Most CBD products available in the market can be categorized into three extract types; full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate.
In this article, we will take a closer look at full-spectrum CBD. We will understand what it is, how it works, its benefits, risks, legality, best products, and whether you should use it or look into other CBD extracts.
Quick links to the best full-spectrum CBD products
- CBDistillery CBD Oil – Full spectrum CBD oil
- PlusCBD CBD Gummies – Full spectrum CBD gummies
- Cornbread Hemp CBD Capsules – Full spectrum CBD capsules
- Plain Jane CBD Flower Buds – Full spectrum CBD flowers
- FABCBD CBD Cream – Full spectrum CBD cream
What is full spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD is one of the three types of CBD extracts that is derived from hemp plants. It contains whole plant extract including a diverse range of naturally found cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes.
In simpler terms, when we talk about full-spectrum CBD, we’re referring to a CBD product that hasn’t undergone extensive processing to remove certain elements. Instead, it captures the essence of the entire hemp plant.
How is it made?
Full-spectrum CBD is created when hemp plants undergo an extraction process like C02 or ethanol extraction, which leaves an oil-like substance containing plant cannabinoids and other raw materials.
Additionally, this extracted oil undergoes winterization to remove impurities, followed by distillation to refine it, resulting in full-spectrum CBD extract.
Detailed review of the best full-spectrum CBD products
CBDistillery CBD Oil
- CBD Strength: 1000 mg per bottle
- Quantity: 30ml
- Flavor: Natural
- COA: Available
CBDistillery’s CBD oil is one of the best CBD oils from a reputable CBD brand. It comes in a compact 30ml bottle, which holds a potent 1000mg of full-spectrum CBD, this potency is ideal for most users.
Sourced from US-grown hemp, this full-spectrum oil also undergoes rigorous third-party testing to verify its potency and purity.
However, what sets this CBD oil apart is its minimalist formula, it only contains fractionated coconut oil and full-spectrum CBD, ensuring a clean, additive-free product.
With over 3500 satisfied customers praising its effectiveness in reviews, this full-spectrum CBD oil stands out as a reliable option among many choices.
PlusCBD’s CBD Gummies
- CBD Strength: 10 mg per gummy
- Quantity: 30, 60 count
- Flavor: Cherry mango, citrus punch
- COA: Available
+PlusCBD, a renowned CBD brand with a longstanding reputation, introduces its perfected formula in the form of full-spectrum CBD gummies.
Each gummy boasts 10mg of potent full-spectrum CBD, which is available in two convenient sizes of 30 and 60 gummies. Additionally, you can choose from two delightful flavors: cherry mango and citrus punch.
These are crafted from top-notch ingredients and cater to diverse preferences as they are also vegan and gluten-free. However, apart from the added flavor, these CBD gummies retain that natural, hemp-like flavor which may not be to everyone’s liking.
Cornbread Hemp CBD Capsules
- CBD Strength: 25 mg per capsule
- Quantity: 30 counts
- COA: Available
Cornbread Hemp’s CBD capsules stand out as a top choice for full-spectrum CBD capsule enthusiasts. With each capsule delivering a potent 25 mg of CBD, including 1 mg of THC from high-quality hemp plants, they offer a robust CBD experience.
What sets these capsules apart is their full-spectrum composition, enriched with minor cannabinoids and terpenes. This holistic blend leverages the entourage effect which unlocks the full potential of the hemp plant.
With over 600 satisfied customers and a track record of positive reviews, these are a testament to CBD capsules’ quality and effectiveness.
Plain Jane CBD Flower Buds
- CBD Strains: 15 different types of CBD flowers
- Quantity: 28 grams
- COA: Available
Plain Jane, a brand excels in crafting top-tier full-spectrum CBD flowers, outshining competitors in both quality and affordability.
Their small CBD buds are a best-seller, providing approximately 1oz or 28 grams of diverse hemp flowers at unbeatable prices.
Packaged in a small, dense bud form, these CBD flowers retain optimal levels of natural cannabinoids and terpenes, but they still comply with the legal THC limits.
With over 15 strains to explore, each boasting distinct flavors and effects, these are some of the best full-spectrum CBD smokables on the market.
FABCBD CBD Cream
- CBD Strength: 1000 mg
- Quantity: 56 g
- COA: Available
FABCBD’s CBD cream stands as the pinnacle of full-spectrum CBD topicals. It comes in a compact 2 oz (56 gram), bottle, packing a potent 1000 mg of CBD, ideal for chronic pain and inflammation relief.
Sourced from non-GMO, organically grown hemp in Colorado, FABCBD ensures a clean product, that is free from harmful ingredients.
