The Difference Between Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum CBD
You’ve probably come across many types of cannabinoid spectrum options if you’ve searched for CBD products or visited a Baltimore cannabis dispensary. There are three types of CBD: full spectrum CBD and broad spectrum CBD. These labels are important for recognizing the cannabinoid components in your CBD oil. Each type offers unique benefits depending on what you prefer.
Different CBD Spectrums
You need to be aware of the three CBD spectrums in order to understand CBD oil products.
- Full spectrum
- Broad spectrum
- Isolate
Each one is different in how it is extracted and formulated. They also behave differently within the Endocannabinoid System. It can be helpful to learn a little bit about each to help you choose the right one. We will discuss the extraction process as well as each spectrum of CBD oil.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD refers to all phytochemicals in Cannabis Sativa. This includes cannabidiol, terpenes and essential oils. THC is also included. The law dictates that the THC content should be below 0.3 percent. The full-spectrum CBD oil for sale has a negligible THC content so you won’t feel intoxicated by the tiny amounts of THC. However, THC can build up over time in your body. This could be a concern if you have to keep THC out of your system.
Full-spectrum CBD allows users to experience the “entourage effects”. This effect is typically achieved by combining whole-plant cannabinoids with additional terpenes. It is very different from pure CBD which uses CBD isolates. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp-derived chemicals from the Controlled Substances Act. This made these products more accessible to consumers, provided they don’t market them as medicines..
What is a CBD isolate?
CBD isolate is pure CBD. It contains no other cannabinoids or terpenes. Even though CBD isolates are the only ingredient in pure CBD oil, extraction of this oil requires much more work. It was mentioned earlier that hemp extracts all the beneficial components from the plant, including its terpenes, flavonoids, and terpenes. To ensure safe human consumption, the CBD is extracted from all other cannabinoid components. All the steps are the exact same (carbon dioxide extraction and steam distillation, solvent extract, lipid extraction), but CBD must be processed with greater care to obtain its purest form.
CBD isolates contain the highest concentration of CBD. CBD isolates are the most concentrated form of CBD. They can contain up to 90% CBD. CBD isolates can be used to cook or mix with other foods and beverages that contain a higher concentration of CBD.
Broad Spectrum CBD: What is it?
CBD oil that is labeled as broad spectrum contains cannabidiol and all other compounds found in hemp, just like full spectrum. THC is the active ingredient that’s removed from CBD oil after extraction. Broad spectrum CBD still retains many of the cannabinoids such as CBN, CBG and other cannabinoids. The broad spectrum CBD can also use additional terpenes or flavonoids to generate the entourage effect, but it does not contain THC.
Broad spectrum CBD can be described as a mixture of CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD. It contains compounds from the entire hemp plant, minus THC. Broad spectrum CBD does not contain THC and is therefore particularly beneficial for those who desire the full benefits of CBD without worrying about THC accumulation.
Broad Spectrum vs. Full Spectrum – Which is Better?
You don’t have to choose between two different types of CBD oil. There are many factors that influence how CBD is processed in our bodies. The first question you should ask about CBD oil’s broad spectrum and full-spectrum properties is which one best suits your needs. How your body reacts can depend on your physiology, lifestyle, health history, and other factors.
Based on the factors discussed in this article, here is a quick summary of the differences between full spectrum CBD, wide spectrum CBD and CBD isolate.
Full Spectrum CBD | Broad Spectrum CBD | CBD Isolate | |
Utilizes whole plant extract that contains other cannabinoids and terpenes as well as essential oils | ✔ | ✔ | |
THC is contained in this product | ✔ | ||
Pure CBD extract only. No other cannabinoids, additives or substances. | ✔ |
While some users might be happy with CBD isolate simply because it works, others may not notice any difference between CBD isolate and full spectrum CBD. Many users choose to use full spectrum CBD or broad-spectrum CBD because of the higher cost.
Why should I use Full Spectrum CBD Oil?
Some prefer CBD oil products to contain small amounts of THC. This decision is up to you. It should be considered in light of your individual needs and any restrictions that may apply from your employer.
Pros of Full Spectrum CBD Oil:
- Full-spectrum CBD oil offers the entourage effect and the health benefits.
- Some users prefer small amounts of THC.
- May provide more overall benefits than CBD isolates
Cons of Full Spectrum CBD Oil:
- Some states have a greater regulation
- Some may prefer stronger natural tastes than others
- Employers and organizations may limit the use of THC in their systems.
Broad Spectrum CBD: Why should I use it?
Broad spectrum CBD can be considered the best of both CBD oils. Broad spectrum CBD is not psychoactive, unlike CBD isolate. However, like full-spectrum CBD, it offers the entourage effect, which provides benefits.
It is most beneficial for those who are sensitive to THC, or who live in areas that have strict THC regulations. This oil may also be the best option for people who wish to try CBD oil for the first-time but are hesitant due to THC warnings.
Pros of Broad Spectrum CBD Oil:
- Broad-spectrum CBD does not have any psychogenic effects
- The entourage effect also offers many benefits
- CBD isolates may not offer the same benefits as CBD.
Cons of Broad Spectrum CBD Oil:
- They may contain trace amounts of THC because they were not completely eliminated after extraction.
- Some employers won’t allow the use of hemp-derived products, including CBD without THC.
We hope this guide will help you choose your CBD oil when you want to make a purchase at your local marijuana dispensary in Baltimore. Do let us know in the comment box below about your experience of the type of CBD oil you use.