Full-spectrum extracts

Full-spectrum cannabis extracts aim to retain and preserve the entire native cannabinoid and terpene profile found in raw natural cannabis flower within concentrated oil products like vape cartridges or tinctures. This aims to maintain the vital synergies between compounds believed to generate the entourage effect for maximizing therapeutic benefits compared to strictly isolating or filtering out specific components such as solely THC or CBD alone.

Cannabis oil extracts diligently processed to maintain the full suite of minor cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other components tend to more closely mimic the aroma, taste and effects of the living flower compared to products isolated down to just THC or CBD alone. Advocates believe preserving the numerous other trace compounds through full-spectrum processes allows an extract to provide a superior, more satisfying experience more closely resembling flower.

However, credible repeatable scientific evidence has yet to emerge confirming or rejecting improved measurable outcomes from using full-spectrum cannabis formulations compared to their isolated counterparts. Both full-spectrum and isolated products offer distinct applications and benefits that work well. But many anecdotal self-reports attribute more nuanced, balanced and effective results from carefully prepared full-spectrum cannabis oils compared to isolates, likely owed to their wider complexity.