For so many of us, the world of CBD, hemp, and cannabis is foreign. Ask your average person if they know the difference between CBD and CBN and you may get a blank stare. In truth, CBN and CBD are two of over 100 types of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Our CBD and Cannabis Dictionary should help clear the confusion around these terms and others commonly heard when talking about hemp and cannabis.
If that’s news to you, then you’re in the right place to learn some of the basic terms floating around this burgeoning world. And check out our FAQ’s or videos for more clarification.
Bud: The flower of the cannabis plant. It refers directly to how the flowers are dried, cured and then smoked.
CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants, known for its potential health benefits such as reducing anxiety, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Cannabinoids: Chemical compounds found in cannabis plants. The most well-known cannabinoids are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Cannabis: A plant genus that includes both marijuana and hemp. It contains numerous cannabinoids, including CBD and THC.
Concentrate: Extracts made by rendering cannabis oil from the plant. These deliver all the cannabis effects without the plant’s leaves and vegetation.
Dabbing: This is a dose of concentrated cannabis oil. It can also refer to the consumption of cannabis oil by vaporizing it onto a heated surface, which is more commonly known as a nail or banger.
Distillate: A concentrate or pure cannabis oil; an extraction of the most revered and valuable compounds in the cannabis plant (most often, THC or CBD). Can be consumed orally, sublingually or inhaled.
Edible: Any food (or chewable) that’s been infused with highly concentrated cannabis extract.
Entourage Effect: This is an effect that happens when products harness the full spectrum of cannabis offerings—preserving all of its naturally occurring terpenes and cannabinoids—and providing the full cannabis experience.
Flower: This is the part of the cannabis plant harvested for consumption. Smaller flowers are often referred to as “popcorn buds,” and finely ground flower prepared for rolling joints is commonly known as “shake.”
Hemp: A type of cannabis plant that is high in CBD and low in THC (less than 0.3%). Used for industrial purposes, dietary supplements, and CBD extraction.
Isomer: THC isomers, also known as THC analogs or semi-synthetic cannabinoids, are a group of compounds structurally related to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) that are often produced from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).
Kief: This is the cannabis flower’s most potent part, containing a high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes in its tiny, sticky crystals. It is sometimes used for pain (and some seek it as an alternate for opioids). Kief falls off the plant when it is ground or handled. Many grinders feature a kief screen to collect the kief for later use.
Marijuana: A type of cannabis plant that is high in THC and can produce psychoactive effects.
Microdosing: (From Harvard Health) There isn’t a single, clearly recognized definition of microdosing for any psychedelic drug, and this complicates attempts to perform consistent research. One definition is approximately 1/5 to 1/20 of a recreational dose. (From anecdotal experience this is accurate, as a medium-strength dose of psilocybin is 2 to 3 grams of dried mushrooms, and a microdose is typically around 0.3 grams.) One obstacle is that the potency of mushrooms can vary greatly, as they are not regulated outside of clinical trials, so this isn’t an exact science. A type of cannabis plant that is high in THC and can produce psychoactive effects.
Nano-Emulsified: A mix where two liquids which don’t normally combine (like oil and water), join with a third substance that binds them together and creates smaller particles in the process. Nano-cannabinoids can be used in a wide variety of ingestible products and can provide a reliable and potent effect
Ratio: Refers to the ratio of THC to CBD in a consumer product. The “high” effects of TCH are diminished when more CBD is added. Common ratios are 1:1, 1:20 and 20:1.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use.
Full-Spectrum CBD: CBD products that contain all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, including a trace amount of THC (up to 0.3%).
Broad-Spectrum CBD: Similar to full-spectrum CBD but with all THC removed. It contains other cannabinoids and terpenes.
CBD Isolate: Pure CBD with no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or THC. It’s typically over 99% pure.
Terpenes: Aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They contribute to the plant’s aroma and may have therapeutic benefits.
Entourage Effect: The synergistic effect that occurs when all the compounds in the cannabis plant (cannabinoids, terpenes, etc.) work together to enhance the potential benefits.
Delta-8 (Δ8-THC) THC: A cannabinoid found in small amounts in cannabis plants. It has similar effects to delta-9 THC but is generally considered to be less potent.
Delta-9 (Δ9-THC) THC: The most well-known and abundant form of THC in cannabis, responsible for the psychoactive effects or “high” associated with marijuana.
Delta-10 (Δ10-THC) THC: A cannabinoid found in trace amounts in cannabis plants. It is less potent than delta-9 THC and is known for providing a more subtle, uplifting effect.
CBN (Cannabinol): A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that is formed as THC ages. It is often associated with sedative effects and is commonly used for sleep aid.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS): A biological system in the human body that interacts with cannabinoids. It helps regulate various functions such as sleep, mood, pain, and immune response.
Bioavailability: The degree and rate at which a substance is absorbed into the bloodstream. Different CBD products have varying levels of bioavailability.
CO2 Extraction: A method of extracting CBD from the cannabis plant using carbon dioxide. It’s considered a clean and efficient extraction method.
Tincture: A liquid CBD product made by dissolving CBD extract in a carrier oil, usually taken sublingually (under the tongue).
Edibles: CBD-infused food products, such as gummies, chocolates, or beverages.
Topicals: CBD-infused creams, balms, or lotions applied directly to the skin for localized relief.
Vape Products: CBD oils or e-liquids that are vaporized and inhaled using a vape pen or vaporizer.
Capsules: CBD in pill or softgel form, taken orally.
Nano CBD: CBD that has been broken down into tiny particles to improve its absorption and bioavailability.
Third-Party Testing: Independent testing by a laboratory not affiliated with the CBD product manufacturer to ensure product quality, potency, and safety.
CBD Product Types
Oil/Tinctures: Liquid extracts taken orally or sublingually. They offer a fast way to feel the effects of CBD.
Edibles: Foods or drinks infused with CBD. Examples include gummies, chocolates, and beverages. They are easy to consume and provide long-lasting effects.
Capsules/Pills: Pre-measured doses of CBD in pill form, offering convenience and precise dosing.
Pre-rolls: These “ready for use” cannabis cigarettes are made by rolling the ground flower tightly in rolling paper for smoking.
Topicals: Creams, balms, and lotions applied to the skin for targeted relief of pain, inflammation, or skin conditions.
Vapes: E-liquids or oils designed for vaping, providing quick absorption through the lungs.
Patches: Adhesive patches applied to the skin for slow, steady release of CBD over time.
Isolate: Pure CBD in powder or crystal form, used for direct consumption or as an ingredient in other products.
Beverages: Drinks infused with CBD, such as water, tea, coffee, or energy drinks.
CBD Pet Products: CBD-infused treats, oils, or capsules formulated specifically for pets.
Nano CBD Products: Products using nanoemulsion technology to improve CBD absorption and effectiveness.