Your Ultimate Stoner Slang Guide: Decoding Cannabis Lingo
Cannabis, a.k.a. marijuana, weed, pot, dope.... the list of stoner cannabis lingo is constantly evolving. There are slang terms that stem from the cannabis plant itself, how it makes you feel, how it's grown, the equipment used, how you consume it and even from its medical uses. Cannabis, a.k.a. marijuana, weed, pot, dope.... the list of stoner cannabis lingo is constantly evolving. There are slang terms that stem from the cannabis plant itself, how it makes you feel, how it's grown, the equipment used, how you consume it and even from its medical uses. No matter what you want to call the fluffy green flower you smoke, its true scientific name is the cannabis sativa plant. The prevalence of so many different street names is possibly due to the diverse origins, cultural influences, and regional variations in the use of cannabis, as well as the historical context of cannabis prohibition. The term marijuana is more commonly used throughout the industry and is the spanish term for the dried flower from the plant. Just like pop, soda, coke, and cola, it comes down to where you're at in the US of A. You hear more people say "pop" in the North compared to "soda" in the South. A lot like you will hear people say "bud" out West and "tree" on the East coast. Then you have terms like ganja which is the common term for cannabis in the Caribbean and Jamaican regions. Although our geographical location has a major influence as to why we have so many names for cannabis, it's the fact that we wanted to talk about it in a more incognito way that fueled the new lingo. Quite a few major cannabis influencers and celebrities have coined some popular weed slang over the years as well. 420: There are a few rumors still floating around about the origins of the number. April 20th is the official "420" holiday that gained popularity by a group of California high schoolers back in the 1970's. Chronic: Thanks to Dr.Dre in 1992 naming his album "The Chronic" in reference to high-quality cannabis. Dank/Fire/Loud/Gas: Main descriptive words to reference quality cannabis. Grass: Used more by the older crowd, started back in the 1960's to describe cannabis in a more casual and laid-back way. Kush: The common slang term for cannabis in countries like Pakistan and Afghanistan. Mary Jane or MJ: A little play on words with the term "marijuana". Pot: Believed to originate from the Spanish word "potiguaya," which refers to a mixture of cannabis leaves and stems. Reefer: Originally used by jazz musicians in the early 1930's and picked up popularity with the hit movie "Reefer Madness" in 1936. Flower/Bud/Nug: The reproductive part of a female cannabis plant which contains the highest concentration of cannabinoids. Cola: The main, central cluster of buds on a cannabis plant. Resembles a "cola", or large, elongated cluster of flowers. Calyx: The part of the flower where the reproductive organs, including the pistils and trichomes, are located. Cannabinoids: Cannabis plants contain several beneficial cannabinoids. The most popular being CBD, CBN, CBG, and the OG... THC. CBD (Cannabidiol): A healing and non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Indica: One of the main categories of cannabis strain that has relaxing and calming effects. Kief: The dust that is commonly sifted or found on the bottom of your grinder. Pistils: The hair-like structures that emerge from the buds. They can be various colors, such as white, orange, or red, and play a role in the pollination process. Sativa: Another main category of cannabis strain that has energizing and uplifting effects. Terpenes: Responsible for the smell and flavor of cannabis. Found by the hundreds, terpenes are what give you your psychoactive "high" effects. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main cannabinoid responsible for getting you stoned. Trichomes: These tiny suckers are what house the terpenes and cannabinoids on the plant. They are also the main target for extracting concentrates. Sugar Leaves: The small, sugar-coated leaves that surround the buds that are covered in trichomes. Autoflowering: A type of cannabis strain that automatically begins flowering based on age rather than changes in light cycle. Cloning: The process of propagating cannabis plants by taking cuttings from a mother plant and encouraging them to develop roots and grow as genetically identical clones. Flowering Stage: The stage in which cannabis plants develop and produce flowers (buds) as they transition into the reproductive phase. Guerrilla Growing: Cultivating cannabis plants in an outdoor, natural environment, often hidden or camouflaged. Hydroponics: Growing cannabis plants in water instead of soil. This method is favored by growers who want the ability to adjust the nutrients taken in by the plant. Photoperiod: The light cycle to which cannabis plants are exposed, with specific durations of light and darkness to control their growth stages. Scrog (Screen of Green): A method that involves using a screen or netting to train cannabis plants horizontally, maximizing light exposure and promoting an even canopy. Vegetative Stage: The initial growth phase of cannabis plants, characterized by the development of leaves and branches, but no flowering. Way back in the day before dispensaries were even a glimmer of hope it was quite common to get a bag of sh*tty weed. All brown, dry, musty-smelling weed, and full of stems, which also meant you would have to smoke 10x as much to even feel a buzz. Poor excuses for marijuana typically had the following names. Cabbage, Boof, Catnip, Ditch weed, Mids, Nixon, Reggie, Schwag, Carpet/Floor weed, and Ouid. The top-quality, cream of the crop