Additionally, the cream’s texture is a revelation. It is light, silky, and non-greasy, with a subtle blood-orange scent, providing a refreshing touch without overpowering fragrances.
Boasting over 450 positive reviews, this CBD cream is a top seller of the brand, earning trust and satisfaction among a growing customer base.
How did we choose these products?
We have vetted many full-spectrum CBD products against the following criteria to ensure quality, transparency, and effectiveness, the criteria include:
- Product quality: We prioritized full-spectrum CBD products from reputable brands known for sourcing high-quality hemp and employing safe extraction methods.
- Third-party testing: CBD products that underwent comprehensive third-party testing were given preference. This external verification in the form of COA (certificate of analysis) ensures the accurate labeling of cannabinoid content and its compliance with legal THC limits.
- Customer feedback: User experiences played a significant role in our selection process. Full-spectrum products with positive reviews and testimonials regarding their effectiveness and quality were considered favorably.
- Wide range of applications: We considered various products to cater to diverse consumer needs. We include varied range of CBD product forms including oils, gummies, capsules, flowers, and topicals.
Read More: CBD Buyers Guide
Is full spectrum CBD legal?
In the United States, hemp-derived, full-spectrum CBD with less than 0.3% THC is federally legal, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.
While most states comply with the Farm Bill, certain states like Idaho prohibiting the sale of any products containing even trace amounts of THC.
Additionally, any full-spectrum product that contains more than 0.3% of THC is federally illegal in the US. At the same time, it remains legal in the states where recreational cannabis is allowed.
Check the current CBD laws of your state.
Does it show on drug tests?
Full-spectrum CBD can show on drug tests because most cannabis-detecting drug tests are designed to look for THC metabolites, which are present in full-spectrum CBD.
Even though it is within the legal limits (under 0.3%), using it regularly for a long time will lead to accumulation in the body, which could result in a positive on a drug screening as cannabis metabolites.
How does full-spectrum CBD work?
Full-spectrum CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) within the body. The ECS is made up of CB receptors and is responsible for managing various essential bodily functions such as mood, pain, sleep, and immune response.
When you intake a full-spectrum CBD product, it metabolizes in your body and collaborates with the ECS. This collaboration activates what’s known as the entourage effect within the body, where cannabinoids and terpenes work together to provide enhanced therapeutic effects.
By engaging with the ECS, full-spectrum CBD helps maintain the body’s internal balance, known as homeostasis, which results in many wellness benefits.
Is it psychoactive?
Hemp-derived full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, but these levels are limited to 0.3% or less, adhering to legal standards. With such minimal THC content, they are unlikely to induce any psychoactive effects or “high”.
Although you can feel a certain sense of calmness or even sleep when you take a full-spectrum CBD, it will not alter motor skills.
Benefits of full-spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD offers a range of potential benefits, thanks to its diverse blend of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other valuable compounds.
At the forefront is the entourage effect, where the synergistic collaboration of these elements enhances the therapeutic effects of a CBD product, providing a more potent and comprehensive wellness experience.
Additionally, full-spectrum CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to promote balance and homeostasis throughout the body. This results in a wide range of wellness benefits, like relief from stress, anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and sleep disorders (1).
Another notable advantage is its minimum exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals due to less processing, offering users a potentially safer and close-to-natural option as compared to other CBD extracts.
Risks of full-spectrum CBD
- Trace amounts of THC: Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC, albeit within legal limits (typically 0.3% or less). While this amount is unlikely to induce psychoactive effects, people with sensitivity to THC or those subject to drug testing should exercise caution.
- Individual sensitivity: Each person reacts differently to cannabinoids. While CBD is generally well-tolerated, in certain cases, people may experience its side effects in the form of fatigue, drowsiness, or changes in appetite.
- Interaction with medications: Full-spectrum CBD can interact with certain medications. If you are taking any medicine then consulting with a healthcare professional is essential before using CBD.
- Quality and purity concerns: As with any supplement, the quality of full-spectrum CBD products can vary. Some can contain impurities or inaccurate labeling regarding cannabinoid content. However, choosing products from reputable brands that undergo third-party testing can help mitigate this risk.
- Legal considerations: While hemp-derived CBD is legal in the US, the legal status of full-spectrum CBD can vary in states where THC is restricted.
Final thoughts
Full-spectrum CBD offers a compelling option for people seeking a holistic and natural approach to wellness. Its potential benefits, when used responsibly, make it a noteworthy contender in the expanding landscape of CBD products.
However, individual responses to CBD can vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional especially if you are taking any medications remains paramount.
Disclosure:
The information in this article is intended for general use only and may not always be appropriate for everyone’s needs. Your health and wellness are unique to you, so before acting on anything we say, seek personalized advice from a medical professional.
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