Cannabinoids, Terpenes & Effects
CBD
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that does not cause a “high” and is commonly used for wellness and therapeutic purposes.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids (naturally occurring chemical compounds in cannabis) found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce intoxicating or mind-altering effects. Because of this, CBD is widely used by people seeking potential benefits without feeling “high.”
How CBD interacts with the body
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (a network of receptors and signaling molecules that helps regulate balance, or homeostasis, in the body). Rather than binding strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain like THC does, CBD works more indirectly. It influences receptors throughout the body, including CB2 receptors (commonly associated with immune response and inflammation), and affects other systems involved in pain, stress, and mood regulation.
How CBD becomes active
In raw cannabis, CBD exists primarily as CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), an inactive form. Through activation, most often via decarboxylation (a heat-based process that removes a carbon dioxide molecule), CBDA is converted into active CBD. This step is essential for products such as edibles, oils, tinctures, capsules, beverages, and topicals to be effective.
Discovery and growing interest in CBD
CBD was first isolated in the 1940s, but its importance became clearer after the discovery of THC by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in the 1960s and subsequent research into cannabinoids. In recent decades, CBD gained global attention for its potential role in supporting relaxation, discomfort management, seizure control, and anxiety reduction, leading to widespread commercial availability.
How CBD is used and experienced
CBD products vary widely in dose, bioavailability, and onset time depending on the form used. Oils and tinctures offer flexible dosing, edibles provide longer-lasting effects, and topicals target localized areas. CBD is often well tolerated, though high doses may cause mild side effects such as fatigue or digestive discomfort.
CBD in cultivation and product formulation
In cannabis cultivation and product formulation, CBD-rich varieties are selectively bred to maintain low THC levels while maximizing CBD content. Proper activation, accurate dosing, and clear labeling are essential for consistent and responsible use.
Related terms:
Cannabinoid, CBDA, THC, Non-Psychoactive, Activation, Decarboxylation, Dosing, and Bioavailability.
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