While almost everyone has heard of CBD, there are far fewer who know the difference between the types of CBD. In fact, many don’t even realize that there even are a variety of CBD types. In this article, we’ll explain what makes each kind of CBD oil different, and explain 8 benefits of using full spectrum CBD products. As well as one possible risk.
What Are the Different Types of CBD?
Cannibidiol, or CBD, can be found in three different forms. There forms are:
- CBD isolate. This crystalline powder is the most processed form of CBD. It takes out all other cannabinoids and terpenes, leaving ONLY CBD.
- Broad spectrum CBD. This CBD is processed to remove all traces of THC, but leaves other beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds.
- Full spectrum CBD. This type is exactly what it sounds like. The least processed of all the CBDs, it offers a full spectrum of vital plant compounds found in hemp (including trace amounts of THC).
CBD isolate is highly processed and flavorless, and can be a good choice for someone who has a high intolerance for any THC. But what makes the full spectrum so much better for most users? Let’s look at some of the data.
#1 Full Spectrum is the Least Processed Form of CBD
For those who want their food and supplements as close to nature as possible, full spectrum CBD offers the least processed form of the hemp plant. It’s a rich, amber color and is the first fruit of the distillation process.
Both broad spectrum and isolate go through further steps in the distillation process, until only the CBD molecule is present (isolate).
#2 Full Spectrum Offers the Most Beneficial Compounds
When you take most CBD products, you’re not getting only CBD. In both broad spectrum (and most of all in full spectrum), there are a host of other beneficial plant compounds present in the mix. These include:
- Other cannabinoids like CBD or CBG
- Terpenes
- Flavonoids
- Essential oils
- Omega fatty acids
#3 Compounds Working in Harmony
The many compounds present in full spectrum CBD work synergistically in what scientists call the entourage effect. Simply put, this means that they work together to elevate the beneficial effects in the body.
While CBD has potential benefits when used alone, the efficacy is far better when combined with these other compounds.
#4 All of the Benefits, None of the High
In some of the few human studies of CBD use, THC is a factor as well. In a breast cancer study, the use of a full botanical profile was found to be more effective than an isolated compound. Likewise, THC and CBD have been used together for research on sleep disorders, Alzheimers, and anxiety.
For those who balk at the use of THC, understand that in a full spectrum CBD tincture the THC content is minimal. In fact, less than .03% of the whole. This allows for the beneficial effects without any psychoactive effects whatsoever. The amount of THC present in a full spectrum blend will not create a “high” feeling at all.
#5 Effective for Pain Relief
While CBD has shown great promise as a pain-reliever (for both its inherent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties), the human studies use a 1:1 combination of CBD and THC. The one boosts the other, and so having the small amounts of THC (as well as the array of other compounds) makes full spectrum the most clinically sound option.
#6 Legal to Use
Full spectrum CBD is legal in all 50 states. There are some requirements to fulfil in a few states (for example in a few states like Missouri, it must be only used medicinally, while others require that the CBD have less than a certain percentage of THC). Check your own state laws to find out if you need to follow any of these legal exemptions.
#7 Widely Available
CBD is more available than ever in today’s economy. You can find full spectrum CBD easily online, at one of many reputable companies. Just be certain that before you buy you take into consideration several safety measures.
- Research the company to ensure that it has been around for at least a few years, and that it has a good reputation in the business.
- Only purchase from companies that clearly display independent third party lab results on all of their CBD products
- Check for signs of quality: awards, recognition, write ups and reviews from third party websites or written publications
- Look for a full satisfaction, money back guarantee
# 8 Good Safety Profile
For those who suffer from chronic pain, full spectrum CBD is a far safer choice than many of the other analgesic options. The World Health Organization has deemed it “generally safe to use”, with only a few mild potential side effects.
Powerful painkillers can have dangerous side effects, and are highly addictive. Over the counter analgesics aren’t safe for long term use. Many people with chronic pain like arthritis choose to use full spectrum CBD for pain relief, rather than rely on more harmful drugs.
What About Drug Tests?
Here’s where we get to the one possible risk of using full spectrum CBD. While the trace amounts of THC found in this type of CBD are not able to get you high, prolonged use of high dosage can risk a false positive on a drug test. If you’re someone whose company relies on periodic drug testing for employment (like DOT employees, for example), full spectrum CBD is not worth the risk of possibly losing your job. CBD isolate or broad-spectrum would be a better choice in this case.
Your choice of CBD is entirely personal. While most would benefit from the use of a full spectrum CBD, it’s best to talk to your doctor about what kind of CBD regimen would be best for you. This is especially important if you have a chronic illness, or take other medications.
