CBD has been the talk of every street, not just in Canada and North America but the entire world! With each passing day, CBD products are becoming increasingly popular as people explore their potential benefits and effects.
From oils to gummies, there’s no shortage of ways to try CBD. But did you know that CBD products differ not just in type but also in their cannabinoid profile? While some comprise 100% CBD, others may contain CBD mixed with several different cannabinoids like THC.
One of these is Full-Spectrum CBD. As the name suggests, it contains the entire profile of cannabinoids that can naturally be extracted from a Cannabis sativa (hemp) plant, including CBD and THC.
Let’s dive deeper and find answers to questions like what Full Spectrum CBD, how it works, what are its potential benefits, whether it is legal, and how to choose the best quality full spectrum CBD products.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Like all CBD products, Full Spectrum CBD is also a type of natural extract derived from the Cannabis Sativa or the hemp plant.
However, unlike other types of CBD, which contain a few cannabinoids only, full-spectrum products are known to contain practically all the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Besides, they also retain multiple other natural compounds like terpenes and flavonoids that enhance CBD flavour and benefits.
Here’s what full-spectrum CBD is made of at its core:
- Cannabinoids – They contain all the well-known hemp cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While CBD is non-psychoactive, THC has often been found to offer a euphoric “high.” However, THC levels in most full-spectrum products are either equal to or less than 0.3% of the whole composition.
- Terpenes – These are natural hemp compounds responsible for the plant’s overall aroma and flavour. Beyond their sensory appeal, some terpenes may also influence how cannabinoids interact with the body, potentially increasing their time of stay in the ECS receptors.
- Flavonoids – Also naturally found in hemp plants, flavonoids in full-spectrum CBD are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties., contributing to its colour and potential wellness effects.
The compounds in a full-spectrum CBD product work together to create an entourage effect of CBD benefits, meaning they combine to provide a holistic CBD impact to the users.
How Does Full-Spectrum CBD Work?
Full Spectrum CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is made of an endless network of CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are found mostly in the brain and spinal cord, forming a part of the central nervous system. They regulate cognitive functions like mood, pain, and appetite.
CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are located in immune cells. They help reduce inflammation and control immune responses. Collectively, the ECS helps regulate essential functions such as mood, pain, sleep, inflammation, and immune responses.
To understand how full spectrum CBD works, we need to divide the interactions of CBD and THC into separate domains. THC is a psychoactive compound present in full-spectrum products that interact with endocannabinoid receptors and may contribute to relaxation, pain relief, and a mild euphoric effect.
Meanwhile, CBD, the primary cannabinoid in full spectrum CBD, indirectly interacts with the endocannabinoid system and has been observed to activate the receptors for a longer time, enhancing its effects on the user’s body. Research is still ongoing to explain the exact functional mechanism of full-spectrum products.
Benefits and Effects of Full-Spectrum CBD
Why choose full-spectrum CBD? Well, compared with other types of CBD products, the full spectrum has been acknowledged by many users to deliver a wholesome impact on their wellness. Their suggested benefits include pain relief, anxiety reduction, relaxation, sleep improvement, and more.
Here’s a detailed look at these full-spectrum CBD effects for a broader and clearer picture of what you may get from using it.
Pain Relief
Cannabinoids like CBD and THC found in full spectrum CBD products are believed to influence how the body perceives pain and promote relaxation. Additionally, some terpenes found naturally in full-spectrum CBD have also been studied to show pacifying properties.
Anxiety and Stress Reduction
Many users turn to full-spectrum CBD for relaxation and stress relief, as it is commonly associated with a calming effect. Certain terpenes have also been found to be associated with mood enhancement.
Improved Sleep
Full-spectrum CBD products promote a well-balanced ECS that’s known to regulate many cognitive functions, including sleep management. Some users have reported that CBD products for sleep have helped improve their sleep cycle and supported quick yet relaxed unwinding at the end of an exhaustive day.
Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammation is a natural response to an attack on the body’s immune system, but when it becomes excessive, it can lead to physical discomfort. Some research findings suggest that full-spectrum cannabinoids and flavonoids may provide potential anti-inflammatory properties and eventually reduce inflammation.
Support for Overall Wellness
Owing to the above benefits, many users have suggested using full-spectrum CBD products to support the body’s overall well-being and balance. Some have also started using them in their daily wellness routines and reported consistent positive benefits.
Other Types of CBD
Depending on their composition, CBD extracts can be categorized into full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolates. While you can choose any of these from the extensive collection available at CBDNorth, let’s understand how they differ.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full Spectrum CBD contains all naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant, including:
- All Cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, CBN, and 0.3% or less THC)
- Terpenes (which contribute to the scent, flavour, and potential effects)
- Flavonoids (plant compounds with antioxidant properties)
Since it retains the complete profile of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, Full Spectrum CBD is believed to produce the entourage effect, where these compounds work together to provide wholesome wellness benefits. Besides, since THC content is usually less than 0.3%, psychoactive effects or a euphoric high is felt but not substantially.
Isolate CBD
CBD Isolate is the purest form of CBD, containing only cannabidiol and nothing else. During the extraction process, all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds are removed, leaving behind 100% pure CBD in crystalline or powder form. They are:
- THC-free, no risk of high.
