Full spectrum CBD is more than just cannabidiol (CBD). It is a whole-plant extract that retains the natural profile of the hemp plant. This means it contains a rich diversity of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work together in a unique synergy.
Key Definition
Full Spectrum CBD: A hemp extract that contains all naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including CBD, minor cannabinoids (like CBG, CBN), terpenes, essential oils, and trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3% by law).
Why is Full Spectrum CBD Different from Other CBD Types?
To understand full spectrum CBD, you must view the hemp plant as a complex chemical factory. While CBD is the most famous compound produced, it is merely one actor on a crowded stage.
Understanding the Complete Plant Profile
When hemp is processed into full spectrum oil, the extraction method aims to preserve the plant’s natural composition rather than isolating a single molecule. This results in a final product that includes:
- Cannabinoids: Over 100 variations, including CBD, THC, CBG (cannabigerol), and CBN (cannabinol).
- Terpenes: Aromatic compounds that give cannabis its scent and contribute to therapeutic effects (e.g., myrcene, limonene).
- Flavonoids: Phytonutrients found in almost all fruits and vegetables that offer antioxidant benefits.
You can dive deeper into the science of these individual compounds in our guide to cannabidiol.
Full Spectrum CBD vs Other CBD Types: Which Should You Choose?
The primary difference lies in refinement. As you remove compounds from the extract, you move from full spectrum to broad spectrum, and finally to isolate.
| Type | Composition | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Spectrum | CBD + All Cannabinoids + Terpenes + Trace THC (≤0.3%) | Maximum therapeutic potential via the entourage effect; closest to nature. | Strong hemp taste; trace THC may show on sensitive drug tests. |
| Broad Spectrum | CBD + Cannabinoids + Terpenes (No THC) | Offers some synergy without the risk of THC exposure. | Highly processed to remove THC, which may strip some beneficial terpenes. |
| CBD Isolate | 99% Pure CBD (Crystalline Powder) | Tasteless; odorless; zero THC guarantees. | Lacks the entourage effect; typically requires higher doses for efficacy. |
For a closer look at our product varieties, explore our CBD collection.
What Makes Full Spectrum CBD More Effective Than Isolates?
The Science Behind the Entourage Effect
The primary argument for choosing full spectrum products is the “entourage effect.” This theory posits that cannabis compounds work better together than they do in isolation. It is a synergy where the sum is greater than the parts.
For example, research suggests that terpenes like myrcene may help cannabinoids cross the blood-brain barrier more easily, while CBD can mitigate some of the psychoactive effects of THC.
While widely accepted in the holistic community, the science is still evolving. A 2020 review in Frontiers in Plant Science supported the potential for synergistic effects, particularly for mood and pain disorders. However, skeptics note that marketing claims sometimes outpace clinical data. We explore this topic in detail in our article on the entourage effect.
How Does Full Spectrum CBD Work in Your Body?
Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System
Full spectrum CBD interacts directly with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a vast network of receptors (CB1 and CB2) found throughout your body. The ECS regulates critical functions including sleep, mood, pain sensation, and immune response.
- CB1 Receptors: Primarily in the brain and central nervous system.
- CB2 Receptors: Found largely in the immune system and peripheral organs.
While THC binds directly to receptors, CBD and minor cannabinoids often work by modulating these receptors or inhibiting the breakdown of your body’s own endocannabinoids. Learn more about this crucial system in our overview of the Endocannabinoid System.
What Are the Specific Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD?
Research into cannabis is expanding rapidly. While FDA regulations limit us from making specific medical claims, studies published by trusted institutions like Harvard Health highlight several potential benefits:
Research-Backed Therapeutic Applications
- Chronic Pain Management: Full spectrum extracts are often preferred for pain because the combination of CBD and trace THC may offer superior analgesic properties compared to isolate.
- Anxiety and Stress Relief: A study published in JAMA Network Open has examined the efficacy of CBD for anxiety, with many users reporting that whole-plant extracts provide a more “rounded” sense of calm.
- Sleep Quality: The inclusion of terpenes like linalool and minor cannabinoids like CBN in full spectrum oil can enhance sedative effects, making it a popular choice for insomnia.
Will Full Spectrum CBD Cause a Positive Drug Test?
Important Safety Information
Yes, it is possible. While full spectrum CBD contains less than 0.3% THC (the federal legal limit), this trace amount can accumulate in your body over time.
Understanding THC Accumulation
Drug tests screen for THC metabolites. If you consume full spectrum products daily, these metabolites can build up in lipid (fat) tissues. A study cited by NIH researchers has shown that consistent use of full spectrum hemp products can trigger a positive result on sensitive urine screenings.
If your employment depends on passing a drug test, we strongly recommend opting for Broad Spectrum CBD or CBD Isolate products, or consulting with your HR department.
How to Choose High-Quality Full Spectrum CBD Products
The CBD market is largely unregulated, making quality control essential. Here is how to ensure you are getting a safe, effective product.
1. Reading Lab Reports (COAs)
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document from an accredited third-party lab that verifies the product’s contents. It should confirm the cannabinoid profile (proving it is full spectrum) and screen for pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents.
At Asheville Dispensary, transparency is our priority. You can view the lab results for our products on our Certificate of Analysis page.
2. Understanding Extraction Methods
Look for products extracted using CO2 or ethanol. These methods are clean and efficient at preserving delicate terpenes. Avoid products that use harsh hydrocarbon solvents like butane for wellness tinctures.
3. Recognizing Quality Indicators
- Source: Ideally, the hemp should be grown in the USA under strict agricultural standards.
- Packaging: Quality CBD oil should be in dark glass bottles to protect it from light degradation.
- Clear Labeling: The bottle should clearly state the total mg of CBD and the serving size.
What Are the Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), CBD is generally well-tolerated. However, full spectrum CBD can cause side effects in some people, including:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Changes in appetite
- Mild diarrhea (often due to the carrier oil, not the CBD itself)
Drug Interactions
CBD can interact with liver enzymes (specifically CYP450) responsible for metabolizing many prescription medications. If you take blood thinners or medication with a “grapefruit warning,” consult your doctor before adding CBD to your regimen.
What’s the Best Way to Take Full Spectrum CBD for Maximum Benefits?
Bioavailability—the amount of CBD your body actually uses—varies by consumption method.
Methods of Consumption
- Sublingual Tinctures: Placing oil under the tongue allows for absorption directly into the bloodstream. It is fast-acting (15-30 minutes) and has high bioavailability. Browse our CBD tinctures.
- Edibles (Gummies/Chocolates): These must pass through the digestive system, taking longer to kick in (1-2 hours) but often providing longer-lasting effects. Check out our edibles selection.
- Topicals: Applied to the skin for localized relief. They do not enter the bloodstream significantly but interact with local receptors. See our topical options.
Dosing Guidelines for Beginners
There is no one-size-fits-all dose. We recommend the “low and slow” approach:
- Start with a low dose (e.g., 10-20mg).
- Take it consistently at the same time daily for 3-5 days.
- Observe your body’s response. If you don’t feel the desired effect, increase the dose by 5mg.
- Repeat until you find your “sweet spot.”
People Also Ask
Does full spectrum CBD get you high?
No. While it contains trace amounts of THC, the level (≤0.3%) is not enough to produce psychoactive intoxication in standard doses. Furthermore, CBD is known to counteract some of THC’s psychoactivity.
Can I fly with full spectrum CBD?
Within the United States, you can fly with CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. However, always check the laws of your specific destination.
Is full spectrum CBD legal? Federally, yes, provided it is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, state laws vary, so it is important to check local regulations.
