Full-Spectrum THC Guide for Medical & Recreational Users

"What is full-spectrum THC?" is a common question in medical marijuana clinics and dispensaries across the country. Full-spectrum THC products contain the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant.

Some medical conditions may be better served by full-spectrum products and others by isolates. Consult your MMJ doctor for recommendations based on your individual needs.

Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extracts Explained

Full-spectrum THC extracts are highly concentrated forms of cannabis that contain much higher levels of THC than the natural plant. Many MMJ patients consume cannabis extracts as their potency offers stronger effects, a faster onset time, and longer-lasting effects than cannabis flower.

For example, Rick Simpson Oil is a popular full-spectrum cannabis oil that contains up to 75% THC. Full-spectrum cannabis extracts are also highly versatile as they can be smoked, vaped, dabbed, or ingested.

Full-spectrum THC conserves all the compounds naturally present in the marijuana plant. These include:

Cannabinoids: Full-spectrum cannabis products contain THC, CBD, and other minor cannabinoids like CBN or CBG. The amount of each cannabinoid present will depend on the product and strain.
Terpenes: Terpenes are naturally occurring chemical compounds in plants. Their presence in cannabis plants impacts each strain's flavor, aroma, and effects. For example, a strain high in myrcene terpene is likely to offer a green, piney, or earthy flavor and aroma. Myrcene-rich stains are often noted for their relaxing and sleep-inducing effects.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are primarily responsible for a plant's color.

The result is a highly potent product that retains the cannabis plant's range of natural flavors and aromas. Many patients prefer this aromatic experience to that of a simple THC isolate that doesn't have any fragrance or taste.

Preserving the whole range of compounds found in the cannabis plant during the extraction process is delicate and precise work. This means full-spectrum cannabis concentrates often come with a higher price tag.

Ensure the Quality of Full-Spectrum Cannabis

Some products claim to be full-spectrum while not retaining every compound in the marijuana plant. For that reason, it’s important to purchase full-spectrum cannabis products from a reputable, licensed dispensary.

You can purchase top-quality full-spectrum extracts and avoid the 16% excise tax in Arizona with an up-to-date AZ medical marijuana card. Budtenders in MMJ dispensaries can explain different products to you, their benefits, and how to use them according to your doctor’s recommendations.

Full-Spectrum THC and the Entourage Effect

The entourage effect theory proposes that all of the naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant (including its cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) work together to produce a synergistic effect. This means that full-spectrum products may offer greater therapeutic effects for certain MMJ patients than THC isolates—your doctor will be able to advise you on this.

For example, consuming THC and CBD together impacts various conditions in different ways and may be more or less effective for certain qualifying conditions. That’s why therapeutic cannabis products need to be optimized for each medical condition, as a one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to deliver the most impactful results.

Common Full-Spectrum THC Products

Medical marijuana patients will find a range of full-spectrum THC products in their local medical marijuana dispensary. The budtenders there will be happy to point out and recommend full-spectrum THC products for your qualifying condition. Among these are:

Cannabis flower: Flower is a full-spectrum product.
Full-spectrum cannabis extracts: Cannabis extracts made from flower with minimal processing will often be full-spectrum. Examples include kief and bubble hash. Extracts in a dispensary should state on the label whether they are full-spectrum THC products. Ask a staff member if in doubt.
Edibles: Edibles can be made from full-spectrum products. For example, cannabutter made with whole cannabis flower is typically a full-spectrum product as only the plant's stem and leaves are removed. Full-spectrum THC gummies are also a popular choice.
Topicals: Your dispensary will likely carry full-spectrum THC lotions, salves, creams, and balms.
Live resin: Live resin is made using fresh or fresh-frozen cannabis plants. This means many of them (but not all) are full-spectrum. However, if your resin is made via processes involving heat, your product will lose certain compounds from the original plant profile.

Full-Spectrum THC vs THC Distillate: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between full-spectrum THC and THC distillates (or isolates) is the components that make up the final product. A THC distillate is a highly potent product that's been distilled down to contain only THC. Full-spectrum THC marijuana concentrate contains all the other compounds in the plant with a strong hit of THC.

Many patients find the best way to create an effective treatment routine is to experiment with different products. Your doctor and the staff in your local dispensary can give you pointers, but only the patient can feel which products are most effective. Be prepared to try different products to find the best ones for you, your condition, and your lifestyle.

FAQs

Does Full-Spectrum CBD Contain THC?

Yes, full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC. If you wish to avoid THC but are looking for a product that contains most of the active compounds found in the cannabis plant, broad-spectrum CBD could be the best option for you.

Are Full-Spectrum Extracts More Potent than Isolates?

Full-spectrum extracts aren't necessarily more potent than isolates. This is because full-spectrum products prioritize preserving the full spectrum of compounds in the cannabis plant rather than isolating one.

The factor that most influences a product's potency is thought to be the concentration of specific cannabinoids. That said, the entourage effect may mean that certain individuals feel stronger effects from a full-spectrum extract even if the THC percentage is lower. Consulting with a healthcare professional will help you determine the most suitable product and dosage.

Consider Full-Spectrum THC Products for Holistic Effects

Many MMJ patients find full-spectrum products helpful for managing their condition. A full-spectrum extract offers the same aromatic and flavorful experience as cannabis flower without the hassle, mess, and smell that comes with it.

Products that are rich in all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids present in the cannabis plant offer a world of possibilities for treating your condition. Consult with your doctor and a budtender about the best full-spectrum THC cannabis products for you.