Cannabis Glossary: 50+ Weed Terms for Entrepreneurs

This stage covers the cultivation and harvesting of cannabis and hemp plants, laying the foundation for all downstream processes.

• Definition: A non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp plants, known for its potential therapeutic benefits such as reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain.
• Example: High-CBD strains are often cultivated for medical use and wellness products.

• Definition: The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the "high" effect. THC levels are often a focus of cultivation to tailor the plant’s potency.
• Example: Strains with high THC content are popular for recreational use, while balanced THC-to-CBD ratios are preferred for medicinal applications.

• Definition: A cannabis strain resulting from crossbreeding Indica and Sativa strains, offering a balance of effects.
• Example: Hybrids are created to combine relaxation with focus, tailored to consumer needs.

• Definition: The agricultural process of growing cannabis and hemp, including soil preparation, planting, and care.
• Example: Cannabis cultivation can occur indoors under artificial light or outdoors in natural sunlight.

• Definition: The practice of growing cannabis plants in controlled indoor environments, often using artificial lighting, ventilation, and climate control systems.
• Example: Indoor cultivation allows for year-round growth and precise control of factors like temperature and humidity.

• Definition: Growing cannabis plants in natural sunlight and open-air environments, often in fields or greenhouses.
• Example: Outdoor cultivation is cost-effective and environmentally friendly but may be subject to weather risks.

• Definition: A hybrid growing method that combines natural sunlight with controlled environmental factors in a greenhouse structure.
• Example: Greenhouse cultivation balances energy efficiency with consistent yields.

• Definition: A type of cannabis plant that automatically transitions from the vegetative to the flowering stage based on age rather than light cycles.
• Example: Autoflowering cannabis is popular among growers for its shorter growth cycle and ease of cultivation.

• Definition: The process of producing genetically identical cannabis plants by cutting and replanting stems or branches from a "mother" plant.
• Example: Cloning ensures consistency in strain quality and cannabinoid profiles.

• Definition: The environmental factors, such as soil, climate, and altitude, that influence the flavor, aroma, and quality of cannabis plants.
• Example: The terroir of Humboldt County, California, is renowned for producing premium cannabis.

• Definition: A sustainable approach to managing pests that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods.
• Example: Many cannabis growers implement IPM to minimize pesticide use and protect the environment.

• Definition: The specific combination and concentration of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, found in a cannabis plant.
• Example: A strain’s cannabinoid profile determines its psychoactive and therapeutic effects.

• Definition: The process of selecting and breeding cannabis plants with desirable traits, such as potency, flavor, and yield.
• Example: Pheno-hunting is critical for developing unique, marketable cannabis strains.

• Definition: An extract containing all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the plant, including THC.
• Example: Full-spectrum products are favored by those looking to experience the full benefits of the 'entourage effect.'

• Definition: A purified form of a single cannabinoid (e.g., CBD isolate), stripped of all other compounds.
• Example: CBD isolate is often used in cosmetics and beverages for its lack of flavor or odor.

• Definition: A third-party lab report verifying the potency, cannabinoid profile, and safety of a cannabis or hemp product.
• Example: COAs ensure transparency and build consumer trust by showing products are free of contaminants.

• Definition: A method of extracting cannabinoids using pressurized carbon dioxide, known for producing clean and high-quality extracts without residual solvents.
• Example: Many CBD oils are made using CO2 extraction to ensure purity.

• Definition: A process in extraction where fats, lipids, and waxes are removed from crude oil to improve its purity and texture.
• Example: Winterized extracts are preferred for vape products and edibles.

• Definition: The process of heating raw cannabis to activate cannabinoids, converting THCA to THC and CBDA to CBD.
• Example: Decarboxylation is essential before making cannabis-infused oils or edibles.

• Definition: A pre-made cannabis joint, sold ready-to-smoke.
• Example: Pre-rolls are convenient for consumers who prefer flower but dislike rolling.

• Definition: Oil extracted from hemp seeds, rich in nutrients but lacking cannabinoids.
• Example: Hemp seed oil is commonly used in wellness products and skincare due to its nourishing properties.

• Definition: Products that have been enhanced with cannabinoids, such as edibles, beverages, topicals, and capsules.

Example: CBD-infused gummies are a popular wellness product.

• Definition: A process that breaks cannabinoids into microscopic particles for better absorption and bioavailability in the body.
• Example: Nanoemulsified THC drinks provide faster effects compared to traditional edibles.

• Definition: The specific proportion of cannabinoids in a product, such as a 1:1 CBD-to-THC ratio.
• Example: Products with balanced ratios are sought after for their mild psychoactive effects and therapeutic potential.

• Definition: The process of evenly distributing cannabinoids throughout a product to ensure consistent dosing.
• Example: Homogenization is critical when producing cannabis-infused beverages.

This phase connects producers with retailers, ensuring products reach the market efficiently.

This stage focuses on the interaction between products and consumers.

• Definition: Slang for high-quality cannabis with a strong aroma.
• Example: Discerning consumers often seek "dank" flower for its potency and flavor.

• Definition: A potent cannabis concentrate derived from the resin glands, or trichomes, of the plant.
• Example: Hash is often smoked or vaporized for its potency.

This section highlights lesser-known cannabinoids and their role in consumer products.

• Definition: A milder psychoactive compound than Delta-9 THC, derived from hemp and legal in many states due to its classification under the 2018 Farm Bill.
• Example: Delta-8 THC products, like edibles and vape cartridges, are marketed as a "lighter high" alternative to traditional THC.

• Definition: CBDa, the precursor to CBD, is found in raw cannabis. Initial studies suggest it may offer anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects.
• Example: CBDa is often marketed in raw juice or cold-pressed cannabis products.

• Definition: A semi-synthetic cannabinoid known for its stability and mild psychoactive effects.
• Example: HHC is gaining popularity in vape products due to its legal status in many areas.

This category delves into how cannabis products are marketed, branded, and positioned in the marketplace.

• Definition: A retail professional at a dispensary who assists customers in selecting cannabis products based on their needs.
• Example: Budtenders often educate new consumers about dosing and product type.

• Definition: A comprehensive tracking system that follows cannabis products through every stage of the supply chain to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Example: Seed-to-sale software is a requirement in many legal cannabis markets.

• Definition: Travel focused on cannabis-related experiences, such as dispensary tours, cooking classes, or cannabis-friendly accommodations.
• Example: States such as Colorado and California are known for their vibrant cannabis tourism sectors.

• Definition: Initiatives designed to support individuals from communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition.
• Example: Many states include social equity programs in their cannabis legislation to promote fair business opportunities.

• Definition: A mandatory permit granted by state authorities that allows a cannabis business to legally operate.
• Example: Licenses vary by business type, such as cultivation, retail, or manufacturing.

• Definition: Financial services tailored for cannabis businesses, often limited due to federal restrictions.
• Example: Many dispensaries rely on cash transactions due to challenges in accessing banking services.

• Definition: Taxes imposed on the cultivation, production, and sale of cannabis products, which vary by jurisdiction.
• Example: States like Colorado allocate cannabis tax revenue to education and public health initiatives.

• Definition: Policies and spaces allowing the on-site use of cannabis in public venues.
• Example: Cannabis lounges in Nevada provide safe environments for social consumption, attracting tourists and locals alike.

• Definition: Reducing or eliminating criminal penalties for cannabis possession, often seen as a step toward full legalization.
• Example: Decriminalization policies typically replace jail time with fines or civil penalties.