Welcome to our Glossary of Terms! This comprehensive list has been curated to assist newcomers in navigating the world of CBD and Cannabis by providing clear explanations of commonly used terminology. Gain a better understanding of key terms and concepts to enhance your knowledge and make informed decisions.
2 – AG
This remarkable substance, derived from arachidonic acid, is naturally present in the brain and can be found in select foods. Acting as a messenger molecule, anandamide works its magic in appetite, depression, memory, and fertility, making it one of the two well-known endocannabinoids.
A
Agricultural Hemp
Refers to varieties of the Cannabis Sativa L. plant that contains less than 0.2% THC in the dry weight material and is grown for industrial purposes, it won’t get you high. Industrial hemp is celebrated for its remarkable versatility, no wonder it is legal in over 40 countries around the world.
Anandamide
This special substance, derived from arachidonic acid, is naturally present in the brain and certain foods. It acts as a messenger molecule, playing a part in appetite, depression, memory, and fertility, making it one of the two recognized endocannabinoids.
B
Bioavailability
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a drug that successfully enters the bloodstream and produces an active effect within the body. It represents the amount of the drug that reaches systemic circulation and is available to exert its intended therapeutic action.
C
Cannabis
Cannabis Sativa L. is the plant behind a fascinating array of products collectively known as cannabis.
Cannabis Sativa L.
Belonging to the Cannabis genus, this remarkable plant species encompasses both agricultural hemp and marijuana. While they are considered subspecies, they are distinct plants with unique characteristics and uses.
Cannabinoid
Within the cannabis plant, you’ll encounter a variety of chemical substances known as cannabinoids. The two most prominent ones are THC and CBD, but there are over 113 known cannabinoids in total. These compounds contribute to the diverse effects and potential benefits associated with cannabis.
CBD
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a phytocannabinoid discovered in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBD does not induce euphoria or a “high” effect. It has been found to offer various health benefits for both humans and animals, making it a fascinating and promising compound.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is derived from the flowering parts of the hemp plant and is then dissolved in a different oil, such as coconut or sesame oil. It is important to note that CBD oil usually does not contain THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, meaning it does not have any mind-altering effects.
CBD-A
CBD-A, or cannabidiolic acid, is an acidic cannabinoid that serves as the natural, raw form of CBD within the cannabis plant. It is produced directly by the plant and undergoes a process of decarboxylation to convert it into CBD, the well-known compound with various potential benefits.
CBC
CBC, short for cannabichromene, is a phytocannabinoid that can be found in cannabis. Unlike some other cannabinoids, CBC has minimal to no intoxicating effects. It offers potential benefits without causing significant psychoactive effects, making it yet another intriguing component of the cannabis plant.
CBG
CBG, short for cannabigerol, is the “parent cannabinoid” and acts as the precursor to THC and CBD. It plays a fundamental role in the synthesis of other cannabinoids, showcasing potential therapeutic properties.
CBN
CBN, or cannabinol, is a phytocannabinoid found in cannabis. It is produced through the metabolism of THC and is known for its minimal intoxicating effects. With little to no psychoactive properties, CBN offers unique characteristics within the realm of cannabinoids.
CB1
CB1 refers to a cannabinoid receptor predominantly located in the central nervous system, specifically in the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. This receptor plays a crucial role in mediating the effects of cannabinoids within the body, influencing various physiological processes and functions.
CB2
CB2 refers to a cannabinoid receptor found in the peripheral nervous system, outside of the brain and spinal cord. It plays a role in regulating immune functions and inflammation.
Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll refers to green pigmented molecules present in plants and algae, playing a crucial role in the process of photosynthesis. It is responsible for capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy, enabling plants to produce food and oxygen.
CO2 Extraction
The process employed to extract CBD concentrates involves pressurising CO2 gas into a safe liquid form, which is then used to extract oils from plants. This method has the advantage of leaving no solvent residue, ensuring a cleaner and safer extraction process.
D
Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation is the removal of a carboxyl group from a chemical compound, often achieved through heating, resulting in the activation of certain compounds.
Distilled Oil
Distilled oil is the final stage of refining an oil, achieved by distilling excess plant material through a solvent-free process. This step helps to purify and concentrate the desired components, resulting in a cleaner and more refined oil product.
