What Does Full Spectrum CBD Mean?

If you are like one of the millions of Americans interested in using cannabidiol, you have probably encountered the term “full spectrum CBD.” But what does full spectrum mean? Should you be using full spectrum CBD products?

People enjoy using CBD for all sorts of health purposes. From helping with chronic pain or anxiety to improving their mood, digestion, or immune systems. CBD is a powerful tool that helps our bodies function more properly, and improves our overall quality of life. Maximizing the potential CBD can offer first requires us to understand the different types of CBD available to us. Thanks to the innovation and determination of those pioneering the CBD industry, there are many options available to us. Read on to understand why many people today are enjoying full spectrum CBD, and to help understand if it is the right option for you.

What is full spectrum CBD?

The most common types of CBD extracts are full spectrum CBD, isolate CBD, and broad spectrum CBD. Unlike the other types mentioned, full spectrum CBD contains all cannabis plant compounds. Its manufacturing processes are more “hands-off,” making it a more natural CBD extract. It is believed that this makes full spectrum products more potent, giving them more health benefits as well. Specifically, full-spectrum CBD is commonly used to treat inflammation, anxiety, psychotic disorders, pain, muscle spasms, and seizures.

Another big standout of full spectrum CBD compared to other types of CBD is that it usually contains low quantities of THC. Typically, it is less than .3% THC content. This is not nearly enough THC to produce any type of psychoactive effect in the user. If you are afraid of getting “high” from using full spectrum CBD, do not be alarmed.

During the full spectrum manufacturing process, however, THC levels can rise above .3%. It is important to research the THC level in the specific product you’re interested in before using it. Make sure you are comfortable and aware of the cannabis compounds in what you have chosen to use. One of the best ways to check the quality of the product you’re interested in is to review the lab results. This will help determine the authenticity of the product you’re interested in. If you need help understanding lab results, simply contact us or talk with a staff member at your local dispensary.

The entourage effect

Another great reason to consider using full spectrum CBD is that it has good potential to deliver an entourage effect. The entourage effect refers to the broad, enhanced effects of cannabinoids in the CBD as they work synergistically. In 2018 for instance, researchers found that full spectrum products are more effective for treating pain by combining compounds. By working together, the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids within the CBD deliver stronger, longer lasting results. This can be a fantastic solution for people who want to experience the long term benefits of CBD.

It is also a good option for people who want to make sure CBD is working throughout their body’s systems over an extended period.

Many people believe that experiencing CBD in a pure form is preferred, but some scientists and users think differently. There are near-obvious indications that full spectrum CBD is more effective in some cases than the alternatives. Some believe that isolating and removing certain compounds and regulating doses is a better approach to using CBD. Arguably, this helps create a more specialized product aimed at treating specific ailments. From this point of view, full spectrum CBD is too generalized. It would be comparable to swinging a baseball bat at a housefly instead of simply using a fly swatter. This point of view ignores a very important detail. Full spectrum CBD users are likely going to get the treatment their looking for, and much more. However, it is understandable if the user is not interested in the broad, sweeping effect full spectrum has.

What else is available instead of full spectrum?

To better understand what we’re comparing full spectrum too, we should mention other types of CBD isolates.

Broad spectrum CBD

Broad spectrum CBD is similar to full spectrum but has zero or trace amounts of THC content. Like full spectrum, broad spectrum offers a wide range of health benefits but without the stronger “punch” of full spectrum.

CBD isolate

CBD isolate offers users the purest form of CBD. It contains no other compounds and is also very refined. This makes it have no taste or odor whatsoever. CBD isolate might be a good option for people who wish to avoid THC entirely. It is also a good option for people who want to take higher doses of CBD. This way, the user doesn’t need to also be concerned about higher doses of other compounds in CBD. Because there is no trace of THC in CBD isolate, it is safe to use when drug testing.

Are there drawbacks to full spectrum CBD?

Potentially, yes. As we mentioned, sometimes full spectrum CBD may contain more than .3% THC content due to the manufacturing process. This would mean that a specific product is illegal for purchase and consumption in certain states. Research your state’s laws before looking to purchase it. If you’re worried about THC appearing on a drug test, you might also be wary of using full spectrum CBD products.

Is full spectrum CBD right for me?

In summary, because full spectrum CBD potentially offers the most health benefits, it is an excellent choice for many people. Not only is it a more natural and pure form of CBD, but it also offers users the benefits of the entourage effect. Full spectrum CBD offers a wide range of therapeutic advantages that other CBD extracts may not. However, if you are worried about THC sensitives or the legality of using them, do a bit more research. If you can legally possess and use it in your state, start with small doses. Be patient as you wait to see how it affects your body, and increase the dosage until you achieve the desired effect.