weed is often referred to slang terms like these next few. Chronic, Dank, Zaza, Fire, Sticky Icky, Jazz Cabbage, Purps, and Kush. Your casual marijuana cigarette has a plethora of alias names typically to describe the look and quality of the rolled up weed. Joint is possibly the most commonly used slang term. From here, we got the terms J, Jay, Jaybird, Jibber, and Doobie. Throughout the industry and in most dispensaries, we tend to call them Prerolls. A joint has characteristics that give it additional slang terms. Here are a few of the most common. Doink: A big joint typically weighing over 2 grams Dogwalker: A smaller joint that can be easily smoked during the time it takes to walk your dog. Check out a selection of Infused Baby Jeeters at JARS! Pearl: When a joint is rolled to perfection. Pregnant: Common for those new to rolling their own joints. Most of the weed is packed in the center of the joint and not evenly distributed. Pinner: A very skinny joint. Roach: The last few hits of a joint, typically too small to hold between your fingers. Again, those are just the most common terms used to describe smoking cannabis the OG way, with rolling papers. Here are some slang terms for the other methods of smoking weed. Blunt: A cigar that is emptied of its tobacco and filled with ground weed. Bong: A glass pipe that is filled with water to cool and filter the smoke you inhale. Bowl/Pipe: A handheld piece that is made of glass, metal, or wood and used to smoke dry herb. Chillum/One-Hitter: A straight, tube-shaped pipe with a small bowl at one end. Spliff: Combining tobacco with marijuana in a joint or blunt. Due to the fact that marijuana consumption was against the law for almost a century, we couldn't all just walk around talking about smoking weed. Sneaky stoners along with their creativity have brought us some slang ways to say "let's get high"! Blaze: The act of smoking weed. Getting blazed or blitzed is also used. Burn one: Pretty self explanatory for smoking a joint Hotbox: Smoking marijuana in a tight, enclosed area with little airflow. Sometimes used as a way to get stoned from the second-hand smoke. Puff, Puff, Pass: The cardinal rule when smoking a joint with friends. Shotgun: An act of inhaling cannabis smoke directly from someone else's mouth. Toke: To smoke Wake and Bake: Some may even throw the "Ricky Bobby" on there to describe getting high first thing in the morning. When it comes to the other methods of consuming cannabis it's usually a correlation to what the product looks like or how it is made. Concentrates are the perfect example of this. Budder/Badder: Cannabis concentrate that is typically "whipped" during the extraction process. Has a creamy, buttery, consistency and used for dabs. Dabs: Cannabis concentrates that are consumed using a dab rig. Errl: Just a heavy accent on the word "oil" Shatter: Super potent type of contcentrate that is very brittle and looks like glass. Wax: A type of concentrate that has a very waxy consistency and used for dabbing. If someone is considered aStoner, Cannaseur, Wookie, or grows cannabis for a living, they are huge fans of the marijuana plant. So, not only does the entire cannabis community have a dictionary of slang terms, there is a decent-sized list of rules and etiquette. Let's freshen you up on some of them. Budiquette: The respect and courtesy expected within the cannabis community, including the things on this list. Bogarting: The act of being a bowl or joint hog. Canoeing: When a joint or blunt is burning unevenly. Cashed: Once the last hit of the bowl is taken. Corner the Bowl: A polite way to not torch the entire contents of the bowl in one hit. Fish Lips: Has many other names but is the act of taking a slobbery hit. Leaving the next person to take a hit with your saliva all over it. Gross. Greens: The very first hit of a freshly packed bowl. An honor to receive. Low and Slow: This rule is primary when consuming cannabis edibles. Parking: Forgetting to pass the weed to the next person in rotation. It’s not very likely that you will need to learn a whole batch of new terminology just to purchase some marijuana. All the budtenders at JARS know the lingo but don’t expectyou to conversate using these terms. But, before dispensaries were a thing, we got our cannabis from a plug, someone who sells weed (illegally), and needed to use these terms in order to stay discreet. Here are the common ones that are still used today. Dime Bag: The standard, single-purchase of marijuana. Typically costs $10 for about a half gram of weed. Dub Sack or G: The amount you get for just $20. Often over a gram for mid-level cannabis, or a little under a gram for high-quality stuff. Eighth: An eighth of an ounce of weed which equals 3.5 grams. Quarter: A quarter of an ounce of weed. Equals 7 grams. Half: If you guessed that this means a half of an ounce of weed… you’re correct! The same as 14 grams. Zip or Oz: One full ounce of marijuana or 28 grams. Slang words used in the context of using cannabis for fun or for medical reasons can sometimes be different, reflecting the varying attitudes and intentions behind the use. When people use cannabis for fun, they often use slang that highlights the experience or feelings of using it, like "getting high" or "blazed." On the other hand, when cannabis is used for medical reasons, the language used might be more formal or direct, focusing on the medical benefits or specific types of cannabis. However, there is a lot of overlap, and as the distinction between using cannabis for fun and for medical reasons becomes less clear, especially in places where cannabis is legal, the differences in slang also become less noticeable.Understanding Cannabis Basics
What is Cannabis?
