Whether you’re new to the world of CBD or a seasoned enthusiast looking to deepen your knowledge, this comprehensive CBD glossary is designed to demystify the terms, products, and science behind CBD. Dive in to discover, understand, and master the language of cannabinoids.
A
- Anandamide: An endocannabinoid, often dubbed the “bliss molecule.” It plays a pivotal role in regulating mood, appetite, and memory.
- Administration Methods: Refers to the various ways cannabinoids can be introduced into the body, including oils (oral/sublingual), capsules, topicals, and more.
- Absorption: The process by which cannabinoids enter the bloodstream, influenced by the method of administration.
B
- Broad Spectrum: Products that encompass a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes, but without THC. Ideal for those wanting the benefits of the “entourage effect” without THC exposure.
- Bioavailability: The proportion of a substance entering the circulation when introduced into the body, thus becoming available for active use. Factors like administration method can influence the bioavailability of cannabinoids.
C
- CBD (Cannabidiol): One of the most studied cannabinoids, derived from the hemp plant. Non-psychoactive and known for potential therapeutic benefits like anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties.
- CBG (Cannabigerol): A non-intoxicating cannabinoid. It’s often referred to as the “stem cell” of cannabinoids, as other cannabinoids like THC and CBD originate from it.
- CBN (Cannabinol): A minor cannabinoid known for its potential relaxing and sedative effects.
- Cannabis: A genus of flowering plants that includes both hemp (largely CBD-rich and low in THC) and marijuana (typically high in THC).
- Capsules: A preferred method of cannabinoid intake for those desiring precise and consistent dosing. Capsules contain a predetermined amount of cannabinoid content.
D
- Decarboxylation: A process involving heat to activate cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, turning the acidic forms like CBDA into more active forms like CBD.
- Dosage: The amount of CBD, CBG, or other cannabinoids taken at one time. Proper dosage can vary based on individual needs and product potency.
E
- Endocannabinoid System (ECS): A complex cell-signaling system in our bodies known to play roles in regulating a range of functions and processes. The ECS interacts with cannabinoids introduced into the body.
- Entourage Effect: A theory suggesting that all the compounds in cannabis work together, enhancing the therapeutic effects of each component.
- Extraction: The method used to isolate and remove cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) and other desired compounds from the cannabis plant.
F
- Full Spectrum: A type of CBD extract that contains all the naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant, including terpenes, essential oils, and other cannabinoids, such as CBG and CBN, and even THC.
- Flavonoids: A group of phytonutrients responsible for the non-green colors in plants. They have a variety of health benefits and also play a role in the aroma and flavor profile of different cannabis strains.
- Farm Bill: Refers to the US Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 which federally legalized the production of hemp and removed it from the list of controlled substances, revolutionizing the CBD industry.
G
- Gummies: An edible form of CBD intake that provides a tasty and discreet way of consuming cannabinoids. They come in a variety of flavors, shapes, and potencies.
- Greenhouse Growing: A popular method for cultivating cannabis. It offers a controlled environment that can maximize yield while minimizing environmental impact.
H
- Hemp: A variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown primarily for its industrial uses. Hemp has a low THC content, making it the primary source for CBD extraction.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant. It is rich in nutrients and fatty acids but does not contain CBD or other cannabinoids.
I
- Isolate: Refers to the purest form of a cannabinoid, where all other compounds have been completely removed. CBD isolate is 99% pure CBD, with no other active ingredients.
- Indica: One of the primary cannabis strains known for its relaxing effects. It’s typically recommended for nighttime use.
J
- Joint: A cannabis cigarette. While joints can be purely marijuana, they can also be a mix of cannabis and other ingredients, like tobacco.
- Juicing: A method of consuming raw cannabis. Juicing the raw cannabis plant offers a different set of benefits compared to consuming it once it’s been heated or aged.
K
- Kief: The resinous trichomes of cannabis that may accumulate in containers or be sifted from loose, dry cannabis with a mesh screen or sieve. Kief contains a higher concentration of psychoactive cannabinoids than other parts of the cannabis plant.
- Kush: A family of cannabis strains that originally came from the Hindu Kush mountains. They are typically indica-dominant and are known for their potent effects.
L
- Liposome: A vesicle that is composed of one or more lipid bilayers. In CBD products, liposomes can be used to improve the bioavailability of the cannabinoids.
- Legalization: The process of making cannabis and its derivatives (like CBD) legal for purchase, possession, and use. The terms and conditions can vary by country or state.
M
- Marijuana: A type of cannabis plant or its dried flowers. Unlike hemp, marijuana plants contain enough THC to produce intoxicating effects when consumed.
