CBD Glossary
A plain-language reference for terms used across the CBD Myths posts. Each term links back to the myths where it appears.
Anandamide
A cannabinoid produced naturally by the human body, often called the “bliss molecule.” Anandamide binds to the same receptors as THC and plays a role in regulating mood, memory, appetite, and pain. It is one of the main endocannabinoids — the body’s own version of cannabis-like compounds. CBD may help the body maintain higher levels of anandamide by slowing the enzyme that breaks it down.
Bell-curve response
See Biphasic response.
Mentioned in: Myth #4
Bioavailability
How much of a substance actually reaches the bloodstream after you take it. Different delivery methods have markedly different bioavailability — sublingual tinctures absorb more efficiently than capsules or edibles, which must first pass through the digestive process. Bioavailability explains why the same milligram dose can feel different depending on how you take it. See also: Sublingual, Tincture.
Mentioned in: Myth #5
Biphasic response
Also called a bell-curve response. A pattern where positive effects increase with dose up to a point, then decrease at higher doses. CBD shows a biphasic response for some uses — meaning there is a sweet spot, and taking too much can actually reduce its effectiveness.
Mentioned in: Myth #4
Broad-spectrum CBD
A type of CBD extract that contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant, but has had THC removed. A middle ground between full-spectrum and isolate — retains more of the plant’s natural compounds than isolate, without intentional THC. However, trace amounts of THC may remain after processing, so broad-spectrum is a better choice than full-spectrum for people subject to drug testing, but is not completely risk-free. Only CBD isolate is truly THC-free. See also: Full-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate.
Mentioned in: Myth #2, Myth #7, Myth #13, Myth #17, Myth #20
Cannabidiol (CBD)
A naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. CBD is non-psychoactive — it does not produce a high — and is the active ingredient in most hemp-based wellness products. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis.
Mentioned in: All 25 myths.
Cannabinoid
A naturally occurring chemical compound that interacts with receptors in the human body. Cannabis plants contain over 100 different cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. The human body also produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids.
Mentioned in: All 25 myths.
Cannabis
The plant species that both hemp and marijuana come from. Cannabis contains over 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. The two main varieties relevant to CBD are hemp — which is low in THC and legal under federal law — and marijuana, which is high in THC and federally controlled. See also: Hemp, Marijuana.
Mentioned in: Myth #1, Myth #2, Myth #9, Myth #12, Myth #22, Myth #23
Cannabis sativa seed oil
Another name for hemp seed oil, commonly used on ingredient labels. Contains no CBD. If you see this on a product label without an explicit milligram amount of CBD, the product almost certainly contains no cannabidiol. See also: Hemp seed oil.
Mentioned in: Myth #19
Carrier oil
Neutral, plant-based oils used as the base ingredient in CBD tinctures and other liquid CBD products. The CBD extract is dissolved in a carrier oil, which helps deliver it into the body. Common carrier oils include MCT oil (derived from coconut), hemp seed oil, and olive oil. Carrier oils are safe for human consumption. Not all carrier oils are safe for pets — always use a product specifically formulated for animals. See also: Carrier oil — MCT, Carrier oil — Hemp seed oil, Essential oils, Tincture.
Mentioned in: Myth #22, Myth #25
Carrier oil — Hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil used as a carrier oil in CBD products. Nutritious and pet-safe, making it a common choice in pet-specific CBD formulations. Contains no CBD itself. See also: Hemp seed oil, Carrier oil.
Mentioned in: Myth #25
Carrier oil — MCT
MCT stands for Medium-Chain Triglycerides. A type of fat derived from coconut or palm kernel oil, commonly used as a carrier oil in CBD tinctures. Flavorless, odorless, and fast-absorbing. Generally safe for humans and dogs, but some cats can be sensitive to it in large amounts. Always use a pet-specific formulation for cats. See also: Carrier oil.
Mentioned in: Myth #25
CB1 receptors
Cannabinoid receptors found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds directly to CB1 receptors, which is what produces the intoxicating “high.” CBD does not bind to these receptors in the same way, which is why it produces no intoxicating effect.
Mentioned in: Myth #1, Myth #23
CBG (Cannabigerol)
A minor cannabinoid found in hemp plants, sometimes called the “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids — including CBD and THC — develop from it during the plant’s growth. CBG is non-psychoactive. It appears in small quantities in most hemp plants and is increasingly found as an added ingredient in broad-spectrum CBD products. Research into its specific benefits is still in its early stages.
CBN (Cannabinol)
A minor cannabinoid that forms when THC ages and breaks down. CBN is mildly psychoactive at very high doses but not at the trace levels found in hemp-derived products. It is commonly associated with sleep support and is often added to CBD products marketed for nighttime use. Research on CBN as a standalone sleep aid is still limited.
