Cheeba

Cheeba is a slang term for cannabis of Mexican Spanish origin popularized in the 1960s. 

“Is this cheeba sativa?”

“Roll me a joint of that cheeba.”

History of cheeba 

Cheeba is a Mexican Spanish word for cannabis dating back to the mid-1900s that derives from the word “chiva,” a Spanish word for heroin. The association with heroin is thought to come from the dark and sticky appearance of Brazilian-grown cannabis brought into Mexico after it was prohibited, which was said to resemble heroin. However, as cannabis spread through Latin America, cheeba took on less of a negative meaning. 

Is cheeba cannabis?

Despite squeamish origins, cheeba, even in the US, is considered a nickname for cannabis and not heroin, to the point where an edible company has adopted the moniker: Cheeba Chews. Cheeba does not refer to a specific cannabis cultivar or effects produced from smoking, despite that many of Mexico’s landrace strains are sativas.   



Stay In Touch

Receive updates on new products, special offers, and industry news.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Leafly mobile app
Get high for less.
Download the Leafly app.
Download Leafly: Marijuana Reviews on the App Store
Download Leafly Marijuana Reviews on Google Play




The material provided on Leafly is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Leafly is not engaged in rendering medical service or advice and the information provided is not a substitute for a professional medical opinion. If you have a medical problem, please contact a qualified health professional.


© 2024 Leafly, LLC
Leafly and the Leafly logo are registered trademarks of Leafly, LLC. All Rights Reserved.