With everyone talking about full spectrum CBD nowadays, what’s a consumer to do? Transparency is key – and we have the breakdown you need! Read on to learn all about full spectrum CBD, including how it works, how to take it, and how it stacks up against isolate and broad spectrum CBD.
At FOCL, we take pride in sourcing quality ingredients that support overall functional wellness backed by science. Our custom-formulated blends include powerful adaptogens, healing botanicals, and premium hemp CBD. This means radical transparency thanks to third-party tested, GMP-Compliant, Non-GMO practices.
Shop our entire full spectrum CBD line today! From CBD Drops to CBD Gummies, we have the full spectrum formulation you’re looking for (with great flavor profiles too!). However, for those new to CBD, check out our broad spectrum CBD offerings.
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The Definition: Full spectrum CBD oil is a cannabidiol extract containing all cannabis compounds mixed in a carrier element like MCT, sunflower, almond, coconut, or olive oil. The Process: Full spectrum CBD is typically made by extracting the compounds from the whole hemp plant using a variety of methods, including CO2 extraction, ethanol extraction, or lipid extraction. How To Take: Generally, it is recommended to start with a dose of 25 mg and increase it by 5-10 mg until the desired effect is achieved. Because everyone has different tolerances, you must determine the dose that works best for you. History: First isolated in the 1940s by Dr. Roger Adams, CBD use and knowledge expanded in the 1990s thanks to the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. This discovery led to increased interest in the use of cannabinoids (including CBD). |
The Breakdown: Full Spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD is one type of CBD product that contains ALL of the naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant (CBD along with terpenes and flavonoids).
In contrast, CBD isolate only contains pure CBD – nothing else.
We say “full spectrum” to encompass the many beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant. These compounds are thought to work together to produce a synergistic effect known as the “Entourage Effect,” which may enhance the benefits of CBD.
It’s important to note that full spectrum CBD may contain trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. It’s always best to start low and then taper up in dosage as necessary once you know how your body will react.
Extraction Methods
CO2: This extraction method is most commonly used to make full spectrum CBD.
- In this process, CO2 is used as a solvent to extract the desired compounds from the hemp plant.
- The CO2 is pressurized to a supercritical state, which allows it to act as both a gas and a liquid, and is passed through the hemp plant material to extract the cannabinoids and other compounds.
- The resulting extract contains a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant.
Ethanol Extraction: Ethanol is used as a solvent to extract the desired compounds from the hemp plant. The plant material is soaked in ethanol to extract the cannabinoids and other compounds, and the resulting extract is then filtered and distilled to remove any residual ethanol.
Lipid Extraction: Lipid extraction is a newer method that involves using a lipid, such as coconut oil, to extract the compounds from the hemp plant. The plant material is soaked in the lipid to extract the cannabinoids and other compounds, and the resulting extract is then filtered and purified to remove any impurities.
Why Choose Full Spectrum CBD?
There are several reasons why someone might choose full spectrum CBD over other types of CBD products, such as CBD isolate or even broad spectrum CBD. Here are some of the potential benefits of using full spectrum CBD:
- Entourage Effect: Full spectrum CBD contains a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant. These compounds are believed to work together to produce a synergistic effect known as the entourage effect, which may enhance the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
- Potentially More Effective: Some studies suggest that full spectrum CBD may be more effective than CBD isolate alone. For example, a recent study found that full spectrum CBD extract was more effective than CBD isolate at treating inflammation and pain in mice. (1)
- Natural: Full spectrum CBD is a natural product that is extracted from the hemp plant, which is a renewable and sustainable resource. It does not contain synthetic chemicals or other additives.
- Legality: Full spectrum CBD products are legal in many parts of the world, including the US, as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. This means that people can potentially benefit from the therapeutic properties of CBD.
- Potential Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that full spectrum CBD may have a range of potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep. However, doing additional research and discussing further with your physician is best.
FOCL FAQs: Full Spectrum CBD
Can Full Spectrum CBD Get You High?
It depends. Full spectrum CBD products contain a range of cannabinoids, including a very small amount of THC, which is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that can cause a high.
However, CBD itself is not psychoactive and does not produce the same euphoric effects as THC. Instead, it is believed to have a range of potential therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep.
Will CBD Make Me Fail A Drug Test?
It depends on the type of CBD and overall formulation. At FOCL, we use Premium Hemp CBD and updates our test results for every batch of product. Our latest test results confirm FOCL Day and Night Stacks are 100% THC-free.
FOCL Premium Drops are made with broad spectrum CBD and can contain trace amounts of THC. The legal limit of THC in hemp-derived CBD products is no more than 0.3%. If you have any concerns about passing a drug test we recommend consulting your physician.
How Much Full Spectrum CBD Should I Take?
Dosage matters when using full spectrum CBD. Start with a low dose and increase as needed.
Generally, it is recommended to start with a dose of 10-20 mg and increase it by 5-10 mg until the desired effect is achieved. Because everyone has different tolerances, you must determine the dose that works best for you.
What Is The Entourage Effect?
The compounds in full spectrum CBD oil work synergistically, creating an “entourage effect” where the whole effect is more powerful and beneficial than its parts. The entourage effect of full spectrum CBD oil from flavonoids can reduce inflammation and the terpenes may increase cannabinoid absorption.
First proposed back in 1998 by Raphael Mechoulam, an Israeli scientist, the entourage effect has been studied extensively. Evidence continues to mount suggesting this interesting phenomenon is real. As more and more research continues, even more effective cannabis-based treatments will likely emerge for consumers.
What Is The Difference Between CBD And Full Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD is similar to full spectrum CBD in that it contains a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant, with one important difference: broad spectrum CBD products have had the THC removed (that means no psychoactive effects).
Furthermore, broad spectrum CBD products are a good option for people who want to experience the potential benefits of multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but are sensitive to THC or subject to drug testing.
Can You Take Full Spectrum CBD Every Day?
Yes, many people take full spectrum CBD products every day. CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, and there is no evidence to suggest that taking full spectrum CBD every day is harmful.
It's also important to note that the optimal dose of full spectrum CBD may vary from person to person, depending on factors such as weight, metabolism, and the reason for taking the supplement. It's generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Do Full Spectrum CBD Gummies Work?
Yes, full spectrum CBD gummies can work for some people, depending on the reason for taking them and the individual's unique body chemistry. They are a convenient and tasty way to take CBD, and they can provide many of the same potential therapeutic benefits as other forms of full spectrum CBD, such as reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep.
However, the effectiveness of full spectrum CBD gummies can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the product, the dosage, and the individual's sensitivity to CBD. It's important to choose a high-quality full spectrum CBD gummy product from a reputable brand like FOCL, to ensure that the product contains legal and safe levels of THC and other contaminants.
Is Full Spectrum Stronger Than Broad Spectrum?
Due to the Entourage Effect, which is the idea that different substances in the hemp plant interact with one another to improve the medicinal effects of CBD, full spectrum CBD is sometimes seen as being stronger than broad spectrum CBD.
A variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other helpful substances from the hemp plant, including a safe and legal level of THC (less than 0.3% in the United States), are included in full spectrum CBD products. Together, these ingredients have a synergistic effect that may improve the product's overall therapeutic effects.
Sources:
- Vigil JM, Montera MA, Pentkowski NS, Diviant JP, Orozco J, Ortiz AL, Rael LJ, Westlund KN. The Therapeutic Effectiveness of Full Spectrum Hemp Oil Using a Chronic Neuropathic Pain Model. Life (Basel). 2020 May 18;10(5):69. doi: 10.3390/life10050069. PMID: 32443500; PMCID: PMC7281216.