- It has no flavour or scent, so it is ideal for those who prefer a neutral taste.
- Have high CBD concentration
While CBD Isolate is great for those wanting pure CBD, it lacks the entourage effect that comes from a full plant extract.
Related Post: Full Spectrum CBD Vs CBD Isolate
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad Spectrum CBD is similar to Full Spectrum CBD, but with one key difference—it does not contain THC. It includes:
- CBD and multiple cannabinoids like CBG and CBN
- Terpenes and flavonoids for potential added benefits
- No THC, causing no high
Since Broad Spectrum CBD still contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes, it may offer some level of the entourage effect. However, without THC, it might not be as strong as Full Spectrum CBD.
Is Full Spectrum CBD Legal?
While full-spectrum CBD is widely available in all regions, its legal status varies significantly depending on a country’s federal and state-specific regulations.
In Canada, for instance, full-spectrum CBD is legal but strictly regulated under the Cannabis Act, which came into effect on October 17, 2018. Whether derived from industrial or regular hemp, it falls under the same legal framework. However, states are free to set up their own retail guidelines regarding its sale.
According to the Cannabis Act, only licensed producers with a federal processing license can manufacture and sell full-spectrum CBD in Canada. Additionally, it must have less than 0.3% THC content. The same act provides that full spectrum CBD can only be sold through provincially or territorially authorized cannabis retailers or federally licensed sellers for medical purposes.
Health Canada is the central agency that regulates CBD production, distribution, and sale in Canada, ensuring legal compliance. Full-spectrum CBD can only be consumed by adults over 18 in Canada, and unauthorized production, sale, or distribution remains illegal.
Similar provisions exist in other North American countries like the US, where full spectrum CBD is legal for sale at the federal level, while states have set up their own regulations. THC content is limited to 0.3% here as well.
At CBDNorth, all full-spectrum CBD products you buy thoroughly comply with these legal requirements.
How to Choose High-Quality Full Spectrum CBD?
With so many CBD products on the market, choosing a high-quality full spectrum CBD product can be overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:
Third-Party Lab Testing
Always check if an independent third-party lab has tested the product. Lab reports, also known as Certificates of Analysis (COAs), confirm the cannabinoid profile, ensuring that the THC content stays within legal limits (0.3% in Canada). These reports also check for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents, ensuring purity, quality, and safety in every batch.
Form (Oil, Capsules, Edibles, etc.)
Full Spectrum CBD comes in different forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, and topicals. Your choice depends on personal preference and lifestyle. For those looking for fast absorption, CBD oil in Canada and tinctures are great options. Capsules offer the convenience of a pre-measured dose, while CBD gummies in Canada, with their added flavor, are a popular choice even though they take a bit longer to take effect. Topicals are perfect for targeted relief.
Ingredients
Look for natural, organic ingredients without unnecessary additives or artificial flavours. A high-quality Full Spectrum CBD product should contain organic, non-GMO hemp extract, organic carrier oil (like MCT oil), natural terpenes and flavours as far as possible.
Price and Value
While budget matters, price alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Compare the CBD potency (mg per serving) to the price to determine the value. Some companies offer bulk discounts or subscription options to help you save money in the long run.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews can provide insight into the effectiveness, quality, and company reputation. Look for reviews on third-party websites rather than just the brand’s website to get an unbiased opinion.
Conclusion
Is full spectrum CBD the right choice for you? Let’s crack this code as we conclude! Full-spectrum CBD offers a wide range of cannabinoids like CBD and THC, along with natural terpenes and flavonoids, practically the full extract of the hemp plant.
These compounds work together to provide a complete and enhanced wellness effect, popularly known as the “entourage effect.” What comprises this “entourage effect?” Well, the ongoing research suggests it includes a range of benefits such as relaxation, sleep improvement, pain relief, anxiety reduction, and suppressed inflammation.
All you need to do is choose the right full-spectrum CBD product, considering factors like
third-party lab testing, ingredient transparency, and customer reviews to ensure you’re getting the most out of the best! Check out CBDNorth’s premium collection for high-quality, lab-tested wellness options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Full-Spectrum CBD contains all the natural hemp cannabinoids, including THC. However, its amounts are legally limited to 0.3% of the entire composition in Canada. THC contributes significantly to providing the entourage effect and holistic wellness full spectrum CBD is popularly known for.
Yes, full-spectrum CBD can generally be taken every day, as many users incorporate it into their daily wellness routine. However, the serving must be administered according to your individual tolerance and metabolism.
Many users take full-spectrum CBD as part of their nighttime routine, as it is commonly associated with relaxation and sleep improvement. The presence of multiple cannabinoids, including THC and terpenes, might enhance its calming effects, but results often vary based on individual responses.
Full-spectrum CBD contains up to 0.3% THC, which is slightly psychoactive but does not cause a significant high for most users. However, in excessive servings, the euphoric effects might be more noticeable.
Full-spectrum CBD is usually well-tolerated, though some users report temporary effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. These effects are mild and usually occur only when the product is taken in excessive, unmonitored servings.
