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Cannabis Labels & Product Info: How to Read THC, CBD, & Terpenes

Shopping for cannabis online can feel overwhelming. Percentages, abbreviations, strain names, categories, it can all blur together fast. Cannabis labels are meant to inform, but if you don’t know what you’re looking at, they can raise more questions than answers.

At Herbal IQ, we believe a better experience starts with understanding what’s on the label. This guide breaks down the key elements you’ll see on cannabis products—THC, CBD, terpenes, strain types, and potency, and explains how to use that information to make smarter, more confident choices.

We’ll also walk through how to read the product cards in our online menu, so you know exactly what each badge, number, and label means before you add something to your cart.

Whether you’re new to cannabis or just want a clearer picture of what you’re buying, this guide is built to help.

Why Cannabis Labels Matter

Cannabis isn’t one-size-fits-all. Two products that look similar can produce very different experiences depending on their cannabinoid content, strain genetics, and terpene profile.

Labels exist to answer questions like:

  • How strong is this product?

  • Is it THC-dominant, CBD-dominant, or balanced?

  • What type of experience is it generally associated with?

  • How does this compare to something I’ve tried before?

Understanding labels gives you control. Instead of guessing, you can shop intentionally—especially important when browsing a live menu with dozens (or hundreds) of options.

THC Explained: What the Percentage Really Means

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. On flower products, THC is usually shown as a percentage by weight. Think of THC as strength, not quality.

Common THC Ranges (Flower)

  • 10–15% THC: Lower potency, often chosen by newer consumers or those who prefer a lighter experience

  • 15–22% THC: Moderate potency, common across many popular strains

  • 22%+ THC: High potency, typically more intense and longer-lasting

A higher THC percentage does not automatically mean “better.” It simply means the flower contains more THC by weight. How a product feels can vary based on strain genetics, terpene profile, freshness, and personal tolerance.

CBD Explained: Balance and Presence

CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid commonly found alongside THC, usually in much smaller amounts in recreational flower.

On most flower labels, CBD will appear as:

  • 0.0–1.0% CBD (very common)

  • Occasionally higher in specially bred or balanced strains

CBD doesn’t cancel THC, but it can influence how the overall experience feels. Products with a bit of CBD are often described as feeling more balanced or rounded compared to THC-only options.

If CBD is present, it should always be clearly listed on the label.

Terpenes: Flavor, Aroma, and Character

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis (and many plants) that contribute to aroma, flavor, and overall character.

You’ll often see terpene information described in one of three ways:

  • A terpene list (e.g., limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene)

  • A dominant terpene callout

  • A flavor or aroma description (earthy, citrusy, sweet, diesel-like, etc.)

Terpenes don’t change THC percentage, but they help explain why two products with similar THC levels can feel noticeably different. One might lean bright and uplifting, while another feels heavier or more grounding.

Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid: What Those Labels Mean Today

Most cannabis products fall into one of three categories:

  • Indica

  • Sativa

  • Hybrid

These labels refer to the plant’s genetics and general tendencies, not strict rules.

  • Indica-leaning products are commonly associated with more relaxed, body-forward effects

  • Sativa-leaning products are often described as more uplifting or energizing

  • Hybrids combine traits from both, sometimes leaning one direction

Nearly everything on today’s market is a hybrid to some degree. These labels are best used as general guidance, not guarantees.

Potency Isn’t Everything

It’s tempting to sort a menu by highest THC and call it a day, but that approach often leads to disappointment.

A product with slightly lower THC but a terpene profile you enjoy may feel better than something stronger on paper. Freshness, strain genetics, and how your body responds all matter.

Labels give you data. The goal is using that data to find what works for you.

How to Read Herbal IQ Product Cards (Step-by-Step)

When you browse the Herbal IQ menu online, each product card is designed to give you key information at a glance. Here’s how to read it using a flower product example.

1. Product Name & Weight

At the top, you’ll see the product name followed by the weight (for example, 3.5g or 1/8 oz).

This tells you:

  • The strain or product name

  • Exactly how much cannabis you’re purchasing

2. Brand Name

Just above or below the product name is the brand. Brands matter because they reflect:

  • Growing standards

  • Consistency

  • Packaging and quality control

If you’ve enjoyed a product from a brand before, this makes it easy to find similar options.

3. Price & Deals

The price shown reflects the current cost, and if a product is on sale, you’ll see:

  • The discounted price

  • The original price crossed out

  • Any promotional callouts

All pricing shown includes applicable sales tax, so there are no surprises at checkout.

4. Strain Type Badge

You’ll see a label such as:

  • Indica-Hybrid

  • Sativa-Hybrid

  • Hybrid

This gives you quick context on the strain’s general leaning.

5. THC & CBD Percentages

Directly on the product card, you’ll find:

  • THC %

  • CBD %

These numbers come from lab testing and represent the cannabinoid content of that specific batch. This is one of the most important comparison points when browsing similar products.

6. Product Description

Each product includes a short description that may cover:

  • Lineage or genetics

  • Flavor and aroma notes

  • General character of the experience

This is where terpene influence is often explained in plain language.

7. Quantity Selector & Add to Cart

Finally, you can choose how many units you want and add the product directly to your cart for pickup or delivery.

Everything you need to decide—without digging through multiple pages.

How to Compare Products Like a Pro

When deciding between products, try comparing:

  • THC range instead of chasing the highest number

  • Strain type for general direction

  • Flavor/aroma descriptions that match your preferences

  • Brands you’ve enjoyed before

If two products look similar, terpene descriptions and strain lineage are often the deciding factors.

Confidence Comes From Understanding

Cannabis labels aren’t meant to confuse you—they’re meant to empower you. Once you know what the numbers and terms actually mean, shopping becomes easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

At Herbal IQ, our menu is built to be transparent and easy to navigate, whether you’re browsing in-store or online. Understanding labels helps you get more out of every visit, and ensures you’re choosing products that actually fit what you’re looking for.

If you ever want help interpreting a label or comparing options, our team is always happy to walk you through it.