Full Spectrum

Full Spectrum refers to cannabis extracts or products that retain a broad range of plant compounds—cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals—rather than isolating single constituents. The term emerged from extraction science as a way to describe materials that preserve the plant's native chemical profile, often associated with whole-plant or minimally processed preparations. Lineage records and breeding documentation frequently reference full-spectrum phenotypes when discussing preservation of cultivar expression across generations. Breeders working with full-spectrum genetics aim to maintain chemical complexity and genetic stability, which influences seed selection and propagation strategies.

Breeders prioritize full-spectrum genetics when developing lines intended for preservation of specific terpene profiles and minor cannabinoid expression. Maintaining full-spectrum phenotypes requires careful selection pressure and documentation across generations to prevent genetic drift or skewing toward single compounds.