Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs CBD Isolate
When entering the CBD market for the first time, one may come across different terms for CBD such as Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum vs CBD isolate. While this may come across intimidating at first, these terms can be broken down very easily. Each of these describe the very different products and how the hemp was processed.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD refers to CBD with all the phytochemicals found naturally in the cannabis plant. This could include CBD as well as trace amounts of other cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils. The different components extracted can all work together to amplify the health benefits in what is known as the entourage effect. Full-spectrum CBD also could include trace amounts of THC, below 0.3%. This could result in a false positive on a drug test when using full-spectrum CBD products. One danger in taking full-spectrum CBD can also be the accumulation of THC in the body over time. These effects can especially be seen with repeated daily usage and intake.
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD works a little differently than full-spectrum CBD. It contains most of the same components that are prominent in full-spectrum CBD except for the THC. The THC is completely removed from the rest of the components after initial extraction. Additionally, broad-spectrum CBD contains other cannabinoids which still allows the entourage effect. In short, broad-spectrum CBD functions as an intermediate between full-spectrum and CBD isolate that contains all cannabinoids EXCEPT THC.
CBD Isolate
Finally, CBD isolate is the purest extraction of the compound that removes the CBD from the other cannabinoids and other compounds. CBD isolate is the highest concentration CBD per serving, but produces no entourage effect. CBD isolate is the safest to take at this time as it is the most widely researched and studied. Pure CBD isolate is even used in some epilepsy drugs and can reduce seizures. CBD isolate is approved by the FDA while full-spectrum CBD still requires further research before all the benefits can be interpreted.
Benefits of the Entourage Effect
The entourage effect refers to the widespread synergy and benefits of the various cannabinoids working together. The various components in the cannabis plant may enhance each other’s therapeutic qualities while dampening their possible side effects. Some of the various cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD includes cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabidiol acid (CBDA), and cannabidivarin (CBDV). Although some sources may report differing prices, CBD isolate is typically priced higher due to the more extensive extraction process in removing the other cannabinoids from the pure CBD. Although the entourage effect may seem desirable, CBD isolate is the safest to ingest at this time as it is the most researched and studied.