Medical Cannabis A-Z Glossary

Clear, plain-English definitions for medical cannabis and cannabinoid medicine.

Welcome to Medicann's Medical Cannabis Glossary, your trusted resource for understanding the terminology used in medical cannabis and cannabinoid medicine.

Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply exploring medical cannabis, our glossary provides clear, easy-to-understand definitions of the words and phrases you'll encounter. From cannabinoids such as THC and CBD to dosing, prescribing, the endocannabinoid system, and treatment options, each term is explained in plain English to help you make informed decisions.

Browse our glossary from A to Z by selecting a letter below or search for a specific term to find the information you need.

Explore the glossary

166 terms

A

A substance that helps relieve pain. Medical cannabis may have analgesic properties and is prescribed for certain patients experiencing chronic or neuropathic pain.

A naturally occurring endocannabinoid produced by the body. Often referred to as the "bliss molecule," anandamide helps regulate mood, pain, appetite, memory, and sleep by interacting with the endocannabinoid system.

B

A medical cannabis product formulated with similar amounts of THC and CBD. Balanced products may be prescribed when both cannabinoids are considered beneficial for a patient's treatment.

A unique identifier assigned to a specific production batch of a medical cannabis product. Batch numbers allow manufacturers, pharmacies, and regulators to trace products for quality assurance and safety.

Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a medicine that enters the bloodstream and becomes available for the body to use. Different methods of taking medical cannabis, such as inhalation, oral oils, or capsules, have different levels of bioavailability.

The natural process by which the cannabis plant produces cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds during its growth. These compounds develop within the plant's trichomes as it matures.

A medicine derived from plants or plant extracts. Medical cannabis is considered a botanical medicine because its active ingredients originate from the Cannabis plant.

A cannabis extract that contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but has had THC removed or reduced to only trace amounts. Broad spectrum products are designed to retain many of the plant's natural compounds without producing the intoxicating effects associated with THC.

The flowering part of the cannabis plant where cannabinoids and terpenes are most concentrated. In medical cannabis, dried cannabis flower may be prescribed for use with an approved dry herb vaporiser.

C

A naturally occurring cannabinoid that is non-intoxicating. Although less well known than THC or CBD, CBC is being researched for its potential therapeutic applications.

A naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the "high" associated with THC. In medical cannabis, CBD is used in a range of formulations and is being studied for its potential therapeutic effects, including its role in supporting the body's endocannabinoid system.

A naturally occurring cannabinoid often referred to as the "mother cannabinoid" because many other cannabinoids develop from its acidic precursor during plant growth. Research into its therapeutic potential is ongoing.

A naturally occurring chemical compound found in the cannabis plant that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system. More than 100 cannabinoids have been identified, each with different properties and potential therapeutic uses.

The use of cannabinoids, whether plant-derived or synthetic, for therapeutic purposes under medical supervision.

Specialised receptors found throughout the body that form part of the endocannabinoid system. The two main receptors, CB1 and CB2, help regulate functions such as pain, mood, appetite, memory, and immune response.

A cannabinoid formed as THC naturally ages and breaks down. CBN is only mildly intoxicating and is being studied for its potential therapeutic properties.

A concentrated preparation made by extracting cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the cannabis plant. Extracts are commonly formulated into oils, capsules, sprays, and other medicinal products.

The dried flowering buds of the cannabis plant that may be prescribed as a medical cannabis product. It is typically administered using a medically approved dry herb vaporiser rather than by smoking.

A liquid medical cannabis product containing cannabinoids suspended in a carrier oil. Cannabis oils allow precise dosing and are commonly taken orally or under the tongue.

The base oil used to dilute cannabinoids in many medical cannabis oils. Common carrier oils include medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and olive oil, helping ensure consistent dosing and absorption.

A laboratory document that verifies the contents and quality of a medical cannabis product. A Certificate of Analysis typically includes cannabinoid concentrations and confirms testing for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, and residual solvents.

A classification of a cannabis cultivar based on its predominant cannabinoid profile. Chemotypes are commonly categorized as Type I (THC-dominant), Type II (balanced THC/CBD), Type III (CBD-dominant), Type IV(CBG-dominant), or Type V (little to no detectable cannabinoids).

A classification based on a cannabis plant's chemical composition, including its cannabinoid and terpene profile, rather than traditional labels such as "indica" or "sativa." Chemovar is considered a more accurate way of describing medical cannabis products.

A cultivated variety of the cannabis plant that has been selectively bred for specific characteristics, such as cannabinoid content, terpene profile, or growth habits.

