Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate CBD: which cannabidiol should you choose?
What are the differences between different CBD extracts?
Cannabidiol ( CBD ) is one of the main molecules contained in the hemp plant.
This plant contains a large amount of cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabidiol ( THX ), but also cannabiol (CBN), CBG (cannabigerol), CBC (cannabichromene) and CBDA. Other components such as terpenes and flavonoids are also found.
The main reason for the difference in quality between CBD balms and oils is the process used to extract the cannabidiol . Depending on the method used, you can obtain full spectrum, broad spectrum, or even CBD isolate CBD products.
Focus on full spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD, also known as full- spectrum CBD , refers to a complete extraction of the hemp plant. This means that almost all parts of the hemp plant are used in this extraction.
Of course, the leaves are included, but also the flowers, small stems, and seeds. This method allows us to preserve, in addition to CBD, all the other active molecules present in the plant; both cannabinoids and flavonoids.
Pros and cons of full spectrum CBD
The main interest of full spectrum organic oils results from the presence of several different molecules .
Obviously, the ingested CBD molecule proves to be more effective when its action is combined with that of other cannabinoids , in this case THC, CBG, CNB or even CBDA. This allows to create an entourage effect . Thus, the consumption of full spectrum CBD products allows to influence more effectively:
- Falling asleep;
- Arthritic pain;
- Mood; etc.
However, full- spectrum CBD can also cause minor side effects. These include:
- The psychotropic effects linked to the presence of THC;
- An intolerance to one of the other cannabinoids .
In addition, with these products, it is advisable to be particularly vigilant and ensure that the chosen product has been properly tested by a laboratory and that the label clearly indicates all of its components.
Focus on broad spectrum CBD
Like full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD is obtained through a process that also uses all parts of the hemp plant ( flowers , leaves, seeds, stems).
It is therefore just as rich and contains a large quantity of molecules. However, the particularity between these two extracts lies in the addition of an additional step. Following the complete extraction, the full spectrum CBD, thetrahydrocannabidiol ( THX ), is removed in order to obtain broad spectrum CBD.
Pros and cons of broad spectrum CBD
There are both advantages and disadvantages to consuming a broad spectrum CBD product. The main advantages to highlight are:
- The entourage effect thanks to the synergy of the preserved elements;
- The absence of psychotropic effects due to the absence of THC.
Furthermore, broad-spectrum CBD products are perfectly legal in France. The drawbacks of these products mainly relate to:
- A possible intolerance to certain cannabinoids ;
- The absence of THC (tetrahydrocannabidiol) may also reduce the effectiveness of CBD in treating certain ailments.
Broad spectrum CBD also generally optimizes the effects of CBD through the entourage effect , while avoiding THC.
Focus on pure CBD or isolate
Finally, CBD isolate refers to a production process that produces 99% pure CBD.
From extracted hemp , only the CBD molecules are retained, which are most often in the form of crystals . To facilitate consumption, CBD isolate crystals can be reduced to powder.
Pros and Cons of CBD Isolate
Unlike other qualities of CBD, isolate cannot be used on its own.
It is often used to increase the CBD content in certain products or even to develop new products that do not have the origin, taste or smell of hemp .
It remains characterized in particular by great purity and offers several possibilities of use.
Therefore, CBD isolate can be used to enhance foods, drinks , or even oils.
Likewise, adding terpenes also helps to achieve an entourage effect .
However, CBD isolate may seem: not very effective in the long term due to its shorter effects and unmeasured consumption can lead to cardiovascular problems.
For this reason, it is advisable to exercise moderation when using CBD isolate in its compositions.
Ultimately, what quality of CBD should you choose?
To choose the ideal quality of CBD, you must take into account a certain number of criteria such as your objectives, but also your eating habits.
A few drops of full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD oil are enough to enjoy all the benefits of CBD and all the cannabinoids of the hemp plant ( entourage effect ).
However, to obtain more convincing results, it is preferable to use CBD isolate, although its effects last less time.
