CBD Guide: Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs Isolate

The world of CBD can be very confusing for newcomers. You don't need a PhD in chemistry to choose the right CBD products for your needs. But you do need to learn a few new terms that will help you navigate the virtual aisles, and we can help. We can also help you settle the full spectrum vs broad-spectrum CBD debate.

You might have noticed three main types of CBD products available; full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate. These terms tell you about the cannabinoids contained in the product. So, if you're worried about the THC content, paying attention to the spectrum type will help you pick the best products for you.

CBD is extracted from cannabis plants which are also known as hemp plants. Hemp is simply the name given to cannabis plants that contain low levels of THC and high levels of CBD. Every CBD plant will have a unique profile of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other plant compounds that offer medical benefits.

When CBD is extracted from the hemp plant, it isn't the only compound that makes it into the finished oils. These beneficial cannabinoids and compounds can make a significant difference to your CBD experience. In this guide, we will explore the different types of CBD products available and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is full-spectrum CBD Oil?

Full-spectrum CBD oil includes a complete cannabinoid profile, including legal levels of THC. CBD is not the only beneficial cannabinoid, and choosing a full-spectrum oil allows you to take advantage of the “entourage effect”.

The entourage effect refers to the other beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids that are present in full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products. These compounds interact with one another in the body, enhancing the effects.

Think of the entourage effect like a trip to the salad bar. You could fill your bowl with tomatoes which are great for your health, but it would be a very boring meal. By adding cucumber, lettuce, corn, olive oil and lemon juice to your bowl, you’ll have a varied meal that is much more enjoyable.

What is broad-spectrum CBD oil?

A broad-spectrum oil is similar to full-spectrum oil but it has the THC content removed. This is achieved during the manufacturing process when CO2 extraction and distillation is used to select the precise cannabinoid profile. 

CBD is a natural product and should stay as close to its raw form as possible. Excessive processing will only degrade the finished product. Look for a CBD oil that prioritises getting the CBD oil in the bottle with minimal interference.

If you are an athlete and are concerned about THC showing up in a drug test, then broad-spectrum CBD is the way to go. Broad-spectrum is also ideal for those who would rather avoid THC due to a history of addiction. CBD oil will not get you “high” or alter your mental state, but some people prefer to avoid it. Hemp Evolution offers you broad spectrum products in Premium line.

What is CBD isolate?

CBD isolate is exactly as it sounds; it is pure CBD with all other cannabinoids and compounds removed. It may be purchased in crystal form and is often the main ingredient in CBD skin care items such as creams and bath bombs.

Since CBD isolate doesn’t contain any other cannabinoids, flavonoids or plant terpenes, some consider it to be an inferior choice. But there is a place for this type of CBD in your routine. It’s ideal for getting higher concentrations of CBD into products intended for topical application, such as creams and muscle rubs.

Full-spectrum vs broad-spectrum CBD: Which is better?

There isn't a clear winner in the full spectrum Vs broad-spectrum CBD battle, as it all depends on what you are hoping to achieve. The quality of the CBD product will also have an impact on its efficacy. Always look for reputable companies offering clear CBD composition analysis certificates so you know exactly what you are getting.

The strength of the oil isn't always the only factor to consider. Always consider quality before quantity because a CBD oil that is minimally processed will produce more desirable results. This will be closer to the plant’s natural state, offering a rich profile of plant compounds.

For a sublingual CBD oil and edibles, always choose a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum oil. And if you have any concerns about drug testing (in your workplace, for example) then it’s always safer to choose a broad-spectrum oil.

What exactly are terpenes in CBD?

Terpenes are produced by the glandular trichomes on the female hemp plant, and they produce a bitter taste and smell that deters herbivores from eating the plant once it is in flower.

These aromatic compounds are found in many plants, and they are what give them a distinct scent. Every strain of hemp plant offers a unique plant terpene profile, which is why you might notice differences between batches of CBD oil from the same brand.

CBD is often rich in beta-Pinene, which gives it a distinct earthy flavour profile. Beta-pinene is known as a bronchodilator, which means that it helps to open the airways. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

CBD often also contains myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, limonene and linalool. Choosing CBD oil that is less processed will result in a richer terpene profile.

Ok, and what about flavonoids in CBD?

Flavonoids are present throughout the plant kingdom and are responsible for the changing colour of the leaves in autumn. They also cause fruit to change colour when it ripens. There are over 6,000 identifiable flavonoids in the plant world. They are most commonly known for their antioxidant benefits and can help to protect your cells from free radicals in the body. Research is ongoing into the benefits of flavonoids from CBD.

Is full-spectrum hemp oil the same as CBD oil?

To make matters more confusing, the names used aren’t always consistent. Some companies call their products hemp oil to get around marketing rules, but this doesn’t tell you anything about the composition of the product.

If you aren’t sure, look for a composition analysis certificate. When the oil doesn’t contain any THC but does contain other cannabinoids, then you’ve found a broad-spectrum product. And if a company doesn’t offer a composition analysis, request one. And if they still can’t provide one, it might be best to steer clear of their products.

To make sure your CBD oil is legal, always make sure you buy it from a reputable seller with certificates of analysis from a recognised lab. This will ensure you are not buying poor-quality CBD oil or CBD oil with illegal levels of THC. THC is a controlled substance and you could find yourself in hot water if you are caught with this type of product.

What is the strongest CBD Oil I can buy from Hemp Evolution?

Our high strength premium CBD oil contains 1,500mg of CBD which will allow you to enjoy the benefits without exceeding the recommended daily limit of 70mg. A single serving will offer 21.9mg of CBD, allowing you to spread doses throughout the day for maximum impact.

Whether you choose full spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD, you should always start low and progress slowly. For more help and advice selecting the right CBD products for your needs, get in touch with our helpful team today.

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