Can you get Full-Spectrum CBD in the UK? We take a look at what sets it apart from standard CBD and whether its legal in the UK, EU and US.
The Full Story Behind Full-Spectrum CBD
Is it legal and is it worth it?
In an era where wellness trends flourish as rapidly as overnight Instagram phenomena, CBD stands firmly as a testament to its genuine and persistent surge in popularity. But what exactly is Full-Spectrum CBD and how does it differ from its siblings in the CBD family – Broad-Spectrum and CBD Isolate? More importantly for our UK readers, can you get your hands on it legally?
Beyond the Basics: Unpacking Full-Spectrum CBD
If CBD were the star of a show, Full-Spectrum would be the ensemble cast that brings the production to life. Full-Spectrum CBD is derived from the cannabis plant and contains not only CBD but also a variety of other compounds natural to the plant, such as THC (in legal doses), terpenes, and flavonoids. This cocktail of ingredients is what gives Full-Spectrum CBD its rich, earthy taste and aroma, but more significantly, it works in harmony, eliciting what is known as the "entourage effect."
The entourage effect is the belief that the various compounds within Full-Spectrum CBD act synergistically to maximize the therapeutic benefits of the plant.
In stark contrast, CBD isolate is as it sounds; it's simply pure CBD, extracted from the plant and stripped of all other components. Broad-Spectrum CBD, on the other hand, contains several compounds found within the cannabis plant, though it's generally THC-free. The entourage effect, however, is largely unique to Full-Spectrum CBD.
At Cali Greens, our goal is to mimic the entourage effect by reintroducing terpenes to CBD isolate. This process enhances the benefits, providing you with a pure CBD product that delivers superior results.
Navigating the Legal Spectrum: Full-Spectrum CBD in the UK
The legislation around CBD can be as labyrinthine as the streets of London, and just as diverse with little in the way of actual regulations. But when it comes to Full-Spectrum, the answer is pretty clear. In the UK and EU, Full-Spectrum CBD is only legal due if it contains less than 0.2% of THC which is little more than a trace amount.
While this trace amount may help create an entourage effect, the fact that it is only a trace amount should give pause as to whether it's worth the price tag. Could these effects simply be due to the CBD and other terpenes/cannabinoids present in UK-legal Full-Spectrum CBD?
In the US, legal products must contain no more than 0.3% but in some states, where cannabis is fully legal, you may be likely to find products with higher THC levels.
Shopping for CBD in the UK
Disposable CBD Vape Pens
Navigating the market for CBD can be an intimidating experience. With new brands popping up left, right, and centre, it's challenging to separate high-quality products from mediocre ones.
Here are a few pointers when shopping for CBD in the UK:
1. Trust the Lab Reports: Reputable CBD brands in the UK will provide lab reports that verify the contents, including the presence of THC, and the absence of harmful chemicals or solvents.
2. Read Reviews: Before buying a CBD product, check customer reviews and experiences. This can give you valuable insights into the product's effectiveness and potential side effects.
3. Watch Out for Gimmicks: Some brands might overhype their products with unverified claims. Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing and extraction processes.
4. Seek Professional Advice: If you're new to CBD or have specific health concerns, it's always best to consult with a medical professional especially if you are taking medication that could potentially conflict with CBD.
At this time, CBD products containing more than 0.2% of THC are not legal in the UK. If you do find THC products available remember to exercise caution - if the product contains an illegal amount of THC, then what else could it contain? The presence of other harmful substances or lack of safeguarding measures like testing and quality control, becomes a plausible concern. As long as the THC content is less than 0.2%, your product is legal and regulated in the UK & EU, or lower than 0.3% in the US.
In Closing, Your Experience with Full-Spectrum CBD
CBD's narrative continues to unfold, and it's a tale in which you are the protagonist. Perhaps you've already incorporated CBD into your wellness routine and have stories to share. Or maybe you're just about to dip your toe into CBD.
We’d love to hear about your CBD journeys, how it has impacted your well-being or any further questions you might have about the green goliath in the wellness space. Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
