Most people have heard of the beneficial properties of consuming CBD. But there is a lot more to it than just buying a CBD on the internet. An Isolate product will contain CBD only and will not have any other cannabinoids or terpenes present. Full spectrum CBD products contain 0.3% THC and it is believed that all of the cannabinoids and terpenes work in conjunction with one another to create the Entourage Effect. They are believed to be superior for treating pain, arthritis and other illnesses over Broad Spectrum or Isolate products.
Cannabinoids are members of a chemical compound family. CBD is one of 113 cannabinoids found in the genus cannabis sativa which CBD is derived from. Specific cannabinoids, as well as terpenes, have a unique set of medicinal properties that can be used to treat ailments.
What exactly are they?
They are present in almost all living flora. Pine trees give off a pine smell from the terpene, Pinene, present in the pine needles. Terpenes have long been associated with the distinctive smell that cannabis gives off. For example, Skunk weed got its name from its deeply pungent aroma.
Scientists have gone one step further by identifying specific terpenes for their ability to heal. There is a definite advantage to consuming whole plant matter, or the derivative in the form of a CBD distillate, that has both a broad cannabinoid profile as well as an array of terpenes.
This is where not all products are created equal. It is important to find a product that has been created using a distillation extraction method that keeps these essential cannabinoids and terpenes intact. Always look for a lab COA (Certificate of Analysis) that will provide you with insight on the cannabinoid profile in the product.
Products using the closed loop Co2 extraction method preserve the terpenes and cannabinoids better than other methods such as steam distilling and solvent extraction which can leave behind traces of the solvent.
Scientists are finding that cannabinoids and terpenes work together synergistically to enhance each other’s effects within the body. Specific cannabinoids are better for treating specific illnesses and specific terpenes can help fight specific health issues too.
Hemp products with high amounts of beneficial Terpenes
The complete plant matter found in the hemp flower will have all terpenes and cannabinoids present, provided the flowers are dried and cured in the correct manner. Some strains are higher in specific cannabinoid profiles and some will have specific terpene profiles. It is important to research the cannabinoids and terpenes you would like to have present in the product you choose and then try to find a product that has these enzymes present.
Choosing a product that uses this raw product, like a tea blended with the flower, can be an ideal way to consume an array of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Good quality flower will contain an array of cannabinoids. Lifter flower, for example, has Beta-Caryophellene and Myrcene making it uplifting and a perfect day use flower.
Here’s a breakdown of commonly found terpenes in both CBD and cannabis and the distinctive aroma that they give off.
Choosing a product rich in both cannabinoids and terpenes can be easily achieved by ensuring that you choose a Full Spectrum Product.
With many different applications to choose from, finding your ideal product can be easily attained by checking the extraction method and the lab COA. Don’t be afraid to ask. Should you need to choose a product that is THC free, opt for a Broad Spectrum product over an Isolate one.
Sarah Rutherford - Contributor
Sarah has been interested in plant medicine for over 20 years. She draws on her experience working in the health and wellness field and applies it to the CBD industry.
