Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolates are common terms used to refer to CBD extracts or concentrates. The terms typically indicate the amount or quantity of therapeutic chemicals present in CBD products, apart from primary cannabinoids (CBD and THC). They are a simple way of conveying the diversities of bioactive materials in various CBD extracts.
Unfortunately, most people, especially beginner CBD users, don’t understand these varieties, often thinking all CBD products are the same. If you are in this fold, the guide below outlines some differences between these CBD types.
What is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD are products that contain several cannabis plant extracts, such as terpenes, essential oils, Cannabinol, and other cannabinoids. These products also contain approximately 0.3% THC, the cannabinoid that produces the high “feel.” However, this low amount isn’t strong enough to produce serious psychoactive effects.
Since full-spectrum products contain multiple cannabis compounds, they have more potent effects than other CBD types.Several studies suggest that the health benefits of CBD are more prominent in products that contain multiple compounds. This effect is called the “entourage effect.”
As mentioned, full-spectrum CBD products contain small amounts of THC, often less than 0.3%. However, these levels can increase as the products are being manufactured. THC levels can increase as CBD is converted into concentrates. Nonetheless, with the wide range of health benefits, full-spectrum CBD products can be used as follows;
- Anti-seizure
- Antianxiety
- Pain relief
- Antioxidant
- Muscle spasm relief
- Anti-inflammatory
- Treatment of psychotic conditions
While full-spectrum products have proven health benefits, they should be taken correctly. Therefore, you should learn some of the best ways to take CBD oil for maximum benefits.
What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD as they contain most cannabis compounds except for THC. This means that users benefit from other chemical compounds through the entourage effect. Broad-spectrum CBD products are not easily available compared to other types. However, the absence of THC traces doesn’t mean these products are not beneficial as full-spectrum products. Actually, most people prefer broad-spectrum products because they don’t show up on drug tests.
What are CBD Isolates?
CBD isolates are the purest form since they contain no other cannabinoids from cannabis plants. This means these products don’t have an entourage effect. CBD isolates are best for first-time users looking to experiment with the health effects of CBD without interference brought by other cannabis compounds.
Unlike broad and full-spectrum CBD products, CBD isolates are refined. Therefore, they have no apparent odor, flavor, or taste. A 2015 study found that even though CBD isolates offer several health benefits, they are less notable compared to effects brought by full-spectrum CBDs. The study also found that CBD isolates are only effective against chronic pain and inflammation at specific doses.
That said, those who want to take high doses should consider using CBD isolates. This isn’t a negative quality of isolates as some people prefer CBD products without THC. Like broad-spectrum, CBD isolates don’t contain THC. Therefore, they don’t show up on drug tests. However, you should be careful when buying CBD isolates since some manufacturers label their products as THC-free but contain some traces.
Interestingly, the only CBD product approved by the FDA for pharmaceutical use is a CBD isolate. Epidiolex has been cleared to be used medically to treat various types of seizures.
Which Spectrum Is Best for You?
Choosing between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolates generally comes down to user preference. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD concentrates have several benefits due to the entourage effect. As such, full-spectrum CBD is appropriate for alleviating specific conditions, such as anxiety and chronic pain. If you feel that your CBD product has a low dose, using products with diverse phytochemicals is prudent.
However, you might have to avoid CBD products with THC in some situations. In such a situation, broad-spectrum products are a good choice. They offer natural cannabinoids without the slight high feel associated with full-spectrum products. However, remember that the efficacy of CBD products hasn’t been scientifically proven. Therefore, you can consider exploring both full and broad-spectrum products to find a suitable spectrum.
Endnote
Simply put, what differentiates broad Spectrum, full-spectrum, and CBD isolates is the cannabinoid content. Full-spectrum products have higher THC content than broad-spectrum, while CBD isolates have none.
Apart from looking into the legalities involved before purchasing CBD products, you should ensure that you buy these products from reliable and reputable suppliers. That said, order your CBD products from Joy Organics.
