The convenient, yet confusing thing about CBD products is that there are so many options available in the market. You can pick whether you want to apply it to your skin or consume it, select your extract, and choose your strength.
These choices can be difficult to make if you’re new to CBD, so Finexwell is here to help you with one of the most crucial parts of choosing the right CBD product for you: the extract.
Extracts are listed on the front of a CBD product and they let you know which type of CBD is being used in the product.
In this article, we’ll take you through the difference between the 2 most popular extracts of CBD: Full Spectrum & Broad Spectrum CBD.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full Spectrum CBD is the purest, unprocessed, and unfiltered hemp extract which has all of the hemp plant’s beneficial nutrients such as terpenes, cannabinoids, and essential oils.
It offers a holistic approach to CBD, having the full range of hemp’s cannabinoids, including THC.
However, the THC in full spectrum Cannabidiol will always be below 0.3%, too little to induce a ‘high’ feeling without consuming a large amount.
Full spectrum CBD’s wide variety of natural terpenes and cannabinoids make it capable of inducing the entourage effect; which explains the phenomenon of each element in the plant working together harmoniously to provide maximum effect.
What Is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum Cannabidiol is the latest CBD extract on the block, building the gap between isolate and full spectrum cannabidiol. It’s processed like isolate CBD, yet provides a wide range of cannabinoids like full spectrum.
Broad spectrum CBD starts as a full spectrum extract with all of hemp’s cannabinoids and terpenes intact before it’s sent through a refinement procedure to remove the THC compound.
Broad spectrum Cannabidiol is becoming popular quickly among the THC-sensitive users, and suppliers are meeting the demands commonly with overly processed or synthetic THC. Therefore it gets more important to check the lab results for your broad spectrum product.
Put simply, broad spectrum Cannabidiol is full spectrum Cannabidiol, just with the THC removed.
Differences Between Full Spectrum CBD and Broad Spectrum CBD
Full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD are two of three main kinds of CBD extract. The main difference between Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum is the THC content. Full spectrum Cannabidiol contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), while broad spectrum Cannabidiol does not.
Full spectrum CBD is a whole-plant hemp extract with more than 100 cannabinoids while broad spectrum CBD has the same number but without THC.
However, these two products are different in other respects, also, such as the extraction procedure each goes through and how they work with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Having a knowledge of these products’ differences can help you choose the right product according to your needs. To remove THC from broad spectrum extract, it undergoes chromatography, which separates THC from the mixture.
Full spectrum products are not subjected to this procedure. Finally, the two extract types work with the endocannabinoid system differently.
As full spectrum Cannabidiol products contain THC, they activate the body’s endocannabinoid receptors in a different way than broad spectrum Cannabidiol.
How Is Broad Spectrum CBD Made?
Broad spectrum CBD begins as raw hemp before being alcohol or CO2 extracted to create a whole plant, full spectrum CBD extract. Then this extract goes through a distillation procedure and a cannabinoid separation to remove THC.
The final product is tested for quality to give proof of zero THC content. With THC-free broad spectrum extracts, sometimes synthetic or heat solvents can be used during processing that harms the organic complexity of the cannabinoids of the plant.
Because of this, make sure to take a close look at the broad spectrum Cannabidiol lab reports that come with the product to discern the actual cannabinoid purity and content.
How Is Full Spectrum CBD Made?
Full spectrum CBD is made through an extraction process that preserves the full range of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other beneficial compounds present in the cannabis plant. Initially, cannabis plants or high-quality hemp are harvested and dried.
Then, the plant material goes through extraction using methods such as ethanol extraction or CO2 extraction.
These methods separate the desired compounds from the plant material, resulting in a concentrated extract or oil containing terpenes, cannabinoids, and other plant constituents.
Unlike CBD isolate, which separates CBD from other compounds, full spectrum Cannabidiol keeps the complete spectrum of cannabinoids, including THC, offering potential synergistic effects through the entourage effect.
Finally, the extract is further processed and refined to remove impurities and get the desired concentration before being made into various CBD products like tinctures, oils, topicals, or edibles.
Does Full Spectrum CBD Contain THC?
