What does CBD stand for?

The three-letter phrase CBD is everywhere you look lately, but most of us don’t know exactly what it is and there is a mix of confusion around if CBD oil is legal too.

While some of us know that black market cannabis is somehow associated with CBD, most people don’t know that CBD is non-intoxicating and that it’s just one of over 100+ cannabis compounds known as phytocannabinoids which cannot get you high.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) being the other, the most well-established cannabinoid is the molecule found in the cannabis plant which is responsible for the cannabis high.

Now we have some quick context, what does CBD stand for and does it come from the same illegal cannabis found on the black market?

Let’s dive straight in!

CBD is made from hemp

You’re here to learn what does CBD stand for, so let’s waste no time!

CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is a compound found in the cannabis species of plants.

Cannabidiol is usually extracted from hemp, which is naturally low in THC while being rich in CBD. As a result, CBD oil when bought as a supplement doesn’t impair cognitive function.

Marijuana, on the other hand, contains often contains high levels of THC and only trace levels of CBD and as a result, is a highly psychotropic substance used for both medicinal and recreational use.

So in short, CBD is derived from hemp not marijuana, and it will not get you high.

what does CBD stand for?

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is a form of hemp extract combined with a carrier oil.

Hemp extract can vary in potency from 35% – 99.5% CBD, and as a result, it requires dilution for use.

Depending on the type of hemp extract used, CBD oil can contain a variety of different phytocannabinoids (cannabis compounds) or just cannabidiol and a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or MCT oil

There are different types of CBD

There are also multiple varieties of CBD available in the market today to cater to everyone.

So what’s the difference?

As CBD is extracted from the cannabis plant, it can contain traces of THC, which is problematic for anyone in a job which requires frequent drug testing, given THC is explicitly tested for in most work drug tests.

Thankfully, there are a couple of products which do not contain THC available for someone who is drug tested to use. Let’s quickly summarise the difference between each one:

  • Full Spectrum CBD: A whole-plant extract, maintains the profile of phytochemicals as found in the hemp plant the CBD was extracted from. As a result, these products contain a variety of cannabinoids including THC and other compounds such as terpenes and flavonoids (all good stuff).
  • Broad Spectrum CBD: The same as a full spectrum but these products undergo a further refinement process to remove THC (to’ non-detectable’) levels.
  • CBD Isolate: 99.9%+ pure CBD powder. Contains nothing but CBD crystalline and is a tasteless white powder.

Most people prefer the first two, primarily because of the chemical compounds in cannabis are thought to work best in synergy.

The body is primed for cannabinoids

We just mentioned that CBD is one of 100 phytocannabinoids found in cannabis.

However, it’s essential to mention cannabinoids are also found outside of cannabis and even within the human body!

These compounds found in our body are called endocannabinoids. While they are not the same as the cannabinoids found in cannabis, they interact with the same system within the human body called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The endocannabinoid system has receptors all across the human body, although they are concentrated in the nervous system and immune system.

Not all CBD is the same

In an unregulated industry, opportunists thrive in the ambiguity and threaten a broader set of genuine businesses from reaching their potential.

The CBD oil industry is no different. CBD products vary significantly in their quality and CBD content depending on how they are produced. 

The only way to truly establish the CBD content of an item is to check the certificates of analysis (CoA).

What’s a CoA?

Certificate of analysis

CBD supplements vary in their quality as they do not need to undergo a rigorous set of quality assurances checks by law.

As a result, there are a variety of products on sale today, which you likely wouldn’t buy if you knew what they contained before making the purchase.

Genuine brands are aware of this problem and are keen to build trust with the growing customer base of people looking to buy CBD oil.

They do this by testing the CBD via a third party before it goes on sale, ensuring the label matches the product contents and that its safe to consume. 

In best cases, the certificates from this exercise are displayed on the brands’ website for transparency.

Learning how to read a CoA is crucial to make sure you’re spending your money on CBD products which are worth buying. You can learn how to read a CBD test here.

You don't need to use CBD oils to enjoy Cannabidiol

CBD drops are one of the most common ways to use CBD, but it isn’t the only format. It’s entirely up to you to find what works for you and experimenting is often just a part of the journey.

So if your not keen on holding a liquid under your tongue and want something which doesn’t stray from your current wellness routine it’s easy to find something else.

The options outside of oils are endless, but the major ones include:

  • CBD Topicals: Infused skincare products which can be easily added to any beauty or morning routine. These types of products are more popular with the ladies than gents and individuals who are active. Using CBD skincare products as a part of sports recovery is a trend which is only increasing.
  • CBD Concentrates and vapes: While this is certainly a niche, it’s growing and for a good reason! Concentrates are simply a high percentage CBD product which is often vaporised or dabbed — favoured by people looking for a quick and immediate hit of CBD with no fuss.
  • CBD Drinks: As it sounds! Drinks with added CBD for a wellness boost. Enjoyed by people on the go and becoming a new entry point for those new to CBD.

Other considerations

While CBD is considered safe, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before you add a new supplement to your diet.

Especially if you are already on prescription medications, especially to discuss any potential drug interactions or side effects.

Another point to note is that CBD is unsuitable if you are pregnant or lactating and as always take direction from your doctor.

Summary

Hopefully, we have cleared up the definition of CBD for you. Armed with this information, you now know what to be on the lookout for. But, to summarise: 

  • CBD stands for Cannabidiol.
  • Cannabidiol cannot get you high.
  • Always look for a CoA when buying CBD or any other Cannabis plant-based product if it’s meant to contain cannabinoids.
  • There are a large variety of CBD products in the market, and you don’t need to use oil if you don’t want to.
  • Talk to your doctor before using CBD, especially if you already take medications.

Now that you’ve learnt what does CBD stand for and have some quick information on hand to know what to look out for you’re good to explore CBD!

Head over to the main page of our CBD blog to read more posts or check out our online storefront for all your CBD needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

CBD is shorthand for Cannabidiol.

Cannabidiol is a compound found in cannabis. More specifically, CBD is extracted from Hemp, a species of cannabis that cannot get you high.

Theoretically, yes. Any compound which enters your body and has a physiological effect is considered a drug.

Another typical example would be caffeine. While caffeine is also extracted from a plant, it has a physiological effect and thus is considered a drug

CBD works with receptors found in your endocannabinoid system, which influences other systems downstream to have a variety of effects.

No, CBD is not addictive.

This is the topic of further study.

Research is on-going to assess the impact of CBD on memories.

If you are using a UK legal CBD oil with 0% THC/CBN, then it should not impact your ability to drive in limited doses.

Should you feel drowsy or tired upon using CBD, do not drive and rest instead.

The problem arises if you use an untested product with detectable levels of THC, especially if these levels are beyond trace amounts as they could impair your ability to drive.

Alcohol and CBD may amplify each other’s effects. Using both together may result in drowsiness and reduced inhibitions.

The better question here is asking yourself what don’t you feel when using CBD.

The effects of CBD can be subtle, and consequently, it’s often easier to assess what you don’t feel to see if CBD has the desired result.

In higher doses, CBD can make you feel drowsy or tired, especially if you are using it at night.

It’s best to start low and go slow to find the dose which works for you.

Do not exceed more than 70mg CBD per day per FSA guidelines.

Disclaimer: Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Nature & Bloom and its staff. This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention for any disease. Nature & Bloom products have not been evaluated by the MHRA.