Cannabis glossary
Every term, defined.
Plain-language reference for cannabis terminology. Terpenes, cannabinoids, growing terms, and consumption science — written by people who actually grow and reviewed by people who actually research.
Terpenes
The aromatic molecules that give cannabis cultivars their distinctive smells — and contribute to the effect profile through the entourage effect.
Monoterpene
Myrcene
Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbal, slightly fruity
Effects: sedating, muscle-relaxing, couch-lock
Monoterpene
Limonene
Aroma: Citrus rind, lemon, orange, bright
Effects: uplifting, mood-elevating, stress-relief
Sesquiterpene
Caryophyllene (Beta-Caryophyllene)
Aroma: Black pepper, spicy, woody, clove
Effects: anti-inflammatory, pain-modulating, stress-relief
Monoterpene
Pinene (Alpha-Pinene)
Aroma: Pine needles, forest floor, sharp
Effects: alertness, focus, bronchodilation
Monoterpene alcohol
Linalool
Aroma: Floral, lavender, sweet, slightly spicy
Effects: calming, anxiolytic, sleep-supportive
Sesquiterpene
Humulene (Alpha-Humulene)
Aroma: Hops, earthy, woody, herbal
Effects: anti-inflammatory, appetite suppression
Monoterpene
Terpinolene
Aroma: Floral, piney, sweet citrus
Effects: uplifting, cerebral
Monoterpene
Ocimene
Aroma: Sweet, herbal, woody, slightly floral
Effects: uplifting, decongestant
Cannabinoids
The phytocannabinoids produced in cannabis trichomes, including the major and minor compounds that drive medical and recreational effects.
Phytocannabinoid
THC (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Effects: euphoria, appetite stimulation, analgesia
Phytocannabinoid
CBD (Cannabidiol)
Effects: anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant
Phytocannabinoid
CBN (Cannabinol)
Effects: mildly sedating, sleep-marketed
Phytocannabinoid
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Effects: non-intoxicating, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
Phytocannabinoid
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Effects: appetite suppression, biphasic CB1 activity
Phytocannabinoid
CBC (Cannabichromene)
Phytocannabinoid acid
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
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