Yes, full spectrum CBD contains THC but in trace amounts that are within legal limits. Unlike CBD isolate, which contains only cannabidiol, full spectrum Cannabidiol retains a broad range of cannabinoids found organically in the cannabis plant, including THC.
However, the concentration of THC in full spectrum CBD products is usually kept under 0.3% to comply with legal guidelines in many regions.
These low amounts of THC are usually not sufficient to induce psychoactive effects but may still create the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and other compounds work together harmoniously to enhance the therapeutic effects of the CBD product.
Users concerned about THC consumption should review the product carefully and choose CBD products labeled as “THC-free” or “broad spectrum” to stay away from any risk of psychoactive effects.
Does Broad Spectrum CBD Contain THC?
Broad spectrum CBD doesn’t have THC usually as it’s purified to remove this psychoactive compound present in cannabis.
Unlike full spectrum Cannabidiol, which keeps a trace amount of THC along with other cannabinoids, broad spectrum Cannabidiol goes through additional processing to remove THC while preserving various other beneficial compounds.
This makes broad spectrum a great choice for people who seek the potential benefits of cannabinoids without the risk of THC’s psychoactive properties or the worries of failing a drug test.
However, consumers should check with reputable manufacturers to make sure that THC is absent in broad spectrum CBD products.
What Are the Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD?
Here are some notable benefits of full spectrum Cannabidiol:
Anxiety reduction
Studies suggest that full spectrum CBD may help relieve anxiety levels. CBD works with serotonin receptors in the brain, which are associated with mood regulation.
By managing serotonin levels, CBD can potentially reduce symptoms of anxiety, including GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder), SAD (Social Anxiety Disorder), and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
Pain Relief
Full spectrum Cannabidiol has analgesic properties, making it great for alleviating pain. It works with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays an important role in managing pain perception.
By influencing the ECD, CBD can reduce neuropathic pain and inflammation, providing relief to patients suffering from conditions such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and chronic pain.
Psychotic Disorders
Research shows that full spectrum CBD may possess antipsychotic effects, making it a potential treatment for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
CBD’s ability to modulate neurotransmitter activities in the brain, especially dopamine, suggests its efficacy in taking care of symptoms related to psychosis, including delusions, hallucinations, and cognitive impairments.
Anti-inflammatory
Full spectrum Cannabidiol has various cannabinoids, including cannabinol (CBN) AND cannabigerol (CBG), which exhibit anti-inflammatory qualities.
By working with receptors in the immune system of the body, CBD can mitigate inflammation related to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), acne, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Insomnia
CBD’s calming effects may induce better sleep by relieving anxiety and enhancing overall relaxation. Full spectrum CBD has compounds like terpenes, which possess sedative properties, further enhancing its abilities as a sleep aid.
By modulating sleep-wake cycles and promoting deeper sleep stages, CBD can help people suffering from insomnia enjoy a more rejuvenating and restful sleep.
What Are the Benefits of Broad Spectrum CBD?
Here are various notable benefits of broad spectrum Cannabidiol:
Anxiety Reduction
Broad spectrum CBD works with the ECS (endocannabinoid system), which plays an important role in regulating anxiety and mood.
By promoting relaxation and modulating neurotransmitter activity, CBD can relieve anxiety disorders such as social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorders.
Pain Relief
CBD’s analgesic properties make broad spectrum Cannabidiol a decent option for managing pain. By working with receptors in the ECS, CBD can alleviate neuropathic pain and inflammation related to issues like multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and fibromyalgia, providing relief to patients suffering from chronic pain.
Anti-inflammatory
Broad spectrum CBD possesses cannabinoids like cannabinol and cannabigerol, which exhibit anti-inflammatory qualities.
By relieving inflammation in the body, CBD can reduce symptoms of inflammatory issues such as rheumatoid arthritis, acne, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Neuroprotection
Research suggests that broad spectrum Cannabidiol may have neuroprotective qualities, protecting the brain against degeneration and damage.
CBD’s antioxidant effects help fight oxidative stress, which leads to neurological issues like Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.
