an isolate
Kief
The term used for the product consisting of trichomes, or sticky crystals that contain the vast majority of the plant’s cannabinoids. Kief is known to be extremely potent and considered a solventless concentrate. It is sometimes mistakenly referred to as pollen and is the primary ingredient in hashish production.
Live Resin
A concentrate made by flash-freezing freshly cut, uncured cannabis plants to extremely low temperatures, ensuring the aromas and flavors are preserved. to ensure that the most volatile aromas and flavors are preserved. After flash-freezing, the cannabinoids and terpenes of the frozen cannabis plants are extracted by the use of solvents, resulting in an extremely flavorful and potent concentrate that can be vaporized or dabbed.
Micro-dosing
Doses of THC (or other compounds) that are small enough to avoid the psychological effects, yet still offer therapeutic benefits.
Pre-roll
A pre-rolled cannabis cigarette found at dispensaries. You probably know it as a joint!
Resin
The sticky substance found inside the trichomes and contains cannabinoids and terpenes. Also referred to as sap.
Rolling Papers
A special type of thin paper used to smoke cannabis. Commonly known as joints, rolling papers are used to make cannabis cigarettes. The paper can be made from hemp, rice, wood pulp, flax, or esparto. Research shows organic, unrefined hemp rolling papers provide a cleaner, tastier smoke.
Rosin
A translucent, sappy form of solventless cannabis concentrate. Rosin is produced when great amounts of heat and pressure are applied, generally using two metal plates and a pneumatic press to squeeze ground cannabis flower, forcing the rosin on the plant to seep out.
Sativa
This is the term used for cannabis strains that tend to create a more cerebral, focused effect. Recent studies indicate that terms like indica, sativa, and hybrid are misnomers and that terpenes, cannabinoid profiles and flavonoids have a greater effect. Further research is needed.
Shatter
Shatter is a concentrate made by dissolving the plant in butane. Once the extraction is complete, the concentrate is left to sit and cool on a flat, even surface. The resulting texture is sticky, brittle, and glass-like in texture.
Solvent
A solvent is any chemical used to dissolve a solid, liquid, or gas into a solution. The most popular solvents include butane, alcohol, and dry ice (or liquid CO2).
Strain
A strain is a specific variety of a plant species. They are crossed and grown to produce distinct characteristics and effects. They usually are named by the cultivator based on the plant’s appearance, effects, place of origin, or parent strains. Botanists refer to this as a cultivar.
Sublingual
A way to medicate with cannabis where the product is placed under the tongue or held in your mouth so your body can immediately absorb the medicine into the bloodstream. The effects can be felt quicker than most edibles but lasts longer than consuming the plant by smoking or vaping.
Suppository
A way to medicate where the product is a solid object, typically conical or cylindrical in shape, that’s designed to dissolve after insertion into the rectum or vagina to dissolve. These areas of our bodies have a higher concentration of receptors giving suppositories a high right of bioavailability (up to 60%), which makes this an ideal way to heal with cannabis if you are unable to use other methods.
Terpene
Compounds found in all plants, terpenes are what we call the fragrant oils secreted from the resin glands of flowers creating an aroma unique to that plant. Terpenes bind to different receptors producing effects that impact our experience with the plant. Research indicates that terpenes have as much of an influence as cannabinoids do, if not more.
THC or delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol
THC is the cannabinoid responsible for the euphoric or “high” feeling associated with cannabis. Like all cannabinoids, THC can interact with other medications you’re taking. If you plan to use products containing THC, talk to your doctor.
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)
The natural state of THC before it is decarboxylated to activate the cannabinoid. THC is the most abundant cannabinoid found in the plant. It is decarboxylated into THC by smoking, vaporizing, or heating.
Tincture
Tinctures are “liquid cannabis” made from MCT Oil or alcohol. They are administered either under the tongue, on top of food, or in a liquid. Note: if you plan on mixing your tincture with another beverage, it needs to be alcohol based in order to blend with the liquid. When dropped under the tongue, the medicine is quickly absorbed by your body resulting in a faster onset of relief. When it is mixed with food or liquid, your body digests it as an edible so it takes longer to feel the effect, but the results last longer.
Topical
A way to medicate with products that can contain THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids and ingredients to relieve pain and inflammation. These products are made using isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum extracts. Examples include balms, lotions, salves, oils, and other beauty products.
Trichome
Crystalized glands on the cannabis plant that produce resin and contains most of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes.
Wax
Wax is a concentrate made by dissolving the plant in butane–just like shatter–but there is an additional step. Instead of leaving it to cool on an even surface, it is whipped up to incorporate air bubbles into the final product making it a malleable, creamy concentrate that resembles, well, wax!
Vaping
A way to inhale cannabis vapor where the flower or concentrate is heated with a vaporizing device (aka a vape pen or vaporizer) to a temperature right below the point of combustion.
Vape Pen or Cartridge
An electronic smoking device (vaporizer or e-cigarette): A vaporizing device with a rechargeable battery that heats material such as cannabis flower (bud) or liquids containing THC or nicotine to produce vapor for inhalation.
Vaporizer
A vaporizer heats flowers or oils that activate cannabinoids and turn them into a vapor that can be inhaled. The flower or concentrate is heated to a point right below combustion resulting in a vapor instead of smoke.
so useful!!!
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