“Full spectrum” is a term commonly used in the CBD industry to describe a product that contains a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes and other natural compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike isolated products that contain only a single cannabinoid or molecule, full spectrum products are obtained from a complete extraction of the cannabis plant, which retains all the active compounds present in the plant.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, regulating a variety of physiological functions such as mood, appetite, pain and inflammation. The best known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), but there are over 100 others present in the cannabis plant.
Terpenes are naturally occurring aromatic oils found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive smell of each variety of cannabis and may also have medicinal properties. Full spectrum products contain a variety of terpenes in addition to cannabinoids, which can enhance the therapeutic effects of CBD.
Due to the presence of THC in full spectrum products, they may have a psychoactive effect in some people, although this depends on the percentage of THC present in the product. Full spectrum products can also be considered more effective than stand-alone products due to the entourage effect, where the different cannabinoids and terpenes work together to produce more powerful therapeutic effects than if used alone.
In summary, the term “full spectrum” in CBD refers to a product that contains a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes and other natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, and may offer greater therapeutic benefits than isolated products.
