When it comes to cannabidiol-based products like the best CBD oils, you’ll often see that they can be made with broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, or isolate CBD. But, what does this mean?
To understand the differences between these types of CBD, it’s necessary to comprehend what cannabidiol is and how it’s extracted.
What Is CBD & How Is CBD Extracted?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the 113 known phytocannabinoids found in the hemp plant, also referred to as Cannabis Sativa.
Products that contain CBD are produced by mixing the extract of the hemp plant and other active ingredients. For instance, CBD oils are often a concoction of cannabinoids and vegetable oil, such as olive oil.
Cannabidiol is one of the most common phytocannabinoids, along with THC. Other cannabinoids include CBG, CBN, or CBC.
Extraction Of Cannabinoids
During the extraction process, the raw hemp extract contains all the naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes that are present in the hemp plant. Several extraction methods can be used, but for industrial purposes, the methods of choice use either supercritical CO2 or solvents.
Filtration & Refinement
After this process, the extract is filtered and refined several times, and is tested along the way. Most hemp plants are grown from seeds of other plants that contain low-THC and high-CBD contents.
Different Types Of CBD
By the end of the process, you can have three types of CBD:
- Isolate: contains only cannabidiol and nothing else
- Broad-spectrum: contains all the naturally occurring cannabinoids, except for THC
- Full-spectrum: it’s just like broad-spectrum, but also contains THC (you can find here some full-spectrum CBD oils).
Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD
Over the past years, some research has been conducted to understand if there are different benefits to the varying types of CBD. Although there is still a lack of knowledge in this sector, some findings suggest that there are more benefits to using broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD when compared to CBD isolate.
These benefits are related to the entourage effect, which happens when different cannabinoids are metabolized simultaneously by the body. According to this theory, all the cannabinoids operate synergistically and increase each other’s properties.
Moreover, this same theory also suggests that when THC is present, the additional cannabinoids modulate its psychoactive effects, making it less effective in that aspect.
Conclusion: Is Broad-Spectrum Better Than Other Options?
While broad-spectrum products might be better for some people, they might not be the ideal option for others. Each person is different and, consequently, has different needs and reactions to CBD products.
You must consult your doctor for advice on which type of CBD might be better for your own needs. They know about your medical history and any prescription drugs you may be taking and can advise you on which option is better suited to achieve the results you’re looking for.