D

The process of heating cannabis to convert inactive cannabinoids, such as THCA and CBDA, into their active forms, THC and CBD. This process is essential for activating many of the plant's therapeutic compounds.

The process by which a pharmacy prepares and supplies a prescribed medical cannabis product to a patient in accordance with a clinician's prescription.

A highly refined cannabis extract that contains a concentrated cannabinoid, such as THC or CBD, with many other plant compounds removed during processing. Distillates are commonly used in oils, capsules, and other medicinal products.

The prescribed amount and frequency of medical cannabis taken over a period of time. A dosage plan may include the product type, strength, timing, and route of administration.

The specific amount of medical cannabis prescribed or taken at one time. The appropriate dose varies depending on the individual, the condition being treated, the product used, and the patient's response.

The gradual adjustment of a medical cannabis dose to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimising side effects. Patients are often advised to "start low and go slow" during titration.

The harvested and dried flowering buds of the cannabis plant that may be prescribed as a medical cannabis product. It is intended for vaporisation using an approved dry herb vaporiser and should not be smoked.

Advice provided to patients regarding driving while using medical cannabis. In many jurisdictions, patients prescribed medical cannabis must understand the legal requirements and how their medication may affect their ability to drive safely.

A change in the effect of a medicine caused by taking it alongside another medication, supplement, or substance. Medical cannabis can interact with certain medicines, so patients should always inform their healthcare provider about all treatments they are using.

A medical device designed to heat dried cannabis flower to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes as a vapour without burning the plant material. Vaporising is the recommended method of inhaling prescribed cannabis flower, as it avoids the harmful by-products produced by smoking.

E

A cannabis product that is eaten rather than inhaled or taken under the tongue. Edibles typically have a slower onset of action but longer-lasting effects.

The process of placing a measured amount of medical cannabis extract into a capsule, allowing patients to take a consistent and precise oral dose.

A naturally occurring compound produced by the body that interacts with the endocannabinoid system. Endocannabinoids help regulate functions such as pain, mood, appetite, sleep, memory, and immune response.

A complex cell-signalling system found throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system helps maintain balance by regulating many physiological processes, including pain perception, mood, appetite, sleep, memory, and immune function. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD interact with this system to produce their effects.

Another term for an endocannabinoid. These are cannabinoids naturally produced by the human body that help regulate the endocannabinoid system.

A theory that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in cannabis may work together to produce greater therapeutic effects than any single compound alone. Although widely discussed, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of this effect.

A method of producing cannabis extracts using food-grade ethanol as the solvent. This extraction technique is widely used to obtain cannabinoids and other plant compounds for pharmaceutical-grade medical cannabis products.

A concentrated preparation made from the cannabis plant that contains cannabinoids and, depending on the manufacturing process, may also contain terpenes and other naturally occurring compounds. Extracts are used to manufacture a range of medical cannabis products.

The process of separating cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds from the cannabis plant to produce concentrated medicinal extracts used in oils, capsules, and other formulations.

F

The final medical cannabis medicine that has completed manufacturing, quality testing, and regulatory checks before being supplied to patients through a pharmacy.

Naturally occurring plant compounds that contribute to the colour, flavour, and antioxidant properties of cannabis. Flavonoids are also found in many fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and are being studied for their potential therapeutic benefits.

The dried flowering buds of the cannabis plant that contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Medical cannabis flower is prescribed for vaporisation using an approved dry herb vaporiser and should not be smoked.

The specific composition of a medical cannabis product, including its active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and inactive ingredients. Different formulations are designed to suit different treatment needs and methods of administration.

A manufacturing process used to separate and purify different compounds within a cannabis extract. Fractionation allows producers to create products with specific cannabinoid or terpene profiles.

A cannabis extract that contains a wide range of naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds, including THC. Full spectrum products are thought to preserve more of the plant's natural chemical profile than isolated cannabinoids.

G

The genetic makeup of a cannabis plant. A plant's genotype influences characteristics such as cannabinoid production, terpene profile, growth pattern, and disease resistance, although environmental factors also play a role.

The process by which a cannabis seed begins to grow into a new plant. While germination is an important stage in cultivation, patients are unlikely to encounter it unless learning about how medical cannabis is produced.

Tiny resin-producing structures found on the surface of cannabis flowers. Glandular trichomes produce and store cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, making them one of the most important parts of the cannabis plant.

