Cannabis is a plant containing numerous naturally occurring chemical compounds, including cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Different varieties have been selected for fiber, grain, cannabinoids and other purposes.

Hemp is cannabis that meets the applicable legal definition based largely on its delta-9 THC concentration. Hemp can be cultivated for fiber, grain and cannabinoid production.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabinoid produced by cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the characteristic THC high. Research into CBD continues and many advertised health claims have not been established.

THC usually refers to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary intoxicating cannabinoid associated with cannabis.

THCA is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, a naturally occurring precursor to THC in the plant. Heat can convert THCA into THC through a process known as decarboxylation.

Cannabinoids are compounds that interact in different ways with biological systems. Cannabis produces phytocannabinoids such as THC, CBD, CBG, CBC and others.

The endocannabinoid system is a biological signaling system involving naturally produced endocannabinoids, receptors and enzymes. Researchers continue studying its roles throughout the body.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found throughout nature. Cannabis can contain terpenes also found in citrus, pine, lavender, herbs and many other plants.

Myrcene is a terpene found in cannabis and other plants. Its aroma is often described as earthy, herbal or musky. Research continues into how individual terpenes may interact with other plant compounds.

Limonene is a citrus-associated terpene found in many plants, including citrus peels and some cannabis varieties.

Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene are aromatic compounds associated with pine-like aromas and occur naturally in many plants.

Linalool is an aromatic terpene found in plants including lavender as well as some cannabis varieties.

Beta-caryophyllene is a terpene found in cannabis as well as plants and spices such as black pepper and cloves.

These names remain common ways of categorizing cannabis, but they do not reliably guarantee a particular experience. Chemical composition, potency, dose, individual biology and other factors can all matter.

Cannabis ruderalis is a term used for cannabis populations historically associated with parts of Central and Eastern Europe and Asia. Ruderalis plants are often described as smaller and adapted to shorter growing seasons. They are especially known in modern cannabis breeding for their autoflowering characteristics, meaning flowering can begin largely based on plant age rather than depending entirely on changes in the light cycle. Ruderalis genetics have been crossed with other cannabis varieties to create many modern autoflowering cultivars.

No. THC concentration is only one characteristic. Aroma, cannabinoid composition, terpene profile, cultivation, freshness and personal preference can also matter.

Effects can vary based on product potency, method of use, previous experience, individual biology and whether other substances are being used.

Edibles are foods or beverages containing cannabis compounds. Their effects can be delayed compared with inhalation and can last longer than expected.

Ingested cannabinoids travel through the digestive system and undergo metabolism before their effects are fully experienced. Timing varies between people and products.

A seed bank preserves, catalogs or distributes plant genetics. Laws concerning cannabis seeds and cultivation vary by jurisdiction, so possessing a seed does not necessarily mean cultivating it is legal where you live.

Feminized cannabis seeds are produced with the goal of greatly increasing the likelihood of female plants.

Autoflowering cannabis genetics begin flowering largely according to plant age rather than relying entirely on changes in the light cycle. This characteristic is commonly associated with Cannabis ruderalis genetics, which breeders have crossed with other cannabis varieties to produce many modern autoflowering cultivars.

Trichomes are small structures found on cannabis flowers and other plant surfaces. Glandular trichomes are important sites for production of cannabinoids and aromatic compounds.

Hemp stalks contain valuable bast fiber and woody hurd. Applications can include textiles, cordage, paper, animal bedding, composites and building materials.

Hurd, sometimes called shiv, is the woody inner portion of the hemp stalk. It can be used in animal bedding and certain building-material applications.

Bast fibers occur toward the outside of the hemp stalk. Historically and commercially they have been used for cordage, textiles and other fiber products.

Yes. Hemp-derived materials are being explored and used in building products including hemp-lime mixtures and composite materials.