full spectrum cbd

What Does Full Spectrum CBD Mean? The Entourage Effect of the Phytocannabinoids

Choosing the right CBD product starts with understanding the different types of CBD. Then, when you are faced with an extensive selection of products online, narrowing down your options can be done by choosing the right kind of CBD for your lifestyle.

This post is dedicated to defining what full spectrum means and how this specific type of extract interacts with our endocannabinoid system. After reading, you will understand the pros and cons of choosing full-spectrum CBD and how it differentiates from other types of products on the market.

What is Full Spectrum CBD?

Full-spectrum CBD is a hemp-derived extract containing an array of cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds that make up the cannabis plant and drive its beneficial properties. Terpenes are essential oils that produce the unique smells of each plant; they also have unique medicinal effects, especially when combined with cannabinoids.

The most important aspect of full-spectrum CBD is the extract’s THC content. While THC must be under 0.3% to be considered cannabinoid hemp and be sold online, full-spectrum products to contain the cannabinoids and can result in a positive drug test.

While some people may want to avoid using THC because they don’t want to consume the chemical compound associated with marijuana, there are clear advantages to taking small amounts of THC with CBD.

Full Spectrum CBD Effects

CBD and THC work in opposing ways when introduced to the body. CBD lowers the intoxicating effects of THC. So when you take CBD with small amounts of THC, you won’t experience the notorious high, but you will receive additional benefits through what is known as the entourage effect.

Full-spectrum CBD doesn’t have enough THC to get you high, but it could trigger a positive drug test. If you are concerned with testing positive for THC, it is best to avoid full-spectrum CBD products. However, if you aren’t worried about being drug tested, we highly recommend using full-spectrum CBD to experience cannabinoid hemp to its full potential.

The Entourage Effect

The phenomenon known as the entourage effect is the belief that cannabinoids are more beneficial when taken with other cannabis compounds. So far, the most prominent evidence we have to support the theory is from a study done in Jerusalem. A full spectrum or full-plant extract and an isolate extract were used to reduce the swelling in an animal model. The effectiveness was recorded, and while both extracts were successful, the full plant extract performed better.

Other Types of CBD

If you are concerned with taking THC, there are alternatives. Full-spectrum CBD is considered the gold standard for types of CBD extracts, but there is plenty of data to suggest that CBD in all forms is beneficial.

Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD also features an array of other cannabis compounds, but THC is omitted. In the extraction process, THC remains with the original plant matter. Broad-spectrum is the perfect choice for CBD users looking to get extra benefits from the entourage effect but are concerned with consuming THC.

Isolate CBD

Isolate CBD is cannabidiol in its purest form. All other compounds are removed from the extract resulting in a white crystalline powder. While isolate CBD is considered the least beneficial type of CBD extract, there are numerous scientific studies done with isolate CBD that delivered extremely promising results.

Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD Vs. Full Spectrum CBD

We are far from being able to fully say precisely how much more beneficial full-spectrum is than a broad spectrum. The industry consensus is that full-spectrum will deliver more benefits, but this claim is difficult to prove. We recommend trying an assortment of CBD products and deciding which works best for your health concerns.