Full-spectrum hemp extract: CBD, CBG and CBN explained

Cannabinoids are a family of lipid compounds produced by the trichomes of hemp. The human body produces its own molecules of similar structure, the endocannabinoids (anandamide, 2-AG), which interact with the endocannabinoid system, whose CB1 receptors are mainly cerebral and CB2 receptors mainly immune. Of the more than 100 cannabinoids known in hemp, only a handful are present at significant concentrations; it is their combination that defines the profile of a full-spectrum extract.

CBD (cannabidiol) is the most studied cannabinoid and the most abundant in hemp varieties grown for wellness, non-intoxicating, and the main component of the oils, gummies and cosmetics sold in French shops. CBG (cannabigerol), often called the "mother cannabinoid", generally accounts for only 1% of the flower at maturity, which makes it a costly minor cannabinoid to isolate. CBN (cannabinol) forms through the oxidation of THC over time, under the effect of light and oxygen, and is found in greater quantity in aged flowers. CBC (cannabichromene), discovered in 1966, remains present at low concentration, with data that are essentially preclinical. All are sold in France under the same constraint of finished-product THC below 0.30%.

Delta-9-THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It remains on the list of narcotics in France, and its presence is tolerated in CBD products only up to a maximum of 0.30% of the finished product. That commercial tolerance changes nothing about its criminal status: a roadside saliva test detecting THC triggers the penalties under article L.235-1 of the French Highway Code, regardless of the legal origin of the product consumed.

A wave of bans cleaned up the French market in 2023-2024. The ANSM added to the list of narcotics HHC and its derivatives by order of 11 June 2023, then H4CBD, THCP and several other molecules by order of 3 June 2024. These semi-synthetic or modified cannabinoids must never appear in a French wellness CBD product.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds, more than 200 of which have been identified in hemp, that give it its characteristic smell and are also found in other plants such as lavender or pine. Flavonoids, plant pigments present in small quantities, complete the overall chemical profile. The "entourage effect" hypothesis, according to which these compounds act in synergy with cannabinoids, remains under scientific investigation: controlled clinical trials are lacking to validate it.

Full spectrum retains all the cannabinoids of hemp, THC included, below 0.30%. Broad spectrum removes THC by chromatography, below the detection threshold. Isolate offers CBD that is 99% pure or more, with no other cannabinoid or terpene. The choice depends on your profile: isolate or broad spectrum for drivers and competitive athletes, full spectrum for a chemical profile close to the original plant. Our article on supercritical CO2 extraction explains how these extracts are obtained.

CBD is not a medicine. If you have any medical doubt, consult a healthcare professional. Not advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Are CBG, CBN or CBC more effective than CBD?

No controlled clinical study demonstrates this. The available data on these minor cannabinoids remain largely preclinical, with no recognised health claim.

Why do people speak of "more than 100 cannabinoids"?

More than 100 phytocannabinoids have been identified in hemp, but only about ten are present at significant concentrations in a standard extract.

Is full spectrum banned in France?

No. It is permitted as long as the finished product complies with the 0.30% THC limit, verified by a certificate of analysis from an independent laboratory.

Can pregnant women use a full-spectrum product?

No. In 2025 ANSES proposed to ECHA a classification of CBD in a reproductive toxicity category; the precautionary principle applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women.