With its ability to support everything from irregular sleep, stress, poor moods, joint discomfort, and more, CBD has taken the world by storm. Considered safe and non-habit-forming, CBD may offer people a natural alternative to over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications, including dangerously addictive substances. A boiling point has been reached, and millions of people are tired of taking toxic drugs that make them feel bad. With the increased challenges of the age we live in, it’s no wonder why CBD is soaring in popularity. Full-spectrum CBD comprises all the natural extracts found in cannabis plants, including tiny amounts of THC. From oils, toppers, creams, and gummies, full-spectrum CBD can be delivered in several convenient ways to offer natural, soothing relief.

What Does Full Spectrum CBD Mean?

To understand what full-spectrum CBD means, let’s briefly break down CBD. CBD stands for cannabidiol, a cannabinoid compound, and the second most active ingredient in the cannabis sativa (hemp) plant. Hemp can often be confused with marijuana. Although they are both cannabis, they are not the same. The major difference between the two is the level of THC. Hemp only has trace amounts compared to marijuana. CBD products are derived from hemp. 

CBD and THC are the two most well-known cannabinoids: 

  • Cannabidiol (CBD): it’s cultivated from hemp and does not cause a “high.”
  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): it’s the psychoactive compound that does cause a “high” typically associated with marijuana. 

3 Types of CBD

  • Full-spectrum CBD: contains CBD and all other hemp plant cannabinoids, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and small amounts of THC (0.3% or less). Flavonoids are valued for their ability to support natural oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.
  • Broad-spectrum CBD: contains CBD and multiple other cannabinoids but no THC.
  • Isolate CBD: contains just CBD. 

Many CBD users consider full-spectrum CBD products the most effective form of CBD. Combining all of the cannabis plant’s compounds, including up to 0.3% of THC, an “entourage effect” is achieved. The entourage effect occurs when all plant compounds work synergistically to enhance the psychoactive effects. For those looking to manage stress, the entourage effect may offer greater relief than other forms of CBD.

How Does Full Spectrum CBD Work?

With full-spectrum CBD, the two main cannabinoids present are CBD and THC. They each affect different parts of the brain. Current research suggests that CBD and THC generally support the regulation of the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). From heartbeat, hormone levels, temperature range, and more, ECS manages the body’s homeostasis. Like an operator in a control center, ECS is there to correct any imbalances within the body. Everything from nervous and immune system function, sleep cycle, moods, and inflammation regulation is covered by the ECS and more! Cannabinoid receptors in the brain allow the ECS to accomplish its tasks. There are two known cannabinoid receptors:

  • CB1: central nervous system receptor for the brain and spinal cord nerves.
  • CB2: receptors in the peripheral nervous system, the nerves in your extremities. It also includes the digestive system and parts of the immune system.

Taking full spectrum allows CBD and THC to attach to the cannabinoid receptors to help the ECS level out. For instance, if you’re feeling stressed, full-spectrum CBD can regulate your nervous system, offering it a chance to return to a more relaxed state. 

Can Full Spectrum CBD Get You “High”?

People interested in trying CBD want to know if you can get high on CBD just like you would with marijuana. Since CBD is derived from a cannabis plant and contains trace amounts of THC, it’s a perfectly reasonable question. However, CBD does not produce a “high.” Full-spectrum CBD has less than 0.3% of THC. Of course, there may be exceptions since everyone is different. Generally speaking, no, a high is not typically experienced with full-spectrum CBD.

6 Key Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD may offer several benefits. Here are six of the most common sought-after ways it may provide support and comfort for users:

1. May Soothe and Improve Sleep

Full-spectrum CBD may have a calming effect on the central nervous system. The Permanente Journal’s 2019 case series noted that 72 patients exhibiting emotional stress or poor sleep received 25 milligrams of CBD daily. Researchers observed lower stress levels in 79.2% of patients within the first month. Also, 66.7% saw an improvement in sleep in the same period.

2. May Relieve Pain 

CBD’s cannabinoid compounds may support natural oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Also, CBD may deliver an antinociceptive effect, which is to say, it can block pain receptors. In a cross-sectional study on joint discomfort, a population size of 428 took part in a regression analysis. Of the 428, 83% of CBD users showed improved pain relief, while 66% showed gains in physical function. 

3. May Reduce Nausea and Vomiting

In a 2020 study noted in the Annals of Oncology, the effects of full-spectrum CBD on preventing refractory chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) were evaluated. It was discovered that 13% of 81 participants showed improved symptom management when using full-spectrum CBD along with other antiemetics (anti-nausea medications). 

