How to Read a Medical Marijuana Label
- John DiBella
- Published: March 4, 2025
- Updated: March 4, 2025
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
If you’re new to medical marijuana, knowing how to read a marijuana label is an essential skill. Labels on cannabis products provide vital information that can help you make informed decisions and use cannabis safely.
This blog will walk you through the importance of understanding medical marijuana labels and break down each component so you can confidently select the right product for your needs.
About Medical Marijuana Labels
Medical marijuana labels can be found on a variety of medical cannabis products and are designed to provide patients with detailed information about the product’s ingredients and how to use it. A marijuana label typically includes key details such as the strain name, product weight, potency levels, and more.
Additionally, these labels are legally required in many states to help ensure transparency and consumer safety. Each state has its own regulations governing the labeling of medical marijuana products. While some states require extensive information, others may have fewer mandates.
Regardless of the differences, understanding how to interpret a label is critical for every patient. Knowing how to read a medical marijuana label allows you to:
- Avoid unwanted side effects by choosing products that match your tolerance and needs.
- Identify and choose strains and products that work best for managing your condition.
- Ensure safe and responsible use of medical cannabis.
Labels serve as a guide to help you navigate the world of medical marijuana, whether you are seeking relief from chronic pain, anxiety, or another condition. Taking the time to understand the information on the label can make a significant difference in your treatment outcomes.
Understanding a Medical Marijuana Label
Medical marijuana labels provide essential information about the product. Below is an example of a label from a product our doctors have prescribed. We’ll reference this example throughout the article as we break down each component.
Let’s break down the key aspects to help you make the best choice for your needs. Below is an example medical marijuana label prescribed by one of our doctors:
Strain Name and Type
The strain name identifies the specific variety of cannabis, such as “Blue Dream,” “Granddaddy Purple,” or “Sour Diesel.” Along with the name, the label often indicates the strain type: Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid. Each type is associated with different effects:
- Indica strains are typically known for their calming, sedative effects.
- Sativa strains are often uplifting and energizing.
- Hybrid strains offer a combination of both effects, depending on the specific genetics.
Understanding the strain type can help you choose a product that aligns with your desired therapeutic outcomes, whether it’s for relaxation, focus, or pain relief.
In our example marijuana label, we see in the top left corner that the strain name is “Durban Z” (Durban Zkittlez) sourced by RYTHM Cannabis. The strain type is “sativa.”
Weight & Product Type
The label should indicate which form the cannabis comes in, whether flower, concentrate, or edibles. You will also see the product “weight” indicated, usually measured in grams or ounces. This information is crucial for determining how much cannabis you are purchasing and for measuring your doses accurately.
The total weight or quantity of a marijuana product depends on your state’s regulations. For example, in Pennsylvania, the purchase limits for medical marijuana are as follows:
- 3.5 grams flower
- 1 gram concentrate
- 100 milligrams of ingestible THC (edibles)
Looking at the top left corner of our example label beneath the strain information, we see that this product is 3.5 grams of smokable flower.
Potency of Cannabinoids
Potency refers to the levels of cannabinoids, which are the active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD. These levels are typically expressed as percentages or milligrams per gram. For example:
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” sensation.
- THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): A non-psychoactive compound that converts to THC when heated. Believed to contain anti-inflammatory properties.
- THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): Known for appetite suppression and potential energy-boosting effects.
- THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol): A highly potent cannabinoid used in small doses to induce intense psychoactive effects and therapeutic benefits like improved sleep.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive compound known for therapeutic effects such as reducing inflammation and anxiety.
- CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid): A precursor to CBD, known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties.
- CBDV (Cannabidivarin): Studied for its potential in treating neurological conditions.
- CBN (Cannabinol): Often associated with sedative effects and used for sleep support.
- CBG (Cannabigerol): Believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- CBC (Cannabichromene): Associated with pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
- CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid): The acidic precursor to CBG, with potential neuroprotective benefits.
In our example, the cannabinoid potency list is in the middle of the label. We see that this product is 1.54% THC, 30% THCA (which converts to THC), and <1% CBG. This is a relatively high-THC product, which means it will likely produce a strong “high.”
