CB'Dico: The CBD Dictionary

Letter: A

Organic CBD farming

Organic CBD farming is an alternative method of agricultural production that prioritises humus, self-sufficiency and natural balance. In France, organic farming began in the 1950s, thanks to a number of farmers keen to preserve the long-term fertility and quality of the soil, as well as animal health.

Most farmers who practise organic agriculture belong to the FNAB network, a professional union. The AB (Agriculture Biologique) logo is French, while the leaf made of stars is the European logo. There are other standards for products considered "organic" (Demeter, Nature et Progrès, Biocohérence, etc.), some of which are far more demanding and/or apply to certain specific types of products (cosmetics or hygiene products, for example).

Letter: C

Cannabaceae

Cannabaceae are a family of dicotyledonous plants comprising two genera: cannabis and humulus (hops). The cannabis genus includes only so-called annual plants, whereas the humulus genus generally includes perennial plants.

Cannabinoid

Cannabinoids are molecules that can activate certain receptors found in mammals and in the human body. The best known are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), but around a hundred cannabinoids have been identified, and not all of their respective effects are yet known. Others include CBN, CBG, CBC, etc.

Cannabis

Cannabis is an ancient plant known for its many properties. There are a great many varieties of Cannabis, but according to scientists, the one variety from which all the others originated is Cannabis Sativa L.

This plant is often associated with drugs because, nowadays, the THC levels of some varieties are very high. But we must also mention other fields in which this plant is useful, such as construction and the textile industry, as well as its clear future in biofuels.

Wellness cannabis / CBD

Wellness or Light Cannabis is a "light" form of cannabis, as it must not contain more than 0.3% THC. It is in fact what is now referred to by the acronym "CBD". It appears to offer consumers benefits such as reduced anxiety and stress, as well as pain relief, without all the problems associated with THC. Its sale and use do not require a medical prescription.

Cannabis light

Cannabis Light is the term used to describe cannabis flowers containing both a high level of CBD (cannabidiol) and a low level of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

Cannabis light stands out for its soothing effect and, above all, for the absence of the psychoactive side produced by "classic" cannabis, which is why the latter is prohibited.

Recreational cannabis

Recreational cannabis is the term used to describe cannabis with psychotropic effects (the varieties used contain a high level of THC). It is considered a drug and is currently prohibited in France.

Therapeutic cannabis

Therapeutic cannabis, also known as medical cannabis, refers to cannabis used in various forms of treatment, which may contain controlled levels of THC and CBD depending on the conditions being treated, and which is used following a medical prescription (in countries where it is recognised).

In France, a two-year scientific study led by the ANSM (French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products) has begun, involving three thousand patients.

CBC: Cannabichromene

Its name is Cannabichromene: it is the third most important cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. To date, researchers have not found a great deal about it owing to the lack of studies carried out. However, it may play a role in neurogenesis, reducing inflammation and relieving pain. It appears not to be psychoactive.

CBD: Cannabidiol

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a molecule found in the Cannabis plant. Unlike the THC molecule, CBD has no psychoactive properties. Quite the opposite: Cannabidiol has many benefits. Ongoing studies point to its relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help with sport (running, contact sports, etc.). Also in CBD's favour, and unlike THC, these studies discuss a reduction in anxiety, psychoses and other dependencies.

But we must not forget to point out that CBD is not a recognised medicine in France. It is simply considered a food supplement.

CBDa

CBAa is the abbreviation for "cannabidiolic acid". It is a cannabinoid naturally present in cannabis that turns into CBD after exposure to heat or during drying.

Broad Spectrum CBD

The term Broad Spectrum applies to the following categories of CBD products: mainly CBD oil and CBD sweets, but CBD flowers and CBD resins are also concerned. The hemp plant contains various molecules such as cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. A product is described as Broad Spectrum when the THC molecule has been entirely removed from the finished product before it is sold. The finished product is therefore free of THC while still benefiting from the other molecules and, therefore, their properties.

Full Spectrum CBD

The term Full Spectrum applies to the following categories of CBD products: mainly CBD oils and CBD e-liquids, but CBD flowers and CBD resins are also concerned. The hemp plant contains various molecules such as cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. A product is therefore described as Full Spectrum when all of the molecules have been retained in the finished product, including THC (within the legal limit of 0.3%).

