Understanding Cannabinoids

Cannabis contains a variety of naturally occurring chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Each cannabis product lists the concentration of key cannabinoids, most commonly:

THC is one of the main cannabinoids in cannabis and is commonly listed as the dominant compound in many products. Canadian labels show THC and Total THC, indicating the active and potential amounts. THC levels vary by product and are expressed in mg/g or mg per unit.

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in many cannabis products. It’s commonly present in CBD-dominant or balanced formulations. Like THC, labels show CBD and Total CBD, providing both raw and heat-activated values. It’s measured in mg/g or mg per unit

Cannabis may also contain minor cannabinoids in small amounts. These include CBN, CBG, CBC, and others, which contribute to the product’s overall cannabinoid profile. They’re not always listed on packaging but may appear in detailed lab reports or certificates of analysis.


What are Terpenes? 

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and many other plants. In cannabis, they are produced in the trichomes, the same structures that create cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Terpenes are responsible for the distinct scents and flavours of different cultivars, contributing to aromas such as citrus, pine, earth, spice, or floral notes.

Here are some of the most commonly found terpenes:

Illustration of a mango with leaves labeled 'Myrcene' inside a circular border.

Earthy, musky, herbal — commonly found in mangoes, hops, and lemongrass.

Illustration of lemons with 'Limonene' text inside a circular border

Bright, citrus-like aroma — also present in lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits.

Illustration of a pine branch labeled 'Pinene' within a circular border.

Sharp, pine-like scent — naturally found in pine needles, rosemary, and basil.

Illustration of caryophyllene molecules with 'Caryophyllene' text inside a circular border.

Spicy, peppery aroma — also found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.

Illustration of lavender with 'Linalool' text inside a circular border

Floral and lavender-like — found in lavender, coriander, and some mint varieties.

Illustration of apples with 'Terpinolene' text inside a circular border

Fresh, herbal, and slightly sweet — present in apples, nutmeg, and lilacs.

Illustration of hops with 'Humulene' text inside a circular border

Woody and earthy — commonly found in hops, coriander, and cloves

Illustration of Ocimene with a plant branch and leaves on a white background.

Sweet, herbal, and sometimes citrusy — found in mint, basil, and orchids.

Illustration of flowers with 'Bisabolol' text inside a circular border on a white background

Light, floral, and mildly sweet — found in chamomile and some cosmetic products.


Cannabis Plant Types

Cannabis products are commonly described using terms like Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. These terms are based on the botanical characteristics and growth patterns of different cannabis plants. While widely used in product descriptions, they are not scientific or regulatory classifications.

Sativa

Sativa is generally used to describe plants with narrow leaves and a taller growth habit, associated with the Cannabis sativa species. These plants may have longer flowering times and are commonly grown in warmer climates.

Indica

Indica typically refers to plants with broad leaves and a shorter, bushier structure. This term originally described Cannabis indica varieties and is often used to identify certain physical features of the plant during cultivation.

Hybrid

Hybrid describes cannabis cultivars that result from crossbreeding indica and sativa varieties. Hybrids can exhibit a wide range of physical traits, depending on their genetic lineage and how they are cultivated.