Cannabinoid Glossary
This cannabinoid glossary offers plain-language definitions of common and minor cannabinoids you may see on labels or Certificates of Analysis (COAs)—with a focus on THC-free products. It is designed as a quick, factual reference for shoppers and learners.
THC-free typically means delta-9 THC is “not detected” (ND) on a COA at or below the lab’s limit of quantitation (LOQ). ND does not always mean absolute zero, so always review current batch COAs and consider personal risk tolerance, especially for workplace drug testing.
For broader background topics (endocannabinoid system, dosing basics, extraction methods), visit the Glossary & Learning Center rather than this page, which stays narrowly focused on cannabinoid terms. See also our COA Glossary, Terpene Glossary, and THC & Testing Glossary for deeper coverage of those areas.
How to use this cannabinoid glossary
- Skim H3 entries for concise definitions relevant to THC-free shopping.
- Check COAs for each batch; confirm ND THC and review LOQ/LOD notes.
- When you need broader context, visit the related glossaries instead of this page.
More learning: Glossary & Learning Center | COA Glossary | Terpene Glossary | THC & Testing Glossary
Core cannabinoids you’ll see most in THC-free products
CBD (cannabidiol)
A non-intoxicating cannabinoid commonly derived from hemp. Popular in isolate and broad-spectrum products marketed as THC-free. Does not produce a “high.”
CBG (cannabigerol)
Often called the “parent” cannabinoid because many others form from its acidic precursor (CBGA). Non-intoxicating; frequently blended with CBD in THC-free formulas.
CBN (cannabinol)
Forms as THC oxidizes over time. Generally considered minimally intoxicating at hemp-compliant levels. Sometimes included in “night” blends; evidence remains limited and responses vary.
CBC (cannabichromene)
A non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid often present in small amounts; research is ongoing. May appear in broad-spectrum THC-free extracts.
Acidic cannabinoids (raw forms)
Acidic forms convert to “neutral” cannabinoids when heated (a process called decarboxylation).
CBDA (cannabidiolic acid)
The acidic precursor to CBD. Non-intoxicating. Some products intentionally preserve CBDA; heating converts it to CBD.
CBGA (cannabigerolic acid)
Called the “mother” cannabinoid acid; upstream of THCA, CBDA, and CBCA in the plant. Non-intoxicating.
THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
Acidic precursor to THC. When heated, THCA generally converts to intoxicating THC. THC-free products aim to avoid detectable THC/THCA on COAs.
Other minor cannabinoids (overview)
These occur in smaller amounts; availability varies by cultivar and extraction method.
CBDV (cannabidivarin)
A non-intoxicating varin analog of CBD found in low natural abundance; may appear in trace amounts in hemp extracts.
THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin)
A varin analog of THC with distinct properties. At typical hemp levels, it is not known for strong intoxication. Because it is a THC analog, consider testing policies and review COAs carefully if avoiding THC altogether.
CBL (cannabicyclol)
Forms via light-induced changes from other cannabinoids; usually present at very low levels in hemp extracts.
CBNA (cannabinolic acid)
The acidic precursor to CBN; arises as THCA oxidizes. Not commonly highlighted on labels but can appear on detailed COAs.
Product and testing terms in cannabinoid context
Isolate
A purified single cannabinoid (e.g., CBD isolate). Often used for THC-free products; check COA for ND THC.
Broad-spectrum
Hemp extract containing multiple cannabinoids and terpenes with THC removed to non-detectable levels. Confirm ND THC on the COA.
Full-spectrum
Hemp extract with the plant’s natural profile, including trace THC within legal limits. Not typically labeled “THC-free.”
Distillate
A refined extract rich in targeted cannabinoids. Can be produced as broad-spectrum (THC removed) or full-spectrum (trace THC retained). Verify via COA.
Decarboxylation
Heating that converts acidic forms (e.g., CBDA) into neutral forms (e.g., CBD). Affects what you’ll see reported on a COA.
ND (Not Detected)
Indicates a compound tested below the lab’s detection or quantitation threshold. ND does not equal absolute zero but is below the stated limit.
LOD and LOQ
LOD (limit of detection) is the lowest level a lab can detect; LOQ (limit of quantitation) is the lowest level a lab can reliably measure. For THC-free claims, look for delta-9 THC “ND” and note the LOQ value on the COA. For more on COA terminology, see the COA Glossary.
Entourage effect
A proposed idea that cannabinoids and terpenes may work together. Evidence is evolving; preferences are personal. For terpene topics, visit the Terpene Glossary.
Frequently asked questions
What does THC-free mean on a label?
Generally, that the product’s delta-9 THC is “not detected” on a COA within the lab’s LOQ. Always read the current batch COA to confirm.
Can THC-free CBD cause a positive drug test?
There is always some risk, due to factors like cross-contamination, mislabeling, or cumulative exposure. Choose isolate or broad-spectrum with ND THC, review COAs, and consider your workplace policy. See the THC & Testing Glossary for more.
How do CBD, CBG, and CBN differ?
All are non-intoxicating at typical hemp levels. CBD is most common; CBG is a precursor cannabinoid; CBN forms as THC ages. Personal responses vary.
Is CBDA the same as CBD?
No. CBDA is the acidic precursor to CBD. Heat converts CBDA to CBD (decarboxylation). Some products keep CBDA intentionally.
How can I check that a product is truly THC-free?
Read the product’s batch COA: confirm delta-9 THC is ND and note the LOQ. Ensure the COA matches your product’s batch number.
Disclaimer
This information is educational only and not medical or legal advice. Cannabinoid products can interact with medications and may not be appropriate for everyone. Consult a qualified professional before use. Even with ND THC, drug testing outcomes are not guaranteed.
Shop thoughtfully: Explore curated THC-free options at cannagea.com/thc-free.
Summary
This cannabinoid glossary defines common and minor cannabinoids relevant to THC-free shopping and explains key label/COA terms such as ND and LOQ. For deeper dives into testing, terpenes, or broader hemp topics, visit the linked glossaries and the Glossary & Learning Center.