CBG: Cannabigerol

Cannabigerol, or CBG, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Like other molecules derived from cannabis, it is one of the hundred or so cannabinoids present in this plant. CBG shares similarities with CBD in terms of effects. With anti-inflammatory properties and analgesic effects, it may help combat glaucoma and help restore appetite.

CBL: Cannabicyclol

CBL is a molecule found in the cannabis plant. Its full name is Cannabicyclol. Very little research has been carried out on this molecule, but it is certainly not the least interesting! Research shows that it has a certain anti-inflammatory potential and may help fight tumours. Regulation of muscle contractions thanks to cannabicyclol has also been discovered.

CBN: Cannabinol

Cannabinol, also known as CBN, is a molecule found in the hemp plant. It belongs to the cannabinoid family. It is not present in the so-called fresh plant; it forms when the plant is exposed to light and air after cutting. It is the result of THC oxidation.

CBN is currently being studied for eye problems and glaucoma, skin problems and loss of appetite. It may also be antibacterial, neuroprotective, anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory.

Hemp

Hemp is a plant from the Cannabaceae family. Unlike cannabis, hemp contains little or none of the psychotropic THC molecule. In France, we mainly use the term "industrial hemp". Most of its production is intended for the textile and construction industries for its fibre, and for the food sector for its seeds. Varieties are authorised in France with a THC level below 0.3%.

Food supplement

CBD is currently classed as a food supplement. Europe and France share a common definition of what counts as a food supplement: foodstuffs intended to supplement the normal diet. They are a concentrated source of nutrients or other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect. Please note, however, that food supplements are not medicines. They contribute to well-being, not to curing an illness.

Read our full article: Why is CBD an excellent food supplement?

CBD concentration

CBD concentration is the value corresponding to the mass of CBD contained per volume of CBD solution. This value, expressed as a percentage, varies from one product to another. For example, a CBD oil may contain 5%, 10%, 15% or even 40% CBD.

A CBD oil with a CBD concentration of 10% is, logically, twice as concentrated in CBD as a CBD oil containing 5%.

CBD crystals

CBD crystals are a very pure, isolated form of CBD that looks like sugar. CBD crystals are isolates, meaning that only CBD remains in the final product (goodbye to the other cannabinoids). The CBD concentration is very often above 98%.

Letter: E

The CBD entourage effect

The CBD entourage effect was discovered during research on cannabis, and the term was first used in 1988, when an interaction was discovered between the various components found in cannabis. It refers to the principle that combining different components found in cannabis can increase (or regulate) the effect of each component, often enhancing the effect compared with taking cannabinoids in isolation.

Example: CBD in the form of isolated crystals will act less effectively than CBD combined with other terpenes or cannabinoids.

Supercritical CO2 extraction

Supercritical CO2 extraction is a method of processing plant material with CO2 in a supercritical state. This state is achieved under specific temperature and pressure conditions. The process is considered virtuous, as the CO2 then behaves as an eco-friendly, recyclable solvent. In the case of hemp, for example, this process makes it possible to isolate and extract the cannabinoids and other active compounds from the plant.

Letter: F

Flavonoids

Flavonoids belong to one of the major families of nutrients. Around twenty of them are found in cannabis, some of which are present only in this plant. They are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and contribute to the colour of our food.

Dosage form of CBD

The dosage form describes the form in which a medicine or food supplement is presented. It may be capsules, tablets, oils, etc.

Letter: I

Indica

Indica strains are cannabis varieties that come straight from the Himalayan regions. As the name suggests, Indica refers to India. The plants are fairly short and bushy, with large, thick leaves. The reported effects of Indica strains are that they bring a powerful "STONED" feeling that can be heavy or even knock-out. These strains are therefore preferred before going to sleep or at the end of the day. Indica is also known to stimulate the appetite and ease pain. The best-known strains in the Indica family are the Kushes and the Skunks.

Interchanvre

Interchanvre is the professional association bringing together players in the industry around three pillars: ecology, economy and eco-responsibility. Its aim is to raise the profile of this industry, which is currently the leader in Europe, by showcasing French expertise.

CBD isolate

CBD isolate is, by definition, the isolation of a single molecule (in our case CBD) in order to retain only the properties of that molecule. This isolate comes in the form of crystals, powder or wax. CBD levels can reach 99%.

