Navigate the intricate landscape of medical cannabis with our comprehensive industry glossary. Understanding these terms will help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
CBPMCannabis-Based Product for Medicinal Use. The official UK regulatory term for medical cannabis products prescribed by specialist doctors.THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Responsible for the 'high' associated with recreational use, but also has therapeutic properties including pain relief and anti-nausea effects.CBD (Cannabidiol)A non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis. Has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties. Does not produce a high.Endocannabinoid System (ECS)A complex cell-signalling system in the human body that plays a role in regulating pain, sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and immune response. Cannabinoids interact with this system.CB1 ReceptorCannabinoid receptor type 1, found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds to CB1 receptors, producing psychoactive effects.CB2 ReceptorCannabinoid receptor type 2, found primarily in the immune system and peripheral tissues. Involved in regulating inflammation and immune response.TerpenesAromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants) that contribute to the plant's smell and flavour. Some terpenes may also have therapeutic properties.IndicaA cannabis subspecies traditionally associated with relaxing, sedating effects. Often used for pain relief, sleep, and anxiety.SativaA cannabis subspecies traditionally associated with energising, uplifting effects. Often used for mood elevation and daytime use.HybridA cannabis strain that is a cross between indica and sativa varieties, combining characteristics of both.VaporisationThe recommended method of inhaling medical cannabis flower. Heats cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids as vapour without combustion, reducing harmful byproducts.EpidyolexA licensed CBD medicine approved in the UK for treatment-resistant epilepsy syndromes including Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.Sativex (Nabiximols)A licensed cannabis-based medicine approved in the UK for MS-related spasticity. Contains both THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio.NabiloneA synthetic cannabinoid licensed in the UK for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.Entourage EffectThe theory that cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work together synergistically, producing greater therapeutic effects than any single compound alone.Full SpectrumA cannabis extract that contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC.Broad SpectrumA cannabis extract similar to full spectrum but with THC removed. Contains other cannabinoids and terpenes.IsolateA pure, isolated form of a single cannabinoid (typically CBD), with all other compounds removed. 