Glossary of CBD, Cannabidiol, Hemp

Glossary of CBD and Hemp

Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, has attracted growing interest in recent years thanks to its many therapeutic benefits and its lack of psychoactive effects. Used in a variety of products ranging from oils and flowers to edibles and topicals, CBD has become a popular natural alternative for relieving a multitude of ailments such as anxiety, pain, and insomnia. However, understanding the different aspects of CBD, as well as the terms associated with this substance and the hemp plant, can sometimes be complex.

This comprehensive glossary aims to demystify key terms and concepts related to CBD, hemp and other cannabinoids. Whether you are a new or experienced consumer, this resource will help you navigate the world of CBD, understand its different applications, and choose the products best suited to your needs. As you explore this glossary, you'll learn about the nuances of extraction methods, the unique properties of various cannabinoids, and the importance of terpenes and delivery systems, among others.

Immerse yourself in this fascinating universe and let yourself be guided through the essential terms that make CBD a revolution in the field of health and well-being.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD, or cannabidiol , is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high”. Used primarily for its therapeutic properties, CBD is known to help relieve anxiety, pain, inflammation and certain sleep disorders.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the main psychoactive compound in the cannabis plant. It is the substance that causes the euphoric effects often associated with cannabis use. In France, the THC level authorized in cannabis products is 0.3%.

Hemp

Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant grown specifically for industrial, non-psychoactive uses. Hemp is used to produce a wide range of products, including textiles, construction materials, food, biofuels and natural health products such as CBD.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. They interact with the human body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. The most well-known cannabinoids are CBD and THC, but there are over 100 others, such as CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin).

CBG (Cannabigerol)

CBG is often called the “stem cell” of cannabinoids because it is the precursor to several other cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. CBG has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is being studied for its potential therapeutic effects on neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN cannabinoid that forms when THC ages and oxidizes. It is slightly psychoactive, but its effects are much milder than those of THC. CBN is often used for its sedative properties, helping to treat insomnia and improve sleep quality.

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

THCV is a cannabinoid that has mild psychoactive effects similar to THC, but can also counteract some of the effects of THC, such as increasing appetite. It is being studied for its potential benefits in the treatment of diabetes and obesity.

CBD oils

CBD oils are concentrated extracts of cannabidiol diluted in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. They are used for easy administration and can be consumed orally or applied topically.

CBD flowers

CBD flowers are the buds of the hemp plant, rich in cannabidiol. They can be smoked, vaporized or used to make infusions. CBD flowers offer a similar experience to traditional cannabis without the psychoactive effects of THC.

CBD Resins and Hash

resin hash are concentrated extracts obtained from the trichomes of the cannabis plant. They contain a high concentration of CBD and are often used for their powerful therapeutic effects. They can be consumed in a variety of ways, including spraying them or mixing them with food.

CBD herbal teas

CBD herbal teas are infusions made from hemp leaves, flowers and seeds. They are consumed for their relaxing and therapeutic effects. CBD herbal tea is a popular option for those looking for a non-inhaled method of consumption.

CBD isolates

CBD isolates are the purest form of cannabidiol, containing only CBD without other cannabinoids, terpenes or flavonoids. They are used in various products, from oils to edibles, to deliver a dose of CBD without other cannabis components.

Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They give cannabis its distinctive aromas and flavors and can also influence the effects of cannabinoids. The most common terpenes in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.

Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors in the human body that interacts with cannabinoids to regulate various physiological functions, such as mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. The two main endocannabinoid receptors are the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Surrounding (Effect of)

The entourage effect is a phenomenon in which cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work together to produce synergistic effects that are more powerful than those produced by each compound individually. This effect is often sought to maximize the therapeutic benefits of cannabis products.

HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)

HHC is a synthetic cannabinoid derived from THC. It is less psychoactive than THC, but offers similar relaxing and analgesic effects. HHC is often used in products for those looking for alternatives to THC with fewer psychoactive effects.

THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol)

THCP is a recently discovered cannabinoid that is structurally similar to THC, but is believed to be much more potent. It interacts with endocannabinoid receptors more intensely, which can lead to stronger therapeutic effects.

CBNO (Obeic Cannabinol)

CBNO is a minor cannabinoid that is formed through the breakdown of THC. It is non-psychoactive and is being studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsant benefits.

CO2 extraction

CO2 extraction is a popular method for obtaining high-quality cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. This method uses carbon dioxide under pressure to extract the desired compounds without the use of chemical solvents, resulting in a pure and safe final product.

Broad Spectrum

Broad-spectrum products contain various cannabinoids and terpenes, but no THC. This allows users to benefit from the entourage effect without the psychoactive effects of THC. This is a popular option for those who want to avoid THC while still enjoying other cannabis compounds.

Full Spectrum

Full Spectrum

Full-spectrum products contain all the cannabinoids, terpenes and other natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3% in France). These products are preferred by those who want to maximize the benefits of the entourage effect for a more complete therapeutic experience.

