Full Spectrum CBD Oil: What is it and why is it more effective?

Have you ever tried CBD oil and been disappointed with the results? Perhaps it wasn’t a full-spectrum product.

Full-spectrum CBD is a form of cannabidiol that contains all the naturally occurring plant compounds found in the cannabis plant, this even includes a very small amount of THC. Don’t worry, it’s not enough to get you high.

Studies have shown that whole plant extracts offer far superior benefits over other forms of CBD, such as isolates. This is owing to the intricate interplay between cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. 

It’s theorised that these compounds work synergistically to potentiate the healing power of the plant. This is commonly referred to as the ‘entourage effect’.

So why is full-spectrum so much better than CBD isolates, and what are the benefits? This guide will answer all your questions and more.

Want more information on accessing full-spectrum CBD in Australia? Pop your details in the box above, and we’ll email you further steps and information.

What Is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?

When buying CBD oil products, you will usually see products advertised as either full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate CBD oils.

These different categories refer to the range of terpenes and cannabinoids that are retained in the final product after the oil is extracted from the plant matter.

Full Spectrum

As the name implies, full-spectrum CBD oil contains the widest range of cannabinoids and terpenes. This includes THC in very small amounts.

In Australia, you legally need a prescription to purchase a full-spectrum CBD oil. It remains to be seen whether over-the-counter CBD oil will be an isolate or full-spectrum product, but early indications suggest it’ll be isolate.

However, there the online green market is another avenue to explore when purchasing full-spectrum CBD in Australia. This option requires a bit of research and investigation to ensure the business is selling high-quality products.

It is important to be aware that while full-spectrum CBD oil in Australia does not contain enough THC to have any impairing effect on you, it may be enough to appear on some drug tests, including roadside drug swabs. [1]

Broad Spectrum

Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains most of the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the original plant, with the exclusion of THC.

Isolate

An isolate extract is a flavourless and colourless form of CBD, and during the extraction process, known as winterization, it’s separated from all other cannabinoids and terpenes in the plant. It’s considered a pure form of CBD. 

Generally, people require a far larger dosage of isolate to get any benefits.

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Benefits

Full-spectrum CBD oil is often considered to be the most effective form of CBD oil due to the synergistic interplay between compounds, this phenomenon has been termed the ‘entourage effect’.

Researchers believe that the therapeutic effects of cannabinoid extracts such as CBD oil can be enhanced by the inclusion of other plant extracts.

The combination of CBD with a small amount of THC is believed to enhance the pain-relieving effects of CBD oil, and conversely, the CBD is thought to offset any potential impairment caused by the THC.

Full-spectrum CBD oil is also often seen as a more organic product because fewer of the natural plant compounds have been removed.

Full-spectrum CBD oil has a range of potential health benefits. Its recognised effects include: [2]

• Controlling seizures caused by certain types of epilepsy.
• Managing various types of pain and inflammation.
• Managing mood disorders such as anxiety and stress.
• Reducing cravings caused by addiction.
• Treating inflammatory skin conditions.
• Protection from several neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.
• Relieving nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Read about the connection between CBD oil and hunger here.

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Vs Full Spectrum Hemp Oil

CBD oil can be extracted from hemp as well as marijuana, depending on the intended purpose and manufacturer.

Hemp and marijuana are both species of the cannabis plant, and it’s important to distinguish the differences between these plants as many people believe a true CBD product can only come from marijuana or cannabis.

In Australia, many green market CBD oil products may be labelled as hemp oil instead of CBD oil due to current legislation. Unlike high-THC cannabis, hemp flower contains only trace amounts of THC – up to 0.3% – but it still contains a high concentration of cannabidiol. 

As a result, when buying from an Australian business, there may be no practical difference between hemp oil and CBD oil. 

However, hemp oil should not be confused with hemp seed oil. It’s important to remember that hemp seed oil isn’t the same thing as CBD oil; a hemp seed oil product is derived from the seeds rather than the bud or flower, which is what contains high concentrations of cannabinoids such as CBD.

Full-spectrum hemp oil benefits are the same as full-spectrum CBD oil, as long as the oil has been derived from the flower of the hemp plant and not the seeds.

How to Buy Full Spectrum CBD Oil In Australia

You can buy full-spectrum CBD oil containing less than 0.3% THC at a pharmacy with a prescription or from one of the many Australian green market businesses or international websites. However, it is not legal to import CBD oil from other countries.

To buy full-spectrum CBD oil containing more than 0.3% THC, you also need to have a medical prescription. 

If you have a prescription for full-spectrum CBD oil, you can have it filled at a recommended pharmacy or even ask your local pharmacists if they can order it.

We highly recommend avoiding importing CBD from international websites due to the risks associated with customs screening.

However, there are options available locally within Australia. Again, it’s imperative to do your own research and ask questions before committing to buy anything.

If you want to explore further options for high-quality green market CBD oil, be sure to reach out to us via email or leave a comment below.

There are also many different forms of full-spectrum CBD products, including CBD inhalers, vapes, capsules, tinctures/oils, and balms. Finding the right consumption method is also important.

Will I fail a drug test if I take full-spectrum CBD?

Due to the trace amounts of THC in full-spectrum products, many people are concerned they’ll fail a drug test.

Whether the THC shows up on a drug test depends on a range of factors such as how much you’re consuming, how often you’re consuming it, and other physiological factors such as height, weight, metabolism and whether you’re taking any other medications that may inhibit the excretion of THC.

Full-spectrum CBD, including THC, may stay in your system anywhere from 3 to 5 days. 

But there’s no hard and fast answer as it’s dependent on the individual and their unique circumstances. If you’re concerned about taking this form of CBD and driving, you can purchase drug swab tests from pharmacies and online to test yourself.

Final Thoughts on Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

There are several indications that full-spectrum CBD oil may be more effective than broad-spectrum CBD and isolate extracts for many conditions.

Personal experience has proven that isolates are mostly useless, and very large doses are required to get any effect.

If you do decide to go via this pathway, always ensure you do thorough research and vet the business before purchasing.

We can assist with what types of things to look for when purchasing green market products, be sure to reach out if you want further information.