There are millions of online debates happening right this second. They range from the most pressing issues of our times to the frivolous – like whether or not pineapple is an acceptable pizza topping.
The answer is yes. Pineapple absolutely belongs on pizza, you killjoys.
But among CBD enthusiasts, there’s one debate that rules them all.
Is THC a vital part of hemp extract supplements? Does it contribute to the “entourage effect?”
Wait. What’s the entourage effect? Is that what happens when a famous basketball player rolls up in the club with his crew?
No, it’s not.
Like most issues, the debate about THC and the entourage effect is more complicated than many “experts” on social media would have you believe.
Besides, we’re talking about advanced biochemistry here. So let’s take a step back and look at the information we have from a wider angle.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil Vs. Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
First, “CBD oil” is a catch-all term for an endless range of products that contain cannabis extracts. It would be more accurate to call them CBD-heavy hemp extract products, or CHEPs, but that probably won’t catch on.
In other words, there’s more in play than CBD alone. Many CBD products, particularly full spectrum, and broad spectrum formulas contain dozens of noteworthy chemical compounds.
Full spectrum CBD oil is also described as whole-plant CBD extract. It contains large amounts of CBD plus extremely small amounts of THC (not enough to make you feel high), a range of minor cannabinoids, essential oils, and plant terpenes.
Generally speaking, broad spectrum CBD oils contain a similar chemical makeup, but are refined to remove all detectable levels of THC.
But there’s a drawback to traditional full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD. While properly made products in these categories have a consistent amount of CBD, the other compounds vary from batch to batch.
Hybrid broad spectrum products, like cbdMD’s Superior Broad Spectrum formula, can serve as an alternative. These are more refined products which contain consistent compound levels across all product batches.
What Is the Entourage Effect?
The meaning of the term “entourage effect” has changed a bit over the years. At first it was a way to describe how certain chemicals produced naturally in our bodies may have a cooperative effect. Today, people generally use the term to describe how a range of cannabinoids achieve a similar benefit when introduced to the human body together.
The possible synergistic effects of cannabinoids and terpenes are also part of the entourage effect.
Many people believe the entourage effect is crucial for people who want the greatest benefits of hemp extracts. In this point of view, you need at least tiny amounts of all the substances in cannabis to experience CBD to its fullest.
But there’s a catch.
In this context, the entourage effect is only a theory.
To be fair, it’s an idea that many experts embrace. But other researchers are skeptical, and believe the theory is both unfounded and overused in the marketing of cannabis products.
That doesn’t mean the entourage effect doesn’t exist, though. It just hasn’t been proven to everyone’s satisfaction.
However, it’s also worth mentioning that most of the research on the effects of CBD uses CBD isolate, which has no other cannabinoids.
Is THC Necessary in CBD Products?
Not everyone needs THC, and some people have reasons to avoid it, but others find it beneficial.
Despite full spectrum formulas containing THC, they’re completely legal! In the United States, federal laws limit THC in Cannabis sativa to 0.3 percent or less. Otherwise it’s considered illegal marijuana. The same is true for products made from hemp.
So that means that if you take a 30 mg serving of CBD from a full spectrum CBD oil, you’re only getting about 0.09 mg of THC at most.
While there is always the possibility of THC being found on a drug test with full spectrum, the levels of THC are still very low. Still, it is something to consider when deciding between going with a full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD product.
Some people claim that THC, even in incredibly small amounts, is vital to the entourage effect. Researchers have found that all the cannabinoids in cannabis plants interact with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for the feeling of well-being that people get when they use cannabis products. So in theory, a broader array of them should lend more support.
But the question remains: “Does THC enhance the effects of CBD? And are there any drawbacks to THC in hemp extract products?”
In reality, this depends on the individual. Some might use full spectrum and feel a difference, while others don’t notice a difference between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD products.
While there has been some research done showing that THC in low amounts does not cause harm, there is still more research to be done.
If you decide that you want to enjoy the benefits of the entourage effect without THC, you should look for broad spectrum CBD products.
But be sure to research any product you intend to take carefully. Some companies claim their products do not contain THC, even if they do.
