Last updated: 22 September 2026. A reference guide to hemp and cannabinoid terminology, kept current as terms and research evolve.
This glossary covers the terms you’ll encounter across hemp and CBD content, from cannabinoids and terpenes to extraction methods and legal classifications. Each entry is written to stand alone, so you can look up a single term or read through the full reference.
Cannabinoids
CBD (Cannabidiol). The most researched non-intoxicating cannabinoid in hemp. Does not produce a “high.” Interacts with the endocannabinoid system indirectly and with serotonin receptors directly. The only cannabinoid with FDA-approved pharmaceutical status (Epidiolex, for specific seizure disorders).
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, specifically Delta-9-THC). The primary intoxicating compound in cannabis. Directly activates CB1 receptors in the brain, producing the “high” associated with marijuana. Legally restricted to under 0.3% dry weight in hemp products in the US.
CBG (Cannabigerol). Sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids are synthesized from its acidic precursor during plant growth. Non-intoxicating. Marketed for focus and energy, though human trial evidence remains limited compared to CBD.
CBN (Cannabinol). Forms as THC degrades over time through oxidation. Mildly sedating in some research. Often marketed specifically for sleep, sometimes combined with CBD in sleep-focused products.
CBC (Cannabichromene). A non-intoxicating cannabinoid with preliminary research interest in inflammation and pain, though direct human trials are sparse. Often present in full-spectrum products alongside CBD.
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid). The non-intoxicating acidic precursor to THC, present in raw, unheated cannabis. Converts to intoxicating THC when heated (decarboxylation), which is why raw cannabis doesn’t produce a high but smoked or vaped cannabis does.
CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid). The acidic precursor to CBD, present before decarboxylation. Has its own distinct, separate research interest, including some nausea-related studies, independent of CBD itself.
Delta-8 THC. An isomer of Delta-9 THC with milder intoxicating effects, typically produced through chemical conversion from CBD rather than occurring naturally in significant quantities. Legal status varies by state, and quality control varies significantly given the conversion process.
Product Types and Formats
Full-Spectrum. Contains the complete range of naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant, including trace THC (under 0.3%).
Broad-Spectrum. Contains most cannabinoids and terpenes but with THC removed or reduced to non-detectable levels. A middle ground between full-spectrum and isolate.
Isolate. Pure CBD (or another single cannabinoid) with no other compounds present, typically 99% or higher purity.
Tincture. A liquid CBD product, usually oil-based, taken sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption than swallowed formats.
Nanoemulsion / Water-Soluble CBD. CBD oil broken into microscopic droplets and stabilized with emulsifiers, improving absorption and allowing the product to mix into water-based drinks.
Mechanisms and Systems
Endocannabinoid System (ECS). A regulatory network of receptors (primarily CB1 and CB2) and naturally produced compounds (endocannabinoids) found throughout the body, involved in regulating mood, pain, appetite, sleep, and immune function.
CB1 Receptor. Found predominantly in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds directly and strongly to CB1, producing intoxication. CBD does not directly activate CB1 in the same way.
CB2 Receptor. Found predominantly on immune cells and in peripheral tissues. Associated with inflammation regulation.
Entourage Effect. The theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work better together than any single compound in isolation. Has reasonable preclinical support but thinner direct human trial evidence isolating its specific contribution.
CYP3A4. A liver enzyme responsible for metabolizing roughly half of all prescription medications. CBD inhibits this enzyme, which is the mechanism behind most CBD-medication interactions discussed across this site.
Bioavailability. The percentage of a substance that actually reaches the bloodstream and becomes available for the body to use. Varies significantly by product format, from around 6-15% for capsules to 34-56% for vaped products.
Terpenes
Terpenes. Aromatic compounds found in hemp and many other plants, responsible for scent and flavor. Believed to contribute to the entourage effect alongside cannabinoids.
Myrcene. A common terpene in hemp, also found in mangoes, associated with a musky, earthy aroma and often linked to relaxation in anecdotal reports.
Limonene. A citrus-scented terpene found in hemp and citrus fruit peels, associated with mood elevation in preliminary research.
Linalool. A floral terpene also found in lavender, commonly associated with calming effects.
Legal and Regulatory Terms
2018 Farm Bill. US federal legislation that legalized hemp (cannabis with under 0.3% THC by dry weight) and hemp-derived products, distinguishing hemp from marijuana at the federal level.
Certificate of Analysis (COA). A lab report verifying a hemp product’s actual cannabinoid content and screening for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial content. The primary way to verify a product matches its label claims.
Hemp vs. Marijuana. Legally distinguished by THC content: hemp contains under 0.3% THC by dry weight, while marijuana exceeds this threshold. Both come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between CBD and hemp seed oil?
CBD oil is extracted from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant and contains cannabinoids. Hemp seed oil is pressed from hemp seeds, contains no meaningful cannabinoid content, and is primarily valued for its omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid profile.
Is CBG or CBN better researched than CBD?
No, CBD has by far the largest human research base of any cannabinoid, including the only FDA-approved cannabinoid medication. CBG and CBN research is comparatively preliminary.
What does “full-spectrum” actually guarantee?
It indicates the product retains the naturally occurring range of cannabinoids and terpenes rather than being purified to isolate. It does not by itself guarantee potency, quality, or specific effects, those require checking the Certificate of Analysis.
