What is full spectrum CBD? A complete guide to its benefits
Cannabidiol (CBD) has rapidly gained recognition for its potential health benefits, from easing anxiety to supporting pain relief. But not all CBD products are created equal. Understanding the differences between full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate can help you make informed choices about the products that best suit your needs.
Contents
What is full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract derived from the cannabis plant, which contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds naturally found in the plant. Unlike CBD isolate, which contains pure CBD, full spectrum CBD includes trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, though not enough to cause a ‘high’. In the UK, full spectrum CBD products are legally required to contain no more than 0.2% THC, making them safe for daily use.
How does full spectrum CBD work?
The unique efficacy of full spectrum CBD lies in the ‘entourage effect‘. This theory suggests that when CBD is combined with other cannabinoids and compounds like terpenes, they work synergistically to enhance each other’s therapeutic effects. This means that full spectrum CBD may offer more pronounced benefits than CBD in isolation, as the various compounds amplify each other’s impact on your body.
Full spectrum CBD vs. Other types of CBD
It’s important to understand the difference between the three primary types of CBD available on the market:
- CBD isolate: The purest form of CBD, with all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and compounds removed.
- Broad spectrum CBD: Contains multiple cannabinoids but has the THC removed, making it a good option for those who want the benefits of other compounds without any THC.
- Full spectrum CBD: Contains all the compounds found in the cannabis plant, including a legal amount of THC.
What are the benefits of full spectrum CBD?
Research into full spectrum CBD is still ongoing, but evidence suggests it may support a wide range of health conditions.
Some of the benefits include:
- Pain relief: Studies indicate that full spectrum CBD may be more effective in managing chronic pain than CBD isolate alone, thanks to the combined effects of THC and CBD.
- Anxiety and stress reduction: Full spectrum CBD has shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality.
- Inflammation: Full spectrum CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and other inflammatory disorders.
- Neuroprotection: Research suggests that CBD, especially when combined with THC and other compounds, may offer neuroprotective benefits, potentially slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Skin health: Topical full spectrum CBD products may support skin health by reducing inflammation and offering antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
How to use full spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD is typically available in the following forms:
- Oils and tinctures: The most common method of consumption, allowing for precise dosing.
- Capsules: Convenient for those who prefer an easy, no-mess option.
- Topicals: Applied directly to the skin for targeted relief, particularly for joint or muscle pain.
Do you swallow CBD oil?
Yes, CBD oil can be swallowed. It is commonly taken sublingually (under the tongue) for faster absorption, but you can also add it to food or drinks. Many people choose this method for its ease of use, though swallowing CBD oil may result in a slightly slower onset of effects as it is absorbed through the digestive system.
Will full spectrum CBD get you high?
Despite containing trace amounts of THC, full spectrum CBD will not cause a ‘high’ as long as it meets the legal THC limit of 0.2% in the UK. While THC does have psychoactive effects, the small amount found in full spectrum CBD is not sufficient to induce intoxication. Instead, full spectrum CBD offers a relaxing effect that many people find beneficial for managing stress or anxiety.
Is full spectrum CBD legal?
In the UK, full spectrum CBD is legal, as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.2%. This makes it a safe and legal option for those looking to experience the full range of benefits that CBD and its natural compounds offer.
Why choose full spectrum CBD over other options?
The entourage effect is one of the main reasons many people prefer full spectrum CBD over other types. By utilising the entire spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, full spectrum products may offer more comprehensive therapeutic benefits compared to CBD isolate or broad spectrum products. If you’re looking for a holistic approach to wellness, full spectrum CBD could be your ideal choice.
Conclusion
Full spectrum CBD offers a more complete and potent form of CBD, harnessing the power of the entire cannabis plant. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, anxiety, or inflammation, full spectrum CBD oil may be a powerful tool in your wellness routine. As always, make sure to choose high-quality, third-party tested products and consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your routine.
At CB1 Medical, we’re committed to evidence-based cannabis care. If you’re exploring how CBD can support your treatment goals and want to learn if medical cannabis is right for you, use our eligibility checker.
