As cannabis continues to move into the mainstream, product labels have become an essential guide for consumers navigating dispensary shelves. Whether purchasing flower, edibles, or concentrates, understanding what’s printed on a cannabis label is key to making informed choices. Beyond branding and strain names, the details around potency, terpenes, and testing tell consumers exactly what they’re putting into their bodies—and how it might make them feel.

Potency: Reading the THC and CBD Numbers

The most prominent figures on any cannabis label are typically THC and CBD percentages. These numbers refer to the concentration of each cannabinoid in the product. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high,” while CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and associated with calming or anti-inflammatory effects.

For flower, potency is measured as a percentage of the total weight. For example, a cannabis strain labeled as 22% THC means there are 220 milligrams of THC per gram of flower. Concentrates, on the other hand, often range between 60% and 90% THC due to extraction methods that isolate cannabinoids.

It’s also important to note the “Total THC” and “Total CBD” values often listed on labels. These take into account both the active cannabinoids and their precursor forms, THCA and CBDA. When heated (a process called decarboxylation), these precursors convert into THC and CBD. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and Leafly Labs, this total cannabinoid figure offers a more accurate expectation of potency once the product is consumed.

Consumers should be cautious not to assume that higher THC automatically means a stronger or better experience. Factors like tolerance, consumption method, and terpene profile all play a significant role in the effects felt.

Terpenes: The Aroma and Experience Blueprint

If cannabinoids are the engine, terpenes are the steering wheel. These aromatic compounds exist in thousands of plants and give cannabis its distinctive scents—from citrus and pine to earthy or floral notes. More importantly, terpenes influence how cannabinoids interact with the body, shaping the overall experience in what’s called the “entourage effect.”

Common terpenes include:

• Myrcene: Known for its musky, earthy aroma; associated with relaxation and sedation.
• Limonene: Citrus-scented and believed to promote elevated mood and stress relief.
• Pinene: Offers pine-like freshness and may enhance alertness or counteract short-term memory impairment.
• Linalool: Found in lavender; linked to calming, anti-anxiety effects.
• Caryophyllene: Spicy and peppery; interacts directly with CB2 receptors, providing potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

According to Project CBD and American Chemical Society research, terpene concentration and composition can dramatically affect how users perceive cannabis effects, even among strains with identical THC levels.

Modern labels increasingly include terpene profiles expressed in percentages (for instance, 1.5% total terpenes) or in milligrams per gram. Understanding these profiles helps consumers select products aligned with their desired outcomes—such as relaxation, focus, or creativity.

Testing: Transparency and Safety Above All

Every regulated cannabis product must undergo laboratory testing before reaching dispensary shelves. These tests ensure consumer safety and compliance with state regulations. Accredited labs analyze samples for potency, terpenes, residual solvents, pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants such as mold or bacteria.

In states like California, Nevada, and Colorado, testing standards are among the strictest in the nation. Each batch receives a Certificate of Analysis (COA), verifying that it meets state safety thresholds. Many brands include a QR code on their packaging that links directly to this COA, allowing consumers to verify lab results themselves.

The U.S. Cannabis Council and American Herbal Pharmacopoeia emphasize the importance of purchasing only lab-tested products from licensed dispensaries. Unregulated or black-market items often skip this step, leaving consumers at risk of contamination or mislabeling.

When reviewing lab data, consumers should look for:

• Test Date: Ensures the results are recent.
• Batch Number: Matches the product package.
• Lab Accreditation: Check for ISO/IEC 17025 certification.
• Safety Panel Results: Confirm the product passed pesticide and heavy metal screenings.

These elements provide reassurance that what’s in the container is both accurate and safe.

Why Cannabis Labels Matter

As the cannabis industry matures, label literacy empowers consumers to make smarter decisions. Instead of choosing solely based on THC percentage or strain name, understanding the interplay of cannabinoids, terpenes, and testing offers a more complete picture of quality and effect.

A 2023 Journal of Cannabis Research study found that consumers who understood label data were more likely to find consistent, predictable experiences from their purchases. Whether seeking pain relief, creativity, or relaxation, informed selection reduces the trial-and-error often associated with cannabis use.

Ultimately, cannabis labels are more than regulatory requirements—they’re a roadmap to a personalized experience. With transparency, education, and careful attention, consumers can better navigate an evolving market that values both science and safety.