Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD: What’s the Difference?

Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD: What’s the Difference?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Like many new or not-so-new CBD customers, perhaps you’ve gotten yourself into a shopping predicament. Can’t decide on which form of CBD to choose? Are you further confused by terms like “isolate?” Wondering what the heck the difference is between full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum CBD? It’s a pretty common question, and we’re here to clear it up.

You may also be interested in What to Look for on CBD Oil Labels[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”64691″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”img_link_large” img_link_target=”_blank”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

What’s full-spectrum CBD?

If full sound like it means “all” or “a lot,” this isn’t necessarily wrong. Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC — the active compound in marijuana. However, the amount of THC present isn’t high enough to make you feel, well, “high.” Not even close. To maintain legality, CBD must contain less than 0.3% THC, though many brands adhere to even lower amounts than that unless they’re pushing some sort of special blend. In fact, some studies applaud full-spectrum CBD when comparing it to CBD isolate since it offers an extended cannabinoid profile as well as terpenes. Full-spectrum CBD also contains essential minerals, vitamins, chlorophyll, fatty acids, proteins, fiber, and flavonoids.

What’s broad-spectrum CBD?

If “broad” sounds like it means “some” but not all, you’re pretty close. Comparing full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum CBD is made simple by the fact that broad-spectrum does not contain THC. To break it down further, think of broad-spectrum as sitting at the midway point between full-spectrum and isolate. It contains a moderate amount of cannabinoids — not as many as full-spectrum, and not just CBD, like isolate. If you’re someone who is subject to drug tests on occasion, broad-spectrum may be the best choice for you next to CBD isolate. Even though full-spectrum CBD has minimal THC, there is a slight chance it can be detected. This may also depend on your particular biome and how your body processes CBD. Like full-spectrum CBD, however, broad-spectrum also contains terpenes and flavonoids. Depending on how the CBD is processed, broad-spectrum CBD can be created from CBD isolate once terpenes and flavonoids are added.


 

Each may work differently for you

When you consider taste, efficacy, and more, the brand of CBD you purchase may matter more than the type of CBD you purchase. For example, broad-spectrum CBD often has a more hemp-forward taste, and some users may not enjoy this when taking it as a tincture oil. This doesn’t mean that you can’t find a broad-spectrum formulation that works for you. If this is the case, you can always try broad-spectrum capsules, fruit-flavored gummies, or topicals. And, if you’re new to CBD, you may find that lower strength, broad-spectrum CBD accomplishes what you need it to.

For users looking for full-spectrum products, the possibilities are just as endless. You can shop for products such as chocolate, tinctures for relaxation, and much more. Full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum CBD may be better for individuals who are more familiar with how their body processes CBD. Again, since full-spectrum CBD does not undergo the same refinement processes as broad-spectrum and isolate, there is a chance that it can contain THC at or around 0.3%. This makes it even more important to buy from reputable brands that are dedicated to testing their products for cannabinoid content, especially THC.

Another key thing that’s the exact same about full-spectrum and broad-spectrum (and any type of CBD you’re planning to take) is that you must always consult your doctor before adding it to your regimen. CBD or any product with therapeutic properties may interact with medications you’re already taking or affect other conditions.

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