A term indicating that a manufacturing facility complies with Good Manufacturing Practice standards. GMP certification helps ensure that medical cannabis products are produced under strict quality control and pharmaceutical manufacturing requirements.

International quality standards that govern the cultivation, harvesting, and handling of medicinal plants. Medical cannabis grown under GACP is produced using consistent methods to help ensure quality before pharmaceutical manufacturing begins.

A system of quality standards that ensures medicines are consistently produced and controlled to meet strict safety, quality, and efficacy requirements. Medical cannabis products manufactured under EU-GMP must comply with pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards, including quality control, documentation, and batch traceability.

A processed form of dried cannabis that has been milled into small, uniform particles. Granulated flower may be supplied to improve consistency and make preparation for vaporisation easier.

H

An oil extracted from hemp seeds that contains little to no cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. Although nutritious, hemp seed oil is different from CBD oil and does not provide the same therapeutic effects associated with medical cannabis.

A medical cannabis product containing a high concentration of CBD with little or no THC. High-CBD products do not produce intoxication and may be prescribed when the therapeutic effects of CBD are the primary treatment goal.

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in supporting homeostasis by helping regulate functions such as pain, mood, appetite, sleep, and immune response.

A small packet placed inside containers of dried cannabis flower to help maintain an optimal moisture level during storage. Proper humidity helps preserve the quality, aroma, and cannabinoid content of the flower.

A cannabis cultivar developed by crossing two or more different parent plants. Most modern medical cannabis cultivars are hybrids and are selected for their specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles rather than traditional classifications such as "indica" or "sativa."

A method of extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis using solvents such as butane or propane. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use highly controlled processes to ensure any residual solvents are removed and products meet strict quality standards.

I

A traditional classification of cannabis plants often associated with shorter, bushier growth patterns. In medical contexts, "indica" is commonly used informally, but modern practice increasingly prefers chemical profiling (chemovars) over this classification system.

The detailed breakdown of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds present in a cannabis product. Ingredient profiles help clinicians and patients understand how a product may behave therapeutically.

A method of administering medical cannabis by breathing in vapour or aerosolised compounds into the lungs. Inhalation (typically via vaporisation) allows for rapid onset of effects compared with oral methods.

See Drug Interaction. A situation where medical cannabis may alter or be altered by another medication, supplement, or substance taken at the same time.

A sterilisation process used in some medical cannabis products to reduce microbial contamination. It involves exposing the product to controlled levels of radiation to ensure it meets pharmaceutical safety standards.

A purified form of a single cannabinoid, most commonly CBD or THC, where all other plant compounds have been removed. Isolates allow for precise dosing of a specific cannabinoid without other cannabis constituents.

J

The combined use of two or more therapeutic agents at the same time, such as medical cannabis alongside other prescribed medications, under clinical supervision.

The study of how different substances interact when used together in the body. In medical cannabis, this is relevant when cannabinoids are taken alongside other prescribed medicines.

A term used in pharmacological discussion to describe how different cannabinoids may produce distinct or contrasting effects when present together in a formulation. This is not a formal clinical term but is sometimes used in educational contexts.

K

A summary of the primary cannabinoids present in a cannabis product, such as THC, CBD, CBG, or CBN. This profile helps clinicians and patients understand the expected therapeutic characteristics of a medicine.

A controlled drying process used in some forms of plant material processing. In medical cannabis production, careful drying is used to reduce moisture content and preserve cannabinoids and terpenes while preventing microbial growth.

A pharmacological term describing the rate at which a substance enters the bloodstream over time. In medical cannabis, this is used to describe differences in onset and duration between inhaled, oral, and sublingual products.

L

The information provided on a medical cannabis product label, including cannabinoid content, dosage instructions, and manufacturing details. Label claims must match laboratory testing results under regulatory standards.

The analysis of medical cannabis products to determine cannabinoid content, terpene profile, and the presence of contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, or microbes. Testing ensures products meet pharmaceutical standards.

A company authorised under regulatory frameworks to cultivate, manufacture, and supply medical cannabis products that meet required safety and quality standards.

A naturally occurring terpene found in cannabis and other plants such as lavender. It is associated with floral aromas and is being studied for its potential calming and sedative properties.

The process by which fat-soluble cannabinoids are absorbed through the digestive system when taken orally. This process influences onset time and overall bioavailability.

A general term describing processes used to separate cannabinoids and other compounds from the cannabis plant using solvents or other extraction methods to create medicinal oils or concentrates.

