Full-Spectrum CBD vs. Isolate

A CBD isolate contains only the cannabinoid Cannabidiol (CBD), while a full-spectrum CBD oil contains the whole plant, including other phytocannabinoids and terpenes.

CBD is just 1 over 100 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis or Hemp plant. Some of the other main phytocannabinoids are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBG (Cannabigerol), and CBN (Cannabinol). There are also over 100 terpenes found in Cannabis, which contribute greatly to the the smell and taste, but also contain health benefits similar to cannabinoids.

Full-spectrum CBD is generally more beneficial than an isolate because the various plant components (phytocannabinoids and terpenes) work in a synergistic manner to magnify each others’ therapeutic benefits. This is known as the “entourage effect.” Essentially, the impact of the whole plant is greater than just the sum of its parts.

 

 

This photo shows the cannabinoid potency of Alive Market CBD Distillate. This Distillate is the starting ingredient to all of Alive Market's CBD products.

The Importance of Terpenes

Terpenes contribute to the entourage effect by improving symbiosis between cannabinoids, helping the body absorb and process them more easily.

Terpenes occur naturally in plants other than Cannabis, too. For example, Limonene is found in lemons and oranges and Caryophyllene is found in leafy green and black pepper. Terpenes are also the main component of essential oils, as they are volatile aromatic compounds that have distinct scents.

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC have made headlines for their healing properties, but terpenes boast their own beneficial properties as well!

Main Terpenes in The Hemp Strain Cherry Wine :

• Myrcene - earthy/musky, one of the most abundant terpenes in Cannabis, analgesic and muscle relaxant helpful with reducing chronic inflammation and pain

• Limonene - citrusy, known to reduce stress and improve mood

• Ocimene - sweet/herbacious, antiviral and anti-fungal

• Pinene - pine scent, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator that can help with respiratory functioning

• Caryophyllene - spicy/peppery, anti-inflammatory, helpful with gastrointestinal functioning

If you’re looking to get the biggest therapeutic benefit from CBD products, make sure it is full-spectrum and full of beneficial terpenes!