Types of Cannabis Products
Dried Flower
The classic form of cannabis, consisting of dried and cured buds. Dried flower is typically consumed by combustion through a pipe, bong, or rolled into a pre-roll but can also be used in a dry herb vaporizer. Available in a range of sizes, from 1g and 3.5g portions to larger 7g, 14g, and 28g packages. Potency is typically measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Ground/Milled Flower
Pre-ground cannabis flower that is ready to use right out of the package. Typically consumed the same as dried flower, ground/milled flower is available in multiple size formats and strains. It’s ideal for those who want the convenience of ready-to-use flower without the need to grind it themselves. Potency is measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Pre-Rolls (Non-infused)
Pre-rolled cannabis, ready for immediate use. Ideal for consumers looking for convenience, pre-rolls come in a wide range of strains with varying potencies. Made from dried flower, pre-rolls are available in various sizes, from single units (typically 0.5g to 1g) to larger multi-packs. Potency is measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Infused Pre-Rolls
Pre-rolls that are infused with a cannabis concentrate, such as hash, kief, distillate, live resin, or diamonds. The addition of concentrates significantly increases the potency compared to standard, non-infused pre-rolls. Due to their high potency, infused pre-rolls can lead to more intense effects and are not recommended for novice consumers or those with low tolerance. Infused pre-rolls are available in various potencies, sizes, and strains. Potency is measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Edibles & Beverages
Cannabis-infused food and drink products designed for ingestion. These typically offer a slower onset of effects compared to inhalation but can provide a longer-lasting experience. Available in a variety of formats, including gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and carbonated beverages. Potency is measured in total milligrams (mg) per serving.
Ingestible Extracts (Oils & Capsules)
Cannabis concentrates available in liquid or capsule form, providing consumers with a more precise method of dosing desired cannabinoids. Oils can be taken directly, added to food or beverages, while capsules offer a convenient, mess-free consumption method. Ingestible extracts are available in a wide variety of formats, potencies, and sizes. Potency is measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml) or total milligrams (mg).
Concentrates
Highly concentrated cannabis extracts intended for inhalation. Due to their high potency, concentrates can lead to more intense effects and are not recommended for novice consumers or those with low tolerance. Concentrates come in a wide variety of types, sizes, and cannabinoid potencies. Types of cannabis concentrates include hash, resin/rosin, shatter, wax, honey oil, distillate, and diamonds. Concentrate consumption typically requires additional hardware, such as a dab rig or concentrate vaporizer. However, some consumers also add concentrates to dried flower to enhance effects. Potency is measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Vapes
Vape cartridges or disposable pens that contain a cannabis concentrate. Vapes work by heating the concentrate to a temperature that turns it into vapor without combustion. Vapes are fast-acting and, due to their high potency, can lead to more intense effects. They are not recommended for novice consumers or those with low tolerance. Vapes come in a wide variety of sizes and cannabinoid potencies, based on the type of concentrate used. Potency is measured in milligrams per gram (mg/g) or as a percentage.
Topicals
Cannabis-infused creams, lotions, and oils that are designed for external use. Applied directly to the skin, these products allow targeted application without the psychoactive effects associated with inhalation or ingesting. Topicals come in various formats, including balms, lotions, oils, and sprays. Potency is measured in total milligrams (mg) or milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml).
Seeds
Cannabis seeds used for cultivation. Potency varies depending on growing conditions, and while seeds typically don't provide specific cannabinoid measurements, they often highlight the potential potency of the resulting flower. Seeds are usually sold in multi-seed packages.
The Bottom Line
With so many types of cannabis products available, understanding the differences and potency of each product type is essential to help you make an informed choice. Remember to always start low and go slow, especially with more potent products, to ensure a desired experience.