- Microdosing: Consuming very low doses of cannabis products, typically well below what would produce psychoactive effects. This method is popular for users who want to experience the benefits of cannabis without feeling “high.”
N
- Nanotechnology: A field of research that involves manipulating individual atoms and molecules. In the CBD industry, nanotechnology can be used to improve the bioavailability of CBD in products.
- Nug: Slang term for a dense piece of cannabis flower.
O
- Oils: Cannabis or hemp-derived products that come in oil form. They can be taken sublingually, ingested, or used topically, depending on the product.
- Organic: Cannabis or hemp that is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents.
- Oven: A tool often used in the process of decarboxylation, which involves heating cannabis to activate the THC or CBD content before it’s consumed.
P
- Phenotype: The physical and biochemical characteristics of an organism as determined by the interaction of its genetic constitution and the environment.
- Phytocannabinoids: Cannabinoids that are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant, including CBD, THC, CBG, and more.
- Potency: The concentration or strength of a substance, like CBD or THC, in a product.
- Pre-roll: A pre-made cannabis cigarette, often sold in dispensaries or other outlets.
Q
- Quality Assurance (QA): A systematic process of determining whether products meet the required specifications and standards. In the CBD industry, QA can involve lab testing to ensure potency and purity.
- Quartz: Often used in reference to a type of nail or banger used in dab rigs. Quartz heats up faster than other materials and offers a clean taste.
R
- Receptor: A protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell. In cannabis science, receptors in the endocannabinoid system interact with cannabinoids to produce various effects.
- Rosin: A cannabis concentrate that is made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers. It’s solvent-free and is prized for its purity and flavor.
- Ruderalis: One of the primary species of cannabis plants, alongside Indica and Sativa. Unlike the others, Ruderalis is not known for its psychoactive properties but rather its ability to flower based on age rather than light cycle.
S
- Sativa: A primary species of the cannabis plant known for its energizing effects. Sativa strains are typically taller and have thinner leaves compared to their Indica counterparts.
- Sublingual: Refers to a method of administering substances by placing them under the tongue. Many CBD oils are consumed this way for faster absorption.
- Strain: A specific variety of a plant species. In the cannabis world, strains are bred for certain characteristics, such as flavor, potency, and effects.
T
- Terpenes: Aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. Terpenes are responsible for the distinct aromas of different cannabis strains and may influence their effects.
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound in marijuana that gives the “high” sensation.
- Tincture: An alcohol or oil-based solution that extracts compounds from plants, like CBD. Tinctures are typically taken sublingually or added to food and drinks.
- Topicals: Products like creams, lotions, and balms infused with CBD or other cannabinoids. They’re applied directly to the skin for localized relief.
U
- Undercut: Refers to the practice of selling a product at a lower price than a competitor. In the CBD market, undercutting can happen when new brands try to establish themselves.
- Uptake: The absorption and assimilation of a substance by the body. In the context of cannabinoids, it often refers to how efficiently compounds like CBD are absorbed into the bloodstream.
V
- Vape/Vaporize: A method of consumption where cannabis or hemp-derived products are heated to a point where they turn into vapor, which is then inhaled. Vaporization is seen as a healthier alternative to smoking.
- Vascular System: In botanical terms, it refers to the system of tubes and vessels in a plant that transport water and nutrients. In cannabis, the vascular system plays a role in transporting the plant’s essential oils.
- Vegetative Stage: The phase in a cannabis plant’s life cycle where it grows and matures but does not produce flowers.
W
- Wax: A type of cannabis concentrate that has a consistency similar to earwax or honey. High in cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Whole Plant Extract: Refers to CBD or cannabinoid products that are derived from the entire cannabis plant, including flower, leaves, and stems, ensuring a full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds.
X
- Xerophyte: A plant adapted to survive in an environment with little liquid water, such as a desert. Cannabis is not a true xerophyte but can be cultivated to withstand dryer conditions.
Y
- Yield: Refers to the amount of product (typically flower or oil) produced per cannabis plant or per cultivation cycle. It’s a key metric for growers and manufacturers.
Z
- Zero-THC: Refers to CBD products that are processed to remove all traces of THC. This is often sought after by consumers who want the benefits of CBD without any potential psychoactive effects.
Thank you for journeying through our comprehensive CBD glossary. We hope this A-to-Z guide has illuminated the many facets of the CBD world for you. Whether you’re making an informed purchase or simply quenching your thirst for knowledge, having these definitions at your fingertips is invaluable. Remember, the world of cannabinoids is vast and ever-evolving. Stay curious, and don’t hesitate to revisit this glossary whenever you need clarity. Happy exploring!