The initial amount of a medicine given to quickly reach a therapeutic level in the body. In medical cannabis, this term is less commonly used but may appear in pharmacology discussions related to achieving steady cannabinoid levels.

A medical cannabis product containing a low concentration of THC, often combined with higher levels of CBD. These products are typically chosen when minimising psychoactive effects is important.

M

The ongoing dose of medical cannabis required to maintain therapeutic effects after an initial titration period. This dose is usually determined individually based on patient response.

A common carrier oil used in medical cannabis products. It is easily digested and helps improve the absorption of fat-soluble cannabinoids when taken orally.

Cannabis or cannabis-based medicines prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional to treat specific symptoms or conditions. These products are manufactured to pharmaceutical standards and are used under medical supervision.

A cannabis product manufactured under strict pharmaceutical standards, including quality control, consistency, and regulatory compliance. These products are intended for prescription use.

The process by which the body breaks down and processes substances, including cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Metabolism affects how long medical cannabis stays active in the body and how strongly it is felt.

The practice of taking very small, controlled doses of medical cannabis to achieve therapeutic effects while minimising unwanted side effects. It is often used to help patients find the lowest effective dose.

The process by which cannabinoids influence the endocannabinoid system to help regulate bodily functions such as pain, sleep, appetite, and mood.

A type of terpene made up of a single isoprene unit. These compounds contribute to the aroma and potential therapeutic effects of cannabis and other plants.

The body's ability to maintain stable emotional states. Cannabinoids may interact with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood and emotional balance.

A naturally occurring terpene found in cannabis and other plants such as mango and hops. It is associated with earthy, musky aromas and is often linked in research discussions to relaxing effects.

N

A cannabinoid that is naturally produced by the cannabis plant, such as THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN, as opposed to synthetic cannabinoids created in a laboratory.

A term used in research to describe substances that may help protect nerve cells from damage or degeneration. Some cannabinoids are being studied for potential neuroprotective properties.

A chemical messenger in the nervous system that transmits signals between nerve cells. The endocannabinoid system interacts with neurotransmitters to help regulate processes such as mood, pain perception, sleep, and memory.

A term used to describe cannabinoids or products that do not produce a "high" or altered state of consciousness. CBD is the most well-known non-intoxicating cannabinoid.

A term used to describe medical cannabis products that have not undergone irradiation as part of their sterilisation process. Instead of irradiation, non-irradiated products rely on alternative methods of microbial control, such as Good Agricultural and Collection Practice (GACP), Good Manufacturing Practice (EU-GMP), controlled drying, filtration, and strict environmental controls during cultivation and processing. Non-irradiated products are tested to ensure they meet required microbiological safety limits before being released for patient use. The term does not imply lower quality or reduced safety, but rather a different validated approach to achieving pharmaceutical-grade standards.

A cannabis extract that has been standardised to contain consistent levels of specific cannabinoids, ensuring batch-to-batch consistency in medical products.

O

A medical cannabis formulation where cannabinoids such as THC or CBD are dissolved or suspended in a carrier oil. It is commonly taken orally or sublingually and allows for controlled, consistent dosing.

A formulation technique where cannabis oil is dispersed into water-based solutions to improve consistency and absorption in certain medicinal products.

The time it takes for a medical cannabis product to begin producing effects after administration. Onset varies depending on the method used, with inhalation acting faster than oral products.

A term used in clinical research to describe the potential for medical cannabis to reduce the need for opioid medications in some patients. This is an area of ongoing study and should be interpreted cautiously.

A term used to describe the dose of medical cannabis that provides the best balance between therapeutic benefit and side effects for an individual patient.

A method of taking medical cannabis by swallowing capsules, oils, or edibles. Oral administration typically has a slower onset but longer duration of effects compared with inhalation.

A chemical compound containing carbon, which forms the basis of cannabinoids and many other plant-derived substances found in cannabis.

A method of delivering cannabinoids via the mucous membranes of the mouth, such as under the tongue or inside the cheek. This allows for relatively fast absorption into the bloodstream.

Non-prescription cannabinoid products available in some regions, typically containing low doses of CBD. These differ from prescription medical cannabis products in strength, regulation, and intended use.

A chemical process in which cannabinoids and terpenes degrade over time when exposed to oxygen, light, or heat, potentially reducing the potency and quality of cannabis products.

P

A cannabinoid that is naturally produced by the cannabis plant, such as THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN. These compounds interact with the human endocannabinoid system.

An inactive substance or treatment used in clinical trials to compare against active medication. Placebo-controlled studies are important for evaluating the true effects of medical cannabis.