Weed Slang: A Beginner’s Guide
The Cannabis Plant
Cannabis Plant Anatomy
Growing Cannabis: A Brief Overview
Slang for Cannabis Quality
Consuming Cannabis
Smoking Weed: Methods and Effects
Consuming Cannabis: Beyond Smoking
Cannabis Lifestyle and Etiquette Slang
Breakdown of Weed Measurements
Medical Marijuana and Weed Slang
Medical Marijuana: A Brief Overview
JARS
December 12, 2024
What Is a Dab Pen and What Does It Look Like?
Not to be confused with your weed pen that has a cartridge filled with concentrate. These are two different devices and are used in completely different ways. They can be described as a mix between a convenient handheld vape and a standalone dab rig setup. Being so new to the scene, let us welcome you to everything you ever wanted to need and know about a cannabis dab pen.
Purpose of a Dab Pen
Understanding the intended use of a dab pen
If you have ever found yourself sitting down in front of your dab rig thinking, "Man, I wish I could take this with me", just know that you've been heard! There is no use of a blow torch or fragile glass setup. Although there is a variety of different dab pen styles popping up, the mechanics are all quite the same.
Using the same concept as THC vape pen, a battery is used to electronically heat up a chamber where you place the concentrate. The difference here is that a dab pen uses concentrates in their semi-solid state in a container, whereas vape pens use more of a liquid concentrate already pre filled into a cartridge.
Design Elements of a Dab Pen
Dab pens typically have similar parts, but they vary in their appearance, brand, and how they work. Each dab pen has a section where you can put the wax, badder, shatter, or other concentrate you like. There's also a battery that powers the heating part, which is usually rechargeable with a USB cable.
When you turn it on or take a puff (in some cases), the heating part starts and turns the cannabis concentrate in the section into vapor. The vapor then goes through to the mouthpiece, where you can easily breathe in the cannabinoids.
Key components of a dab pen
A chamber or coil for heating the wax
A mouthpiece for inhaling the vapor
A battery for powering the device
Three main components: battery, heating chamber, and mouthpiece
How Dab Pens Work
For those of you who have experience with e-cigarettes, these devices work in comparison. You'll have no problem with directions when it comes to operating these things. For the rest of you whose majority of smoking experience is with a lighter, here are a few tips and tricks on how dab pens work.
It might sound like a broken record, but you need to make sure your dab pen is fully charged before you use it for the first time. This will not only allow you to experience the device at its top performance but it is also going to make your dab pen last it's entire optimal life.
Now that it's all charged up, usually indicated by a green light, you're going to load up the goods. An amazing motto to live by... "A little dab will do ya". While it might be tempting to pack as much concentrate into the chamber, your better off not filing the chamber to the brim.
You did it! Your dab pen is ready to be turned on and fired up. Many dab pens work by pressing a button in a sequence of 3 to 5 times or by pressing and holding down for a few seconds. Other models that are buttonless will be ready to go right away.
Quality dab pens come with a temperature adjustment features. The ideal temperature for dabbing falls within the range of 315°F to 450°F (157°C to 232°C). Lower temperatures typically result in a smoother and more flavorful vapor, whereas higher temperatures can lead to a more potent effect, though the flavor may not be as optimal.
It's more than likely that your device has a "firing time limit", meaning it will only let you inhale for a maximum of 10 seconds. This makes sure that you don't consume too much at once and also prevents the device from malfunctioning and continually firing.
For dab pens that do have a power on/off option, you need to shut off the device between uses. Trust us, it's not just good practice, it's a huge rule in dab pen safety.
Wax Pens vs. Vape Pens
From the outside, vape pens and dab pens look very similar. When you compare them side by side, it can be difficult to spot the differences. Both are typically designed to be small and convenient for easy carrying, but their internal workings are where they diverge.
Vape pens are made to be used with cartridges or pods filled with oils and other substances. These oils are drawn into an atomizer, turned into vapor through heating, and then inhaled.
Dab pens, on the other hand, do not use cartridges. Instead, they allow users to place "dabs" or concentrated oils and wax directly onto a heating coil. The coil then heats the dabs into a form that can be inhaled.
The main difference between wax pens and vape pens
Wax pens are designed for wax concentrates, while vape pens are for e-liquids
Wax pens offer more control over the vaping experience and can handle a wide range of different concentrates and extracts
Features to Look for in Most Dab Pens
There are a few key characteristics to consider when choosing a dab pen that only the insiders and experienced users know. A couple of features will forever change your dabbing sesh.
Safety features like an automatic shut-off
Easy-to-clean and disassemble
Temperature and voltage adjustments (labeled as "variable voltage")
Portable and discreet enough to fit in your pants pocket
Atomizers and Coils
These are the two major components in a portable dab pen. Starting with coils, quartz is the most popular. Ceramic coils will give your a smooth vapor that's full of flavor, plus they last for months longer than other coil options.
Atomizers and Coils
These are the two major components in a portable dab pen. Starting with coils, quartz is the most popular. Ceramic coils will give your a smooth vapor that's full of flavor, plus they last for months longer than other coil options.The atomizers is a small heating element that transforms solid wax or concentrate into vapor. Typically, the atomizer is a small heating element constructed from materials such as cotton or ceramic.
