A Complete Guide to Cannabis Edibles Terms
Our cannabis edibles terms glossary provides a comprehensive list of terms related to the use of cannabis in foods.
Activation Time/Onset Time
- The time it takes for the effects of a cannabis edible to be felt after consumption. Typically ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Cannabinoids
- Chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD.
Cannabutter
- Butter that has been infused with cannabis, commonly used as a base ingredient in many edible recipes.
Cannabis Oil
- Oil infused with cannabis, used in cooking or as a direct supplement. Cannabis infused oil can be made using different types of carrier oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
Cannaflour
- A regular flour (wheat, rye, potato, etc) infused with cannabis. The infusion process is done by adding ground cannabis.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
- A non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis, known for its potential therapeutic effects, such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
Decarboxylation
- The process of heating cannabis to activate its cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, making them effective for consumption. Usually done by baking cannabis at a low temperature.
Decarboxylator
- A device use in the decarboxylation (THC/CBD activation) process of cannabis.
Distillate
- A highly refined cannabis extract that is almost pure cannabinoids, commonly used in commercially made edibles and vaporizer cartridges.
Dosage
- The amount of THC or CBD present in an edible product. Typically measured in milligrams (mg). Beginners are often advised to start with a low dose, such as 2 – 5 mg of THC and work up from there. Go low, go slow.
Edibles
- Food products that have been infused with cannabis extracts, such as brownies, gummies, chocolates, and beverages.
Entourage Effect
- The synergistic effect that occurs when various cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work together, enhancing the overall therapeutic effect.
Extraction
- The process of separating cannabinoids from the cannabis plant to produce concentrates such as oils, tinctures, and butters. Methods include CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, and butane extraction.
Full-Spectrum
- A type of cannabis extract that includes all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the plant, providing a broader range of effects compared to isolates.
Ganjier
- A “Ganjier” is a certified cannabis expert specializing in evaluating the quality and characteristics of cannabis products.
Hybrid
- Cannabis cultivars that are crossbred from both Indica and Sativa cultivars, aiming to produce specific effects or therapeutic benefits.
Indica
- A type of cannabis plant known for its broad leaf, shorter, bushier growth, originally grown in mountainous regions. Some terpenes found in indicas are associated relaxing and sedative effects though effects can vary from person to person.
Infusion
- The process of combining cannabis with a carrier substance, such as butter or oil, to transfer cannabinoids and terpenes into the substance for use in cooking and baking.
Isolate
- A pure form of a single cannabinoid, typically CBD, that has been separated from other cannabinoids and compounds in the cannabis plant.
Microdosing
- Consuming very small doses of THC or CBD to achieve subtle therapeutic effects without experiencing significant psychoactive effects.
Nanoemulsion
- A technology used to break down cannabis oil into smaller particles for faster absorption in the body, often used in edibles to enhance bioavailability and speed up onset time.
Psychoactive
- Refers to substances that affect the brain and alter mood, perception, consciousness, or behavior.
Sativa
- A type of cannabis plant known for its narrow leaf and tall, lanky growth, originally grown around the equator. Terpenes found in sativas are often associated with uplifting and energizing effects, though effects can vary widely from person to person.
Sous Vide
- A decarboxylation and infusion method using an immersion circulator device.
Terpenes
- Aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants that contribute to the plant’s flavour and aroma and may enhance the effects of cannabinoids.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
- The primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis.
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
- The non-psychoactive compound found in raw cannabis. It is the precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component.
Tincture
- A liquid cannabis extract made by soaking cannabis in alcohol or another solvent, often used sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption.
Topicals
- Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and lotions applied to the skin for localized relief of pain, inflammation, or skin conditions.
Vegan Edibles
- Cannabis-infused edibles that do not contain any animal products, catering to individuals following a vegan diet.
Water Soluble THC Powder
- Water soluble THC powder is a product derived from cannabis that has been processed to dissolve in water, unlike natural THC which is oil-soluble.
Whole Plant Extract
- An extract that includes all components of the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytonutrients, to provide a comprehensive therapeutic effect.