CBD Isolate

A CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, obtained by extracting and isolating CBD from other cannabinoids and compounds found in hemp. CBD isolates typically contain 99% or more pure CBD and are used by those who want to avoid THC and other cannabinoids completely.

CBD topicals

CBD topicals are CBD-infused products designed for topical application to the skin. They include creams, balms, lotions and gels, and are used to directly target pain, inflammation and skin problems like acne and eczema.

CBD Edibles

CBD edibles are foods and drinks infused with CBD. They include gummies, chocolates, cookies and drinks like teas and sodas. Edibles offer a discreet and tasty method of consuming CBD, with effects that generally last longer than those of other consumption methods.

CBD e-liquids

CBD e-liquids are liquids used in electronic cigarettes or vapes. They allow rapid and effective administration of CBD by inhalation. CBD e-liquids come in a variety of flavors and concentrations to suit user preferences.

CBD capsules

CBD capsules are pills or capsules containing CBD. They offer a convenient and precise way to dose CBD, with generally longer-lasting effects than sublingual oils. The capsules are ideal for those looking for a tasteless and discreet method of consumption.

CBD Tincture

CBD tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of CBD that are typically taken under the tongue for rapid absorption. Tinctures are often formulated with carrier oils and natural flavors to enhance the taste and drinking experience.

CBD Cream for Animals

CBD creams for animals are products specially formulated for pets, such as dogs and cats. They are used to relieve pain, anxiety and other health conditions in animals. These creams are generally applied topically to the animal's skin.

CBD infusions

CBD teas are hot drinks made by infusing CBD leaves, flowers or oils in hot water. CBD infusions are consumed for their relaxing and therapeutic effects, and they offer a smoke-free alternative to consuming CBD.

Nano CBD

Nano CBD is a form of CBD whose particles have been reduced to nanosize to improve bioavailability and effectiveness. Nano CBD products are designed to be absorbed more quickly and efficiently by the body, allowing for faster action and more powerful effects.

Ethanol extraction

Ethanol extraction is a cannabinoid extraction method that uses ethanol as a solvent. This method is effective for extracting a wide range of compounds from cannabis, but it often requires additional purification to remove solvent residue.

Distillation of CBD

CBD distillation is a purification process used to isolate and concentrate CBD from cannabis extracts. This process produces high purity CBD distillates, which can then be used in a variety of products, including oils, topicals and edibles.

CBD wax

CBD wax is a concentrated extract of CBD with a waxy texture. It is often used for dabbing, an inhalation method of consumption that involves vaporizing small amounts of wax at high temperatures. CBD wax is appreciated for its potency and rapid effects.

Phytocannabinoids

Phytocannabinoids are plant-derived cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. In addition to CBD and THC, other phytocannabinoids include CBG, CBN, CBC (cannabichromene), and CBDV (cannabidivarin). Each of these compounds has unique properties and potential therapeutic effects.

Butane extraction (BHO)

Butane extraction (BHO) is a method that uses butane as a solvent to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant. This method produces potent extracts, but requires rigorous purification to remove butane residue and ensure the safety of the final product.

CRD (Cannabinoid Rich Distillate)

CRD is a cannabinoid-rich distillate, containing a broad spectrum of cannabinoid compounds and terpenes while being free of waxes and lipids. CRD products are used to formulate high-quality cannabis products with a high concentration of cannabinoids.

Broad Spectrum Hemp Oil

Broad-spectrum hemp oil is a hemp extract that contains a full range of cannabinoids and terpenes, with the exception of THC. This oil is used to provide the benefits of the entourage effect without the psychoactive effects of THC.

Solvent Extraction

Solvent extraction is a method of extracting cannabinoids using various solvents, such as alcohol, hexane or propane. Although this method is effective for obtaining concentrated extracts, it requires additional purification steps to ensure the safety and purity of the products.

Terpsolates

Terpsolates are CBD isolates that have been reinfused with specific terpenes to enhance their flavor profile and effects. They combine the purity of CBD isolates with the benefits of terpenes to create personalized and effective products.

MCT oils

MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oils are often used as carrier oils in CBD products. They are derived from coconut oil and are valued for their ability to improve the bioavailability of CBD, allowing for faster and more efficient absorption into the body.

CBD Oils for Animals

CBD oils for animals are specially formulated to meet the needs of pets. They are generally dosed based on the pet's weight and are used to treat anxiety, pain, and other health problems in pets.

THC level

THC level refers to the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol in a cannabis product. In France, the THC level authorized in hemp-derived products is 0.3%. This threshold is set to ensure that products do not produce significant psychoactive effects.

CBD Strains (CBD Strains)

CBD strains are specific varieties of the cannabis plant grown for their high levels of cannabidiol and low levels of THC. Each strain has a unique cannabinoid and terpene profile, which may influence its effects and therapeutic uses.

Organic certification

Organic certification is a label awarded to products grown and produced according to strict organic standards. Certified organic CBD products are grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides or chemical fertilizers, ensuring a more natural and environmentally friendly product.