Spice is a broad term for synthetic cannabinoids—lab-made chemicals that act on the same brain receptors as THC but often with much stronger and less predictable effects.(Source) These chemicals are sprayed onto dried plant material or dissolved into liquids so they can be smoked, vaped, or sometimes brewed as tea.

The plant material itself has little to no psychoactive effect. The high comes from the synthetic chemicals, which are designed to bind powerfully to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body.(Source) Because these compounds are not regulated for safety or quality, each batch can vary widely in strength and toxicity.

Spice products are typically sold as:

• Dried herbal blends: Shredded leaves or herbs sprayed with synthetic cannabinoids and packaged in small foil or plastic pouches.
• Liquids for vaping: Synthetic cannabinoids dissolved in solvents and sold in bottles or pre-filled cartridges for e-cigarettes and vape pens.
• Powders or concentrates: Less common but sometimes used to spike other substances.

To avoid detection by law enforcement and regulators, manufacturers frequently change the chemical formulas and branding. Products are often labeled as “herbal incense,” “potpourri,” or “not for human consumption,” even though they are intended to be smoked or vaped.(Source)

Common street and brand names include:

• Spice
• K2
• Black Mamba
• Scooby Snax
• Cloud 9
• No More Mr. Nice Guy

In the United States, many synthetic cannabinoids are classified as Schedule I controlled substances, meaning they have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.(Source) However, manufacturers continue to develop new, unlisted compounds to skirt existing laws, which makes it difficult for consumers to know what they are actually using.

Because Spice products are still sold in some smoke shops, online marketplaces, and on the street, some people assume they are safe or legal. In reality, synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to outbreaks of severe poisoning, organ damage, and deaths in multiple states and countries.(Source)