The world of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, is rich with terminology that can be both fascinating and complex. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast, a medical patient exploring alternative plant-based treatments, or simply curious about the buzz surrounding this powerful compound, understanding the language of THC is essential.
This A-Z glossary offers an introductory guide to the key terms associated with THC, helping you navigate its many facets, from consumption methods and effects to the science behind its interaction with the human body.
A
Anandamide: A naturally occurring endocannabinoid in the body that binds to THC receptors.
Absorption: The process by which THC enters the bloodstream, typically through inhalation, ingestion, or topical application.
B
Bioavailability: The degree and rate at which THC is absorbed into the bloodstream and made available at the site of physiological activity.
Blunt: A cannabis cigar made by emptying a cigar or cigarillo of its tobacco and replacing it with marijuana.
C
Cannabinoids: Chemical compounds found in cannabis, including THC and CBD.
Cannabis: The plant genus that includes marijuana, which contains THC.
Concentrates: Highly potent extracts of cannabis that contain high levels of THC.
D
Decarboxylation: The process of heating cannabis to activate THC from its precursor, THCA.
Dabbing: The act of inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates.
E
Edibles: Food products infused with THC.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS): A biological system in the body involved in regulating various physiological and cognitive processes, which interacts with cannabinoids like THC.
F
Flower: The part of the cannabis plant that is harvested and consumed for its high THC content.
Full-spectrum: Cannabis products that contain a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes, not just THC.
G
Ganja: A colloquial term for marijuana.
Grinder: A tool used to break down cannabis flowers into smaller pieces for consumption.
H
Hashish (Hash): A concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the plant.
Hemp: A variety of cannabis with low THC content, primarily used for industrial purposes.
I
Indica: A subspecies of cannabis known for its relaxing effects and higher THC content compared to Sativa.
Inhalation: A method of consuming THC by breathing in smoke or vapor.
J
Joint: A hand-rolled cannabis cigarette.
Juicing: Consuming raw cannabis juice, which contains THCA, the non-psychoactive precursor to THC.
K
Kief: The resinous trichomes of cannabis that are rich in THC, often collected for added potency.
L
Live Resin: A type of cannabis concentrate made from fresh, frozen plant material, preserving a higher concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Legalization: The process of making the use, sale, and possession of THC legal under state or national law.
M
Microdosing: Consuming very small amounts of THC to achieve subtle effects.
Marijuana: A common term for cannabis, especially the parts of the plant containing high levels of THC.
N
Nug: A slang term for a high-quality bud of cannabis.
Nanoemulsion: A process that breaks THC oil into tiny droplets to increase its bioavailability when added to beverages or edibles.
O
Oil: A concentrated cannabis extract that can be consumed in various ways, often high in THC.
Onset: The amount of time it takes for the effects of THC to be felt after consumption.
P
Psychoactive: Describes substances that affect the mind or behavior, like THC.
Paraphernalia: Equipment used for consuming cannabis, such as pipes, bongs, and vaporizers.
Q
Quarter: A common quantity of cannabis, equivalent to 1/4 of an ounce.
R
Recreational Use: The use of THC for enjoyment rather than for medical purposes.
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO): A high-THC cannabis oil used for medicinal purposes, named after the medical marijuana activist.
S
Sativa: A subspecies of cannabis known for its uplifting and energizing effects, often with lower THC than Indica.
Strain: A specific variety of cannabis, bred for particular effects and THC content.
T
Terpenes: Aromatic compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its flavor, aroma, and effects, often modulating the effects of THC.
Tincture: A liquid cannabis extract, usually taken sublingually, that contains THC.
U
Underdosing: Consuming less than the desired amount of THC, leading to weaker effects.
Uplifting: Describes the stimulating and energizing effects of certain THC strains.
V
Vaporization: The process of heating cannabis to a temperature that releases THC in vapor form, without burning the plant material.
Vape Pen: A portable device used for vaporizing THC oil or concentrates.
W
Wax: A type of cannabis concentrate with a sticky, wax-like consistency, high in THC.
Weed: A common slang term for cannabis, especially the parts containing THC.
X
Xerostomia: A medical term for dry mouth, a common side effect of THC consumption.
Y
Yield: The amount of cannabis produced by a plant or in a cultivation operation, often measured in terms of THC content.
Z
Zoning Laws: Local regulations that dictate where cannabis businesses can operate, often impacting where THC products can be sold or consumed.
Navigating the world of THC can be overwhelming, especially with its unique vocabulary and rapidly evolving landscape. As the conversation around cannabis continues to grow, staying informed about its terminology can enhance your experience and ensure you make knowledgeable choices. Embrace the journey through the fascinating lexicon of THC, and explore the myriad ways it impacts our lives and society.
For further reading, check out our article on what to expect when visiting a CO dispensary,
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