Most dab pens are equipped with a dual quartz rod atomizer, often featuring a wire coil wrapped around it. When the battery sends electricity through the coil, it heats up and vaporizes the concentrate.
The material and heat retention capability of the atomizer can impact the speed and efficiency of vapor production. Additionally, the atomizer’s resistance, measured in ohms, can influence the overall performance of the device.
JARS
December 12, 2024
Is Live Resin Dangerous, and Can You Eat It?
One of the richest and most potent forms of cannabis you can consume. Live resin is an ultra-high-quality type of BHO (butane hash oil), a concentrate that uses flash-frozen cannabis. It's way more interesting and complex than it sounds, and that's what we are about to get into. The only "danger" in live resin is the extraction process.
What is Live Resin?
One of the the richest and most potent forms of cannabis you can consume. Live resin is an ultra-high-quality type of BHO (butane hash oil), a concentrate that uses flash-frozen cannabis. It's way more interesting and complex than it sounds, and that's what we are about to get into. The only "danger" in live resin is the extraction process.
What about the dangers in eating live resin concentrates? Can you eat it? Absolutely! Live resin is in many yummy gummies and even some fast-acting edibles, too!
Live resin just became a thing in 2013
Thanks to "Kind Bill", William Fenger, who had a been working on a live resin concentrate for a few years before hooking up with "Giddy Up", Jason Emo in 2013. They took a major problem, which is the fact that 50% of cannabis terpenes are lost during the plants dry curing time, and created a solution.
The successful production of a live resin batch that smelled and tasted perfect took the guys very little time once they discovered that skipping the curing process is the golden ticket. Typically once a cannabis plant is ripe and ready to harvest, branches are cut down and go through a curing process that enriches the taste and smell of the cannabis before being extracted.
With live resin, instead of being hung out to dry for several days, the cannabis plant is cut down and immediately put into dry ice or liquid nitrogen for a day or two. Now, all those terpenes that are typically lost will stay in tact and be present during the extraction process.
How is Live Resin Made?
Harvest and flash-freeze
The whole start of the production begins with freshly harvested cannabis flower. Again, in order to make it a "live" product, it is immediately flash-frozen. There are a few different ways to freeze cannabis flower, but the most common technique is by "cryogenic extraction", or liquid nitrogen.
Prep the equipment
The equipment needed to produce live resin uses a closed-loop extraction system. This fancy way of manufacturing live resin makes it more consistent in eliminating plant matter that isn't needed, like chlorophyll, and dangerous solvents.
Introduce solvents
The process from here is pretty similar to any other solvent-based extraction method. Using a very low-temp hydrocarbon solvent like butane, ethanol, or propane to wash/separate the trichomes from the flower.
Collect solvent mixture
Once all of the trichomes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids from the plant are dissolved into the solvent, there is the last and most crucial step.
Purge solvent
Now we are left with a soupy goop of liquid cannabis goodness thanks to the solvents. But, those solvents are 100% of the problem at this point. Butane and ethanol are the last things we want to putting in our body regardless if it's through smoking or eating. This is your "danger" in live resin. The solvents need to be extracted from the extract...
In order to remove solvents from live resin, a vacuum oven is used. It removes the air inside the oven and then the solvents are evaporated at a low temperature to preserve the terpenes in the concentrate.
Collect and store live resin
Then voila! A fresh batch of live resin is made. This finished cannabis concentrate is then sealed, packaged, and shipped to your local dispensary.
Terpene Benefits of Frozen Cannabis
This is what makes the resin "live", because it freezes and conserves the monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, the culprits to how cannabis gets its flavor. Monoterpenes emit a faint, fresh smell and consist of smaller terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, terpinolene, and linalool. Sesquiterpenes are responsible for giving cannabis its strong, heavy scent due to their larger molecules. Caryophyllene and humulene are examples of sesquiterpenes.
When marijuana is freshly harvested, it contains higher levels of monoterpenes compared to sesquiterpenes. As the curing process takes place, the smaller monoterpenes evaporate first, resulting in a final product with a higher concentration of sesquiterpenes in its terpene profile.
Live resin products have been found to contain 2% more monoterpenes, making them smell fresher compared to products that have undergone the curing process. Research from High Times also indicates that live resin contains 11% less sesquiterpenes by weight compared to non-live resin products.
Live Resin vs. Other Cannabis Concentrates
Live resin vs. cured resin
Starting off with the basics, cured resin is what the industry refers to as the sticky film that cakes up your bowl and fingers after handling fresh flower. It's just plain ol' cannabis flower turned to concentrate with solvents.
So, remember how live resin skips the whole curing process? Instead of drying the harvested flower for up to 10 days, known as "curing", the flower is frozen for a couple of days, giving it the "live" title. Cured resin tends to have a different flavor profile because of the loss of terpenes and flavonoids during the drying period.
Live resin vs. live rosin
Both are concentrates made from extracting cannabinoids from frozen cannabis plants. But, the major difference here is the use of solvents. Live rosin is solventless and doesn't go through any sort of "washing" process. Typically made by high heat and hydraulic pressure, live rosin tends to be less potent. Because of the use of solvents, live resin contains a massive range of cannabinoids and terpenes that you won't get from the heat and pressure used for live rosin.
