Glossary · Chemistry
Full-spectrum
An extract that keeps the plant's full range of cannabinoids and terpenes, including trace THC, to harness the entourage effect. Full-spectrum products are favored by those who believe the whole plant works better than isolated compounds. The trade-off is that they may contain enough THC to matter for drug tests.
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Related terms, defined
- Broad-spectrum
- An extract that retains most of the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes but has THC removed, aiming for entourage benefits without intoxication or drug-test risk. Broad-spectrum sits between full-spectrum and pure isolate. It suits people who want CBD with terpene support but need to avoid THC entirely.
- Isolate
- A cannabinoid refined to near-total purity, most often CBD isolate, with all other plant compounds removed. Isolate is flavorless, THC-free, and ideal for precise dosing or for people who must avoid any THC. The downside is the loss of the entourage effect that full-spectrum products are designed to deliver.
- Entourage effect
- The theory that cannabis compounds work better together than in isolation, with terpenes and minor cannabinoids modulating how THC and CBD feel. It is the main argument for full-spectrum products over pure isolate. The science is suggestive rather than settled, but the idea drives much of today's product design.
- CBD
- Cannabidiol, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid widely used for calm, recovery, and general wellness without producing a high. CBD can soften some of THC's edge and is sold on its own as oils, gummies, and topicals. It is the most studied cannabinoid after THC and the basis of many medical products.
Related terms