The Kyoto Botanicals CBD Glossary: 2026 Expert Definitions

Transparency starts with a shared language. As a CBD veteran, I see a lot of confusing jargon in the CBD industry which can be extremely confusing.

I built this glossary to empower you with the technical knowledge needed to navigate the world of cannabinoids, extraction methods, and lab results with confidence.

Bioavailability
The proportion of a substance (like CBD) that enters the bloodstream when introduced into the body and is made available for use. Different delivery methods, such as tinctures versus gummies, offer varying levels of bioavailability.
Broad Spectrum
A type of hemp extract that contains a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes but has had all detectable levels of THC removed. This allows for the benefits of the plant without psychoactive risk.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
A naturally occurring, non-psychoactive compound found in the resinous flower of cannabis. It is the primary active ingredient in hemp-based wellness products.
Cannabinoid
One of over 100 chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with receptors in the human body to produce various effects.
Cannabis
A genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae. While often used interchangeably with "marijuana," it is the botanical umbrella term for both hemp and marijuana.
Carrier Oil
An oil—such as MCT (coconut) or hemp seed oil—used to "carry" and dissolve CBD extract. Because cannabinoids are fat-soluble, carrier oils are essential for proper digestion and absorption.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A verified document from an accredited laboratory that provides a full chemical analysis of a product, confirming its potency and testing for contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.
CO2 Extraction
A process that uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull CBD and other phytochemicals from the plant. It is widely considered the cleanest and most precise extraction method.
Decarboxylation
A chemical reaction that uses heat to convert "raw" acid-form cannabinoids (like CBDA) into their active forms (like CBD), making them effective for human use.
Endocannabinoid
Cannabinoids produced naturally by the human body (e.g., Anandamide) that help regulate internal balance and homeostasis.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
A complex cell-signaling system in the human body that plays a role in regulating functions such as sleep, mood, appetite, and memory.
Entourage Effect
The theory that the diverse compounds in cannabis (cannabinoids and terpenes) work more effectively together than they do in isolation.
Ethanol Extraction
An extraction method that uses high-grade alcohol as a solvent to pull cannabinoids from the plant material. While effective, it requires careful purification.
Extraction
The process of separating the active compounds (cannabinoids and terpenes) from the raw hemp plant material to create a concentrated oil.
Flavonoid
A group of phytonutrients found in hemp that contribute to the plant's color and flavor profile, while also offering potential antioxidant properties.
Full Spectrum
An extract that contains all the compounds found naturally in the plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%).
Gummy
An edible, chewable CBD product popular for convenience and pre-measured dosage, though typically having lower bioavailability than oils.
Hemp
A variety of the Cannabis Sativa plant grown specifically for industrial and medicinal use. Legally, hemp must contain no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Hemp Oil
A broad term that can refer to either hemp seed oil or CBD oil. Consumers should verify the label for active cannabinoid content.
Hemp Seed Oil
Oil extracted specifically from the seeds of the hemp plant. It is nutrient-dense but contains little to no CBD or other cannabinoids.
Isolate
The purest form of a cannabinoid, created by removing all other plant compounds until only a single molecule (like CBD) remains.
Marijuana
A type of cannabis plant that contains high levels of THC (more than 0.3%), used for its psychoactive effects.
Organic
A method of farming and processing that avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. USDA Organic is the gold standard for hemp quality.
Phytocannabinoid
A cannabinoid produced naturally within a plant (as opposed to endocannabinoids produced by the human body).
Potency
A measure of the concentration of CBD or other cannabinoids within a product, usually expressed in milligrams (mg).
Psychoactive
A substance that affects the mind or behavior. THC is psychoactive; CBD is non-psychoactive and non-intoxicating.
Sublingual
A method of administration where a substance (like CBD oil) is held under the tongue, allowing it to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Terpene
Aromatic compounds found in hemp that give different strains their unique scent and contribute to therapeutic effects.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
The primary psychoactive compound in the cannabis plant. Legal hemp must contain less than 0.3% THC.
Third Party
An independent, outside laboratory that tests products to provide unbiased verification of purity and potency.
Tincture
A liquid extract, typically consisting of CBD oil and a carrier oil, designed for sublingual or oral use.
Topical
A CBD product applied directly to the skin, such as a balm or cream, for localized relief.