So, you have heard about CBD and its supposed benefits. Maybe you have even begun to think about taking this product for yourself, but have noticed the dizzying array of companies and products throwing around terms like full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate. In the beginning, the names can be quite confusing and hard to differentiate from one another. Let us educate you on the differences and what advantages and disadvantages each type of extract has.
Full Spectrum CBD Extract
Knowing your Oil Types
There are three main types of CBD oils and they are as follows, full-spectrum CBD extract, broad-spectrum CBD extract, and CBD isolate extract. CBD extract is obtained through an extraction process using the dried plant material and then it is mixed with a carrier oil and sometimes a flavoring. It is something we do in our extract lab on a daily basis!
Knowing Your Cannabinoids
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. Marijuana tends to be high in THC, but low in CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) – CBD is the other major cannabinoid found in the Cannabis Sativa Plant and is non-psychoactive. It is the major component of CBD products and studies have shown it can have a variety of beneficial properties from anti-anxiety to pain relief.
Cannabigerol (CBG) – CBG is what is called a precursor to the other cannabinoids. Some Independent Research has found that it may have many benefits on its own such as those associated with CBD but also including muscle relaxation and a neuroprotective effect.
Cannabinol (CBN) – CBN is produced from aged THC. CBN is believed to produce a drowsy effect and may help to promote sleep.
Cannabichromene (CBC) – CBC is another cannabinoid found locked within the Cannabis Sativa plant known as the “big 6.” It is non-intoxicating like CBD and CBG but has been shown to work in conjunction with the others.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) – THCV is the final cannabinoid in the “big 6.” THCV has been reported to stop seizures and might also be useful in stopping panic disorders such as anxiety and PTSD.
Other Compounds found in Hemp
Terpenes – Terpenes are the compounds found within hemp that impart the smell. When sniffing a hemp flower and noting it has citrus or berry-like smell, it is the terpenes that are wafting into your nose and making that smell.
Flavonoids – Flavonoids are a group of phytonutrients present that produce the vivid colors we often associate with plants. They are powerful antioxidants often ascribed to having anti-inflammatory or immune system boosting effects.
What is Full-Spectrum CBD Extract?
A full-spectrum CBD extract, also known as pure spectrum CBD extract is composed of all the compounds found locked within the hemp plant. Along with cannabidiol (CBD), it also contains things such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV). As well as terpenes and other beneficial flavonoids. Full-spectrum CBD extract is what is known as a “whole-plant” extract since it contains all the compounds naturally occurring in the hemp plant and is generally a very dark gold color. It is the closest thing to a pure and unadulterated extract that you can find on the market.
Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD Extract
Some people believe that CBD works better when used in conjunction with the other major components of the hemp plant. This is known as the “entourage effect” and some studies have shown that this very well may be true. It is also noted that other compounds such as CBG have some beneficial properties as well. The major benefit of a full spectrum CBD extract is that you are consuming everything the plant has to offer to make it as close to what Mother Nature intended.
Disadvantages of Full-Spectrum CBD Extract
The full-spectrum extract has trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the cannabinoid that has psychoactive effects. Although the amounts present in a full-spectrum CBD extract are below 0.3% some consumers would prefer to stay away from THC. This would make a full-spectrum CBD extract unsuitable for those preferring to avoid THC in general.
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD Extract?
Broad-spectrum CBD extract has the same cannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids as in a full-spectrum extract but with no detectable amounts of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD extracts tend to be moderate to light gold color.
Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD Extract
A broad-spectrum CBD extract brings all the benefits of the entourage effect with it. It contains all the awesome compounds of the hemp plant so they can continue to work together without any amounts of detectable THC.
Disadvantages of Broad-Spectrum CBD Extract
None if any. Broad-spectrum CBD extracts have all the same benefits associated with Full-spectrum CBD extracts, but with none of the THC! This can be the best option for those looking for the beneficial aspects of the hemp plant, but with none of the adverse effects of THC.
What is Isolate CBD Extract?
Isolate CBD extract is an extract containing no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or flavonoids except for CBD. Some forms of CBD isolate have gone through another process that leaves it as crystals or white powder. CBD isolate extract tends to be bright white in color.
Benefits of Isolate CBD Extract
If looking for just one cannabinoid then an isolate can be your best bet. Isolate CBD extract contains none of the other components of the hemp plant besides CBD. An isolate can be the best option if looking to take a specific amount of CBD or if you are looking to add it to edibles, lotions, or other homemade products with a specific dosage. Also great for those looking for just CBD without all the other compounds. It can be great to experiment with and see what works best for your body.
Disadvantages of Isolate CBD Extract
Since CBD isolate is composed of only CBD it lacks all the other beneficial compounds and does not have the entourage effect. While it is a great way to get high doses of CBD into the body, it should be noted that some effects of the other cannabinoids are lacking. This can be an advantage when seeing if CBD helps you over the other cannabinoids.
Conclusions
Whether looking for a full-spectrum CBD extract or an isolate CBD extract we hope the above information helps in your decision making process. There is an array of benefits and disadvantages to each extract of CBD. CBD is a new health product with many claims and reported benefits. We hope to give you the best information to move forward, and as always, do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns.
