CBD Keywords 101
Welcome to HX University
In this course, CBD Keywords 101, we’ve put together a glossary of CBD keywords to help you become a CBD expert! We believe CBD users should know as much as possible about CBD products: what they are, how they work, and how they’re made. This way, it’s easier for users to differentiate between quality CBD and shady third-party resellers. So whether you’re new to the world of CBD or just looking for a refresher course, we’ve got you covered with the vocab to empower you as you shop for hemp products.
Bioavailability: Bioavailability is the degree and rate at which a substance is absorbed into the bloodstream. To put it simply, the bioavailability rate of a CBD product is the percentage of the compound that gets absorbed into your bloodstream and distributed throughout your body. Understanding bioavailability helps you figure out exactly what dose or product works best for you. The key to remember is that bioavailability of CBD depends heavily on how you administer it. There are many ways to take CBD such as Orally, Sublingually, Topically, and Inhaling.
Broad Spectrum: Broad spectrum CBD extract contains various cannabinoids, compounds, and terpenes from the hemp plant, but zero THC.
Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum vs. Isolate
Full Spectrum: CBD extract that contains other naturally occurring compounds from the hemp plant, (such as CBN, CBG, THC) and terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants that often determines the strains or “flavors” in the Cannabis/Hemp industry. Full Spectrum CBD products cannot contain more than 0.3% THC in order to be federally legal.
Broad Spectrum: The only big difference between Broad and Full Spectrum extract is that Broad Spectrum does not contain any THC. Broad spectrum oil still contains other compounds and terpenes but it is put through an additional remediation process to get all of the THC out.
CBD Isolate: Pure Cannabidiol (CBD) with no other compounds or terpenes. Isolate is CBD in its raw, extracted, crystal form.
Cannabidiol: Is the technical term for CBD. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive and naturally occurring chemical compound that interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). CBD is extracted from hemp and cannabis plants. CBD provides therapeutic benefits without the “high” effects of THC. You are likely to feel a gradual improvement in your mental, physical, and overall well-being from CBD.
Cannabinoid: A cannabinoid is a diverse chemical compound that interacts with and stimulates the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) of all mammals. There are over 100 cannabinoids that can be extracted from hemp. The two most popular cannabinoids are THC and CBD. Cannabinoids derived from plants are called phytocannabinoids, but there are also naturally occurring cannabinoids from the body called endocannabinoids.
Certificate of Analysis: A certificate of analysis or COA is a results certificate from an accredited laboratory certifying the total cannabinoid content of the CBD product at hand. This proof of analysis exists to insure the consumer, as well as the seller, that the product being advertised actually contains what is claimed on its packaging. Reviewing the COA is a CBD expert move that helps you avoid mislabeled, low-quality, or fake products. A trustworthy CBD company will always provide a COA.
CO2 Extraction: CO2 extraction is a process using pressurized carbon dioxide to “pull” naturally occurring phytocompounds, like cannabinoids and terpenes, from raw hemp material. CO2 is a safe extraction solvent and doesn’t have dangerous affects like other chemical solvents such as butane and hexane may. CO2 extraction provides CBD users with high quality, clean oils with no toxic by-products.
Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol: More commonly known by its abbreviation, THC. Delta-9 THC is the most abundant, primary, psychoactive compound found in hemp and cannabis flower, meaning it gets you “high”. You know it by its street names, weed, mary jane, ganja, skunk, bud, herb, grass, etc. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, as long as the product is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight volume, it’s considered legal hemp and not illegal cannabis.
Endocannabinoid System: The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a vast network of chemical signals and cell receptors that all mammals have. The ECS processes cannabinoids that enter the body in order to regulate and maintain bodily homeostasis; or “optimal health”. CB1 receptors are mostly found in the brain and central nervous system. CB2 receptors are found in outlying organs and immune system cells.
Entourage Effect: The Entourage Effect refers to the phenomenon in which multiple cannabinoids and terpenes working together result in a stronger effect for CBD and Cannabis users than a single cannabinoid on its own. The Entourage Effect is an enhancement of your Endocannabinoid System (ECS) through the use of multiple cannabinoids. The more diverse cannabinoid content of Full Spectrum CBD can help to maximize its benefits for experienced users. Beginners may get overwhelmed and may want to start by using a Broad Spectrum oil without THC. Broad spectrum tinctures are also preferred by those who are tested at work or for use with animals.
CBD Keywords: F-O
Farm Bill: US Congress voted at the end of December 2018 to pass the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, more commonly referred to as the Farm Bill. This bill made CBD products legal to purchase in all 50 states. The new farm bill states that industrial hemp (where CBD products are derived from) must contain less than 0.3% THC. The power over industrial hemp regulation is shared by the state and federal governments. The Farm Bill also gave the FDA the authority to regulate hemp products.
Full Spectrum: Full spectrum refers to a type of CBD extract that contains a full range of compounds including CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential oils. These compounds work together in a process known as the “entourage effect” which means that the compounds are believed to enhance the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD.
A full-spectrum CBD oil will contain trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the psychoactive compound found in hemp & cannabis. However, the amount of THC in a full-spectrum CBD product should be less than 0.3%, which is not enough to get you high.
