Understanding CBD: All important terms and abbreviations explained simply
- UNSER KRAUT Media
- Apr 1, 2024
- 3 min read
Cannabidiol—better known as CBD—is more relevant than ever. However, anyone familiar with CBD products quickly encounters technical terms like "terpenes," "full spectrum," or "entourage effect." In this article, we explain all the key terms related to CBD—in a clear, concise, and concise manner.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol . It is a natural plant compound derived from the hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD is not intoxicating . Instead, it is valued for its calming , balancing, and anti-inflammatory properties—without the "high."
What is THC?
THC is the abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol . This active ingredient is also a cannabinoid from the hemp plant, but it is psychoactive. In legal CBD products, the maximum THC content is 0.2% – too low for an intoxicating effect, but useful for the holistic effect (see entourage effect).
Why does it contain up to 0.2% THC?
The legally permitted THC content of less than 0.2% has the following advantages:
Contributes to the natural composition of the hemp plant
Supports the so-called entourage effect
Enhances the effect of CBD – for example, in cases of sleep, stress or inflammation
Does not cause psychoactive effects – so it is legal and safe
What are cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are active plant compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. Over 100 cannabinoids are known, including:
CBD (cannabidiol)
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)
CBG (cannabigerol)
CBC (cannabichromene)
CBN (cannabinol)
These substances influence processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, pain perception or the immune system.
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the body’s own regulatory system that consists of:
CB1 and CB2 receptors
body's own cannabinoids
Enzymes for splitting and breaking down
CBD acts indirectly on this system and helps to promote internal balance (homeostasis).
What does “full spectrum” mean?
A full spectrum CBD oil contains:
CBD
other cannabinoids such as CBG or CBC
Terpenes
Flavonoids
up to 0.2% THC
This composition is based on the natural plant and enables a particularly effective effect – the so-called entourage effect.
In comparison: Broad spectrum contains no THC CBD isolate contains only pure CBD
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect describes the interaction of all natural plant compounds in hemp. CBD, THC, terpenes, and flavonoids often work better together than individually.
Example: CBD with myrcene or CBG can have a stronger calming effect than isolated CBD.
What are terpenes?
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including hemp. They influence:
Smell and taste of CBD products
Mood, e.g. relaxing or activating
the overall effect via the entourage effect
Examples of terpenes:
Myrcene – calming, relaxing
Limonene – mood-enhancing, citrus-like
Linalool – balancing, lavender-like
Pinene – promotes concentration
Flavonoids - antioxidant
What is myrcene?
Myrcene is one of the most common terpenes in the hemp plant. It is also found in mangoes, hops, and thyme.
Effect:
muscle relaxant
sleep-promoting
can enhance the effects of CBD and THC
It is particularly valuable in products that promote sleep and relaxation.
What are flavonoids?
Flavonoids are secondary plant substances with positive health effects. They are also found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs – and in hemp.
Effect of flavonoids:
antioxidant (cell-protective)
anti-inflammatory
immune-boosting
supporting the entourage effect
Examples in hemp: Cannaflavins A, B and C
Other important terms
CBD isolate : Pure CBD without accompanying substances, easy to dose, but without entourage effect
Broad spectrum : CBD with other plant substances, but without THC
Decarboxylation : Heating CBDa to convert it into effective CBD
Bioavailability : Indicates how much CBD can be absorbed by the body
Carrier oil : Base oil such as MCT oil or hemp seed oil in which CBD is dissolved
Conclusion: Those who understand CBD choose better
CBD is more than a trend—it's a complex natural product. Those familiar with terms like full spectrum , myrcene , entourage effect , and flavonoids can select products more specifically and better tailor them to their needs.
For legal reasons, we point out that the effects of hemp and cannabinoids (CBD) described here refer exclusively to public scientific reports and expert opinions, publications, and user experiences and should not be understood as instructions for use or promises of healing. This text is in no way a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be used as a basis for self-diagnosis or for initiating, modifying, or discontinuing treatment of illnesses. Always consult your trusted physician if you have any health-related questions or complaints.
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