The raw cannabis plant material, including flowers and leaves, used to produce medical cannabis products such as oils, capsules, or dried flower for vaporisation.

The concentration of active cannabinoids in a cannabis product, usually expressed as a percentage or milligrams. Higher potency does not always mean better therapeutic outcomes and must be considered alongside individual patient response.

A medication that can only be supplied with a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. Medical cannabis products in regulated markets are classified as prescription medicines.

A term describing substances that affect the mind, mood, perception, or consciousness. THC is psychoactive, while CBD is generally considered non-psychoactive.

A measure of how free a medical cannabis product is from contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, or residual solvents. High purity is required for pharmaceutical-grade products.

Q

A system of checks and procedures used to ensure that medical cannabis products meet required standards of safety, consistency, and effectiveness throughout production and supply.

The process of testing and inspecting medical cannabis products to confirm they meet defined specifications for potency, purity, and safety before they are released for patient use.

Laboratory analysis carried out on medical cannabis products to measure cannabinoid content and screen for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, and residual solvents.

A medical cannabis product designed to produce effects more rapidly than standard oral formulations, often using technologies such as nanoemulsions or sublingual delivery systems.

R

A type of scientific study where participants are randomly assigned to receive either a treatment or a control (such as a placebo). RCTs are considered a high standard for evaluating the effectiveness of medical cannabis.

A protein structure found on cells that receives chemical signals. In medical cannabis, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) are part of the endocannabinoid system and interact with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD.

The set of laws and guidelines that govern the production, prescribing, dispensing, and use of medical cannabis products within a jurisdiction.

A general term used to describe the calming or muscle-relaxing sensations some patients report with certain cannabis products. This is a descriptive term rather than a strictly defined clinical endpoint.

A sticky, cannabinoid-rich substance produced by the trichomes of the cannabis plant. Resin contains high concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes and is the source material for many cannabis extracts.

The process of adjusting a patient's medical cannabis dose after changes in symptoms, tolerance, or product type. It is similar to titration but occurs after an initial stable dose has been established.

The method by which medical cannabis is taken into the body. Common routes include oral (oils, capsules), inhalation (vaporisation), and oro-mucosal (sublingual or buccal) delivery.

S

A traditional classification of cannabis plants often associated with taller growth and narrower leaves. In modern medical practice, "sativa" is used informally, while chemovar or cannabinoid profile is preferred for accuracy.

Refers to the range of cannabinoids and other plant compounds present in a cannabis product, such as full spectrum, broad spectrum, or isolate.

The ability of a medical cannabis product to maintain its potency, purity, and quality over time under defined storage conditions.

A cannabis extract that has been processed to ensure consistent and reproducible levels of specific cannabinoids across different batches.

The recommended environmental conditions (such as temperature, light exposure, and humidity) required to preserve the quality and stability of medical cannabis products.

A common but informal term used to describe a specific variety of cannabis. In medical contexts, "cultivar" or "chemovar" is preferred because it better reflects chemical composition rather than appearance or lineage.

A method of administering medical cannabis by placing oil or tincture under the tongue for absorption through the mucous membranes. This route typically provides faster onset than swallowing.

A term used to describe how cannabinoids and terpenes may work together to produce combined effects that differ from individual compounds acting alone.

T

A naturally occurring aromatic compound found in cannabis and many other plants. Terpenes contribute to the plant's scent and may influence its therapeutic effects.

A primary cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. THC is responsible for the intoxicating effects commonly associated with cannabis and also has recognised therapeutic applications under medical supervision.

The non-intoxicating precursor to THC found in raw cannabis. THCA converts into THC through decarboxylation when heated.

The range of doses in which a medicine is effective without causing unacceptable side effects. In medical cannabis, this varies significantly between individuals.

The process of gradually adjusting a medical cannabis dose to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimising side effects. Patients are often guided to "start low and go slow".

A reduced response to a medicine after repeated use, which may require dose adjustment over time.

Tiny glandular structures on the cannabis plant that produce and store cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Trichomes are the primary source of medicinal compounds in cannabis flower.

U

A very small amount of a cannabinoid used in medical cannabis treatment, often as part of a cautious titration approach to assess sensitivity and response.

A dosing approach that ensures each administration of a medical cannabis product contains a consistent and measurable amount of active cannabinoids.

Unintended effects that may occur when using medical cannabis. Common adverse effects include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, and changes in appetite. Most are mild and may improve with dose adjustments.