Live resin vs. distillate
When you want an ultra-high potent concentrate, these are the first two that might come to mind. Distillates are a highly refined concentrate that goes through a process called fractional distillation. This isolates specific cannabinoids and results in a product that is predominantly THC or CBD. You will definitely not get the diverse, rich, and complex flavors of those juicy terpenes with a distillate.
Live resin vs. shatter vs. wax
Your three very common concentrates that are potent, flavorful, and perfect for dabbing, vaping, and infusing. The differences all lie in their consistency and appearance. Shatter is a brittle, glass-like concentrate. Wax is a soft, crumbly concentrate. Both are extracted from cured cannabis flower and are not as sticky or thick as molasses like live resin.
How to Consume Live Resin
Dabbing
Dabbing live resin is a simple process. Just like with any other concentrate, you heat up the nail in your dab rig and allow it to cool slightly. After that, you can place a small amount of live resin on the nail. Once it's on the nail, it will turn into vapor, which you can then inhale.
You have to take advantage of the hottest deals on live resin concentrates at JARS!
Vaping with a dab pen or cart
If you like to keep your concentrated products in one place, consider trying out vaping with live resin. You can purchase live resin cartridges at your local dispensary, which can be connected to a battery just like a cannabis oil cartridge. After attaching the cartridge, simply turn on your vape pen and start enjoying the experience.
Check out our selection of live resin vape carts and disposables!
Topping off
Is your flower lacking a bit of punch? You might want to think about infusing some live resin into your joint or bowl. Adding a small amount of concentrate can enhance the taste, scent, and strength of your next smoking experience. Keep in mind that burning can affect the terpenes, so while live resin won't be as intense when smoked compared to vaping or dabbing, it can still add a little extra kick to your session.
Safety and Storage
Is live resin dangerous to consume?
In short, live resin is safe to consume, but its production process can be dangerous. Why? Live resin is made using solvents, which can be explosive, requiring careful extraction and purging processes. While there are ways to make your own concentrates like RSO, live resin is best kept to being made by the pros.
We are all about safety and encourage you to check a product's lab results through its certificate of analysis (COA). All cannabis products must pass tests for harmful substances like heavy metals, mold, mildew, and residual solvents.
Regulated cannabis products from legal dispensaries are the best choice to ensure your safety. To be a player on the safe side, get your live resin products at your local JARS dispensary.
How to store live resin
As with any cannabis product you have to remember, it is no longer a plant. Heat and sunlight are your main worries here. With live resin, using a silicone container with a secure lid will keep out light, heat, and moisture. All of these will either dry out the live resin or make it less potent.
It's super important that you don't get handsy with your live resin concentrates. Along with the fact that it's super sticky, the dirt and oil on your skin can effect the consistency of your live resin. There are plenty of tools available to dose out your concentrates without using your hands.
JARS
December 12, 2024
Demystifying Cannabis Quality: A Guide to Understanding Cannabis Grades
How often do you question the quality of the cannabis you're consuming? It's a natural skepticism we have, especially when we are trying something new. Is that top-shelf weed really worth the premium price?
Back in the day, it was more about the 'hear-say' of which strain was the best. Getting your hands on some Northern Lights or AK-47 was rare, and very pricey. Nowadays there are legit experts, scientists, and sommeliers who are beyond credible when it comes to understanding cannabis grades. There are very, very, detailed steps within the official cannabis grading system. A lot like the way wine and coffee are graded. Things like appearance, taste, aroma, and effects are the most significant factors within the cannabis grading system. While there are different variations to the cannabis grading system throughout the industry, the 4-tier is most common. We need a system like this in order to keep levels of quality consistent across the board. The four grades a specific batch of cannabis can receive are A, AA, AAA, and AAAA. These grades are sometimes referred to as quad, triple, double, and single. Starting with the lowest possible grade a cannabis plant can receive, without being tossed in the garbage. A-grade cannabis is your "dirt weed" or "schwag", but that's just what the pro's think of it. Any local JARS dispensary is the last place you'll get your hands on A-grade cannabis. In order to qualify for a AA-grade, the cannabis needs to have a better smell and firmer buds. The cannabis with this grade is your budget-friendly tier. It's not going to have all of the crystally trichomes and purple or orange colors. When cannabis is graded AAA, it's considered the current premium-status weed. High THC and CBD content doesn't necessarily mean it's the best and will automatically earn a AAA-grade. It needs to look, feel, smell, and taste the part of premium cannabis, too. The highest possible grade a batch of cannabis can receive is an AAAA-grade. But, aside from what the eye can see, this grade is earned by the quality of the environment the plant is grown in, how it is dried and cured, and how it is harvested. Just like veggies and flowers, the environment it grows and thrives in will determine the quality of the end product. Starting with where it is growing, cannabis grown indoors is more likely to have a higher quality. Unlike growing cannabis outdoors where there is less control on its environment. The quality of the soil used is also a determining factor that affects cannabis quality. Organically grown cannabis has a more clean and nutrient rich growing life. And lastly, particular lighting needs to be available for a cannabis plant to reach its