What does “CBD” mean?

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid. It does not produce a high at any dose, and acts largely through routes other than the cannabinoid receptors.

CBD in plain English

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid. It does not produce a high at any dose, and acts largely through routes other than the cannabinoid receptors.

CBD is short for cannabidiol. It has low affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors. Its mechanisms appear to involve a wide range of other molecular targets and remain incompletely understood.

A purified form is licensed in the UK for two rare severe childhood epilepsies. It is a different proposition from the CBD sold as a food supplement, which is regulated for safety rather than effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions

What does cbd mean?

A non-intoxicating cannabinoid. It does not produce a high at any dose, and acts largely through routes other than the cannabinoid receptors.

Sources and further reading

Every factual statement on this page is drawn from the following public sources. Links open in a new tab and are not affiliated with Flora House.

  1. NICE guideline NG144: Cannabis-based medicinal products
  2. NHS: Medical cannabis (and cannabis oils)
  3. MHRA: The supply, manufacture, importation and distribution of unlicensed cannabis-based products for medicinal use

Patient guide · Written by the Flora House editorial team · Last reviewed: 8 September 2026