CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids that naturally occur in the hemp plant (a cousin of the cannabis plant). In recent years, CBD has gained a lot of attention due to its potential health benefits, such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, improved sleep, and anti-inflammatory properties, without the psychoactive effects of THC, another well-known cannabinoid. There are various methods to extract CBD from the cannabis plant, but one of the most effective and popular methods is supercritical CO₂ extraction, also known as the "Clean Air" method. This process results in a pure full spectrum CBD extract, also known as CBD paste, which benefits from the so-called "entourage effect." In this article, we will delve deeper into full spectrum CBD extract (from our CBD brand Phyto Plus®), the entourage effect, and the supercritical CO₂ extraction "Clean Air" method that we use.
What is Full Spectrum CBD Extract?
Full spectrum CBD extract is a type of CBD oil that is extracted from the cannabis plant and contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial plant compounds that naturally occur in the hemp plant. This is in contrast to CBD isolate, which contains only purified CBD and no other cannabinoids or plant compounds. It is a popular choice among CBD users who are seeking a higher concentration of CBD for potentially more intense effects. Full spectrum extract is often considered the most natural and effective form of CBD oil because it utilizes the so-called entourage effect.
The Entourage Effect of Full Spectrum CBD Extract
The entourage effect is the idea that the various compounds (substances) that naturally occur in cannabis plants, such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, work together to produce synergistic effects that can enhance the individual effects of each compound. In other words, the presence of other compounds in full spectrum CBD extract can potentiate the effectiveness of CBD and potentially provide a wider range of health benefits compared to CBD isolate, for example.
An important aspect of the entourage effect is terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic compounds that naturally occur in cannabis plants. They are responsible for the characteristic smells and flavors of different cannabis strains. But terpenes are not only responsible for the smell and taste of cannabis, they can also play a role in the effects of cannabis on the body. Terpenes can interact with the endocannabinoid receptors in our body, just like cannabinoids such as CBD do. This means that terpenes can contribute to the entourage effect of full spectrum CBD extract and enhance its overall effectiveness.
Supercritical CO₂ Extraction, the "Clean Air Method"
An important factor in obtaining a high-quality full spectrum CBD extract is the extraction method used. A popular method used for extracting CBD is supercritical CO₂ extraction, also known as the "Clean Air" method. This is an advanced process that ensures a pure and efficient extraction of CBD from the hemp plant without the use of harmful solvents or chemicals.
In supercritical CO₂ extraction, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is used as a solvent to extract CBD from the cannabis plant. CO₂ is brought to high pressures and low temperatures, causing it to reach a supercritical state. In this state, CO₂ has the properties of both a gas and a liquid, effectively extracting the active compounds from the plant material, making it a highly efficient solvent for extracting CBD and other compounds from the plant. This is the cleanest and gentlest method to ensure the purity and quality of the end product, resulting in an extremely pure and high-quality full spectrum CBD extract.
One of the advantages of supercritical CO₂ extraction is that it is a highly efficient method for extracting CBD without the use of harmful solvents. Other methods, such as using solvents like butane or ethanol, can leave residues of these chemicals in the final product, which can affect the purity and quality of CBD and be harmful to health. With supercritical CO₂ extraction, this risk is eliminated, resulting in a pure and safe CBD extract.
The Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD Extract
One of the main benefits of full spectrum CBD extract is the entourage effect, as mentioned earlier. By containing all the natural compounds that occur naturally in the cannabis plant, it can offer a wider range of health benefits. The entourage effect can lead to a synergistic interaction between the different compounds, enhancing the effectiveness of CBD.
Terpenes in full spectrum CBD extract can also provide health benefits on their own. Terpenes each have their own unique properties and can contribute to the overall function of CBD. For example, some terpenes have anti-inflammatory properties, while others may help with relaxation and stress reduction. By using full spectrum CBD extract, these terpenes can work together with CBD to provide optimal health-promoting effects.
