With so many varieties of CBD products on the market, it can be hard to understand the differences between them. Don’t stress! The following paragraphs will shed light on different types of CBD so you can determine what’s best for you.
The basics
The cannabis plant contains many, many components, but the prevalent ones are CBD and THC. Now that we know this, let’s ease into this topic slowly by explaining the basic categorization!
CBD products that are derived from hemp are available in three forms: full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate. To derive CBD from the cannabis plant, manufacturers perform various extraction processes. The extraction process determines whether the final CBD product will be full spectrum, isolate, or broad spectrum.
To put it simply:
- CBD isolate is made from an extraction method that isolates CBD (cannabidiol) and removes all other cannabinoids (THC, CBN, CBG etc.). The result is a product that contains pure CBD and no other component. Basically- CBD isolate doesn’t contain other cannabinoids or terpenes. After extraction, CBD isolate is commonly found in the form of crystals or powder, which can be added to oil or alcohol bases.
- Full spectrum CBD goes through a process of extraction that does not isolate CBD but rather leaves in other cannabinoids. This means that full spectrum CBD may contain CBG, CBN, CBDA & other minor cannabinoids. Trace amounts of THC are present, but must be below 0.3% to be federally legal.
- Broad spectrum CBD is an extract that contains some cannabinoids and terpenes – but absolutely no THC whatsoever. This means broad spectrum CBD may contain cannabinoids like CBG & CBN but must not contain even trace amounts of THC.
CBD Isolate
As mentioned above, CBD isolate is another name for a CBD product that only contains CBD – nothing else. It’s a fantastic option for those who have researched the benefits of CBD and want to try it on its own. It is often referred to as “pure CBD” due to it containing no other cannabinoids. It doesn’t have a smell or flavor and many people prefer this type of CBD product for this reason.
CBD interacts with our endocannabinoid system which has cannabinoid receptors found all over our bodies. Some studies have shown that CBD may also interact with our non-cannabinoid receptors like our serotonin receptors. Thanks to these interactions, CBD isolate alone can have benefits all over the body.
It’s important to state that CBD isolate will not offer what’s known as “the entourage effect”. The entourage effect is a cannabis theory that the more cannabinoids in one product, the stronger the combined effects are.
Full-spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the compounds in cannabis, even THC, but at or below 0.3%. This is a good option for those looking to achieve the entourage effect, but the list of pros doesn’t stop there.
Full-spectrum CBD is beneficial because all the cannabinoids work together to create a more intense effect than CBD isolate alone. It’s a better option for those looking for strong effects, as long as they’re comfortable consuming trace amounts of THC. There are many health benefits related to full-spectrum CBD as it may contain flavonoids and terpenes, which work together to intensify effects.
Broad-spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD offers the full entourage effect, minus THC. The broad palette of cannabinoids with the added benefit of terpenes is extremely helpful for relieving general discomfort or inflammation, which is one of the main reasons why so many people enjoy it. It’s also one of the most commonly used forms of CBD for people who cannot tolerate THC.
Final thoughts
CBD Isolate- Plain CBD, nothing else inside. Best for those who do not want to consume anything beyond CBD.
Full Spectrum CBD- The complete cannabinoid profile, including THC (below 0.3% to be federally legal). Best for those who can consume trace amounts of THC and want the strongest effects possible.
Broad Spectrum CBD- The complete cannabinoid profile, without THC. Best for those who want to experience the entourage effect, but cannot consume THC.
Learning about CBD can be very helpful to determine the correct products that work best for you. Everyone is different, so educating yourself on this topic can certainly only benefit you in the long run.