Whether your researching CBD or comparing different CBD products, you’ve likely come across terms like “full spectrum”, “broad spectrum”, and “CBD isolate.” For those who are familiar with these terms, there are probably a few questions that come to mind like:
- What is a cannabinoid spectrum?
- What are these different types of CBD and how does it affect my experience?
- Is one of these different types of CBD better or worse?
If like many new CBD users, you’ve asked one of these questions or other questions related to the different types or spectrum of CBD products, we’ve written this article just for you. Continue reading to learn about the different types of CBD and determine which is best for you.
The Cannabinoid Spectrum and Different Types of CBD
When producing a CBD Oil, cannabinoid content is first extracted from the Cannabis plant.
During the extraction process, other compounds found within the plant are also extracted such as terpenes and other cannabinoids.
Depending on the cannabis strain, the composition and cannabinoid profile will differ.
The contents of the refined extract are what determines if the CBD extract is Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or CBD isolate.
Before we discuss the different types of CBD, it’s important to first discuss a phenomenon known as “the Entourage Effect.”
The Entourage Effect and How It Works
The Entourage Effect is a synergistic phenomenon that occurs when multiple cannabis compounds are combined.
Ethan Russo, a neurologist with an extensive background on the effects of cannabis compounds on the human body, explains that each cannabis compound can enhance the natural properties of other cannabis compounds. Because of this, cannabis compounds will deliver stronger and more diverse effects together than any single compound could alone.
With literally hundreds of compounds naturally produced within Cannabis, the variety of different synergies offered within this plant is astounding.
CBD Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum CBD vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD
Now that you understand a bit more about the cannabinoid spectrum and why it matters, let’s dive a little deeper to understand the different types of CBD.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD Isolate is produced by isolating CBD and stripping all other compounds and substances from the extract. This results in a pure CBD extract.
CBD isolate products do not contain any other cannabinoids or terpenes, and therefore, will not deliver the Entourage Effect. CBD isolate can deliver the therapeutic effects of CBD; however, unless the user is constrained to pure CBD due to legal reasons, CBD isolates greatly limit the potential effects of Cannabis.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full Spectrum CBD is produced by extracting the all cannabinoids and terpenes found present in the Cannabis plant, including THC.
Because Full Spectrum CBD contains a full range of cannabinoids and terpenes, it can deliver a powerful entourage effect with benefits that will far exceed those delivered by CBD isolate.
Due to the legal status of THC in most states, Full Spectrum CBD should unfortunately only be used by those residing in states with broad cannabis laws.
For those who live in a state where Cannabis is illegal, there is, fortunately, a solution.
What is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum products are very similar with one important difference–in order to qualify as a Broad Spectrum, the extract undergoes an additional process that fully removes all traces of THC. As a result, Broad Spectrum Cbd products contain a rich synergy of various cannabinoids, without the risk or intoxicating effects of THC.
Which Type of CBD Should I Use?
When it comes to determining which is the best type of CBD for your body, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Each person is unique and special, and because of this, the type of CBD that is best for each individual will vary.
In order to determine which type of CBD you should use, let’s explore some of the pros and cons of each, and discuss what type of situations would be suitable for which type of CBD.
CBD Isolate
The purest form of CBD, in which all other plant compounds and cannabinoids have been completely removed.
| PROS |
CONS |
- Generally Considered to Be Safe
- Tasteless and Odorless
- Lowest Risk of Psychoactive Effects
|
- Does not deliver the enhanced benefits of the entire Cannabis plant
- Often much less effective than other types of CBD
|
When is CBD Isolate the Preferred Type of CBD?
- When you live in a state with strict cannabis or THC-specific laws or regulations
- When you must submit to drug testing
- When you prefer light or flavorless products
- When it’s your first time using cannabinoid-based products
Full Spectrum CBD
CBD that has been extracted from the cannabis plant along with all the other compounds and cannabinoids.
| PROS |
CONS |
- Delivers the full potential of the cannabis plant (ie, the full entourage effect)
- Undergoes less processing and maintains more natural components of the cannabis plant.
|
- May deliver potentially unwanted sedative, psych0active, and/or mind-altering effects
- Higher chance of showing up on drug tests
- Regulated more aggressively than other forms of CBD
|
When is Full Spectrum the Preferred Type of CBD?
- When you are seeking the benefits of THC combined with CBD and other cannabinoids specifically
- When you live in a state where cannabis is legal and don’t mind the recreational effects of THC
- When your condition is very severe and requires the properties of THC to gain relief from its symptoms
Broad Spectrum CBD
CBD that has been extracted from the cannabis plant along with all other compounds and cannabinoids, except THC.
| PROS |
CONS |
- Delivers almost the full potential of the cannabis plant (excluding only the effects of THC)
- No risk of psychoactive effects
- Generally considered the highest quality of CBD products
|
- Typically more expensive than other forms of CBD
- Currently less available compared to other methods
|
When is Broad Spectrum CBD the Preferred Type of CBD?
- When you live in a state with strict THC-specific laws or regulations
- When you are worried or hesitant about the psychoactive effects of THC but want a full entourage effect
- When you tried CBD isolate and noticed some effects but not enough to feel relieved.
With the terminology out of the way, what type of CBD do you feel is best for your situation? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s talk!
Thanks for joining us today!
