You’ve probably heard the buzz about CBD by now. Maybe a friend or colleague has recommended it for anxiety or insomnia. Or maybe a therapist suggested it to help manage stress. Either way, CBD is all the rage these days, especially full-spectrum CBD.
What exactly is full-spectrum CBD, and how is it different from broad-spectrum and CBD isolate? This guide takes a close look at full-spectrum CBD and everything it has to offer. Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s inside this beginner’s guide to the best CBD oil:
- What does full-spectrum CBD do?
- What is the difference between broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD?
- Is full-spectrum CBD psychoactive?
- What is CBD isolate?
- What are the different ways to consume full-spectrum CBD?
- How to use full-spectrum CBD oil
What Does Full-Spectrum CBD Do?
Full-spectrum CBD is one of three different types of CBD. The other two are broad-spectrum and CBD isolate, but more on that in a minute. The reason it’s called “full-spectrum” is because it contains the full spectrum of compounds found in the cannabis plant, including all major and minor cannabinoids, as well as the rich terpenes found in cannabis.
Cannabinoids. There are over one hundred different cannabinoids in cannabis, CBD, and THC being the two of the most prominent. These two are largely responsible for the health benefits this plant offers. But the biggest difference is that THC gets you “high,” and CBD doesn’t.
Full-spectrum CBD has all these cannabinoids. (Yes, this includes THC — but only a trace amount, up to 0.3%.) That’s a good thing because the compounds work together, enhancing the overall effect of CBD in a special way — something known as the “entourage effect.”
Terpenes. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in plants that make them smell the way they do. Lemons smell citrusy because of a terpene called limonene. Lavender’s floral, earthy scene because of linalool. Pine trees because of pinene.
Cannabis contains over one hundred different terpenes, which can vary from strain to strain. Research is increasingly showing that terpenes are linked to therapeutic effects. This is why plants high in terpenes — like cannabis and herbs — have been relied on as plant-based remedies for centuries. For example, research suggests that linalool has calming effects.
Does Full-Spectrum CBD Get You High?
Nope. Even though full-spectrum CBD has trace amounts of THC, it doesn’t have enough to produce a “high” effect.
But … in theory, if you take a ton of full-spectrum CBD, you will consume enough THC to feel high. We don’t suggest this, of course.
Instead, start with a low dose of CBD and increase only as needed. We recommend one to two droppers under the tongue a few times a day, but always check with a doctor if you aren’t sure.
What Is The Difference Between Broad-Spectrum CBD And Full-Spectrum CBD?
To recap, full-spectrum CBD has all the beneficial cannabinoids found in cannabis. Broad-spectrum CBD is basically the same thing. Broad-spectrum CBD is CBD oil that has had the THC molecule removed. So like full-spectrum oil, broad-spectrum CBD contains all the terpenes, flavonoids, CBD, and minor cannabinoids –- all the good stuff. But it doesn’t have any THC.
On one hand, that’s great for people who don’t want any THC in their system. This is particularly useful for people who are routinely drug tested. On the other hand, no THC means the entourage effect isn’t as effective.
Is Full-Spectrum CBD Psychoactive?
Full-spectrum CBD has all the compounds found in cannabis—for example, CBD, THC, other cannabinoids, and fragrant terpenes.
The presence of these compounds is what distinguishes full-spectrum CBD from CBD isolate or pure CBD. And while full-spectrum CBD has a small amount of THC, it’s not enough (in most cases) to trigger a psychoactive effect.
That’s because THC in full-spectrum CBD is limited to 0.3% or less. Unless taken in unusually large quantities, full-spectrum CBD won’t cause a “high” associated with cannabis. The psychoactive effect of THC in full-spectrum products will relate to the total milligrams of THC contained in each serving, and most products containing less than a trace amount (under 2 mg/serving) will generally not get anyone high. However, these trace amounts of THC may show up in a drug test. In this case, anyone subject to drug testing may want to consider CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD instead.
What Is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form, often crystalline or ground into a very fine powder. It doesn’t have any THC, terpenes, or other compounds found in cannabis. As the name suggested, this is the CBD molecule that has been “isolated” and stripped out of the other parts of the plant.
For that reason, CBD isolate is often odorless and flavorless, and it shouldn’t show up in drug tests. At the same time, people who take CBD isolate miss out on the entourage effect.
What Are The Different Ways To Consume Full-Spectrum CBD?
There are several ways to consume full-spectrum CBD. These include:
Oral consumption. Full-spectrum CBD oil can be taken orally, either by placing a few drops under the tongue or by adding it to food or drinks.
