Glossary of CBD terms

Term Meaning
Bioavailability The amount of a substance that reaches the bloodstream and becomes available to the body to use.
Broad-spectrum

A CBD product that contains more than one cannabinoid – but doesn’t contain all of them – can be classed as broad-spectrum.

For example, a CBD product which has had the THC removed would be considered broad-spectrum.
Cannabis

A broad term used for a group of hemp plants, which are used to make fibers, food supplements and recreational drugs.

Some cannabis plants have high levels of THC, which are usually used for recreational drugs. You may have heard these referred to as marijuana, skunk, weed, pot, etc.

Others are very low in THC, can are used to make fibers, clothes, CBD products and more.

Cannabis oil

While CBD oil is legal and widely available in the UK, cannabis oil is currently illegal in the UK.

It’s usually made from cannabis plants high in THC, rather than the ones low in THC that are used for CBD products.

This is similar for cannabis tablets.
Cannabidiol (CBD) CBD, also known as cannabidiol is a non-intoxicating substance found in hemp plants.
Cannabigerol (CBG) CBG, also known as cannabigerol is another type of cannabinoid.
CB1 receptors A type of cannabinoid receptor, which is part of our natural endocannabinoid system.
CB2 receptors Another type of cannabinoid receptor, which is part of our natural endocannabinoid system.
Endocannabinoid system

All people and animals have this biological system.

It helps to keep us ‘in balance’ by regulating sleep, appetite, pain, mood, memory and inflammation.

It’s very complex and made up on CB1 and CB2 receptors, which interact with cannabinoids.
Full spectrum A full-spectrum cannabis / hemp oil will contain all of the naturally occurring cannabinoids. Unlike a broad-spectrum oil that will only contain a select few.
Hemp

Hemp is a cannabis plant strain that’s grown specifically low in THC and high in CBD.

This is why it is used to make CBD products, as well as making paper, rope, textiles, fuel and hemp seed oil.
Hemp seed oil Hemp oil is produced by pressing the seed of the hemp plant.
Psychoactive

Psychoactive is a term for something acting on the central nervous to alter brain function.

This can cause changes in perception, behavior, and mood.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC is the most well-known cannabinoid from the cannabis plant.

It is associated with the ‘high’ feeling associated with smoking marijuana recreationally.

 

Ultimate guide to CBD

Ultimate guide to CBD

Bhupesh Panchal

Author: Bhupesh Panchal, Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate

Joined Holland & Barrett: Apr 2019

Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry

Bhupesh started his career as a Clinical Toxicologist for Public Health England, advising healthcare professionals all around the country on how to manage clinical cases of adverse exposure to supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial chemicals and agricultural products.

After 7 years in this role and a further year working as a drug safety officer in the pharmaceutical industry, Bhupesh joined Holland & Barrett as a Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate in 2019.