A friendly, easy‑to‑understand glossary that helps beginners feel confident navigating CBD terminology — without jargon or complexity.
This glossary keeps every definition short, clear, and approachable.
A
Aroma Profile
The natural scent of a CBD product, often influenced by terpenes.
Broad‑Spectrum
A hemp extract containing CBD and other cannabinoids but no THC.
Batch Number
A code that identifies when and where a product was made — used to match COAs.
C
Cannabinoids
Natural compounds found in hemp, such as CBD, CBG, CBC, and CBN.
CBD (Cannabidiol)
A non‑intoxicating compound used in wellness routines.
CBG (Cannabigerol)
A minor cannabinoid often associated with clarity or focus (subjectively).
CBN (Cannabinol)
A minor cannabinoid often used in nighttime or calming blends.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
A minor cannabinoid sometimes linked to uplifting or bright profiles (subjectively).
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A third‑party lab report showing what’s in a CBD product and confirming safety.
CO₂ Extraction
A clean, efficient method for extracting cannabinoids from hemp.
Concentration
How much CBD is in a product, usually measured in milligrams (mg).
Carrier Oil
The base oil used in CBD tinctures (e.g., MCT oil, hemp seed oil).
D
Distillate
A refined hemp extract containing concentrated cannabinoids.
Dosage / Serving Size
The amount of CBD taken at one time (e.g., 10 mg per gummy).
E
Edibles
CBD products you eat, such as gummies or chocolates.
Entourage Effect
The idea that cannabinoids and terpenes may work better together than alone.
Ethanol Extraction
A method using food‑grade alcohol to extract cannabinoids.
Extract Type
Refers to full‑spectrum, broad‑spectrum, or isolate.
F
Flavonoids
Plant compounds that contribute to flavor and color.
Full‑Spectrum
A hemp extract containing CBD, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace THC.
G
Gummies
Pre‑measured CBD edibles with fruit or dessert flavors.
H
Hemp
A variety of cannabis grown for high CBD and low THC (0.3% or less).
Hemp Extract
The oil pulled from hemp that contains cannabinoids and terpenes.
Heavy Metals Test
A COA section checking for contaminants like lead or arsenic.
I
Isolate
Pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or terpenes.
L
Lab Testing
Independent testing that verifies safety and accuracy.
Limonene
A citrus‑scented terpene found in some hemp strains.
Linalool
A floral terpene often associated with calming aromas.
M
Minor Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids found in smaller amounts, such as CBG, CBC, and CBN.
MCT Oil
A common carrier oil made from coconut.
Microbial Test
A COA section checking for mold, yeast, and bacteria.
P
Potency
How strong a CBD product is (mg per serving).
Pesticide Test
A COA section checking for agricultural chemicals.
R
Residual Solvent Test
Ensures no harmful solvents remain after extraction.
Routine
Your personal schedule for taking CBD.
S
Spectrum
Refers to how many plant compounds are included in an extract.
Strain
A specific variety of hemp with its own flavor and cannabinoid profile.
Sublingual
Taking CBD under the tongue for faster absorption.
T
Terpenes
Aromatic plant compounds that influence flavor and scent.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
A cannabinoid found in trace amounts in hemp; responsible for intoxication in marijuana but present at very low levels in hemp products.
Topicals
CBD products applied to the skin, such as creams or balms.
V
Vape / Vaporizer
A device that heats CBD oil for inhalation.
W
Winterization
A refinement step that removes fats and waxes from hemp extract.
Quick Beginner Takeaways
CBD terminology is simpler than it looks
Most terms relate to extract type, testing, or product format
COAs and extract types are the most important concepts to understand
Terpenes and minor cannabinoids shape flavor and feel
A glossary helps beginners navigate CBD with confidence