Cannabis Terminology Guide for First Timers

Updated Mar 23, 2025

Cannabis Terminology Guide for First Timers – Whether you’re brand new to cannabis or just brushing up, understanding the basics is essential to becoming an informed and confident consumer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key cannabis terms so you can shop smarter and enjoy your cannabis experience to the fullest.

Cannabinoids and Terpenes

Cannabis plants are packed with cannabinoids and terpenes—two major compounds that affect how you feel and how the product smells and tastes.

• Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system.
  • THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound that delivers the classic “high.”
  • CBD (Cannabidiol) offers calming, therapeutic effects without intoxication.
  • Other cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and THCA each offer unique benefits and are increasingly popular in specialty products.
• Terpenes are the aromatic oils responsible for the distinctive smell and flavor profiles of cannabis.
  • Common terpenes include:
    • Myrcene – musky, earthy, relaxing
    • Limonene – citrusy, uplifting
    • Linalool – floral, calming
    • Caryophyllene – spicy, anti-inflammatory
    • Humulene – hoppy, appetite-suppressing

Want to dive deeper into Cannabis Terminology Guide for First Timers? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Terpenes to learn how terpenes influence your high.

Distillates and Concentrates

Distillates and concentrates are refined cannabis extracts made by removing plant matter to isolate cannabinoids and terpenes. These products are potent and versatile, available in various textures such as wax, oil, or diamonds.

At Nice Guys Delivery, we carry a wide range of concentrates, including our staff favorite: Raw Garden’s Refined Live Resin Diamonds. These premium extracts offer high cannabinoid content and fast-acting effects—perfect for experienced users.

Concentrates are be used in:

• Vaporizers
• Dab rigs
• Edibles
• Topical creams
• Tinctures

Browse our current selection of cannabis concentrates →

Edibles, Tinctures & Topicals

Medibles

Cannabis Edibles are infused foods and beverages that deliver long-lasting effects through digestion. They’re ideal for people who prefer not to smoke or vape.

Staff pick: WYLD Pear Gummies (1:1 THC:CBG) – A customer favorite that offers a balanced and mellow experience.

Tinctures

Tinctures are fast-acting cannabis extracts in liquid form, and they’re typically consumed sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into food and drinks.

Top pick: ABX Sleepytime Drops – A powerful nighttime formula that combines THC and CBD for restful sleep.

Topicals

Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and salves applied directly to the skin, and they provide localized relief without a psychoactive effect.

Staff favorite: Cosmic View Deep Down Athletic Balm – Designed for muscle soreness, tension, and recovery.

Explore all topicals, tinctures, and edibles here →

Final Thoughts

Understanding the different types of cannabis products empowers you to make informed choices. Whether you’re drawn to the relaxation of CBD, the potency of concentrates, or the slow-release effects of edibles, there’s a product out there to match your needs.

And remember—don’t be afraid to ask questions when shopping at a dispensary. Our team at Nice Guys Delivery is always here to help you find the right product.

We deliver to Marin County, San Francisco, Napa, and Petaluma!

Ready to explore cannabis with confidence?
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