Flowers, concentrates, and dabs, oh my! Dispensaries in Colorado have been rapidly evolving and creating new experiences for their customers. As the industry grows, so does cannabis dispensary terminology. The first time you enter a dispensary may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This article will help prepare you for your high-quality dispensary adventure.
Cannabis Dispensary Terminology
Arguably the most important term to learn first is “budtender.” A budtender is a cannabis expert and will know details about all the products in their dispensary. Having an idea of what kind of high you’re looking for and and knowing some of the basic cannabis terminology will help the budtender narrow down your best options.
Flowers
The smokable plant material is the flower or bud. Some common flower terminology includes:
Indica: A species of cannabis plant. Bud strains created from this type of plant are known for creating relaxing and sedative effects.
Sativa: A species of cannabis plant. Bud strains created from this type of plant are known for creating energetic and uplifting effects.
Cannabinoids: The chemical compounds in cannabis that effects the human body in various ways.
Terpenes: The chemical compounds in plants responsible for the flavor and smell of the flower.
Trichomes: The sticky hair-like structures on the bud of the cannabis plant. All the cannabinoids are produced in these structures.
CBD: The abbreviation for a cannabinoid called cannabidiol. This chemical doesn’t create psychoactive effects or create a “high” feeling.
THC: The abbreviation for a cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol. This chemical creates psychoactive effects or a “high.”
Concentrates or Dabs
Concentrates are made by extracting the trichomes, terpenes, and cannabinoids from the flower. Because you do such a small amount at a time, a common term for concentrates is “dab.” Dabs can come in many different forms including:
Budder: A form of concentrate that has the consistency of butter and is often used to create edibles.
Edibles: Edibles are made by adding concentrates to food. Common forms are gummies, candy, and baked goods.
Hash/hashish: A powder concentrate created by filtering or sieving the trichomes off the bud.
Bubble or Ice Hash: A popular concentrate that uses water and ice instead of harsh chemicals to separate the trichomes from the plant.
Shatter: You get a shatter by using butane to remove the trichomes from the bud. The butane is burned off along with the plant’s fats and lipids. The form of concentrate is usually transparent and breaks into fragments resembling glass.
Tincture: A tincture is a liquid concentrate usually sold in a dropper. This form of concentrate is applied under the tongue and is very fast-acting.
Wax: A concentrate created by dissolving the plant into a solvent. Wax is usually flavored and has a waxy texture that makes it easy to handle.
Now that you know the lingo, it’s time to put it to use. Frost Denver Dispensary has a wide variety of products waiting for you. One of our knowledgeable and experienced budtenders can assist you with any questions you have. We’re looking forward to meeting all of your cannabis needs. Enjoy!