peak quality. If the cultivation process was nothing short of superb, the flower can then be evaluated on its harvest and cure process. The very first factor is the timing of harvest, which isn't as easy as it sounds. How long it takes for the plant to reach full bloom varies from plant to plant. Drying and curing fresh cannabis can make or break all of the work done during cultivation and harvesting. It's a slow and tedious process done over days, even weeks. During this time, many things can happen to alter the quality, look, smell, feel, and flavor of the buds. Lastly, to pull off a Quad A level grade, each bud needs to be properly trimmed. This enhances the beauty of the cannabis buds structure. This factor can definitely not be skipped over when understanding cannabis grades. Again, a higher THC level doesn't always mean it is the best quality available. But, many of the well-known AAAA-grade cannabis batches have fairly high, greater than 25%, levels of THC. When a cannabis strain has a high THC content it's more than likely because of its careful breeding and optimal growing conditions. This also brings on a wide variety of different terpenes. Which are the main culprits to the flavor and aroma of the bud. During the evaluation process, professionals will go through an extensive list of specific criteria. In short, experts thoroughly examine all of the following. Trichome density and integrity Bud structure and density Color vibrancy and consistency Presence of seeds or stems Trim quality Signs of mold, mildew, or pest damage Intensity of smell Complexity of terpene profile Presence of any off-odors Moisture content (too dry or too moist) Stickiness (indication of resin content) Density of buds Cannabinoid profile (THC, CBD, CBN, etc.) Terpene profile Contaminant screening (pesticides, heavy metals, microbial contaminants) Residual solvents (for concentrates) THC and CBD percentages Ratio of THC to CBD Presence and levels of minor cannabinoids Types and concentrations of terpenes present Overall terpene content Optimal range should typically be between 6-13% Trichome color and condition Presence of contaminants not visible to the naked eye Onset time Duration of high Nature of high or therapeutic benefits Flavor on inhale and exhale Aftertaste Smoothness of smoke Proper packaging to maintain freshness Appropriate storage conditions Once every category and factor has been graded, it is classified under one of the four A-graded tiers. The main point of placing specific cannabis batches in different grading tiers is more for you as the consumer. Of course you are going to feel more confident walking into a dispensary, especially JARS, that only carries higher graded cannabis. In turn, dispensaries get more customers that trust the quality of their products. For the cannabis industry, the future always looks promising. More research, testing, and expertise continues to be involved in the powerful growth of the weed world. We can expect a more standardized grading system to really tighten up the consistency throughout all cannabis plants everywhere in the world. There have already been organizations working on developing more universal standards to cater to different growing environments and cultivation methods. Having a good idea on what top-shelf, high-quality cannabis entails, gets you one step closer to a better experience. The look, feel, taste, and smell are the top factors to examine when determining the quality of your bud. Bright colors, pungent smells, dense buds, and a smooth rich flavor is what separates the elite AAAA-tier weed from the dirt cheap A-tier weed.Understanding the Official Cannabis Grading System
Overview of the 4-tier cannabis grading system
Explanation of each grade: A, AA, AAA, and AAAA
Factors Affecting Cannabis Quality
Cultivation Methods
Harvesting and Curing Techniques
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles
Evaluating Cannabis Quality
Visual inspection of buds and leaves
Aroma Evaluation
Tactile Assessment
Laboratory Testing
Potency Analysis
Terpene Analysis
Moisture Content Testing
Microscopic Examination
Controlled Consumer Testing
Packaging and Storage Assessment
The Role of the Cannabis Grading System in the Industry
Future of cannabis grading and quality control
Conclusion
JARS
December 12, 2024
CBD vs. CBN vs. CBG
The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, along with hundreds of non cannabinoid terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, pinene, and trans-caryophyllene, as well as with flavonoids. These components are responsible for the scent, taste, and color of cannabis, and some of them can produce psychoactive effects, particularly when present in high concentrates or in combination with other cannabinoids. The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids, along with hundreds of non cannabinoid terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, pinene, and trans-caryophyllene, as well as with flavonoids. These components are responsible for the scent, taste, and color of cannabis, and some of them can produce psychoactive effects, particularly when present in high concentrates or in combination with other cannabinoids. With over 700 different varieties of the plant, each with varying ratios of cannabinoids and non cannabinoid components, the psychoactive effects produced by each variety can differ significantly. Psychoactive Cannabinoids The potency of a psychoactive cannabinoid is based on the concentration and ratio of THC cannabinoid compounds. Higher THC percentages have stronger psychoactive effects. Of course, a few factors come into play here. 1. Affinity for Cannabinoid Receptors: Cannabinoids exert their effects primarily by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the body, namely CB1 and CB2 receptors. Psychoactive cannabinoids typically have a higher affinity for CB1 receptors, which are predominantly found in the brain and central nervous system. A cannabinoid with a higher binding affinity for these receptors is generally more potent, as it can more effectively alter neurotransmitter release and produce stronger psychoactive effects. 