Did you know the hemp plant contains hundreds of cannabinoids? While Cannabidiol (CBD) is the most known cannabinoid, it isn’t the only beneficial part of the hemp plant.
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts
The hemp plant contains many different elements–terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and, of course, cannabinoids. While each cannabinoid has its own unique benefits, they are especially powerful when working together – synergistically. This creates what’s often referred to as the “entourage effect.”
Holistic health has long touted the benefits of “whole plant medicine”. This concept encourages the use of all the ingredients found in plants rather than isolating specific ingredients or parts of a plant to create products. By retaining the compounds in their natural state we get a multiplying effect. The elements work to amplify one another, resulting in a more effective product.
Breaking it all down
Cannabinoids are like the key to unlocking the receptors of the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). These chemical compounds are key players in normal immune and central nervous system functions and trigger various physiological actions.
Flavonoids are found in plants and are present in many foods we consume daily. These compounds give plants (including hemp), fruits, and vegetables their color. They also work with Terpenes to produce flavor in plants (like hemp), fruits and vegetables. There are approximately 20 flavonoids found in hemp. They’ve been shown to have several health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Terpenes are another group of natural chemicals and are what give plants and fruits their distinct smell. With over 100 different terpenes found in hemp, these aromatic oils have been shown to aid cannabinoids (like CBD) in passing through the bloodstream easier. And while they play an important supporting role to the other elements of the plant, terpenes have their own therapeutic effects, including the calming effect they have on the body.
How this affects CBD products
To enjoy the benefits of the entourage effect, you’ll want to look for full and broad-spectrum CBD products. These two types undergo fewer processes in the extraction process and retain all the natural compounds found in the hemp plant (cannabinoids, flavonoids, oils, and terpenes). The difference between the two lies in the cannabinoid THC. Full-spectrum CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, while broad-spectrum CBD products–like those offered by Proper Hemp–contain zero THC in their formulas.
Proper Hemp Co.’s broad-spectrum CBD extract is made up of 85% cannabinoids. Of this 85% cannabinoid content, CBD makes up 90% of the cannabinoids present. We preserve all of the non-intoxicating phytocannabinoids and synergistic compounds. This includes cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), and over 40 naturally preserved terpenes.