Glossary of Terms

psychoactive

The terms “psychoactive” and “intoxicating” are sometimes used interchangeably to describe the effects of cannabis, but they have different meanings.  

Psychoactive refers to something that affects the brain, causing changes in perception, cognition, mood and behaviour. It can be used to describe substances such as cannabis, medications and chemical compounds that alter your mental state but are not necessarily intoxicating. Intoxicating refers to something that causes impairment, temporarily affecting judgment, behaviour and the ability to think clearly.  

Both CBD and THC are psychoactive, as they interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. However, only THC is considered intoxicating and produces the “high” associated with cannabis consumption.  

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