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Last update August 2024

What does "full spectrum" mean?

I'm seeing the term "full spectrum" a lot in CBD products. What does "full spectrum" actually mean, and how does it affect the product's effectiveness?

Answered by

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Janna Champagne, BCMH, DMCS, BSN, RN (Ret.)

"Full spectrum" refers to CBD products that contain all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This includes trace amounts of THC, although not enough to produce psychoactive effects.

Key Points:

  1. Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum: Unlike broad spectrum products, which have had all traces of THC removed, full spectrum products retain a small amount of THC. Broad spectrum is a stripped-down extract, specifically removing THC while maintaining other cannabinoids and compounds.
  2. Therapeutic Benefits: Full spectrum products are often recommended for their enhanced therapeutic benefits. The presence of all plant compounds can create an "entourage effect," where the compounds work synergistically to enhance the overall effectiveness of the product. Research supports that whole plant spectrum products provide optimal therapeutic benefits compared to stripped-down extracts.
  3. Effectiveness: By retaining all the natural compounds, full spectrum CBD products may offer more comprehensive relief and better outcomes for various conditions compared to isolates or broad spectrum products that lack THC and other components.

In summary, "full spectrum" means that the CBD product contains all the natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, including a small amount of THC. This combination provides superior therapeutic benefits due to the entourage effect. For the best results, it’s best to use the whole plant spectrum.

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