Strain Specific Terpenes
In addition to cannabinoid levels, labels often include a list of terpenes present in the product. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that influence the flavor, aroma, and effects of cannabis. Understanding these components can help you select products tailored to your specific needs and desired effects.
Common terpenes and their effects include:
- Caryophyllene: Offers anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits.
- Myrcene: Promotes relaxation and sedation.
- Pinene: May enhance focus and memory.
- Limonene: Known for its uplifting and stress-relieving properties.
- Linalool: Associated with calming and anti-anxiety effects.
- Bisabolol: Known for its soothing and anti-microbial properties.
- Humulene: Known for its appetite-suppressing properties.
- Terpinolene: Provides uplifting effects and a fresh, herbal aroma.
- Ocimene: Offers anti-inflammatory benefits and a sweet, citrusy scent.
- Camphene: May assist with pain relief and has a musky, earthy aroma.
Our example contains 9 different terpenes, listed in the top right corner of the label. The most dominant terpene is “terpinolene” at 1.66%. We often hear people describe their experience with terpinolene as stimulating and refreshing.
Marijuana Dosage
Dosage information is an essential aspect of the label, especially for new users. The label may provide guidelines on the recommended dose based on the product’s potency. For instance, edibles often list the amount of THC or CBD per serving, helping you control your intake and avoid overconsumption.
Our example label indicates “10 doses per gram” in the bottom right corner. Since the total product contains 3.5g, you would split up the marijuana into 35 doses (10 x 3.5 = 35).
Package Date & Expiration Date
The package date indicates when the product was prepared, while the expiration date provides guidance on its shelf life. Over time, cannabis products can lose potency and flavor. Using a product before its expiration date ensures a fresher and more effective experience. Be mindful of these dates to avoid using stale or ineffective products.
Our label lists the packaged date, expiration date, ship/pack ID, and batch ID in the bottom right corner.
Warning Statements
Medical marijuana labels include warning statements to promote safe use. Common warnings might address:
- Potential side effects, such as drowsiness or impaired motor skills.
- Legal disclaimers, reminding users to keep the product out of reach of children.
- Storage instructions, such as keeping the product in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
- Reminders to refrain from consuming while pregnant, breastfeeding, driving, or operating heavy machinery.
In the bottom middle section of our label, there’s a disclaimer: “May help to temporarily promote these effects. Effects may vary by consumer.” This statement refers to the effects outlined by the patient’s medical marijuana doctor, for which the product was prescribed.
Conclusion
Understanding how to read a medical marijuana label is an essential step in becoming an informed and responsible cannabis patient. Labels provide critical information about strain names, weight, potency, dosage, and more, helping you choose the right product for your needs.
By taking the time to familiarize yourself with these details, you can minimize unwanted effects, find the best products for your condition, and achieve optimal results from your medical marijuana treatment.
At The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, our certified medical marijuana doctors guide patients in choosing the right strain, type, and dosage for their needs. If you are interested in medical marijuana’s therapeutic benefits, please do not hesitate to contact us to see if you qualify for a medical marijuana card. We’ll help you understand your state’s regulations and whether marijuana is the right fit for you.
How we reviewed this article:
- Terence Ng, Maureen C. Keshock (2023). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563174/ - Hannah Meissner, Marco Cascella (2024). Cannabidiol (CBD) in Clinical Care
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556048/ - Yunjeong Song, et al. (2021). Limonene has anti-anxiety activity via adenosine A2A receptor-mediated regulation of dopaminergic and GABAergic neuronal function in the striatum
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33548867/ - Elham Ramazani, et al. (2022). Pharmacological and biological effects of alpha-bisabolol: An updated review of the molecular mechanisms
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0024320522004283
Current Version
March 4, 2025
Written By
John Dibella
Fact-checked By
Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
John DiBella is the co-founder and CEO at The Sanctuary Wellness Institute. His goal is to foster healthier lifestyles to improve individuals’ quality of life and health span through online medical and non-medical services. When he’s not writing blogs about medical marijuana, he enjoys hiking, camping, surfing and sailing.