Letter: K

Kanavape (ruling)

The ruling in the Kanavape case refers to the decision handed down on 19 November 2020 by the Court of Justice of the European Union. The CJEU ruled that the French ban on selling cannabidiol (CBD)-based products was unlawful, stressing that this molecule found in hemp has "no psychotropic effect or harmful effect on human health".

The European court thereby reaffirmed the principle of the free movement of goods, authorising the import and sale of CBD-based products in France and in all Member States of the Union.

Letter: L

Limonene

Limonene is a terpene with a citrus aroma. It is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Letter: M

MILDECA

MILDECA, the Interministerial Mission for Combating Drugs and Addictive Behaviours, was set up in 1982. This French body, placed under the authority of the Prime Minister, leads and coordinates government action at various levels: combating drugs and drug addiction; reception, care and rehabilitation of drug users; training of those involved in combating drugs and drug addiction; research, information and the fight against drug trafficking. MILDECA is mainly made up of project officers.

Letter: P

Psychotropic / Psychoactive

A psychotropic is a chemical substance that acts on the mind and the central nervous system. The term is very often associated with drugs and medicines. It is said to be "psychoactive".

Letter: R

CB1 and CB2 receptors

CB1 and CB2 receptors are components of the endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are found in the brain and nervous systems, while CB2 receptors are located in the gastrointestinal system, the immune system and the peripheral nervous system.

Letter: S

Sativa

Sativa strains are cannabis varieties that have mainly been grown by the hemp industry for their fibre and high yield. It is a plant originating from equatorial regions. It is tall, with long, thin leaves. Sativa strains are used as a raw material in textiles and construction, as well as cosmetics. Also known for its psychotropic effects, with a naturally high THC content, it has euphoric effects that deliver a strong burst of energy, known as a "HIGH". Its users report that it motivates, encourages creativity and stimulates. The best-known strains in the Sativa family are the Hazes.

Syndicat du chanvre

The Syndicat du chanvre is a trade association bringing together a large share of the players in the wellness hemp, medical cannabis and textile hemp sectors. The association works with public authorities to represent the interests of hemp and cannabis industry players in France.

Endocannabinoid system / ECS

The endocannabinoid system is made up of receptors (or sensors) – CB1, CB2 and THC, all three of which can be described as a lock – and keys, the cannabinoids that activate the receptors.

Receptors are found throughout the human body (brain, lungs, intestines, etc.). The keys, or active substances, exist in the various cannabis strains. CB1 sensors are involved in particular in processing our emotions or influence our memory. CB2 receptors are mainly concentrated on the immune system. It is through them that the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD or "wellness" / "light" cannabis are expressed.

Letter: T

Terpene

Terpenes are a class of hydrocarbons produced by many plants, particularly conifers. Among other things, they help plants protect themselves against insects. Early studies show that cannabis terpenes have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and relaxing properties, among others. They have no psychoactive effect. They also contribute to the aroma and scent of certain plants (conifers, eucalyptus, etc.). For plants, they also form a natural defence against fungi, insects, environmental stress and bacteria.

THC: Tetrahydrocannabinol

Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is the main active molecule in cannabis. It is a psychotropic substance producing psychoactive effects very often described as a "high". Depending on the THC content, which ranges from 0 to 25% in a plant, the effects will be more or less powerful. Euphoria, drowsiness and a feeling of tiredness are among its effects. This molecule is addictive. It may therefore only be present at a maximum level of 0.3% in "CBD" products.

Read our full article: CBD vs THC: how can CBD help you wean yourself off THC?

THCV

THCV is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant and is relatively similar to THC. It may have a beneficial effect on negative feelings such as anxiety. Numerous studies are under way on this molecule, which could also have high medicinal potential.

Trichomes

Trichomes are (resin) glands rich in cannabinoids found on the cannabis plant. They are small spheres that coat the leaves, buds and branches, giving them a frosty white appearance. Trichomes act as a defence mechanism, deterring insects and animals from approaching thanks to their bitter taste.

Letter: U

UPCBD

The UPCBD is the Union des Professionnels du CBD, a federation founded in 2021 and chaired by Mr Charles Morel. Bringing together various players in the sector, including networks of specialist shops, this new organisation campaigns for a clear regulatory framework and for the legalisation of CBD flowers.

Letter: V

Sublingual route

The sublingual route is one of the most common and effective methods of consuming products such as cannabidiol oil. In practice, it involves placing a few drops of CBD oil under the tongue and letting the product dissolve and spread into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes of the mouth.