If you’re visiting Cookies Jamaica or linking up with locals for a session, knowing the right slang can turn a chill moment into real connection. Jamaican ganja culture comes with its own rhythm—and the language reflects it.

Here’s your crash course in the most essential Jamaican cannabis slang terms. These phrases capture the vibe, the herb, and the energy of the island.

1. Ganja

The original and most widely recognized word for cannabis in Jamaica, with roots in Hindi from India’s cultural influence.
Usage: “Mi just grab some ganja from the spot.”

2. Herb

A respectful and spiritual way to refer to cannabis, especially in Rastafarian culture. It’s about healing, not just high.
Usage: “Give thanks for the healing herb.”

3. Spliff

A hand-rolled joint—often blended with a touch of tobacco, but not always. It’s a classic part of the Jamaican smoking ritual.
Usage: “You have a light for mi spliff?”

4. Chalice

A traditional Rastafarian water pipe, often passed around in group reasoning sessions. Sacred, powerful, and rooted in ritual.
Usage: “We bun the herb through di chalice this morning.”

5. Bun (di) Herb

To “bun” the herb is simply to smoke it. Whether it’s solo or with a crew, this phrase is your go-to.
Usage: “Mi ago bun a likkle herb and hold a medz.”

6. Medz

Short for “meditation” or “mental state.” It’s the vibe or energy you’re on—especially when you’re reasoning or elevated.
Usage: “Mi deh pon a positive medz today.”

7. Irie

That everything-blessed, all-good, elevated kind of feeling. If you’re feeling irie, you’re exactly where you need to be.
Usage: “Mi feel irie after dat high grade.”

8. High Grade

Top-tier cannabis. The best of the best—sticky, loud, and smooth. No mids here.
Usage: “Di high grade dem a sell a road loud, yuh zimmi?”

9. Babylon

Common slang for the police or oppressive systems in general. Deeply tied to Rastafarian resistance culture.
Usage: “Hide di spliff—Babylon a roll in.”

10. Riddim

Not ganja-specific, but everywhere in Jamaica. It means rhythm or beat, but it’s also used to describe a vibe or flow.
Usage: “Di riddim deh sweet mi—perfect fi blaze to.”

FAQs

Q: Do Jamaicans really use all these slang words?
A: Yes—but usage can vary depending on age, region, and context. These terms are widely recognized across Jamaica, especially within cannabis culture and youth circles.

Q: Is it okay for tourists to use slang like this?
A: If you’re being respectful, genuine, and not overdoing it, locals usually appreciate the effort. Just listen first, learn, and speak naturally—don’t force it.Q: Will I hear these terms at Cookies Jamaica?
A: Absolutely. Our space reflects authentic Jamaican culture, and these slang terms are part of the everyday language, energy, and storytelling around cannabis here.