All CBD companies should provide independent lab reports – also known as certificates of analysis. These documents allow you to see all of the cannabinoids present in the product. Aside from the THC, it's good to know the amounts of terpenes and cannabinoids you will be using.
You should also be able to match the batch number of the product to the batch number on the report. If the company doesn’t provide these documents or you can’t match batch numbers, you can’t be certain the product is THC-free. Luckily, cbdMD does this already!
cbdMD’s Superior Broad Spectrum Formula
In early 2020, cbdMD unveiled their new Superior Broad Spectrum formula. It was a game changer for people who carefully track their supplement intake.
Traditional broad spectrum CBD oil makers can only accurately measure the amount of CBD in their products from batch to batch. Non-CBD cannabinoid levels fluctuate in those products.
With cbdMD’s Superior Broad Spectrum blend, all CBD, CBN, CBG, and terpene levels remain consistent across each new product batch. That way, you can know exactly what you’re putting into your body, each and every time.
In other words, you can enjoy elements of the entourage effect through precise serving sizes, but without worrying about THC content.
It’s important to note that cbdMD makes its products in facilities that are audited regularly for good manufacturing practices. Each product batch is also third-party tested, and lab reports are available on cbdMD’s website.
Which cbdMD Products Use the Superior Broad Spectrum Formula?
cbdMD uses its Superior Broad Spectrum blend in most product lines. These can help you experience the entourage effect without ingesting THC.
cbdMD Tinctures
When people talk about CBD oil, they’re often talking about classic CBD oil tinctures. They’re a simple mix of Superior Broad Spectrum hemp extracts and MCT oil. However, there are also options with flavors like berry, orange, and mint.
cbdMD Capsules and Softgels
Capsules and softgels are the perfect way to add Superior Broad Spectrum hemp extracts to your daily supplement routine. Our selection of CBD oil capsules are also based on hemp extract and MCT oil but include polymers to create the solid form.
CBD PM Sleep Aids
cbdMD sleep aids combine the Superior Broad Spectrum formula with melatonin and a range of soothing botanicals for optimal sleep routines. CBD PM is available as a tincture and in softgel capsules.
cbdMD Topicals
If you’re looking for fast, targeted relief from aches or want to enjoy the skin care benefits of CBD, look no further than cbdMD topicals.
cbdMD Freeze and Recover formulas are suitable for anyone who deals with occasional joint, muscle, or back soreness. cbdMD Revive is the perfect light moisturizer for daily use.
cbdMD Gummies
CBD gummies are a great way to get your daily serving of CBD. We have a variety of gummies that are made to be calming, help with sleep, or even give you the benefits of apple cider vinegar. They’re all made with our Superior Broad Spectrum hemp as well! Not to mention, they are incredibly delicious.
Which cbdMD Products Use the Full Spectrum Formula?
If you are someone looking for the benefits of a full spectrum CBD formula, we have options for that too!
cbdMD Tinctures
The classic oil tincture with a full spectrum twist. You can still mix it with your coffee or tea, stir into a CBD recipe, or use it under your tongue. Just pick your favorite concentration and flavor, and you are good to go!
cbdMD Gummies
With a mix of flavors like fruit punch, lemon, and passion fruit, these gummies are a great and yummy way to give a full spectrum product a try.
cbdMD Softgels
It’s as easy as taking a softgel from the bottle and swallowing it down in two seconds. Softgels are the quickest and easiest way to incorporate full spectrum CBD into your routine.
Final Thoughts on the Entourage Effect and THC
Researchers are still working out the details on all the ways hemp extracts can enhance healthy lifestyles. But for now, there are a lot of unanswered questions.
The entourage effect is based on sound reasoning, but it's still an unproven theory.
Further, there’s no conclusive proof that a small amount of THC is needed for optimal results from a hemp supplement. And many employers do not permit the use of THC. As a result, full spectrum CBD oils aren’t a good choice for everyone.
But there are plenty of options for people who want to add THC-free hemp supplements to their routine – including broad spectrum CBD oils that contain a wide range of beneficial compounds.
Originally written by: Randall Goins