CBD flower, marijuana, cannabis, hemp – the lexicon of the cannabis plant is dense and often confusing. Terms are thrown around interchangeably, causing confusion for both novice and experienced users. To demystify this botanical maze, we asked experts to shed light on the differences between these words and their scientific underpinnings.
Cannabis: The umbrella term
At the core of this lexicon is the term “cannabis,” which encompasses the entire plant species from which various weed products are derived. This term is widely used by scientists and industry professionals alike and serves as an overarching reference to the plant itself.
Distinguishing marijuana from hemp
While cannabis is the umbrella term, it’s important to distinguish between marijuana and hemp. In the United States, marijuana refers to cannabis plants with a certain level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. Marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, although it is legal in some states. Hemp, on the other hand, is defined as cannabis plants with low levels of THC, used primarily for commercial and industrial purposes, and is legal nationwide.
The World of cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are a group of unique compounds found in the cannabis plant. The two best known cannabinoids are THC and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the classic “high” associated with weed, while CBD is non-intoxicating and is often touted for its potential therapeutic benefits.
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The rise of Delta-8
“Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8, has been gaining popularity in recent times,” explains Monique McHenry, director of the Medical Cannabis Center for Research and Education at the University of Vermont. Delta-8 is found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant and is said to provide effects somewhere between regular THC and CBD. Its legal status is somewhat ambiguous due to a loophole that allows the sale of hemp-derived products.
Strains and the Sativa-Indica debate
When buying weed, consumers are often presented with a plethora of strain names, such as “Bubba Kush” or “Girl Scout Cookies.” But Sean Myles, an associate professor of agriculture at Dalhousie University, cautions that these names may not accurately reflect unique genetic identities.
The industry also commonly labels strains as either sativa or indica, with the former associated with an uplifting high and the latter with a more relaxing effect. However, experts like McHenry suggest that the anecdotal evidence supporting these distinctions lacks scientific backing, as the chemical composition of these strains does not consistently match the sativa or indica labels.
Terpenes: The aromatic ambassadors
Terpenes, naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant, are responsible for the distinctive aromas associated with different strains. These aromatic compounds contribute to the fruity, earthy, or diesel-like scents often used to describe various weed products.
From joints to edibles
The cannabis lexicon extends beyond the plant itself to include various methods of consumption. Joints refer to cannabis flower rolled into a cigarette, while blunts are cigars emptied and filled with cannabis. Bowls and bongs are glass pieces designed for smoking, and edibles encompass a range of cannabis-infused consumables, from brownies to savory snacks.
Weed pens, or vape pens, provide a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis. These devices come in two varieties: dab pens for concentrated products like wax and shatter, and vape pens for vaporizing flower or cannabis oil cartridges.
Tinctures: A discreet alternative
Tinctures, cannabis extracts typically consumed by swallowing or putting under the tongue, offer a faster-acting alternative to edibles for those seeking a more discreet or precise dosing experience.