Full-spectrum vs broad-spectrum cbd oil

Summary:

What is CBD Oil?

But not all kinds of CBD oil are created equal. There are different types and strengths to choose from, so important for every one to find the right product and dosage for their needs.

 

Read more here: What is CBD?

What is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?

If the label on a CBD product declares that it is full-spectrum, this means that it contains all the phytochemicals that are naturally found within the hemp plant. These can include CBD, THC, terpenes, and a range of other cannabinoids. THC is the plant’s main intoxicating compound, which means that it has the potential to make the user high. Although the THC content in full-spectrum CBD oil is low, it is still present in traceable quantities, and full-spectrum oils are therefore illegal in many countries, including the UK.

All of the ingredients in full-spectrum CBD oil work together to amplify the potential health benefits of CBD and enhance the effectiveness of the product, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.

While full-spectrum products might not get you “high”, they may still make you test positive on a drug test, especially if you are consuming large amounts of it every day. Plus, despite the added benefits of the entourage effect, it is possible to experience side effects as the result of THC inclusion, including tiredness and nausea.

Here is a list of the pros and cons of using full-spectrum CBD oil:

 

Pros:

• It allows the user to reap the benefits of the entourage effect
• It is the least-processed type of CBD oil
• It has additional terpenes and flavonoids that provide multiple benefits

 

Cons:

• It can show up on a drug test
• The user risks taking an illegal substance if THC levels are not monitored
• The user may experience adverse side-effects to THC content

 

In Detail: The Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

As mentioned above, full-spectrum CBD oil has a wide range of medicinal uses. In particular, it is commonly used for its anti-oxidant, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and pain-killing qualities.

In 2018, a literature review demonstrated that the terpenes and flavonoids present within full-spectrum oil also had neuroprotective as well as anti-inflammatory properties, which would suggest that the oil could be of benefit to individuals who would like to lead an active lifestyle but are limited in some way by other medical conditions.

Who is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Best For?

Full-spectrum CBD oil is ideal for those:

• Who feel CBD isolate or broad-spectrum products don’t work for them
• Who want to benefit from the THC present in this CBD oil  
• Who are living in areas where THC is legal

 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using broad-spectrum CBD oil:

 

Pros:

• It still offers all of the benefits of the entourage effect
• It is only moderately processed
• It is completely non-intoxicating as it contains non-detectable levels of THC

 

Cons:

• It does not offer the benefits associated with THC (but this also means no side effects)
• It has limited availability on the market so is slightly more expensive than full-spectrum
• It may sometimes carry a natural hemp flavour which can be quite potent

 

In Detail: The Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil

As we have seen, broad-spectrum CBD oil contains a rich mix of cannabinoids and other naturally-occurring compounds, including terpenes, CBN, CBC, and CBG, which all combine and interact with the body to create the entourage effect. This potent combination of phytochemicals has been shown to improve sleep and reduce inflammation, without any of the side effects associated with THC.

Some of the many potential benefits of broad-spectrum CBD oil include:

 

• Improving muscle recovery
• Reducing stress and anxiety
• Improving sleep
• Relieving joint stiffness
• Soothing acne and supporting aging skin

 

Other health benefits of broad-spectrum CBD are still in the preliminary research phase and require much more study, but the initial findings are extremely positive.

Who is Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil Best For?

Broad-spectrum CBD oil is ideal for people who:

 

• Have used CBD isolate and didn’t feel any therapeutic effects
• Do not want to take a psychoactive substance
• Want to enjoy the benefits of CBD without the potential side effects of THC

 

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant. When it interacts with the body, this chemical binds to the CB1 receptors in brain cells, which control movement, memory, learning, inflammation, and pain sensations. 

It may also attach itself to the CB2 receptors found in the brainstem and hippocampus, which control memory and emotion. Other parts of the body, such as the spleen, liver, and immune cells also have these receptors. Because of this, THC has such a powerful effect on the body overall – in both positive and negative ways. While it has the potential to manage pain, anxiety, muscle spasticity and insomnia, it can also intoxicate the user and make them ‘high’. This ‘high’ can disrupt the brain’s reward pathway, and subsequently cause addiction and dependency issues.

Is Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil Addictive?

Now that you know broad-spectrum CBD oil does not contain THC, it is pretty easy to answer this question, and it has been shown that even 1500ml of daily CBD does not cause dependency or addiction issues. In short, broad-spectrum CBD contains non-detectable levels of THC, so it is not addictive.

However, when sourcing your CBD, it is important that you buy from a brand that follows high processing standards and takes quality very seriously. This will help you to avoid products that contain unsafe levels of THC despite their label  claims.

Is CBD Oil Legal in the UK?

In the UK, cannabis or other products that contain THC are a class B controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. This means that it is illegal to possess these substances and to supply or produce them without a Home Office license. CBD, however, is an isolated chemical form and not considered a controlled substance. It is perfectly legal to sell and buy products that are pure CBD.

While it is often claimed that substances containing less than 0.2% THC are legal, this is only applicable to hemp plants that are cultivated for industrial processes. When it comes to human consumption, we have to consult Regulation 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. This states that, in order to not fall foul of this regulation, all CBD products must satisfy three key criteria:

 

• The product must not designed for the administration of THC
• The product must be manufactured so that THC molecules cannot be readily recovered from it or pose a threat to human health
• The product must not contain more than 1mg of THC per part

 

This means that products from credible manufacturers which contain under 0.03% of THC are effectively legal in the UK because at these concentrations they satisfy all of the conditions.

How will you know if the brand you choose is reliable or not? Look for third-party testing evidence or a certificate of analysis on the product you are about to use or buy. This approval verifies any product is safe and of good quality.

Does Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil Have Side-effects?

According to the World Health Organisation, broad-spectrum CBD oil is perfectly safe for human consumption; however, some studies indicate that it may, in rare cases, negatively impact the user’s:

 

• Sleep
• Digestion
• Appetite
• Weight

 

It is also important to keep in mind that while using full-spectrum CBD, you might experience some side effects related to THC. These can include a dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, drowsiness, changes in mood, negative interactions with other drugs, and in some cases, liver damage.

 

Want to learn how to take CBD oil? Click here.

Can Dogs Have Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil?

If you are using CBD in an oil form, however, it might be a good idea to start small and then increase the dosage until you find the right dose for them.

 

Is CBD safe for your pets? Read here.

Is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Better Than Broad-Spectrum?

In terms of their potential effects on health and wellbeing, one is not necessarily better than the other – it all depends on your preferences. Full-spectrum contains THC – this may get you ‘high’ and bring a host of side effects, along with the oil’s numerous proven benefits. On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD oil contains non-detectable levels of THC – so while you’ll miss out on THC’s benefits, you will be able to reap the positives of the entourage effect without the potential negative side-effects of THC.

For this reason, we recommend broad-spectrum CBD oil. It is also the best choice for those who have just started their journey with CBD, as it allows you to gently ease into regular use without the worry.

 

Which Type of CBD is Right for You?

What’s important to remember is that all types of CBD oil offer a wide range of positives and serious side effects are very rare. While we recommend broad-spectrum CBD to get the most out of this natural powerhouse plant, it’s essential to find a credible brand, regardless of which type you choose to use.

Selecting a product that has been third-party tested and proven to be created from only quality ingredients gives you complete peace of mind when it comes to safety and effectiveness. This would be an ideal approach for beginners in the exciting world of CBD, as it offers a safe route to improved health and wellbeing.

 

Looking for perfect broad-spectrum CBD oil products? Click here.

 

 

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