CBD isolate
Pure CBD — all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds removed. The only truly safe choice for people subject to drug testing, as it contains no THC whatsoever. Also the best choice for those who want precise, predictable dosing. Does not produce an entourage effect. See also: Broad-spectrum CBD, Full-spectrum CBD.
Mentioned in: Myth #7, Myth #13, Myth #17, Myth #20
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A document from an independent third-party laboratory that confirms the actual cannabinoid content of a CBD product and verifies it is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants. A COA is the most reliable way to verify what is actually in a product. Do not buy from companies that do not make their COAs easily accessible.
Mentioned in: Myth #10, Myth #11, Myth #12, Myth #13, Myth #16, Myth #17, Myth #18, Myth #19, Myth #22
CO2 extraction
The gold-standard method for extracting CBD from hemp. Uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant without leaving chemical residue. Products made with CO2 extraction are generally considered cleaner and higher quality. See also: Extraction method — CO2, Extraction method — Alcohol, Extraction method — Oil infusion.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #18
COA
See Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Mentioned in: Myth #10, Myth #11, Myth #12, Myth #13, Myth #16, Myth #17, Myth #18, Myth #19, Myth #22
Cytochrome P450 (CYP450)
A group of liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing approximately 60% of pharmaceutical drugs. CBD inhibits this enzyme system, which can cause medications to process more slowly and reach higher concentrations in the bloodstream than intended. Anyone on prescription medications should consult their doctor before using CBD.
Mentioned in: Myth #15
Decarboxylation
The process of applying heat to raw hemp plant material to activate its cannabinoids. In their raw form, cannabinoids exist as acids — CBD as CBDa, THC as THCa — and are not biologically active in the same way. Heat converts them into their active forms. This process happens automatically during extraction, vaping, or cooking with hemp. Most commercial CBD products have already been decarboxylated before you buy them.
Dietary supplement
A product intended to supplement the diet that contains one or more dietary ingredients. CBD products sold over the counter are legally classified as dietary supplements, not pharmaceuticals — meaning they do not require FDA approval before going to market, and manufacturers cannot make specific health claims about them. See also: Pharmaceutical CBD.
Mentioned in: Myth #6, Myth #8, Myth #10
Endocannabinoid system (ECS)
The body’s built-in network for regulating mood, sleep, appetite, immune response, and pain. It exists in humans and most other mammals. The ECS responds to both internally produced cannabinoids (endocannabinoids such as anandamide) and plant-derived cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. Supporting this system is the basis for most CBD wellness applications. See also: Cannabinoid, Anandamide.
Mentioned in: Myth #1, Myth #3, Myth #4, Myth #6, Myth #8, Myth #22, Myth #24
Entourage effect
The theory that the various cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in hemp work more effectively together than any single compound in isolation. This is the main argument for choosing full-spectrum or broad-spectrum products over CBD isolate. Scientific support for this theory exists, but research is still developing. See also: Full-spectrum CBD, Terpenes, Flavonoids.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #20
Essential oils
Highly concentrated plant extracts that capture a plant’s scent and active compounds. Sometimes added to CBD products for flavor or fragrance. While generally safe for humans in small amounts, some essential oils are toxic to pets — tea tree oil and certain mints are well-known examples. Always check that any CBD product given to a pet is free of essential oils, or use a pet-specific formulation. See also: Carrier oil.
Mentioned in: Myth #25
Extract
A concentrated substance drawn out of a plant using a solvent or other method. CBD extract is produced by pulling cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the hemp plant. The type of extract — full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate — determines which compounds end up in the final product. See also: Full-spectrum CBD, Broad-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate, CO2 extraction.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #19
Extraction method
The process used to pull CBD and other compounds out of the hemp plant. The method affects the purity and quality of the final product. The three most common methods are CO2 extraction, alcohol extraction, and oil infusion. See also: Extraction method — CO2, Extraction method — Alcohol, Extraction method — Oil infusion.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #18
Extraction method — Alcohol
Uses food-grade alcohol (typically ethanol) as a solvent to draw cannabinoids and terpenes out of the hemp plant. Effective and widely used, but requires careful processing to remove all traces of solvent from the final product.
Mentioned in: Myth #17
Extraction method — CO2
Uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant without leaving chemical residue. Considered the gold standard because it produces a cleaner, purer extract. Products made with CO2 extraction are generally considered higher quality. See also: CO2 extraction.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #18
Extraction method — Oil infusion
Uses a carrier oil — such as olive oil or coconut oil — to extract cannabinoids from the hemp plant. The simplest and most accessible method, often used for home extraction. Less efficient than CO2 or alcohol methods and produces a less concentrated extract.
Farm Bill (2018)
The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, which removed hemp — defined as cannabis containing 0.3% THC or less — from the federal list of controlled substances. This legislation made hemp-derived CBD federally legal in the United States.
