When looking for high-quality CBD products, you may have noticed that different cannabinoid spectrum options are available. These include full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolates.
At a basic level, each product is made up of the same active ingredient - cannabidiol or CBD. However, they differ in terms of the other cannabinoids present in them.
What Is CBD?
Cannabinoids are a class of chemical compounds that play an essential role in our health and well-being. There are over 100 different cannabinoids found naturally in the cannabis plant, and each one has unique properties and effects on our bodies.
One of the most well-known cannabinoids is CBD, which is known for its relaxing, calming effects. But there are many others that produce other effects as well and can actually work together with CBD.
Related: CBD 101: A Brief Guide for First Time Users
Full Spectrum Hemp Extracts vs. Marijuana
All CBD products are extracted from cannabis utilizing solvents such as carbon monoxide.
During the extraction, all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are taken from the plant and soaked in oil to make it simpler to administer and store.
The cannabinoid composition of CBD oil varies depending on the cannabis strain utilized in the extraction process.
For example, hemp extracts have little to no THC — below 0.3% — so they are non-psychoactive, but they also claim significant quantities of CBD.
In contrast, some carefully developed cannabis strains may have a CBD-to-THC ratio of 1:1.
Companies chose to employ a distinct cannabinoid spectrum from distinct strains based on the intended application of the final product.
Since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp extracts are now federally allowed. Thus we recommend using them if you're looking for a completely legal product.
Now, after the first extraction, the cannabinoids' fate decides whether the extract is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate. Each phrase relates to the degree to which the product was processed.
Let's talk about the significance of each cannabis spectrum.
What Does Full Spectrum CBD Oil Mean?
If an extract is full-spectrum, it includes all naturally occurring phytochemicals, including CBD, terpenes, cannabinoids, and other oils. Full-spectrum hemp extracts contain a minuscule amount of THC, less than 0.3%.
Our new Balance Blend Full Spectrum Gummies are meticulously formulated to bring you a relaxing calm, often taken in the evening to promote a blissful slumber.
The whole spectrum of active chemicals derived from hemp enhances the health advantages of each cannabinoid individually. This occurrence is known as the entourage effect (more on that later).
Even though it is non-psychoactive, a positive is likely to come up on a drug test, mainly if you use full-spectrum CBD oil daily.
If you are concerned about THC drug tests, this is where broad-spectrum CBD comes into play.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD consists of cannabidiol and all other components found in the cannabis plant, with the exception of THC, which is entirely eliminated after the first extraction.
Due to the fact that broad-spectrum CBD contains numerous cannabinoids, it can also produce the entourage effect, albeit without THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD is, in a nutshell, a combination of full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolation. It includes the whole spectrum of cannabinoids, with the exception of THC.
The Entourage Effect
With both broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD, the entourage effect is established. The entourage effect is the synergy between all cannabis compounds. These elements interact to increase the plant's potential advantages. Each molecule may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the others while minimizing possible adverse effects.
Want CBD products that produce the entourage effect? Shop our popular THC CBD Gummies: Balance Blend Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the most pure form of this molecule; it is produced by isolating only the CBD from the plant and eliminating all other substances. Hence "isolate."
Using CBD isolate has the greatest concentration of CBD per serving compared to other forms. Isolates are typically 99% pure and only contain CBD. On the flip side, you can not benefit from all the other compounds in broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD.
Our Sleep Gummies are an isolate product that bring you all the natural benefits of Melatonin and CBD isolate for a peaceful night's rest. Due to the purity of this product, they can help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed and not groggy.
Which Spectrum is Right for You?
Now that you've learned every spectrum of CBD, you could still be wondering which spectrum best fits your needs. So which CBD spectrum is the correct one for you? There are different pros and cons to each product, which we'll go through below.
Full Spectrum CBD: Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Little processing
-Offers the advantages of the entourage effect
-The most natural form of the plant
Cons:
-THC can cause issues with local law enforcement
-Carries strong flavor and aroma of hemp
-Can show up on drug tests with a positive result
Full-Spectrum is Best For:
-CBD consumers seeking the benefits of trace quantities of THC in their extracts
-People with more severe symptoms for whom CBD isolate and broad-spectrum solutions are ineffective
-People willing to try new products and see which works best for their specific needs
Broad Spectrum CBD: Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Offers the advantages of the entourage effect
-Less refined than isolate
-No potential for psychotropic effects
Cons:
-More scarce than full-spectrum or isolates
-Not as much research has been conducted
-May possess a robust, natural hemp taste
Broad Spectrum Works is Best for:
-CBD users with illnesses for which the isolate alone is ineffective
-Persons sensitive to THC
-First-time CBD users who do not like THC
Related: CBD Oil for Menopause
CBD Isolate: Pros & Cons
Pros:
-The most concentrated form of CBD
-No danger of intoxication
-Low chance of producing a positive THC drug test
-Safe for all kinds of CBD users
-Odorless and flavorless
-Completely legal everywhere
Cons:
-No benefits of the entourage effect
CBD Isolate is Best for:
-CBD users who were advised to take extremely high doses of CBD
-CBD users who prefer flavorless products
-Residents of places with strict THC restrictions
-CBD users that are susceptible to THC or other cannabinoid side effects
-CBD users who fear passing a THC test
What is CBG?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Often referred to as the "mother cannabinoid" or "stem cell cannabinoid," CBG is considered a precursor to other cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
While CBG is typically present in low concentrations in most cannabis strains, researchers are increasingly interested in its potential therapeutic benefits.
Studies suggest that CBG may have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, neuroprotective, and appetite-stimulating properties. Additionally, CBG does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC, making it a promising candidate for medical research and the development of new cannabinoid-based treatments. As research into CBG continues to expand, it holds significant potential for addressing a wide range of health conditions and improving overall wellness.
Looking for CBD isolate or Full Spectrum Products? Go Botanicals has both!
Final Thoughts on CBD Oil Spectrums
Several things might steer you into one cannabis spectrum over the other.
Your particular body chemistry, weight, lifestyle, and past with other drugs may impact how you respond to specific cannabis spectrums.
For others, broad-spectrum CBD may be the optimal option since it provides some entourage effect without the euphoric properties of THC. For some, a high dosage of pure CBD may be sufficient to ease their symptoms, while others may need a higher concentration of THC to feel the difference.
There are still more studies to be conducted to determine the usefulness of each spectrum, so for the time being, trial and error is a great way to determine which fits in best with your lifestyle.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD products into your wellness routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
We love to talk about CBD! Contact us to discuss what products might be right for you. Chat live on our website, email us at contact@gobotanicals.com or call us at 800-894-9688. We can't wait to hear from you!
