Cannabis education

Know the words.

The Keefii cannabis glossary explains the terms you encounter on dispensary menus, in product descriptions, and across cannabis culture — in plain language without the jargon theater.

Strain types and categories

The core cannabis categories and what they actually mean.

Indica

Generally associated with body relaxation, calming effects, and better suited for evening or nighttime use. In practice, effects vary by individual chemistry and specific cultivar.

Sativa

Generally associated with more energizing, uplifting, and mentally stimulating effects. Better suited for daytime use for many consumers.

Hybrid

A cross between indica and sativa genetics. Most modern cannabis is some form of hybrid, spanning a broad spectrum of effects.

CBD-dominant

High cannabidiol content with low or no THC. Often associated with relaxation, reduced anxiety, and pain relief without significant psychoactive effect.

Balanced

Roughly equal THC and CBD content. Often gentler in effect than high-THC products and used for therapeutic and recreational use alike.

Cultivar / strain

A specific named variety of cannabis with a particular genetic lineage, terpene profile, and effects reputation. Thousands of named cultivars exist.

Cannabinoids and potency

What the numbers on the menu actually tell you.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)

The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Higher percentage means stronger psychoactive effect, though individual tolerance and consumption method matter significantly.

CBD (cannabidiol)

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid associated with relaxation, anti-inflammatory effects, and anxiety reduction. Does not produce the high associated with THC.

CBN (cannabinol)

A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid associated with sedation, often found in aged cannabis. Sometimes marketed for sleep support.

CBG (cannabigerol)

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid believed to have anti-inflammatory and mood-supporting properties. Often called the “mother of all cannabinoids” due to its role in biosynthesis.

Potency percentage

The percentage of a cannabinoid by weight in the product. Higher THC percentage does not always mean a better experience — terpene profile, consumption method, and tolerance all matter.

The entourage effect

The theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work more effectively together than in isolation. A full-spectrum product may deliver different effects than isolated THC or CBD.

Terpenes

Terpenes give cannabis its smell, flavor, and a meaningful share of its effect.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. They interact with cannabinoids to shape the character of the experience.

Myrcene

Earthy, musky, herbal. The most abundant terpene in cannabis. Associated with sedating, relaxing effects. Also found in hops, mango, and thyme.

Limonene

Citrus, lemon, orange. Associated with uplifting, anti-anxiety, and mood-elevating effects. Also found in citrus peel.

Caryophyllene

Spicy, pepper, wood. The only terpene known to interact directly with CB2 receptors. Associated with anti-inflammatory and stress-relief properties.

Linalool

Floral, lavender. Associated with calming, anti-anxiety, and sedative effects. Also found in lavender.

Pinene

Pine, fresh, earthy. Associated with alertness, memory retention, and counteracting some THC effects. Also found in pine trees and rosemary.

Terpinolene

Fresh, floral, herbaceous with citrus notes. Associated with uplifting and energizing effects. Less common but present in some popular sativa-leaning strains.

Product types and dispensary terms

What the different product formats on a dispensary menu actually are.

Flower

Dried cannabis bud. The most traditional and widely available product format. Smoked in a pipe, bong, or rolled into a joint or blunt.

Pre-roll

A pre-made joint rolled by the dispensary. May be single-strain, infused (coated or filled with concentrate), or a blend.

Concentrate

A potent cannabis extract including wax, shatter, live resin, rosin, and distillate. Very high THC percentages. Consumed via dabbing or vaporization.

Vape cartridge

Oil-filled cartridge for a vape pen. Available in a wide range of strains and formulations. Convenient and discreet.

Edible

Cannabis infused into food or drink. Slower onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) and longer duration than inhalation. Dosing carefully is important, especially for new consumers.

Tincture

Liquid cannabis extract, usually oil or alcohol-based, taken under the tongue or added to food. Faster onset than edibles, more controllable dosing.

Topical

Creams, lotions, balms, and patches infused with cannabis. Applied to the skin for localized relief. Most topicals are non-intoxicating.

Put the knowledge to use

Browse dispensaries near you with a clearer eye for what you are reading.

Now that the terms make sense, use the Keefii marketplace and dispensary discovery to find products that match what you are actually looking for.

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