What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
We’ve reviewed full-spectrum and CBD Isolate…but what about broad spectrum?
Broad-spectrum CBD is one of the three main forms of cannabidiol (CBD). The others are full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum CBD contains a range of naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant, but generally no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
In our previous articles, we talked about the benefits of CBD Oil for both you and your pets. CBD oil is known for its diverse health benefits, especially for people and animals suffering from anxiety, seizures, cancer, pain, and more.
Each person and animal has an encocannabinoid system (ECS) that influences a wide range of daily physiological functions. Those functions include: mood, immune activity, stress, pain, and metabolism, among others. Our endocannabinoid systems respond naturally to CBD, the interaction providing health benefits for many. It’s also considered a gentler alternative to treatments with harsh side effects, such as prescription painkillers.
CBD oil is widely regarded as the consumer favorite on the market, among edibles, topicals, vapes, and more. The different types of CBD oil can make it tricky to choose.
Full-Spectrum CBD Oil vs CBD Isolate
Types of CBD Oil:
- Full spectrum CBD
- CBD isolate
- Broad spectrum CBD
Cannabis Plant Compounds:
- Cannabinoids: Cannabis plants contain over 100 cannabinoids, including both CBD and THC, which research attributes to the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.
- Terpenes. Containing over 150 terpenes, the cannabis plant has one fragrant flower. Terpenes are responsible for fragrance, providing aromatherapy benefits. Imagine the lemon smell- that’s thanks to terpenes (limonen). Specific terpenes may have specific benefits. For example, linalool may impact the body’s sleep patterns.
- Flavonoids. Cannabis contains over 20 different flavonoids, which are found in fruits, vegetables, and more, and provide therapeutic effect as well.
Full-spectrum CBD maintains all of these elements, including THC. It undergoes a whole plant hemp extraction process that keeps over 100+ cannabinoids, compounds, and terpenes intact, including even trace amounts of THC.
CBD Isolate is a pure form of CBD, containing CBD only and none of the terpenes and elements that full-spectrum oil contains. It’s often produced with MCT oil as a base for easier consumption. CBD isolate products contain 99% or more pure cannabidiol. You’re essentially left with pure CBD.
Broad Spectrum CBD Oil undergoes a whole plant hemp extraction process that keeps over 100+ cannabinoids, compounds, and terpenes intact, but EXCLUDES traces of THC.
How Is Broad Spectrum CBD Made?
One way manufacturers develop Broad Spectrum CBD is to begin with CBD Isolate and add in additional terpenes, flavonoids, and therapuetic cannabinoids (except THC)
The other way is to remove THC from a full-spectrum extract, preserving the terpenes, flavonoids, and beneficial cannabinoids.
There are several ways to extract CBD from the cannabis plant, keeping in mind that the strain of the plant as well as the extraction process itself may affect the composition. These methods include:
- Steam distillation
- Carbon dioxide extraction
- Solvent extraction
- Lipid extraction
Pros and Cons of Broad-Spectrum CBD
Pros:
Synergetic activity can produce heightened effects, or “the entourage effect”, unlike CBD Isolate which is essentially pure CBD.
Broad Spectrum CBD oil does not contain THC, and will not result in feeling “high”.
Removing THC ensures legality considerations are met
Cons:
Undergoes processing to achieve the middle-balance between CBD Isolate and Full Spectrum CBD.
Generally less available than other CBD oil types, unless you check out thecbddepartment.com, where we offer a wide range of broad-spectrum products to choose from.
Is Broad-spectrum CBD right for you?
CBD comes in many forms, designed for different benefits and personal preferences. Full-spectrum CBD oil is good for people looking for a more all-encompassing experience, without the THC. For people looking to avoid any psychoactive effects or who must abide by legal restrictions, this would be a great choice.
Best Broad-Spectrum CBD products?
The CBD Department offers a curated selection of broad-spectrum oil to browse and understand what’s right for you. Check them out here.
Final Thoughts on the Different CBD Spectrums
Broad spectrum CBD oil and CBD isolate products are good for people with sensitivity to THC as well as CBD beginners. Full spectrum is a good treatment match for people who seek a complete, more holistic CBD experience. Broad Spectrum CBD’s extended cannabinoid, flavonoid, and terpene profile may provide great relief, with unwanted effects of THC.
Recommended dosage varies among each individual and depends on health and wellness goals, body weight, product types and concentration. Each person is different. We recommend starting with a low dose (10-20) and gradually increasing your dose by 5mg until you reach your optimal dosing level and schedule. Some CBD users take CBD oil drops once daily, some take doses throughout the day, and some, of course, use CBD in forms other than oil (topicals, edibles, vapes, and more).
In finding the therapeutic dosage of CBD for you, consistency is key. Your body optimizes the cannabinoids (full, broad, or pure isolate) better as you take it consistently. That results in greater therapeutic success in treating any ailments.
As more people begin to use CBD and interest in the health benefits of CBD grows, researchers continue to discover new health benefits of CBD and more states are legalizing use. For now, you can always ask a healthcare professional for advice about which CBD product to use and how much CBD to take.
The list of potential benefits of CBD oil for people suffering from physical and mental ailments is long. CBD covers a wide spectrum of therapeutic uses including depression, anxiety, pain relief, seizure disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and neurological symptoms, cancer and oncological treatment relief, skincare benefits, and more.
The CBD Department takes pride in working with brands of the highest quality and assurances and providing you with the best information and products we truly believe in. We are hands-on, from the farms until you receive your products in your hands, and for support at any step of your journey. If you need help finding the right product for you, you can find us here!