Topical application. Full-spectrum CBD topicals, such as creams, salves, and balms, can be applied directly to the skin to target specific areas.
Inhalation. Full-spectrum CBD can be inhaled using a vaporizer or e-cigarette. This method is fast-acting and can provide quick relief.
Edibles. Full-spectrum CBD can also be found in various edibles like gummies, chocolates, and baked goods. This method is convenient and provides long-lasting effects.
Supplements. Full-spectrum CBD can be taken in the form of capsules or soft gels, taken with or without food.
How Long Does It Take For Effects To Kick In?
When taking full-spectrum CBD orally, the effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, but they tend to last longer than when using other methods. This method is also convenient and easy to use and can be adjusted to meet individual dosing needs.
Topical application may alleviate localized pain, inflammation, and skin conditions. CBD absorbs through the skin, providing targeted relief to the affected area. This method is also non-psychoactive, so there’s no risk of feeling “high.”
Inhalation is a fast-acting method that can provide quick relief for conditions such as anxiety, pain, and inflammation. This method is especially useful for those who need immediate relief but do not want to “get high.”
Edibles are a convenient and discreet way to consume full-spectrum CBD. They come in a variety of flavors and strengths, and the effects can last for several hours. This method is also non-psychoactive.
Supplements are yet another easy and convenient way to consume full-spectrum CBD. Taken with or without food, they are absorbed through the digestive system, providing long-lasting effects. This method is especially useful for people who want to incorporate CBD into their daily routine and/or as part of a wellness regimen.
How To Use Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD oil is a simple and convenient way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. The following are some tips for how to use full-spectrum CBD oil effectively:
Determine the right dosage. We recommend you start with a low dosage and gradually increase until you find what works best for you. Most individuals have good success starting with servings of 10-20 mg and increasing from there but recommended starting doses depend on weight, age, and desired effects.
Choose the right method of consumption. Full-spectrum CBD oil can be taken orally, applied topically, or used in cooking and baking. Oral consumption is the most popular method, often taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to food and drinks.
Topical application may be best for localized pain and skin conditions. However, using CBD oil in cooking and baking is a great way to incorporate it into your diet.
Store CBD oil properly. CBD oil should go in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency and freshness. It’s important to keep the bottle tightly sealed and away from direct sunlight and heat.
Use a high-quality product. Do your research, and only buy CBD oil from a reputable source that uses third-party testing to ensure quality and purity. Look for products that are organic, non-GMO, and free from harmful chemicals and contaminants.
Be patient. The effects of CBD oil can take some time to become noticeable, so give it a little time to work its magic. Consistency is key here, as the effects are cumulative and tend to become stronger over time. Additionally, because CBD is not psychoactive, you won’t “feel” or experience it in the same way as THC. Instead, it will be the things you DON’T feel that tell you it’s working, like fewer aches, reduced anxiety, and less insomnia.
Talk to your doctor. If you take any medications or have a medical condition, speak with your doctor before starting a regimen. CBD can interact with certain medications.
Keep a journal. Documenting your experience with full-spectrum CBD oil can help track the effects. Doing so can also aid in determining the right dosage for you. Write down how much CBD oil you take, the time of day, and any notable effects you experience.
How To Choose A Quality Full-Spectrum CBD Product
To make it easy, we’ve identified three red flags to avoid when shopping for CBD.
No COA. A COA is a certificate of analysis from a reputable third-party lab. Brands that sell CBD often have their products tested, and they post these test results on their website.
If a brand doesn’t post a COA, don’t buy. Where COAs are available, take the time to review them carefully. Are they generic to the company’s products in general? Or do they correspond to the specific product and lot number you seek to purchase? Diligent brands with a commitment to quality will not cut corners on testing and will provide lot-specific COAs. Also, check out the cannabinoid profile and potency. This way, you know exactly what’s in the bottle.
Unsupported health claims. Although there’s plenty of research on CBD out there, some brands may exaggerate what their product can do.
Many people derive great results and use CBD to manage a variety of needs. But claiming that it can cure every disease out there may be a stretch.
How Acknowledge CBD Products Stand Out
When it comes to shopping for CBD products, it’s important to have a brand you can trust. At Acknowledge, that’s exactly what we strive to be. We use only the best ingredients to create high-quality CBD products. Additionally, we take pride in our customer service to ensure your CBD experience is as enjoyable as possible. Check out our shop and find the right product for your needs today!
The content provided by Acknowledge CBD is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or if you have any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this site. Reliance on any information provided by Acknowledge CBD is solely at your own risk.