From CBD to CBG and from “broad-spectrum” to “terpenes,” the cannabis world is packed with jargon. If you’re new to the plant—or just want to sound smart at the dispensary—this guide breaks it all down.
At CherryCommission.org, we believe education is the antidote to confusion. Let’s simplify the language of hemp, cannabis, and CBD with over 50 key terms.
🌿 Cannabinoids
- CBD (Cannabidiol): A non-psychoactive compound known for its calming, anti-inflammatory effects.
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound that makes users feel “high.”
- CBG (Cannabigerol): Known as the “mother cannabinoid,” it may reduce inflammation and support focus.
- CBN (Cannabinol): A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid often associated with sleep.
- CBC (Cannabichromene): May support mood and reduce pain and inflammation.
- Delta-8 THC: A milder version of THC that’s legal in some states but can still cause a high.
- Delta-9 THC: The most common and potent form of THC.
- Endocannabinoid: Naturally occurring cannabinoid produced by your body (e.g., anandamide).
- Endocannabinoid System (ECS): A network in the body that regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and pain—targeted by cannabinoids.
🧪 Product & Testing Terms
- COA (Certificate of Analysis): Lab test showing what’s in your CBD product—look for one from a 3rd-party lab.
- 3rd-Party Tested: Tested by an independent lab, not the manufacturer, to verify safety and potency.
- Potency: The strength or concentration of cannabinoids (usually listed in mg).
- Bioavailability: How much of a substance your body absorbs and uses.
- Full-Spectrum: Contains all cannabinoids, including up to 0.3% THC.
- Broad-Spectrum: Contains multiple cannabinoids but no detectable THC.
- Isolate: Pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or plant compounds.
- Batch Number: Identifies a specific batch for traceability and lab results.
- Residual Solvents: Chemicals used during extraction that should be removed in quality products.
🧴 Product Types
- Tincture: A concentrated CBD oil, often taken under the tongue for fast absorption.
- Topical: Creams, balms, and salves applied to the skin.
- Edible: Gummies, chocolates, and other ingestible CBD products.
- Capsule: CBD in pill form, often with slower onset.
- Vape: Inhaled vapor for fast effects (be cautious of additives).
- Flower: Dried hemp buds that can be smoked or vaped.
- Suppository: Rectal or vaginal CBD delivery, used in medical cases.
- Patch: Delivers cannabinoids through the skin over time.
🌸 Plant Compounds
- Terpene: Aromatic compounds in cannabis that influence scent and effects (e.g., limonene = citrus, uplifting).
- Flavonoid: Compounds found in plants that may have antioxidant properties.
- Trichome: The resin-producing glands on cannabis flowers.
- Cannabis Sativa: A species of cannabis associated with uplifting effects.
- Cannabis Indica: A species typically associated with relaxing effects.
- Hemp: Cannabis with less than 0.3% THC by law; used for CBD, textiles, and food.
- Marijuana: Cannabis with more than 0.3% THC; federally illegal but legal in many states.
⚖️ Legal & Industry Terms
- 2018 Farm Bill: The federal law that legalized hemp and hemp-derived CBD.
- Schedule I Drug: Classification for substances considered to have no medical value and high abuse risk (e.g., marijuana federally).
- THC Limit (0.3%): The legal THC threshold for hemp products.
- QR Code (on CBD): A scannable code linking to lab test results or product info.
- Cannabis Compliance: The laws and practices a business must follow to stay legal.
- Dispensary: A licensed store that sells cannabis products.
✅ Final Thoughts
Cannabis doesn’t need to be confusing. With this glossary, you now speak the language—whether you’re shopping for your first CBD tincture or comparing labels on full-spectrum creams.
Bookmark this page or share it with a friend—because smart consumers read the label and understand it.
At CherryCommission.org, we keep it simple, science-backed, and always educational.