Mentioned in: Myth #2, Myth #9, Myth #12
Flavonoids
Naturally occurring plant compounds found in hemp alongside cannabinoids and terpenes. They contribute to the plant’s color, flavor, and aroma, and are believed to have their own health benefits. Like terpenes, flavonoids are thought to contribute to the entourage effect. They are found in full-spectrum and some broad-spectrum products, but not in CBD isolate. See also: Terpenes, Entourage effect.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #20
Full-spectrum CBD
A type of CBD extract that contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%), along with terpenes and flavonoids. Many researchers believe this creates an entourage effect. Not recommended for people subject to drug testing — trace THC can accumulate with heavy daily use and trigger a positive result. See also: Broad-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate, Entourage effect.
Mentioned in: Myth #2, Myth #4, Myth #7, Myth #13, Myth #17, Myth #20
Hemp
A variety of the cannabis plant that contains 0.3% THC or less by dry weight. Legally distinct from marijuana under U.S. federal law. Hemp is the source plant for most CBD products sold in the United States. See also: Cannabis, Marijuana.
Mentioned in: Myth #2, Myth #9, Myth #12, Myth #17, Myth #19
Hemp seed oil
Oil pressed from hemp seeds. Contains no CBD or other cannabinoids — seeds do not produce cannabinoids. A nutritious food product rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but not a substitute for CBD oil. Sometimes mislabeled to appear CBD-related. Also sold under the botanical name “cannabis sativa seed oil.” See also: Cannabis sativa seed oil.
Mentioned in: Myth #19, Myth #25
Marijuana
A variety of the cannabis plant bred to be high in THC. Remains a federal Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, though many states have legalized it for medical or recreational use. Marijuana-derived CBD is subject to different legal rules than hemp-derived CBD. See also: Cannabis, Hemp.
Mentioned in: Myth #1, Myth #2, Myth #7, Myth #9, Myth #12, Myth #16, Myth #23
Metabolites
Byproducts created when the body breaks down a substance. Standard drug tests do not screen for THC directly — they screen for THC metabolites, which are the compounds the body produces after processing THC. This is why trace THC from full-spectrum CBD products can potentially trigger a positive drug test result even after the THC itself is no longer present.
Mentioned in: Myth #13
Microdosing
Taking small amounts of CBD at regular intervals throughout the day rather than one larger dose. The goal is to maintain stable levels in the body around the clock. Some users find this more effective than a single daily dose, particularly for ongoing conditions like anxiety or chronic discomfort. See also: Biphasic response.
Pharmaceutical CBD
A CBD product that has undergone the full FDA drug approval process, including rigorous clinical trials for safety and efficacy. Currently, the only pharmaceutical CBD is Epidiolex, a prescription medication for two rare forms of epilepsy. Over-the-counter CBD supplements are not pharmaceuticals and are not subject to the same approval process or testing standards. See also: Dietary supplement.
Mentioned in: Myth #6, Myth #10
Sublingual
Under the tongue. Sublingual tinctures are held under the tongue before swallowing, allowing CBD to enter the bloodstream directly through the mucous membranes. Faster-acting than capsules or edibles — effects can be felt within 15 to 45 minutes.
Mentioned in: Myth #5
Terpenes
Aromatic compounds found in hemp and many other plants. Believed to contribute to the entourage effect alongside cannabinoids. Found in full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products, but removed in CBD isolate. See also: Flavonoids, Entourage effect.
Mentioned in: Myth #17, Myth #20
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
The cannabinoid responsible for the intoxicating “high” associated with marijuana. Binds directly to CB1 receptors in the brain. Hemp-derived CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC to be federally legal. Standard drug tests screen for THC metabolites, not CBD.
Mentioned in: All 25 myths.
Tincture
A liquid CBD product, usually oil-based, taken by placing drops under the tongue (sublingually) or adding to food or drink. One of the most common and fastest-acting CBD delivery methods.
Mentioned in: Myth #5, Myth #17, Myth #25
Tolerance
When the body adapts to a substance over time, requiring more of it to achieve the same effect. Some CBD users find that effects feel less pronounced after extended use. Taking a short break — sometimes called a tolerance reset — can restore the body’s sensitivity to CBD.
Mentioned in: Myth #14
Transdermal patch
A CBD delivery method engineered to penetrate the skin barrier and enter the bloodstream over an extended period. Unlike standard topicals, transdermal patches produce body-wide effects rather than localized relief.
Mentioned in: Myth #21
Trichomes
Tiny glands on the flowers, leaves, and stems of the hemp plant where cannabinoids — including CBD — are produced. Hemp seed oil contains no CBD because seeds lack trichomes.
Mentioned in: Myth #19