In addition, full spectrum CBD extract contains a wide range of cannabinoids. Besides CBD, a full spectrum extract contains other cannabinoids such as CBDa, CBDv, CBG, CBGa, CBC, and CBN, to name a few. These cannabinoids can also contribute to the entourage effect and the overall effectiveness of CBD.
Furthermore, full spectrum CBD extract also contains other valuable nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that naturally occur in the cannabis plant. These nutrients can contribute to the overall health benefits of CBD and provide a more holistic approach to well-being.
The Use and Dosage of CBD Extract
The use and dosage of full spectrum CBD extract may vary depending on various factors, including individual needs, severity of symptoms, body tolerance, and CBD concentration in the product. It is always important to follow recommendations and start with a low dosage to allow the body to acclimate to CBD.
Phyto Plus® full spectrum CBD extract comes in a dosing syringe. It is a thick substance with a deep brown color and a greasy, shiny texture. It can be easily dosed using the dosing syringe or mixed with food or beverages.
CBD extract is a potent product. For dosing, we recommend starting with a very low dose, typically the size of a grain of rice per day, and gradually increasing based on individual response. It is important to observe the effects of CBD on your body and evaluate how your body responds to different dosages. It is also advisable to seek advice from a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications or have health conditions.
It is important to note that the quality of the full spectrum CBD extract and the production processes can affect the effectiveness and safety of the product. As mentioned earlier, supercritical CO₂ extraction, also known as the "Clean Air" method, is one of the most reliable methods for obtaining high-quality CBD extract. It ensures safe and efficient extraction of cannabinoids without the use of harmful solvents or chemicals.
When choosing a full spectrum CBD product, it is important to look at the quality of ingredients, CBD concentration, and production methods used. If you choose a different CBD brand than Phyto Plus®, opt for products that are tested by third parties for quality and purity, and that are transparent about their production processes and ingredients.
Possible Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD Extract
Full spectrum CBD extract is often praised for its potential therapeutic benefits and the entourage effect. While there is still ongoing research on the effects of CBD, there is evidence that it may help with various health issues and symptoms.
- Pain relief: CBD has analgesic properties and may potentially help reduce pain and inflammation. It can be used in the treatment of various forms of pain, including chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and pain associated with conditions such as arthritis.
- Stress and anxiety: CBD may potentially help reduce stress and anxiety. It has calming properties and can impact serotonin receptors in the brain, which can result in a feeling of relaxation and calmness.
- Sleep disorders: CBD can also be used to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia. It may help promote sleep and improve sleep quality, leading to better rest and waking up refreshed.
- Neurological disorders: There is evidence that CBD may potentially help with neurological disorders such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. CBD has anticonvulsant properties and can reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures.
- Skin issues: CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties and may potentially help with skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can reduce inflammation and have skin-soothing effects, leading to an improvement in skin condition.
- The entourage effect: the synergistic effect of all cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds present in the extract. They work together to enhance the overall effectiveness of the CBD extract and maximize the therapeutic benefits. This means that full spectrum CBD extract may potentially be more effective than isolated CBD products, where only CBD is present without the other cannabinoids and bioactive compounds.
Strong CBD Oil or CBD Extract?
CBD extract is often used in various products, including CBD oil. This is CBD extract diluted with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or MCT oil. Strong CBD oil and CBD paste (extract) are popular choices among CBD users who are looking for a higher concentration of CBD for potentially more intense effects.
Strong CBD oil (high potency oil)
Strong CBD oil, also known as high-potency CBD oil, contains a higher concentration of CBD than regular CBD oil. The concentration may vary, but can often go up to 30% or even higher. This means that there is more CBD per drop or dosage, which can lead to potentially more potent effects.
However, it's important to mention that many brands use CBD isolate to produce high concentrations of oil. They are free to do so, but this produces a different and less effective effect compared to full spectrum CBD oil. Our Phyto Plus® high-potency CBD oil 15% is made from pure CBD extract and contains all active cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the hemp plant for the ultimate entourage effect.
