Flavonoids are naturally occurring plant compounds, separate from cannabinoids like CBD and THC, that contribute to hemp's colour, aroma, and much of its complex chemical profile. Full-spectrum CBD oil retains these compounds alongside cannabinoids and terpenes, which is why "full-spectrum" and "whole-plant" labelling matters.
What Are Flavonoids, Exactly?
Flavonoids are naturally occurring plant compounds. They are found in a wide range of foods and botanicals, including berries, tea, citrus fruits, and hemp. Researchers have identified numerous flavonoids within the hemp plant, including a small group known as cannflavins that are unique to hemp.
Unlike cannabinoids, flavonoids do not directly interact with the body's endocannabinoid receptors. Instead, they contribute to the plant's overall chemical profile and are one of several naturally occurring compounds found alongside cannabinoids and terpenes.
Key Flavonoids Found in Hemp
|
Flavonoid |
Also Found In |
Notable Feature |
|
Cannflavin A & B |
Unique to the hemp plant |
Prenylated flavones unique to hemp that have been the subject of laboratory research. |
|
Cannflavin C |
Unique to the hemp plant |
Structurally related isomer, less extensively studied |
|
Quercetin |
Onions, apples, tea |
One of the most widely researched dietary flavonoids |
|
Kaempferol |
Kale, broccoli |
Widely occurring flavonoid found in many plants |
|
Apigenin |
Chamomile, parsley |
Found in many herbal and floral sources |
How Flavonoids Differ From Cannabinoids
CBD and other cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system in different ways. Unlike cannabinoids, flavonoids are a separate class of plant compounds with different chemical characteristics and functions within the hemp plant.
Researchers have explored whether cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids may work together within the plant's full spectrum of compounds, a concept often referred to as the "entourage effect." However, the role of flavonoids in hemp and their potential interactions with other plant compounds remain areas of ongoing research rather than established scientific conclusions.
Why Flavonoid Content Is a Sourcing Signal
Because flavonoids can be affected by extraction and processing methods, the range of naturally occurring plant compounds varies between hemp extracts. Full-spectrum hemp extracts are designed to retain a broader selection of compounds found in the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. For this reason, consumers interested in a fuller hemp profile often choose full-spectrum products and review third-party laboratory reports to better understand a product's composition.
Practical TipVerify whether brands offer a third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) while reviewing a CBD product. Even though lab reports don't always measure flavonoids, they can assist in confirming cannabinoid concentration and provide more clarity about a product's total composition. |
FAQs
Do flavonoids in CBD oil get you high?
No. Flavonoids are non-psychoactive plant compounds and do not cause intoxicating effects. Unlike THC, they do not produce a "high" and are simply one of many naturally occurring compounds found within the hemp plant.
Are cannflavins the same as CBD?
No. Cannflavins and CBD belong to different classes of compounds. Cannflavins are flavonoids unique to hemp, while CBD is a cannabinoid. Although both occur naturally in hemp, they have distinct chemical structures and characteristics.
Does broad spectrum CBD contain flavonoids?
It can, but the amount depends on the extraction and refinement process used. Broad spectrum products may retain some flavonoids, while full spectrum hemp extracts are generally formulated to preserve a wider range of naturally occurring plant compounds.
It is important to note that the benefits of these products have not been conclusively proven. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and the NHS has not made any guarantees about the efficacy of such products.