4. May Manage Some Forms of Epilepsy

A 2017 trial in The New England Journal of Medicine examined the use of cannabidiol in the treatment of drug-resistant seizures in the Dravey syndrome, a complex childhood epilepsy disorder with a high mortality rate. In the double-blind CBD vs. placebo trial, cannabidiol use resulted in a greater reduction in confulsive-siezure frequency than placebo. After 14 weeks, 43% of patients taking cannabidiol enjoyed a 50% reduction in convulsive-frequency seizures vs only 27% of patients with a placebo. 

5. May Lower Blood Pressure

In a randomized crossover study with healthy volunteers, results indicated that CBD could lower blood pressure with just a single dose! Nine males were administered 600mg of CBD or placebo. Those taking CBD experienced a reduction in resting systolic blood pressure and stroke volume while maintaining cardiac output. 

6. Helps Weight Management

Another threat that can lead to heart issues is obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce heart concerns, and CBD can help! One study investigated the stimulation of brown-like traits in white fat cells. Known as browning, the activation of these cells may combat obesity by helping to convert fat into usable calories. The study suggests CBD encourages the browning of white fat cells.

Does Full Spectrum CBD Have Any Side Effects?

Unlike many OTC and prescription medications, full-spectrum CBD is not known to have any side effects. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2018 critical review of CBD, typically CBD use is well-tolerated. Adverse effects are usually the result of interactions with other medications. Of course, further research on full-spectrum CBD is still being conducted. Everyone is different, and there is a possibility that one of the following side effects may occur:

  • Dry mouth

  • Drowsiness

  • Mood Changes

  • Diarrhea

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

It should be noted that the FDA does not currently regulate CBD. In this current climate, standard guidelines are nearly non-existent. Some CBD retailers can mislabel their products. When buying CBD, choosing a provider that upholds strict standards is important. A CBD purveyor should offer consistent, high-quality ingredients for safe and effective results. To gain your assurance and satisfaction, maintaining unbiased quality control is essential. Look for CBD retailers who utilize third-party lab testing for every batch of CBD they produce!

Can You Overdose On Full Spectrum CBD?

Full-spectrum CBD is generally well-tolerated, and no clear study indicates an amount that would cause an overdose. Of course, finding the right dosage is different for each person. When taking CBD, it’s always wise to start with a small dose, such as 25mg, and add to it as needed. Some people tolerate much higher levels than others. Many factors can play a role in finding the right dosage, such as body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and even the quality of the CBD product. A study in 2017 reported that CBD up to 1,500 mg per day can be tolerated safely. The risk of overdosing is relatively low, and more research is still needed. In the unlikely event of an overdose, extreme sedation, liver damage, or gastrointestinal issues may be experienced. 

There are a few things you can do to ensure a safe experience with CBD if you still have concerns:

  • Choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients and third-party testing.
  • Start with small doses, and don’t exceed 1500 mg per day.
  • Monitor your reaction: if you have an adverse reaction, discontinue use.
  • Note other medications: consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential drug interactions. 

Is Full Spectrum CBD Legal?

The 2018 Farm Bill removed CBD from its list of controlled substances, allowing it to be recognized as a mainstream agricultural cash crop. It was a huge step forward. CBD can gain legal status, but only under certain conditions. The 2018 Farm Bill requires the following:

  • CBD must be cultivated according to the provisions of the Farm Bill
  • Hemp used must meet federal and state regulations
  • Must be grown by a licensed farmer

Because CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, it is legal on a federal level. However, each state’s legislation differs. It’s perfectly legal in most states, while a select few treat CBD as illegal. Yet, some states only allow the use of CBD for medical purposes. It can be tricky, and checking your state’s legislation before buying CBD or traveling to other states is important. Even though full-spectrum CBD contains only a trace amount of THC (0.3%), it may appear on a drug test. 

Discover Agave Farm Boys Full Spectrum CBD

Agave Farm Boys is a leading purveyor of high-quality, delicious, affordable, full-spectrum CBD products. We have an assortment of full-spectrum CBD products, from gummies, toppers, oils, and creams! The CBD industry is like the wild west. Its limited regulation allows some CBD providers to sell expensive, unreliably advertised products produced with inconsistent batches and low-quality ingredients. At Agave Farm Boys, our mission is to provide unparalleled full-spectrum CBD products backed up by a Certificate of Analysis for every batch we produce. Each batch is sent to an independent third-party lab for testing. They look for the potency of ingredients as well as any contaminants and toxins. For full transparency, you can enter your batch code on our site to see your batch’s results!  

To learn more about Agave Farm Boys and how our full-spectrum CBD products can best support you, reach out to us today!