Cannabis Lingo: Explained

The cannabis world has a very long history and along with that, terminology of the famous plant has evolved tremendously. The use of different terminology can be based on legal status, secrecy, social trends, demographic and age groups that are linked to cannabis.

From Marijuana, Pot, Mary Jane, and Ganja, there are thousands of different terms and slang words used to describe cannabis, its effects, quality and the overall lifestyle. Here is a brief overview of some of todays commonly used cannabis lingo and their meanings.

A blunt is a cigar that has been hallowed out with the removal of all the tobacco, it is then re-rolled and stuffed with cannabis. The cigar wrap that is used for the blunt tends to come from a more affordable cigar that usually does not use any glue.

Blunts are believed to have originated in New York City as it was a way for users to smoke in a more discreet manner as it just appears to be just a cigar.

The term “munchies” goes as far back as the early 1970’s and is still used by many cannabis users today. It is a way to describe strong food cravings that usually arise after consuming cannabis. The munchies tend to make you feel an intense urge to indulge in large amounts of food, usually gravitating towards foods that contain high amounts of sugar and salt.

Although some think that the munchies are a bad thing as it can cause you to over indulge, it has been able to help increase ones appetite. Keeping your fridge and pantry filled with cleaner and healthier snack options will help you refrain from gravitating towards sugary and salt snacks once the munchies kick in.

The roach term is used differently depending where you are located. For instance, in England the term roach is known for being the cardboard piece that is rolled up and used as a mouthpiece, which is known as the filter in North America.

In North America, the term roach is often used to describe the end of a joint. The end of a joint is harder to smoke not only because it is often the harshest part of the joint, but also because it can often burn your fingers. The roach is stronger and harsher because of the high concentration of resin that gathers at the end of the joint.

The term dank is often used to describe any cannabis that is seen to be high quality, very potent, strong and flavorful. When cannabis is described with the term dank, it is another way that users express admiration for the cannabis strain and how it has been well-cured, dried and preserved.

Cotton mouth refers to the feeling of a very dry mouth that people may experience as a very common side effect after cannabis consumption. This is often caused due to a reduction in saliva production. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the salivary glands which is believed to cause the cotton mouth.

Ways to prevent or help with the feeling of cotton mouth is to keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of liquids before and after you consume cannabis.

The term shake is used to describe the loose “crumbs” and small left over pieces of cannabis that is usually found at the bottom of your stash that has fallen off of the main cannabis buds that can happen during handling and transportation. Shake tends to be lower quality compared to full cannabis buds because they usually contain a lower concentrate of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Although shake may be less potent, it can be a more affordable. Many dispensaries offer shake at a lower price point and can be a more cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis.

Cannabis has a rich history and culture, with a wide range of lingo and slang is used to describe cannabis, its effects, quality and lifestyle. The use of different terminology can be based on legal status, secrecy, social trends, demographic and age groups that are linked to cannabis. New slang terms to describe things in the cannabis world will emerge over time.