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:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.