Sleep Improvement
CBD’s calming qualities can induce better sleep by relieving anxiety and promoting relaxation. Broad spectrum CBD has terpenes like linalool and myrcene, which possess sedative properties, further imposing its role as a sleep aid.
By enhancing duration and sleep quality, CBD can help patients suffering from insomnia enjoy a more rejuvenating and restful sleep.
Why Do People Choose Full Spectrum CBD?
People often prefer full spectrum CBD for its potential therapeutic benefits, thanks to its comprehensive profile of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other beneficial compounds present naturally in the cannabis plant.
Unlike CBD isolate, which contains only cannabidiol, full spectrum Cannabidiol provides a wider range of cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, and CBN, which may work harmoniously to enhance the overall therapeutic benefits through what’s also called the entourage effect.
This holistic approach provides more comprehensive relief for various issues such as inflammation, pain, insomnia, and anxiety.
Moreover, some users prefer full spectrum CBD as it may offer a more balanced and natural experience, mirroring the plant’s authentic composition.
However, it’s important to consider individual tolerance levels and the legal status of THC in one’s area and jurisdiction before choosing full spectrum Cannabidiol products.
Why Do People Choose Broad Spectrum CBD?
People choose broad spectrum Cannabidiol for its potential therapeutic benefits without the presence of THC.
While it has a broad range of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other beneficial compounds present in the cannabis plant, it goes through a refinement procedure to remove THC completely or decrease it to non-detectable levels.
This makes it appealing to people who want to experience the entourage effect without any psychoactive experiences associated with THC consumption.
Broad spectrum CBD users may also be subject to drug testing or prefer to avoid THC due to legal concerns or personal preferences.
Moreover, some users find broad spectrum Cannabidiol better for their specific needs, providing a balance between CBD isolate and full spectrum CBD in terms of THC content and cannabinoid diversity.
Does Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum CBD Help with Sleep?
Both broad spectrum and full spectrum Cannabidiol have the potential to aid sleep due to the presence of various terpenes and cannabinoids that may promote stress relief and relaxation.
Cannabinoids like CBD and CBD have been studied for their potential to enhance sleep quality by working with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which manages various physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles.
Full spectrum CBD, with its inclusion of THC, may provide additional sedative effects, especially in higher doses, although the presence of THC may also lead to psychoactive effects in some users.
On the other hand, broad spectrum Cannabidiol offers similar benefits without any risk of psychoactive effects, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid THC completely.
Moreover, terpenes present in both broad spectrum and full spectrum Cannabidiol, such as linalool and myrcene, have calming qualities that could lead to better sleep results.
These compounds work harmoniously with cannabinoids in what’s also known as the entourage effect, potentially enhancing the overall efficacy of the product for sleep support.
However, individual responses to CBD may vary, and factors such as timing, dosage, and existing health conditions can impact its efficacy for sleep.
It’s important for individuals looking for sleep support to experiment with different doses and products under the guidance of a healthcare professional to determine what works best for their unique needs.
Moreover, practicing good sleep hygiene alongside CBD supplementation can maximize its potential sleep benefits.
Conclusion
The main difference between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD is the THC content. Those who want to experience the therapeutic benefits of THC working with other phytocompounds can go for full spectrum Cannabidiol products.
Whereas, those who want to enjoy whole-plant synergy without THC can choose broad spectrum Cannabidiol products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Full spectrum CBD more effective than broad spectrum CBD?
Yes, full spectrum CBD may be more effective than broad spectrum due to the entourage effect, which combines terpenes and cannabinoids for enhanced benefits.
Can broad spectrum CBD reduce anxiety better than Full Spectrum?
Broad spectrum Cannabidiol might alleviate anxiety effectively due to its diverse cannabinoid profile without THC’s potential psychoactive properties.
How much THC is in full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum Cannabidiol usually has less than 0.3% THC, complying with legal limits.
Is Broad Spectrum CBD Better or Full Spectrum for Anxiety?
The choice between broad spectrum and full spectrum for anxiety varies depending on desired effects and individual sensitivities to THC.
What is The Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect refers to the harmonious working of terpenes, cannabinoids, and other compounds in cannabis, potentially enhancing therapeutic benefits.