Full-Spectrum CBD & Its Medicinal Benefits
Full-spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) is a high-CBD oil that contains the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other chemical compounds present in the original plant material, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Most commercial CBD products in the United States are hemp-derived. However, marijuana-derived CBD products can also be found in legal states.
Cannabidiol offers a range of potential medicinal benefits, including anxiety and pain relief. A specific advantage of full-spectrum CBD is that it allows you to benefit from the entourage effect, in which various cannabis plant compounds work together for greater effectiveness.
Unlike broad-spectrum CBD products or purified CBD isolates, full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC. Federal law in the U.S. requires that the concentration of THC in full-spectrum CBD oil remain at or below 0.3% in order to be sold and consumed legally.
What Is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD is a CBD-dominant cannabis extract that is generally derived from the hemp plant. This type of CBD product contains the “full spectrum” of cannabinoid and chemical compounds that were present in the original plant material.
Some of the top full-spectrum CBD products available commercially today include:
Tinctures: CBD tinctures are typically alcohol-based liquid extracts of hemp. They are easy to consume and are a popular method for taking CBD. Tinctures come with a dropper and are placed under the tongue (sublingually) for fast and effective absorption.
Capsules: CBD capsules are a convenient and discreet way to take CBD. They can be consumed with a glass of water or juice.
Edibles: CBD-infused edibles are a delicious and fun way to consume full-spectrum CBD. Full-spectrum CBD oil can be infused into baked goods or added to gummies and chocolates.
Topicals: Topical CBD products include balms, salves, and lotions. Certain types of full-spectrum CBD oils may also be applied directly to the skin. Topicals often contain other calming ingredients, such as aloe vera.
Full-Spectrum CBD Bath Bombs or Bath Soaks: Bath items infused with CBD offer relaxation and skin benefits while allowing the body to absorb CBD. These types of products are often made with essential oils and other organic plant-based ingredients in addition to cannabidiol.
Vapes: Full-spectrum CBD oil can also be vaped. Vaping full-spectrum CBD oil is a more potent way to absorb all the compounds of the hemp plant into the bloodstream.
Other Types of CBD
There are two other main types of CBD products: broad-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate (also referred to as isolate CBD).
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains all of the chemical compounds in the original plant material except for THC. This makes it a popular option for experiencing the entourage effect without the psychoactive properties of THC. The main difference between full-spectrum vs broad-spectrum CBD is the presence of THC.
CBD Isolate: CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD. It contains no terpenes and no cannabinoids other than CBD. CBD isolate is generally mixed with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or MCT oil. Alternatively, it can be purchased as a crystalline powder that contains up to 99% CBD. CBD isolate is a good option for those who want the therapeutic benefits of CBD but don’t wish to ingest THC.
Potential Medicinal Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD may offer the following medicinal benefits:
Reduces major depression and anxiety disorder symptoms: Full-spectrum CBD oil activates serotonin receptors in the brain. This activation may reduce depressive or anxious symptoms associated with AZ qualifying conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain.
Remedies mild insomnia: Studies have shown that CBD with or without THC may aid in treating mild insomnia. This may be partly thanks to CBD’s anxiety and pain-reducing effects.
Improves heart health: Evidence shows that full-spectrum CBD can support a healthy heart thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and blood pressure-regulating properties.
Legal Status of Full-Spectrum CBD in Arizona
Full-spectrum CBD that is hemp-derived is fully legal in the state of Arizona. However, individuals who want to buy CBD oil in Arizona that is derived from the marijuana plant will either need to be 21 or above or possess a valid AZ medical marijuana card.
The legal status of full-spectrum CBD on a federal level is distinguished by whether the CBD comes from hemp or marijuana. While both come from the Cannabis sativa plant, hemp has 0.3% THC or less on a dry-weight basis whereas marijuana has more than 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis. Full-spectrum CBD tinctures and oils that are derived from the hemp plant and contain 0.3% THC or less are federally legal as per the 2018 Farm Bill.
Please note: Hemp-derived CBD products are regulated in Kansas, Indiana, Wyoming, and South Dakota. Research your state’s laws carefully before purchasing CBD if you are located in one of these states.
Reap the Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD
High-quality, full-spectrum CBD is a wonderful resource for your health and wellness journey as an MMJ patient. You can purchase quality full-spectrum CBD oils, tinctures, and topicals in legal cannabis dispensaries.
Full-spectrum CBD products offer potential benefits including reduced anxiety and depression, improved sleep, pain relief, and some protection against heart disease. Patients looking to experience all the benefits of cannabinoids and terpenes should consider full-spectrum CBD as a holistic aid for their health and well-being.
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