Cannabis basics
What cannabis is, how THC and CBD differ, and how to read a product label.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains hundreds of natural compounds called cannabinoids. The two best known are THC and CBD.
Products are made from the plant's flowers, either sold dried or processed into oils, vapes, edibles, drinks and concentrates.
THC and CBD
THC is the compound that produces the 'high'. Higher THC usually means stronger effects.
CBD does not cause a high and may soften some effects of THC. Many products list both so you can compare.
Plant types
Labels often say Indica, Sativa or Hybrid. These names describe plant families, and people often link them to relaxing or energising effects, but individual reactions vary.
The terpenes (aroma compounds) and THC/CBD levels tell you more than the plant type alone.
Reading a label
Check the THC and CBD amount, the package size, and the serving size for edibles and drinks.
For dried flower, potency is shown as a percentage. For edibles, it is shown in milligrams per serving.
General information only. Not medical advice.