January 30, 2026

Cannabis Glossary: THC, CBD, Terpenes & All the Terms Every New Yorker Should Know

This Cannabis Glossary for New York consumers breaks down essential cannabis terms in simple, everyday language. We explain THC, CBD, terpenes, COAs, and key legal definitions so NY residents can understand product labels, lab reports, and dispensary menus with confidence. Designed to support informed and responsible purchasing, this guide helps consumers navigate New York’s regulated adult-use cannabis market with clarity, transparency, and trust.

Objective

Our objective is to create a clear and reliable cannabis glossary that New York residents can trust. We want to help our community understand cannabis terminology, legal definitions, and product labels so every purchase is informed, confident, and transparent. Through this guide, we explain the meaning behind the most common cannabis terms while staying aligned with New York’s legal framework.

Key Takeaways

We simplify cannabis terminology that New York consumers see on product labels and dispensary menus.
We explain the meaning and purpose of THC, CBD, terpenes, and COAs in everyday language.
We clarify legal cannabis terms NY residents should know before purchasing adult-use cannabis.
We help our readers make informed decisions using trusted information and verified sources.

Introduction
Why Understanding Cannabis Terminology Matters in New York
Core Cannabis Terms Explained
THC
CBD
Terpenes
Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid
COA (Certificate of Analysis)
Legal Cannabis Terms in New York
How We Read and Understand Cannabis Labels
Why Transparency Matters to Us
Conclusion & Call to Action
FAQs

Introduction

We created this cannabis glossary in the New York guide to help our community better understand the terms that appear on cannabis labels, menus, and lab reports. As the legal cannabis industry continues to grow in New York, we believe education is essential. Clear knowledge allows us to make informed decisions, choose products responsibly, and fully understand what we are consuming.

Cannabis terminology can feel complex at first, especially when terms like THC, CBD, terpenes, and COA appear together on packaging. Our goal is to simplify these concepts and explain them in a way that is easy to follow. This guide serves as a practical reference for anyone who wants clarity, transparency, and confidence when navigating the New York cannabis market.

Why Understanding Cannabis Terminology Matters in New York

We operate in a fully regulated adult-use market, which means accuracy and education matter. Cannabis terminology that New York consumers encounter is not just marketing language. It reflects lab testing, safety standards, and legal requirements set by the state.

When we understand cannabis terminology, we are able to:

Choose products based on accurate potency levels
Review safety testing results with confidence
Follow legal purchasing and possession guidelines
Make responsible and informed consumption decisions

This is why we developed this Cannabis glossary, which New York residents can reference whenever questions arise.

Core Cannabis Terms Explained

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is responsible for the intoxicating effects associated with cannabis use. When we look at product labels, THC is displayed as a percentage that reflects how potent the product is.

Higher THC percentages typically indicate stronger effects, while lower percentages are often chosen by users seeking milder experiences. Understanding THC allows us to choose products that align with our comfort level and tolerance.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis. It does not cause a “high” and is often associated with calming or balancing effects. CBD is frequently found in wellness-focused products and may appear alone or alongside THC.

Many of our customers prefer products that combine THC and CBD to create a more balanced experience.

Terpenes

Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic compounds that influence the scent, flavor, and character of a cannabis product. They also play a role in shaping how cannabinoids interact with the body.

Some common terpenes include:

Myrcene- associated with earthy aromas
Limonene- known for citrus-like fragrance
Pinene- recognized for pine-like scents

Terpenes allow us to understand more than just potency. They help describe the personality of a strain.

Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid

These terms classify cannabis strains based on their general effects:

Indica: Often associated with physical relaxation
Sativa: Typically linked with uplifting effects
Hybrid: A blend of both indica and sativa traits

We encourage customers to consider these categories as guides rather than guarantees, since terpene and cannabinoid profiles also shape experience.

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COA (Certificate of Analysis)

A COA is a third-party laboratory report that confirms what is inside a cannabis product. It verifies cannabinoid content, terpene composition, and checks for contaminants.