2. Efficiency in Crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a selective barrier that protects the brain from potentially harmful substances in the bloodstream while allowing essential nutrients to pass through. Cannabinoids that can efficiently cross the BBB tend to be more potent in their psychoactive effects because they can directly interact with the brain's receptors. 3. Molecular Structure: The specific molecular structure of a cannabinoid can greatly influence its potency. For instance, slight modifications in the chemical structure, such as the length of the alkyl side chain (as seen in THCP) or the position of double bonds (as in Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC), can significantly impact how strongly and effectively the compound interacts with cannabinoid receptors. 4. Metabolism and Bioavailability: How a cannabinoid is metabolized in the body can affect its potency. Some cannabinoids might be rapidly broken down or modified into less active forms, reducing their overall effect. Conversely, cannabinoids that are metabolized into more active compounds or have a high bioavailability (the proportion of the substance that enters the circulation when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect) can be more potent. 5. Synergistic Effects: The entourage effect is a theory suggesting that cannabinoids can work together synergistically, enhancing each other's effects. A cannabinoid might not be exceptionally potent on its own but could significantly increase in potency and effectiveness when present with other cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant. Synthetic cannabinoids, often sold as "Spice" or "K2," aim to mimic THC's effects but can be unpredictable and more dangerous. Common effects include euphoria, altered perception, increased heart rate, anxiety, paranoia, psychotic episodes, and severe nausea. They may also cause cognitive impairments, loss of motor coordination, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. Due to their chemical diversity and unknown purity, their effects are highly unpredictable, ranging from mild to life-threatening. Health authorities warn against their use because of these significant risks, as users often don't know exactly what they're consuming. Endocannabinoids, or endogenous cannabinoids, are naturally occurring compounds found within the human body. They are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological and cognitive processes, including mood, memory, appetite, pain sensation, and the immune system response. The ECS works through a network of receptors, mainly CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the body. Our natural endocannabinoid system helps maintain our internal balance and stability, a state known as homeostasis. When an imbalance is detected, the body produces endocannabinoids to interact with the cannabinoid receptors. This interaction triggers various responses that help return the system to balance. The two most well-studied endocannabinoids are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These molecules are synthesized on demand and quickly broken down by enzymes after fulfilling their roles. Unlike hormones that are stored and released when needed, endocannabinoids are made exactly when they're required, making them key players in the body's ability to adapt to changes and maintain health. Highly psychoactive. Binds to the same receptors as THC, but with a higher affinity. A newly discovered cannabinoid that is similar to THC but with a longer alkyl side chain, making it potentially more potent than THC. It's highly psychoactive and may have stronger binding affinity for CB1 receptors, leading to more pronounced effects. Mildly psychoactive. Sedative and pain-relieving effects Similar to THC but with slightly different effects. It's less psychoactive than THC and may help suppress appetite. It's also being researched for its potential in managing diabetes and reducing panic attacks. A synthetic cannabinoid derived from THC, known to be more potent than regular THC. It has psychoactive effects and is considered to produce a more spiritual or psychedelic experience. Highly psychoactive. Longer-lasting and more potent than Delta-9 THC A form of THC that is less psychoactive than Delta 9 THC. It's known for producing a clearer high, with reduced anxiety and nausea. It's found in small amounts in the cannabis plant. Delta-8 THC - Euphoria, enhanced mood, pain relief and intoxicating. Main effects: analgesic, anti-nausea, and appetite stimulant. Less potent than Delta-9 THC. Mildly psychoactive Highly psychoactive and the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. A majority of the flower you can purchase at JARS contains Delta-9 THC. The cannabinoid can produce a variety of effects, including euphoria, relaxation, increased appetite, and altered perception, and Its benefits are the subject of ongoing research. Similar to Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC but with a different placement of the double bond in its molecular structure. It's less psychoactive than Delta 9 THC and is known for producing a more sativa-like, energizing effect. Mildly psychoactive, less potent than Delta-9 THC. Has mood-boosting and energy-enhancing effects A hydrogenated form of THC, making it more stable and potentially longer-lasting in its effects. It's psychoactive, though reports vary on its potency relative to Delta 9 THC. HHC is believed to offer a balanced high with some of the euphoric effects of THC. Mildly psychoactive and similar to Delta-9 THC, but with a longer duration of effects. Typically found in aged cannabis, as THC breaks down over time. It's mildly psychoactive and is researched for its potential to help with sleep and pain relief. CBN (cannabinol) - Sleep and relaxtion and non-intoxicating. Main effects: anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective Effects: Mildly psychoactive, more so than CBD but less than THC. CBN is available in pre-rolls, gummies, disposable vapes at JARS. CBD is highlighted as the most popular compound with non-psychoactive effects, while CBN is known for its tranquil properties and potential for aiding sleep. CBG is noted for its antioxidant and fatty acid content, making it appealing to dieters and fitness enthusiasts. The article also addresses the differences