CBD has quickly become a staple in wellness routines, but not all CBD products on the market are created equally. From isolates to full-spectrum oils, there are a lot of options—and just as many buzzwords. One of the terms gaining attention is whole plant CBD, a form of CBD extract that aims to deliver more of what the entire hemp plant has to offer.
In this article, we’ll break down what whole plant CBD really means, how it compares to full-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate, and whole flower options, and how to choose the best fit for your needs.
What Is Whole Plant Hemp Extract?
Whole plant CBD refers to a type of CBD oil made by extracting from the entirety of the hemp plant—not just the flower, but also the leaves, stems, and sometimes even the roots. This broader method, known as whole plant hemp extraction, captures a wider range of naturally occurring compounds than more refined options like isolate CBD.
These may include:
- Cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN
- Terpenes that contribute aroma and potential wellness effects
- Flavonoids and plant-based nutrients
- Other beneficial compounds found throughout the plant
The goal of this type of extract that contains more than just CBD is to preserve the natural ratios of cannabinoids and terpenes, supporting what’s known as the entourage effect—a concept suggesting these compounds may work synergistically for more balanced and effective results. This makes whole-plant hemp extracts appealing for those who care about using full-spectrum hemp and prefer hemp products over single-molecule versions.
However, it's important to note that “whole plant” is not a regulated term, and its definition can vary slightly among hemp-derived product manufacturers.
Whole-Plant CBD vs. Full-Spectrum CBD: Understanding the Difference
Here’s where it gets nuanced. Many people use whole flower vs. full-spectrum CBD interchangeably, but there are subtle differences—especially in how the CBD products are made and the extraction method used.
- Full-spectrum CBD is generally made from the hemp flower, which naturally contains a rich concentration of CBD, minor cannabinoids like CBG, and trace amounts of THC (below 0.3%). It’s a popular base for products like CBD tinctures and full spectrum oils.
- Whole flower CBD refers specifically to products made using only the flower—excluding other parts of the plant like leaves or stems—but it still results in a full-spectrum extract.
Whole-plant CBD, on the other hand, includes more of the plant material, which can lead to a broader compound profile. Some brands believe this added diversity enhances the therapeutic benefits, especially for users interested in plant complexity similar to that found in medical cannabis. However, flower-only formulas often offer higher potency per dosage because the flower contains the highest concentration of cannabinoids.
Understanding the difference between whole-plant vs. full-spectrum helps consumers choose whether they want a product centered on cannabinoid-rich potency or the broader synergy of the entire plant.
Whole Plant Hemp Oil vs. CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the most refined form of CBD extract. It contains only cannabidiol, with no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or plant compounds. While it’s ideal for those who want to avoid THC entirely, it lacks the entourage effect that full-spectrum and whole plant extracts provide.
Here’s a breakdown of the main differences:
Feature |
Whole Plant CBD | Full-Spectrum CBD | CBD Isolate |
| Plant parts used |
Flower, stems, leaves, sometimes roots
|
Primarily flower |
Isolated compound only (pure CBD) |
| Cannabinoid range | Broad (CBD, CBG, CBN, trace THC) |
Broad (CBD, CBG, CBN, trace THC) |
Just cannabidiol (CBD) |
Terpenes & flavonoids |
Present from full plant | Present from flower | None |
THC content |
< 0.3% (trace amounts) | < 0.3% (trace amounts) | 0% |
Processing method |
Often solvent-based or rosin press | CO₂ or ethanol extraction | Highly refined and purified |
Entourage effect |
Strong, due to plant diversity | Strong, with synergistic compounds | None |
Best for |
Users seeking full-plant complexity | Users wanting a potent, flower-based formula |
Users avoiding THC or needing pure CBD |
| Final product |
Earthy, diverse whole-plant extract |
Balanced, full-spectrum hemp extract |
Pure CBD powder or crystal |
Benefits of Whole Plant Hemp Extract
When you use a whole plant hemp extract instead of a purified isolate, you may benefit from:
- A broader cannabinoid and terpene profile
- Support for sleep, stress, mood, and inflammation
- Longer-lasting effects
- Compounds that work synergistically rather than alone
However, not all whole plant CBD products are made the same—and more compounds doesn’t always mean better results if they aren’t the right ones, or if processing methods strip away key compounds without preserving the natural plant ratios.
Is Whole Plant CBD Right for You?
If you’re looking for a more complete and natural approach to CBD, whole plant hemp extracts are definitely worth considering. They offer a broad range of beneficial compounds—from CBD and CBG to terpenes and flavonoids—that work together to create a balanced, full-body effect.
That said, not all whole plant CBD products are made the same, and you don’t always need every part of the plant to get the benefits you’re looking for.
Why MONTKUSH Focuses on Whole Flower
At MONTKUSH, we focus on whole flower CBD—and here’s why that matters. The flower of the hemp plant naturally holds the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes, making it the most potent and effective part of the plant.
While whole plant CBD includes other parts like stems and leaves, we craft our whole flower oil using CO2 extraction from the whole hemp flower. This method preserves a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes without using chemical solvents, offering you a potent, clean, and effective product at a more accessible price point. While CO2 extraction may not capture every compound as comprehensively as rosin pressing, it ensures you receive the essential benefits of the hemp plant without compromise.
The result? A CBD oil made with whole plant input that works with your body’s systems, supporting therapeutic benefits through the natural ratios of cannabinoids and terpenes.
So if you're looking for a CBD option that:
- Stays close to the plant’s natural state
- Preserves cannabinoids and terpenes through a minimal, solvent-free extraction process
- Offers a full-bodied experience with real results
...then MONTKUSH's whole flower CBD is a great place to start.