At Revert cannabis, New York, we believe transparency begins with verified testing. That is why we make COAs available to our customers through our official site:

A COA helps us ensure accuracy, quality, and safety in every product.

Legal Cannabis Terms in New York

Understanding the legal cannabis terms in NY regulations is essential for responsible use.

Key legal definitions include:

Adult-Use Cannabis: Cannabis is legally sold to adults aged 21 and older.
Licensed Dispensary: A retail location authorized by the New York Office of Cannabis Management to sell regulated cannabis products.
Possession Limits: Adults may possess up to 3 ounces of flower or 24 grams of concentrate.

These legal cannabis terms NY residents should know protect both consumers and businesses by defining safe and compliant practices.

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How We Read and Understand Cannabis Labels

When we review cannabis packaging, we focus on clarity and transparency. Labels provide critical information that helps us choose the right product.

We typically check:

Product name and strain
THC and CBD percentages
Terpene profiles
COA access via QR code or link

This process ensures we know exactly what we are purchasing and consuming.

At Revert cannabis, New York, we design our labelling system to support this clarity and education. Our product pages also display accurate potency and testing information:

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Why Transparency Matters to Us

Transparency is central to our values. We believe cannabis education begins with honest data and accessible information.

We maintain transparency by:

Publishing lab reports
Displaying accurate cannabinoid percentages
Following New York regulatory guidelines
Educating our customers through clear terminology

This approach is what allows Revert cannabis, New York, to build trust with our community.

Conclusion & Call to Action

We created this Cannabis glossary New York guide to support responsible, informed cannabis use. By understanding THC, CBD, terpenes, COAs, and legal definitions, we empower our customers to make confident choices within New York’s regulated market.

We encourage you to explore our products, review our testing standards, and experience cannabis education backed by transparency. Visit us at:

Find our strains, review COAs, and locate dispensaries near you here: This is how we continue raising the standard for cannabis education in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of a Cannabis Glossary for New York consumers?

We created this Cannabis glossary New York guide to help our community understand product labels, legal definitions, and cannabis terminology used in licensed dispensaries.

2. Why are COAs important when buying cannabis?

COAs verify product safety and accuracy. They confirm cannabinoid levels and ensure the product has been tested for contaminants by certified laboratories.

3. What makes legal cannabis terms in NY different from those in other states?

New York’s cannabis regulations are governed by the Office of Cannabis Management, which enforces unique compliance, licensing, and testing standards.

4. How do terpenes affect cannabis experience?

Terpenes shape aroma, flavor, and how cannabinoids interact with the body. They help explain why strains feel different even with similar THC levels.

5. Where can we find reliable cannabis education resources?

We recommend official New York State sources and our educational content at Revert cannabis, New York, for accurate, up-to-date cannabis information.

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Frequently Asked Questions About NYC Cannabis

Where can I buy legal cannabis in New York City?

Legal cannabis is available at state-licensed dispensaries throughout New York City. Licensed locations display a New York State Licensed Cannabis Dispensary decal near their entrance. You can find licensed dispensaries using the state's adult-use dispensary locator at the Office of Cannabis Management website.

Avoid unlicensed smoke shops and bodegas advertising cannabis products. These operations sell unregulated products that haven't passed safety testing. Unlicensed cannabis often contains pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and inaccurate THC labeling.

Studies found E. coli and salmonella in 40% of products from unlicensed stores. Licensed dispensaries guarantee tested, regulated products that meet New York safety standards.

How much cannabis can I legally purchase and possess in New York?

Adults 21 and older can purchase up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower and 24 grams of concentrated products (vapes, edibles, concentrates) per transaction. These limits are cumulative, meaning you can mix flower and concentrates as long as the total stays within legal bounds.

You can carry the same amounts in public. At home, you can store up to 5 pounds of cannabis flower, though most consumers never approach this limit.

