Walking into a dispensary for the first time can feel like learning a new language. Between cannabinoids, terpenes, concentrates, and cultivars, there are plenty of terms that may be unfamiliar.
The more you understand about cannabis, the more confident you'll feel when choosing products. Whether you're brand new to cannabis or simply looking to expand your knowledge, these 15 terms will help you shop with confidence.
📖 1. Cannabinoid
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. They're responsible for many of the plant's effects and interact with your body's endocannabinoid system.
Some of the most well-known cannabinoids include THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN.
🌿 2. Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive scent and flavor.
Common terpene aromas include:
- Citrus
- Pine
- Earthy
- Floral
- Sweet
Many consumers also use terpene profiles to help choose products based on their preferences.
💎 3. Trichomes
Those tiny crystal-like structures covering cannabis flower are called trichomes.
They're important because they're where many cannabinoids and terpenes are produced, making them one of the biggest indicators of quality.
🌱 4. Cultivar
While many people still use the word "strain," you'll increasingly hear the term cultivar.
A cultivar refers to a specifically bred variety of cannabis with its own unique characteristics.
⚖️ 5. THC
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis and is responsible for the intoxicating effects many consumers associate with cannabis.
🌼 6. CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is another major cannabinoid. Unlike THC, it is non-intoxicating and is often found in balanced cannabis products.
🔬 7. Full-Spectrum
A full-spectrum product contains a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes naturally found in the cannabis plant.
Many consumers choose full-spectrum products because they preserve more of the plant's original chemical profile.
🌸 8. Live Resin
Live resin is a cannabis concentrate made from fresh-frozen cannabis rather than dried flower, helping preserve more of the plant's natural aroma and terpene content.
🔥 9. Concentrate
Concentrates are cannabis products made by extracting desirable compounds from the plant.
Examples include:
- Live resin
- Rosin
- Wax
- Badder
- Shatter
These products are typically more potent than traditional flower.
🌼 10. Rosin
Rosin is a solventless cannabis concentrate created using only heat and pressure.
Many consumers appreciate rosin because it requires no chemical solvents during production.
🌎 11. Entourage Effect
The entourage effect is the idea that cannabinoids and terpenes may work together to shape the overall cannabis experience.
Rather than focusing only on THC, many consumers look at the complete chemical profile of a product.
📦 12. COA (Certificate of Analysis)
A Certificate of Analysis is a laboratory report showing that a cannabis product has been tested for:
- Potency
- Cannabinoids
- Contaminants
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
Legal cannabis products in New York undergo extensive testing before reaching dispensary shelves.
🍬 13. Microdosing
Microdosing means consuming a very small amount of cannabis with the goal of achieving subtle effects rather than a stronger experience.
Many beginners start this way while learning what works for them.
🌿 14. Indica, Sativa & Hybrid
These terms are still commonly used to describe cannabis products, although many experts now place greater emphasis on cannabinoids and terpene profiles when predicting a product's characteristics.
Think of these labels as helpful starting points—not guarantees.
🎯 15. Dosage
Dosage simply refers to how much cannabis you consume.
Finding your ideal dosage is personal, which is why the phrase "start low and go slow" remains one of the best pieces of advice for both new and experienced consumers.
🌆 Speak the Language of Cannabis with Confidence
Learning cannabis terminology doesn't happen overnight—but every new term helps you become a more informed consumer.
At Air City Cannabis® in Utica, NY, we're always happy to answer questions and explain products in plain language. Whether you're shopping for flower, edibles, concentrates, or vapes, our team is here to help you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.
Visit us in-store or browse our menu at AirCityCannabis.com to continue learning and discover the cannabis products that are right for you.
