New to the CBD game? Shopping for CBD products for the first time can be intimidating. There are so many products to choose from and so many companies claiming that their CBD is the best for this condition or that problem. It’s almost impossible knowing precisely who to trust.
If you’re planning on incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, there are some terms you need to be familiar with when purchasing CBD. Terms such as full-spectrum, isolate, broad-spectrum, and the list goes on; but we are going to focus on these three for now. Without the proper education on the compound, it’s easy to get duped or worse, buy a product that doesn’t contain any CBD at all.
Understanding these terms will not only help you find a quality product but also teach you how to know the difference between the good CBD products and the bad. Let’s get started!
How Is CBD Oil Made?
CBD is extracted from the hemp plant using one of several methods. The most common methods are either alcohol extraction or supercritical CO2 extraction.
Alcohol extraction typically generates lower quality CBD products at a cheaper cost. Companies that engage in this method of extraction usually leave trace amounts of ethanol in the final product. But not all are deceivers; there are trustworthy companies utilizing ethanol extraction without residual solvents.
Moving on to the latter, supercritical CO2 extraction. Although this method is costlier, it is preferred because it generally produces a cleaner and fresher oil. There are two methods of CO2 extraction. First, there is the supercritical extraction, which requires a lower temperature. The subcritical extraction, however, requires a higher temperature.
Extraction at a lower temperature is generally favored because it prevents the possible loss of critical cannabinoids in the extraction process.
What Is Full Spectrum CBD Oil?
Full Spectrum CBD is the term used to describe any CBD content that contains the full assembly of cannabinoids, terpenes, as well as flavonoids.
This kind of CBD will provide the highest effect and even allow the user to experience the benefits of the entourage effect. Assuming a company used a CO2 extraction method, the final extract will have all the compounds infused in the CBD to provide a stronger oil.
Isolate spectrum is produced by singularly removing all the compounds found in the plant, including terpenes, flavonoids, plant parts, and other cannabinoids to create a pure extract free of THC.
Advantages of Full Spectrum CBD Oil
Although CBD isolate is technically purer since it doesn’t contain any cannabinoids, this doesn’t necessarily make it better than the full spectrum. Simply put, the terpene-less isolate doesn’t come close to the combined effects of the various cannabinoids in full spectrum CBD products.
What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil?
Lastly, we have broad-spectrum CBD. This one is a mix between the two. Like full spectrum, the cannabinoids found naturally in the plant are preserved in the oil; however, like CBD Isolate, THC is kept to a standard minimum. Because broad-spectrum CBD contains the full assembly of cannabinoids and terpenes, it can deliver the enhanced benefits of the “entourage effect,” while remaining completely non-intoxicating.
Up until recently, the only THC-free option on the market was CBD isolate, but with the introduction of broad-spectrum, users have access to a new, more complete alternative. When shopping for broad-spectrum CBD products, it’s important to read the labels as companies sometimes try to deceive buyers into buying products that contain too much THC.
Benefits of Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil
The benefits of broad-spectrum CBD mirrors that of full spectrum. Individuals who find that CBD isolate is not strong enough now have that ‘middle’ option. People who don’t tolerate the effect of THC but still want to get in the bandwagon can enjoy their products knowing they are totally safe. Lastly, first-time users that are concerned about the side effects but still want to feel something, this option is for you.
Which One Is Suitable for You?
This isn’t a competition, it all depends on people’ needs. For some people, broad-spectrum CBD might be the ideal choice as it delivers the full benefits of the hemp plant without the unwanted side effects of THC. For others, a high dosage of CBD isolate may be enough.
There are multiple factors that determine how CBD will impact the body. Factors such as the chemical makeup of the individual, the weight, and the individual’s personal needs.
If you are totally unsure which one to go with, do some research, find out what people are saying, and read brand reviews. Start with isolate and see how your body reacts to it. When looking for CBD products, it’s important to look for test results, customer reviews, and most importantly READ THE LABEL.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.