Medical cannabis patients have different purchase limits based on their physician's recommendations, typically up to a 60-day supply. You can visit multiple dispensaries in one day, but each transaction must stay within the legal limits.

Where can I legally consume cannabis in NYC?

You can smoke or vape cannabis anywhere tobacco smoking is permitted under New York's smoke-free air laws. This includes private residences and designated outdoor areas.

Cannabis consumption is prohibited in vehicles (even parked ones), restaurants, bars, parks, beaches, boardwalks, playgrounds, and any indoor workplace. You cannot consume cannabis in federal buildings or on federal land.

Private property owners and landlords can set their own rules prohibiting cannabis use. Businesses can also ban consumption on their premises. Violating consumption laws results in civil fines ranging from $25 to $200.

Some NYC neighborhoods have cannabis consumption lounges with special licenses where on-site use is permitted.

How do I know if a dispensary is licensed and safe?

Licensed dispensaries display a New York State Licensed Cannabis Dispensary decal near the main entrance. The decal includes a QR code linking to the state's verification system. You can also check the Office of Cannabis Management's dispensary locator online to confirm a location's license status.

Licensed dispensaries only sell products that have passed mandatory state testing for pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and contaminants. Staff at licensed locations are trained and can answer questions about products.

Licensed stores follow strict packaging and labeling requirements, including accurate THC content and safety warnings. If a store lacks the official decal or cannot provide verification, it's operating illegally.

What's the difference between flower, pre-rolls, and concentrates?

Flower is dried cannabis buds sold for smoking or vaporizing. It offers the full terpene profile and allows you to control dosage and consumption method. Flower typically ranges from 15-30% THC depending on strain and cultivation.

Pre-rolls are joints filled with ground cannabis flower, ready to smoke without preparation. Quality pre-rolls use whole flower, not trim or shake.

Concentrates include vapes, oils, wax, and edibles. These products extract cannabinoids and terpenes from flower, resulting in higher THC concentrations (typically 60-90% for vapes and concentrates).

Edibles are measured in milligrams of THC per serving and produce longer-lasting effects than smoking. Each format offers different experiences, onset times, and duration of effects.

Are cannabis products in New York tested for safety?

Yes. New York requires all legal cannabis products to undergo mandatory third-party laboratory testing before sale. Testing covers pesticides, heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury), microbial contaminants (E. coli, salmonella, mold), mycotoxins, residual solvents, and moisture content.

Labs also verify cannabinoid potency (THC, CBD levels) and terpene profiles. Products that fail testing cannot be sold. Each product includes a Certificate of Analysis (COA) accessible via QR code on the packaging.

The COA shows all test results and confirms the product passed safety standards. This testing distinguishes legal dispensary products from unlicensed market cannabis, which frequently contains dangerous contaminants. Studies found harmful bacteria and heavy metals in 40% of unlicensed products.

What should I look for on a cannabis product label?

New York cannabis labels must include THC and CBD percentages, total cannabinoid content, serving size, and total servings per package. Labels also display a QR code or link to the product's Certificate of Analysis showing safety test results.

The packaging includes harvest or production date, expiration date, batch number, and the cultivator's license number. Required warnings cover pregnancy risks, keeping products away from children, and potential impairment.
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Labels list dominant terpenes in some products. The net weight and manufacturer information must be clearly visible. Check the harvest date—fresher products maintain better terpene profiles and potency.

Scan the QR code to verify testing results before purchase.

Can I travel with cannabis between New York and other states?

No. Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, making it illegal to cross state lines with any amount, even if traveling to another state where cannabis is legal. This includes driving, flying, taking trains, or any interstate travel.

Airport security (TSA) operates under federal law. While TSA doesn't actively search for cannabis, discovering it can lead to legal consequences. The same applies to international borders—attempting to enter Canada or any other country with cannabis is illegal and can result in criminal charges and entry denial.

You can transport cannabis within New York State, but only the legal possession limits apply (3 ounces flower, 24 grams concentrate).