CBD Extract
CBD extract, on the other hand, is a thick substance that consists of raw CBD paste. Full spectrum CBD extract is highly concentrated and can vary in CBD content, but can contain up to 20% or slightly higher CBD. It is supplied by us in convenient dosing syringes, but it can also be offered in jars. It can be taken orally or applied topically (on the skin).
Strong CBD oil and CBD extract can offer different benefits depending on individual needs and desired effects. They can be used for various purposes, such as relieving pain and inflammation, reducing anxiety and stress, promoting sleep, and supporting overall well-being.
CBD Extract Capsules
Our Phyto Plus® CBD capsules contain precise dosages of full spectrum CBD extract, making it easy to take the desired amount of CBD without having to measure or dose. The capsules are usually made from vegetarian materials and are easy to swallow, making them a convenient option for people who have difficulty taking other forms of CBD, such as oils or tinctures.
One of the advantages of full spectrum CBD extract in capsules is that it is discreet and easy to carry, making it ideal for on-the-go or travel. The capsules are often tasteless, which can help avoid the characteristic taste of CBD, which some people may find unpleasant. Additionally, the measured dosage in the capsules ensures consistency in CBD intake, which can help maintain a regular CBD routine.
Like other forms of CBD, CBD extract in capsules is often used for various health benefits. CBD is often praised for its potential to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, reduce pain and inflammation, and support overall well-being. However, the exact effects may vary from person to person, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are taking medications or have health conditions.
It is also important to purchase CBD extract capsules from reputable sources that offer high-quality and tested products. Our Phyto Plus® Capsules contain pure full spectrum CBD extract, but this does not mean that other CBD brands also use extract in their capsules. Some capsules may contain CBD oil (similar to CBD oil drops) or CBD isolate. CBD isolate does not have the same effects as a full spectrum extract.
Choose capsules that are made from organic hemp and are tested for quality, purity, and potency. Always read the labels (specifically look for the milligram amount of CBD in a single capsule, such as Phyto Plus® CBD oil capsules 10mg - This is 10mg of CBD per capsule) and follow the recommended dosages and usage instructions. It may also be helpful to consult reviews and feedback from other users to gain a better understanding of the quality and effectiveness of the product.
Possible Side Effects and Safety of Full Spectrum CBD Extract
In general, CBD is considered safe and has few side effects. However, like any supplement or medication, side effects may occur, although they are generally mild and transient. The most common side effects of CBD are fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, and changes in appetite. Some people may also experience mild digestive issues such as diarrhea.
It's important to note that CBD can interact with other medications you may be taking. For example, CBD can affect the liver enzymes involved in the breakdown of certain medications, which can result in increased or decreased levels of these medications in the body. Therefore, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider if you want to use CBD in combination with other medications to prevent potential interactions and side effects.
As for the safety of full spectrum CBD extract, it's important to ensure the quality and reliability of the product you're using. Because CBD products are not strictly regulated, there may be variations in quality and composition of products on the market. Therefore, it's advisable to purchase CBD products from reputable manufacturers that use third-party laboratory tests to verify the quality and potency of their products.
Conclusion
CBD extract, especially full spectrum CBD extract, is a popular and promising supplement that has the potential to contribute to promoting well-being and improving health. It is extracted from the hemp plant using various extraction methods, with supercritical CO₂ extraction considered one of the most advanced and efficient methods, known as the "Clean Air" method.
Full spectrum CBD extract contains not only CBD but also other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that can work synergistically to produce the entourage effect, which may lead to improved therapeutic benefits. CBD extract has diverse potential health benefits, such as reducing anxiety, relieving pain and inflammation, promoting better sleep, and improving skin condition.
Overall, CBD extract has promising potential as a natural supplement for various health purposes. However, it's important to seek advice from a healthcare provider, especially if you are taking other medications. Additionally, it's crucial to purchase high-quality CBD products from reputable manufacturers to ensure the safety and potency of the product.