between CBN and CBD, as well as the possibility of combining CBN and CBG for a synergistic effect. Effects: Non-psychoactive, does not induce a "high." Potential Benefits: Often associated with anti-inflammatory properties, it may provide a sense of calm and wellness without intoxication. It's widely used for its potential to alleviate anxiety, improve sleep, and support overall wellness. Often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because other cannabinoids are derived from its acidic form. Great for daytime energy and focusing. Studies are looking into its therapeutic properties in people with neurological disorders. Effects: Non-psychoactive, similar to CBD. Potential Benefits: Loaded with antioxidants and fatty acids, it may be beneficial for dietary and fitness purposes. It's also being researched for its potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Focus, appetite suppressant, stimulation, mild pain relief, CBN, CBG, and CBD can indeed be combined together in hemp extracts. These extracts are typically categorized as either full spectrum or broad spectrum, and here's how they differ: Full Spectrum Hemp Extracts Full spectrum products contain all phytochemicals naturally found in the hemp plant, including CBD, CBG, CBN, terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. They also contain trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), but not enough to produce psychoactive effects—typically less than 0.3% THC by dry weight, which is the federal legal limit in the United States. For those looking to experience the potential benefits of the hemp plant in its entirety, full spectrum extracts are what you’re looking for. We carry several full spectrum products like RSO syringes and diamond concentrates. Broad Spectrum Hemp Extracts Broad spectrum products are similar to full spectrum products in that they contain CBD, CBG, CBN, terpenes, and essential oils. The key difference is that broad spectrum extracts go through an additional process to remove all traces of THC. This makes them a good choice for those who want to avoid THC entirely, whether for personal preferences, sensitivity to THC, or due to drug testing concerns. 1. Receptor Binding: The ECS is composed of two primary receptor types: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found throughout the peripheral body, including immune cells. CBD, CBG, and CBN can bind to these receptors or influence their activity indirectly. For instance, CBD has a low affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors but can modulate their activity by interacting with other receptor pathways. 2. Enzyme Inhibition: The ECS also involves enzymes that synthesize and degrade endocannabinoids (the body's naturally produced cannabinoids). CBD, for example, can inhibit the FAAH enzyme, which breaks down anandamide, thereby potentially increasing anandamide levels in the body. 3. Non-Cannabinoid Receptor Interaction: These cannabinoids can also interact with non-cannabinoid receptors. CBD, for example, has been shown to interact with serotonin receptors, which may explain its potential effects on mood disorders. 4. Entourage Effect: When cannabinoids are present together, they may work synergistically in what is known as the "entourage effect." This suggests that the therapeutic impact of the whole plant with its full spectrum of cannabinoids may be more significant than the sum of its parts. 5. Endocannabinoid Levels: CBD and other cannabinoids may influence the levels of endocannabinoids in the body. By modulating the ECS, CBD might contribute to the system's role in regulating functions such as sleep, appetite, pain sensation, and mood. 6. Neuroprotection and Inflammation: Some studies suggest that cannabinoids have neuroprotective properties and can help reduce inflammation. This might be due to their interaction with the ECS and other signaling systems within the body. 7. Potential Therapeutic Effects: Each cannabinoid has been associated with specific potential therapeutic effects. CBD is known for its anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, CBN is often associated with sedative effects that could aid sleep, and CBG is being researched for its potential to treat inflammation and pain. Interactive graph of cannabinoids compared effectsCannabis Plant Cannabinoids
What makes a psychoactive cannabinoid potent?
Synthetic Cannabinoids
The Endocannabinoid System and Cannabinoid Receptors
THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
THC-O (Tetrahydrocannabinol Acetate)
Delta 8 THC (Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol)
Delta 9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Delta 10 THC (Delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol)
HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
CBN (Cannabinol)
CBD
CBG (Cannabigerol)
Can They Be Combined?
We’ve got some awesome broad spectrum gummies from Evolution! Try’em outHow We Are Affected By Cannabinoids
JARS
December 11, 2024
Things to do in Colorado on 4/20
Join the Mile High 420 Festival in Colorado with JARS! Experience unforgettable performances by Gucci Mane, Afroman, and more. Free admission, VIP perks, and the best of Denver's food and cannabis culture. Don't miss out!
Are you ready for the most memorable 420 yet?! Join us at the Civic Center Park for our Mile High 420 Festival. From Gucci Mane to Afroman, this year's event is going to be beyond litty!
What you need to know
FREE event for everyone 21+.
A ticket is required for admission! Get your free ticket here.
Limited VIP tickets are available, and you DO NOT want to miss out on this elevated experience! Get your VIP tickets here.
Designated spots to get chill with friends.
Over 20 of Denver’s hottest food trucks, arts, cannabis merch, and ounces upon ounces of activities.
The ultimate VIP experience
🎟️ The Mile High 420 Festival offers a VIP experience that includes a private VIP entrance, a prime view of the main stage, meet-and-greets, a free festival backpack, a private bathroom with A/C, exclusive bar access with two free drinks included, and SO MUCH MORE!
The Mile High lineup of artists
Gucci Mane
Ohgeesy
Afroman
Big Boss Vette
Murs
Tommy Genesis
Dro Kenji
Lexy Panterra
Fedd the God
JARS
December 11, 2024