A medicine that has not yet received full marketing authorisation in a particular country but may still be prescribed by a specialist where clinically appropriate. In these cases, medicines are supplied under regulated frameworks that allow doctors to access treatments that may benefit patients when standard options have not been effective. This includes some medical cannabis products, which are manufactured to strict pharmaceutical quality standards.

A cannabis extract that has undergone minimal processing and retains a broader range of plant compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and waxes.

The process by which cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream and taken up by the body's tissues. Uptake varies depending on the route of administration, formulation, and individual metabolism.

The gradual increase of a medical cannabis dose over time to reach an optimal therapeutic level while monitoring for effectiveness and side effects.

The way in which a patient uses medical cannabis over time, including dose, frequency, and route of administration. Understanding usage patterns helps clinicians optimise treatment.

The differences in how individual patients respond to the same medical cannabis product or dose due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and tolerance.

V

A laboratory testing method that has been scientifically proven to be accurate, reliable, and reproducible for measuring cannabinoids or contaminants in medical cannabis products.

A method of heating dried cannabis flower or extracts to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes as a vapour without combustion. Vaporisation is commonly used in medical cannabis because it avoids many harmful by-products associated with smoking.

The aerosol produced when cannabis is heated in a vaporiser. This vapour contains active cannabinoids and terpenes that can be inhaled for rapid onset of effects.

Differences in cannabinoid or terpene profiles between batches or cultivars of medical cannabis. Even small variations can influence how a product feels or performs clinically.

The base substance used to carry cannabinoids in a formulation, such as oils or capsules. Common vehicles include MCT oil and olive oil, which help with dosing consistency and absorption.

W

Cannabinoid formulations that have been modified to improve their ability to dissolve in water, potentially increasing absorption and onset speed compared with traditional oil-based products.

The dried cannabis bud used in medical treatment, typically administered via vaporisation rather than smoking. It contains a full profile of cannabinoids and terpenes in their natural ratios.

A cannabis extract that retains a broad range of naturally occurring compounds from the plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, rather than isolating a single component.

A purification process used in cannabis extraction to remove waxes, fats, and lipids from crude extracts, resulting in a cleaner final product.

A set of symptoms that may occur when stopping or reducing a substance after regular use. In the context of medical cannabis, withdrawal is generally considered mild but can vary between individuals.

The dose of medical cannabis that provides consistent therapeutic benefit for a patient after titration and adjustment.

X

A sterilisation method that uses controlled X-ray energy to reduce microbial contamination in medical cannabis products while preserving cannabinoid content and product integrity.

Y

The practice of growing cannabis continuously throughout the year in controlled environments such as indoor facilities or greenhouses, allowing consistent medical supply.

A descriptive cultivation term referring to the maturation of cannabinoid-rich trichomes, which may appear golden or amber as the plant develops.

A term used in cultivation to describe the yellowing of plant leaves, often due to nutrient deficiency, environmental stress, or natural growth processes. It is monitored to ensure plant health and quality.

Early-stage cannabis plant tissue that is not typically used for medicinal extraction but is relevant in cultivation and breeding processes.

Medical Cannabis A-Z Glossary

Explore the glossary

A

Analgesic

Anandamide

B

Balanced Product

Batch Number

Bioavailability

Biosynthesis

Botanical Medicine

Broad Spectrum

Bud

C

Cannabichromene (CBC)

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabigerol (CBG)

Cannabinoid

Cannabinoid Medicine

Cannabinoid Receptors

Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabis Extract

Cannabis Flower

Cannabis Oil

Carrier Oil

Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Chemotype

Chemovar

Cultivar

D

Decarboxylation

Dispensing

Distillate

Dosage

Dose

Dose Titration

Dried Cannabis Flower

Driving Guidance

Drug Interaction

Dry Herb Vaporiser

E

Edible

Encapsulation

Endocannabinoid

Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

Endogenous Cannabinoid

Entourage Effect

Ethanol Extraction

Extract

Extraction

F

Finished Product

Flavonoid

Flower

Formulation

Fractionation

Full Spectrum

G

Genotype

Germination

Glandular Trichomes

GMP Certified

Good Agricultural and Collection Practice (GACP)

Good Manufacturing Practice (EU-GMP)

Granulate

H

Hemp Seed Oil

High-CBD Product

Homeostasis

Humidity Control Pack

Hybrid

Hydrocarbon Extraction

I

Indica

Ingredient Profile

Inhalation

Interaction

Irradiation

Isolate

J