E
Endocannabinoid
Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring cannabinoids in the human body that regulate various physiological processes.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) encompasses endocannabinoids, enzymes responsible for their production and breakdown, and their corresponding receptors. This intricate system regulates various functions in the body, contributing to physiological balance and overall well-being.
Enriched (CBD-rich)
Enriched or CBD-rich preparations are derived from cannabis plants with higher CBD levels than those historically bred for recreation. They offer potential therapeutic benefits with minimal psychoactive effects.
Entourage Effect
The entourage effect refers to the concept that biologically active compounds can exhibit enhanced activity when administered together with otherwise inactive compounds, rather than using isolated active compounds alone. This synergy among different components is believed to contribute to the overall therapeutic effects observed in certain plant-based substances.
F
Full-Spectrum
When hemp oil is labelled as “full spectrum,” it indicates that it contains at maximum of 0.2% THC alongside CBD. These full-spectrum products leverage the entourage effect, benefiting from the combined effects of multiple compounds present in the hemp plant.
Fatty Acid
A fatty acid is a hydrocarbon chain with a carboxyl group (COOH) at one end. It plays a crucial role as a component of lipids, which are essential for the structure and function of living cells. Fatty acids are particularly significant in fat-soluble compounds within cells.
H
Hemp
Hemp is a low-THC cannabis plant primarily cultivated for its fibres, with diverse applications ranging from oils to building materials.
Hemp Oil/Hempseed Oil
Hemp oil, also known as hempseed oil, is obtained by cold pressing cannabis seeds. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, while containing only minimal traces of cannabinoids and terpenes. This versatile oil finds application in various industries, including paints, varnishes, soap manufacturing, and an extensive range of food products.
Hemptourage Effect
The Hemptourage Effect harnesses the synergistic potential of compounds in hemp-derived CBD oil for optimal health and wellness.
Homeostasis
Homeostasis refers to the self-regulating process of maintaining balance within the body’s systems. It is the body’s ability to automatically seek equilibrium and stability to ensure optimal functioning.
I
Isolate
Isolate refers to a highly concentrated and purified form of a specific cannabinoid. CBD is a prevalent example of an isolate that is commonly available. During the isolation process, other compounds and impurities are removed, resulting in a product that contains a high concentration of the desired cannabinoid, such as CBD.
M
Marijuana
Marijuana refers to a dried combination of cannabis leaves and flowers. It is a commonly used term for cannabis that is typically consumed for recreational or medicinal purposes.
N
Non-psychotoxic
Non-psychotoxic refers to substances or compounds that do not have negative effects on the mind, personality, or behaviour. These substances do not induce a “high” or alter one’s mental state.
P
Phyto cannabinoid
Phyto cannabinoids are plant-based cannabinoids found in cannabis species.
Plant Sterol
Plant sterols are cholesterol-like compounds that naturally exist in plants and can aid in reducing LDL-cholesterol (often referred to as “bad cholesterol”) levels. Importantly, they have minimal impact on HDL-cholesterol (commonly known as “good cholesterol”). These natural compounds offer potential benefits in maintaining a healthy cholesterol balance.
R
Raw Oil
Raw oil refers to a whole-plant CO2 extraction obtained from agricultural hemp. It contains a range of cannabinoids, with a notable presence of Cannabidiolic Acid (CBD-A) among the extracted compounds. CBD-A forms a significant proportion of the cannabinoids present in the raw oil, offering potential health benefits.
T
Terpene
Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds that possess strong aromatic qualities. They are produced by a wide range of plants and insects, contributing to their distinct scents and flavours.
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a Phyto cannabinoid found in cannabis. While it has demonstrated potential benefits for human and animal health, THC is also responsible for the intoxicating effects commonly associated with marijuana use.
V
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, scientifically known as alpha-tocopherol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in supporting normal cell growth and function. It can be found in various sources such as vegetable oils, egg yolks, and more.
W
Whole Plant
The notion of the whole plant suggests that products derived from the entire cannabis plant may provide advantages compared to isolated individual cannabinoids. By utilizing the complete range of compounds present in the plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and other elements, it is believed to create a synergistic effect that enhances the potential benefits and overall therapeutic value.