Cannabinoid Profile

The cannabinoid profile is one of the most important sections on a Certificate of Analysis (COA). It’s where you’ll find the breakdown of key compounds that influence how your product will feel.

• THC (Δ9-THC and THCA): These are the main cannabinoids responsible for the euphoric, psychoactive effects cannabis is known for. THCA is the raw, non-psychoactive form found in fresh flower, which converts to THC when heated (via smoking or vaping).
• CBD (CBD and CBDA): These cannabinoids offer non-intoxicating support. Many people turn to CBD for its calming, anti-inflammatory, or balancing properties. Like THCA, CBDA is the raw form that becomes active CBD when decarboxylated.
• Other cannabinoids: Each minor player brings its own unique potential. CBG for focus, CBN for sleep support, and THCV for appetite regulation, for example.
• Total THC vs. Total CBD: These are calculated figures that take into account how much of the raw acidic form will convert into active THC when heated.

At Mayflower, we look at all of these details before any product hits our shelves so you always know what you’re consuming, and how it might affect you.

Terpene Profile

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give each cannabis strain its signature scent, but they do more than just smell good. While a terpene profile isn’t always included on a COA, we believe it’s a valuable piece of the puzzle when it comes to choosing the right product.

Common terpenes and their effects:

• Myrcene – Earthy, musky aroma; associated with relaxation.
• Limonene – Citrus scent; linked to mood elevation and stress relief.
• Linalool – Floral and lavender-like; known for calming properties.
• Caryophyllene – Peppery or spicy; unique in how it interacts with cannabinoid receptors, often used for inflammation and pain relief.

Terpenes work synergistically with cannabinoids in what’s called the entourage effect, potentially enhancing or modifying the effects of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.

Contaminant Testing

Contaminant testing is one of the most important sections of the Certificate of Analysis (COA). This is where you’ll see if the product has been screened for harmful substances (and if they passed).

What’s tested:

• Microbials – Mold, mildew, yeast, and bacteria that could pose health risks, especially for immunocompromised individuals.
• Heavy Metals – Harmful elements like lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium, which can accumulate in plants from soil or water.
• Residual Solvents – Leftover chemicals from extraction processes, such as butane or ethanol. Solvent-free is always the goal.
• Pesticides – Chemical residues from pest control that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested.

Look for “Pass” or “ND” (None Detected) in the results column. Some COAs also include a threshold or limit. If the amount detected is below this, it’s considered safe. A failure in any of these categories means the product should never make it to shelves.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Knowing how to read a COA also means knowing when something doesn’t add up. These red flags should give you pause before purchasing:

• Missing Lab Information: Every COA should clearly state the testing lab’s name, license number, and certification status.
• Incomplete or Outdated Test Results: Testing should cover cannabinoids, contaminants, and (ideally) terpenes.
• No Test Results At All: If a dispensary or brand can’t provide lab results, that’s a huge red flag. In Massachusetts, test results are required by law.
• “Fail” on Contaminant Testing: Any product that doesn’t meet safety thresholds for things like mold, heavy metals, or residual solvents should never be on shelves.

At Mayflower, we only carry products that have passed all required tests with flying colors, and we’re always happy to walk you through the COA.