Hemp: Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for industrial and medicinal use. Hemp plants are bred to have high levels of CBD and low levels of THC. Hemp can be used to make a vast range of products, from clothing to bioplastics. Along with bamboo, hemp is among the fastest growing plants on earth.
Industrial Hemp has a wide range of uses and has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including the production of textiles, paper, and food products. The fibers of the hemp plant are strong and durable, making them suitable for use in clothing, rope, and other textiles. The seeds of the hemp plant are rich in protein, healthy fats, and other nutrients, and are often used to make hemp oil, protein powder, and other health food products.
Hemp Seed Oil: Hemp seed oil is not CBD. It’s created by pressing the hemp plant’s seeds. Hemp seed oil has no therapeutic benefits but is often used as a dietary supplement, a low saturated fat cooking oil, and topical beauty products.
Homeostasis: Homeostasis refers to the ability of a system to maintain a stable, balanced internal environment despite external changes. It is a key aspect of biological regulation. There is evidence to suggest that CBD may promote homeostasis in the body as it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Isolate: CBD Isolate is 99% pure, raw CBD extract, containing no other cannabinoids or terpenes. The extraction process can remove all plant material and leave behind only pure Cannabidiol. CBD Isolate is usually a crystal or powder form. The main benefit of CBD isolate is that it is a highly pure form of CBD, containing only the CBD compound, which makes it easy to measure and consume the exact amount of CBD you want. Additionally, it is free of THC and any other psychoactive compounds, which makes it a good option for those who are drug tested or are sensitive to THC.
Marijuana: Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species, but it is grown specifically for its psychoactive effects. The main psychoactive compound found in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the plant’s mind-altering effects. Marijuana has been used for thousands of years for medicinal and recreational purposes. It has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, and nausea. It can be consumed in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaporizing, and ingesting as edibles.
It’s important to note that marijuana is different from hemp, which is also a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species but has low levels of THC and is grown for industrial uses.
Organic: Organic refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed. Organic farming is a method of growing food that emphasizes the use of natural processes, rather than synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals. Organic farmers use techniques such as crop rotation, companion planting, and natural pest control to maintain soil health and promote plant growth.
Watch and tour New Hampshire Hemp Company’s Regenerative Hemp Farm
CBD Keywords: P-Z
Phytocannabinoids: Phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids found naturally in hemp and cannabis. These compounds include THC and CBD, as well as other less well-known cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC, CBN, and THCV. Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids that are produced by the human body.
Psychoactive: Psychoactive refers to the ability of a substance to affect the mind or behavior. Specifically, psychoactive substances are known to alter the brain function, leading to changes in perception, mood, consciousness, or behavior. A psychoactive substance can be a drug, a medication, or even a natural compound like caffeine, that can affect the brain and nervous system. Psychoactive drugs can be broadly classified into different groups, such as depressants, stimulants, and psychedelics, depending on the specific effects they produce.
Salve: A salve is a type of topical medication that is applied to the skin to provide relief from various conditions. Salves containing CBD oil are gaining popularity as a natural remedy for pain and other conditions. CBD salves provide localized relief. Salves can be used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions, including dryness, itching, inflammation, and pain.
Sublingual: Sublingual refers to the administration of a medication or supplement under the tongue. When a medication or supplement is taken sublingually, it is placed under the tongue and held there for a period of time before being swallowed. The medication or supplement is absorbed through the thin mucous membrane under the tongue. Which allows for quick and efficient absorption into the bloodstream, thus providing a faster onset of action and higher bioavailability.
Terpenes: Terpenes are natural compounds that occur in hemp and contribute to the distinct aroma and taste of hemp and cannabis extracts. Think of them as the aromatic fingerprints of your CBD. These terpenes not only influence the sensory experience but also collaborate with CBD to amplify its potential benefits. Each terpene has its own set of unique qualities and possible health advantages. *Refer back to Entourage Effect
Tincture: A CBD tincture is a liquid extract of the hemp plant that contains a high concentration of cannabidiol (CBD). CBD tinctures are considered a dietary supplement and are legal in the United States as long as they are derived from hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC. CBD tinctures are considered to be a very effective way to take CBD, as they provide a high bioavailability, meaning that a lot of the CBD is absorbed by the body. They are also easy to use, and can be taken at any time of day or night, making them a convenient way to incorporate CBD into one’s daily routine.
Topical: Topical refers to something that is applied to the skin, rather than taken orally or injected into the body. Topical products are designed to be applied directly to the skin, where they can be absorbed and provide localized effects. Topicals are an effective way to use CBD as they provide localized effects, meaning the CBD is absorbed by the skin in the area where the product is applied, rather than being distributed throughout the body. This can make them particularly useful for addressing specific issues such as localized pain or skin conditions.
Water-Soluble: Water-soluble refers to the ability of a substance to dissolve in water. A substance that is water-soluble is able to be evenly distributed throughout a solution when added to water. This allows it to be more readily absorbed by the body and can provide faster onset and greater bioavailability of CBD.
