Cannabis, THC and CBD: start with the words

A discussion can sound precise while mixing several different objects. Are we talking about the plant, an identified substance or a product with a described composition? Before comparing claims, we suggest starting with that question.

An initial reference

The NCCIH fact sheet presents THC and CBD among the main cannabinoids in cannabis. It also distinguishes terms used for the plant and its products. This offers an introduction to the vocabulary, rather than a description of every available product.

Describe the object

In reading notes, we suggest copying the exact name of the object studied before replacing it with a broader expression. Is the text about a compound, a particular preparation or a group of products? Keeping that detail makes the discussion easier to follow.

Our editorial worksheet has three lines:

• The term used by the source
• The definition retained in the text
• The composition information actually provided

If one line is empty, we prefer to say so rather than fill it with an assumption.

Keep the questions separate

Defining a word and assessing a claim are two stages of editorial work. A definition does not demonstrate an effect. We therefore keep a separate place for conclusions, references and limitations.

Continue exploring

The Atlas entry establishes vocabulary pointers. The Research guide links to the original document and explains the scope of our reading. This path helps organise questions without suggesting a product or treatment.