Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum CBD Oil vs Isolate CBD Oil

“What’s difference between full spectrum, broad spectrum and CBD isolate ?” is one of the most common questions people have when selecting a CBD product. To those new to CBD these three types of CBD can be downright confusing.

What do these classifications mean and why do they matter? Knowing which type of CBD is best for your specific needs can help you when selecting the right CBD product.

Each of these terms describe which type of CBD is used in the product. Each type has important differences and are important to consider in order to get the most out of your CBD experience. The advantages and disadvantages of each type will help you determine which is the right product for you. In order to understand the differences, we must first start by examining the compounds present in the cannabis plant.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabis and hemp plants have dozens of active chemical compounds called cannabinoids. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s natural systems to provide numerous effects on the body and mind.

These effects are achieved through interaction with receptors in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The discovery of the ECS in the 1990’s opened up a new understanding about the role of cannabinoids in maintaining functions in central nervous system. In particular, CBD activates CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS to regulate pain perception, stress response, and motor activity.

Among the cannabinoids present in hemp extracts, the most commonly known compounds are CBD and THC. The compound THC is famous for its psychoactive effects associated with “feeling high.” CBD on the other hand does not have psychoactive effects. Instead it has the ability to deliver heath benefits to the body without the high associated with THC.

The Cannabinoid Spectrum and the Entourage Effect

The range of cannabinoids present in a CBD product is central to determining whether a product is full spectrum, broad spectrum, or CBD isolate. Creating different types of CBD is achieved through the extraction process. During this process cannabinoid content is extracted from the raw materials. By using C02 Extraction, compounds found within the plant can be refined to contain only specific cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabinoid content present in the CBD product after extraction determines whether a product is full spectrum, broad spectrum, or isolate CBD.

What is Full Spectrum?

Full Spectrum CBD is an extract that contains all the compounds naturally occurring in the hemp plant. These products include include cannabinoids, terpenes, as well as essential oils. A study in 2005, determined that full spectrum CBD was more effective than CBD isolate. Research found that the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils worked together to amplify each other’s therapeutic benefits. This synergistic relationship was been referred to as the “entourage effect.”

A full spectrum CBD oil is most effective type of CBD

While full spectrum is often regarded as the most effective type of CBD, some avoid it due to its inclusion of trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). For those concerned with even trace amounts of THC showing up on a drug test, full spectrum may not the right choice.

For those interested in trying a full spectrum CBD product we recommend our Natural Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture. This full spectrum tincture is made from 100% Organic Colorado hemp and fortified with additional terpenes for improved efficacy. Our full spectrum CBD oils are also offered in two subtle flavors: citrus and mint.