Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most medicinally beneficial compounds found in Hempplants. When combined with other cannabinoids found in the Hemp plant, you can experience many more health benefits from CBD.
There are three major CBD categories to choose from, Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, Isolate CBD. Choosing between these options can be challenging without any background knowledge. Below is a brief guide covering the differences, to help you make the best choice for your physical and mental well-being.
Most common cannabinoid components found in CBD –
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): A cannabinoid known for its psychoactive effects. Many studies have demonstrated the advantages of and THC-CBD products.
Cannabigerol (CBG): This cannabinoid functions as if it were a blend of delta-9-THC and CBD. Researchers have learned that cannabigerol has a strong potential to treat neurological disorders and also has antibacterial qualities.
Cannabinol (CBN):CBN offers immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The immune benefits are powerful as it prefers to bind to a chemical structure known as the CB2 receptor, a key component of the Endocannabinoid System.
Full-Spectrum CBD –
Full-spectrum CBD oil is also known as “whole-plant” CBD because it contains the broadest variation of cannabinoids and terpenes unique to cannabis plants. When producing full-spectrum products, producers leave in all the naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes
(chemicals responsible for cannabis’s scents and flavors), and flavonoids (plant chemicals that provide health benefits). Full-spectrum CBD products also offer various vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. This strong combination of chemical compounds offers consistent relief from all kinds of physical and mental health issues. Full-spectrum CBD products typically require lower doses to achieve health advantages.
Broad-Spectrum
Broad-spectrum CBD products are very similar to full-spectrum products. Containing a wide variety of chemical compounds, including the many terpenes and flavonoids naturally found in the cannabis plant. The primary difference between broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD is the amount of THC they contain. Full-spectrum CBD can contain up to 0.3% of THC by law and broad-spectrum CBD products are typically free of THC. Broad-spectrum is required to contain less than >0.3% of THC, virtually nondetectable.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate has the highest level of purity compared to full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD. It’s the exact opposite of a full-spectrum product, eliminating as many non-CBD compounds as possible. This “isolates” specific cannabinoids, focusing on their unique health effects. These products are typically marketed as “pure” CBD. Some medicinal advantages might be easier to achieve with pure CBD since other cannabinoids have been removed. Isolate CBD offers a way to medicate with cannabis without psychoactive effects.
Entourage Effect-
The “Entourage Effect” occurs when chemical compounds found in cannabis work together to help alleviate your symptoms. Each of the cannabinoids brings its advantages to the table. When they all activate the endocannabinoid system simultaneously, you experience the full range of benefits the cannabis plant has to offer. Full-spectrum CBD has the most substantial Entourage Effect compared to broad-spectrum and isolates.
Choosing the Right Product –
Whether full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or isolate CBD is the “right” product for you depending on your individual needs and body. Cannabis interacts with each individual differently. What might work for one user may not be suitable for you, especially if you have never used cannabis for your health before. It may be best to go for a full-spectrum CBD product, especially as a beginner. You will lower your chances of using excessive amounts while receiving the full breadth of health rewards. However, if you need to avoid THC entirely, broad-spectrum or CBD isolate would be the better choice. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking CBD products.
