When you go looking for CBD oil or other CBD products, you soon come across the terms ‘full spectrum’ and ‘broad spectrum’. For many people the difference between these two types of CBD is not immediately clear. Even so, it is important to understand this difference, because which type of CBD you use can matter a great deal. In this article we explain what these terms mean and help you make the right choice.
What is full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD is CBD oil that contains the complete spectrum of active compounds from the hemp plant. This means that alongside CBD, all the other valuable constituents are present too. Think of other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBC and CBN, but also a small amount of THC (always less than 0.05%). Full spectrum CBD also contains terpenes, which not only give the characteristic smell and taste, but also contribute to the character of the product. Full spectrum CBD is obtained through supercritical CO2 extraction of specially grown hemp, with an extra high CBD content and a low THC content.
The great advantage of full spectrum CBD is that all these compounds reinforce one another. We call this the entourage effect: the compounds work together better than when you would take them separately. This is because these compounds also occur together naturally in the hemp plant.
What is broad spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD is made in a similar way to full spectrum CBD. The big difference, though, is that with broad spectrum CBD the THC is completely filtered out of the extract through an additional filtration process. So you do get the other cannabinoids and terpenes, but without a trace of THC.
Another form of THC-free CBD is CBD isolate. This is pure CBD (99.9% pure) without other constituents from the hemp plant. The difference from broad spectrum is that with isolate all the other compounds really have been removed, while broad spectrum CBD is still rich in valuable cannabinoids and terpenes. Broad spectrum CBD therefore still gives a good entourage effect: slightly less than full spectrum, but still much more than isolate.
The most important differences explained
The most important difference is of course the presence of THC. With full spectrum CBD this is always less than 0.05%, which means you do not notice it but it can contribute to the entourage effect. With broad spectrum CBD the THC has been completely removed.
This also has consequences for the entourage effect. With full spectrum CBD this effect is strongest, because all the compounds from the plant are present and can reinforce one another. With broad spectrum CBD the entourage effect is present too, but slightly less strong because the THC is missing. With CBD isolate there is no entourage effect.
The taste differs too. Full spectrum CBD has a pronounced natural hemp taste, while broad spectrum is often somewhat milder in taste. CBD isolate is completely tasteless, which some people find pleasant.
When do you choose full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD is an excellent choice if you want to get the most out of all the natural constituents of the hemp plant. It is the most complete form of CBD and gives the strongest entourage effect. Many people therefore experience it as fuller than other forms of CBD.
The small amount of THC in full spectrum CBD is so minimal that you do not notice it. It is possible, though, that this THC is picked up by a very sensitive drugs test. If that is not a problem for you, full spectrum is often the best choice.
When do you choose broad spectrum CBD?
There are various situations in which broad spectrum CBD is preferable. When you may not have THC in your blood because of your work, for instance, or when you regularly have to undergo drugs tests for work or because of travel. If you are hypersensitive to THC, broad spectrum is an excellent choice too.
Broad spectrum CBD is also ideal for people who want to give CBD to their pet. Animals are much more sensitive to THC than people. With broad spectrum CBD you can be sure your pet does not take in any THC.
Quality comes first
Whether you choose full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD: the quality of the product is the most important thing of all. A good CBD oil is made through the CO2 extraction method and is extensively tested by independent laboratories. These tests check not only the CBD content, but also look at the presence of pesticides, heavy metals and other unwanted compounds.
At Dutch Balance we work only with leading brands such as Dutch Hemp and Wedihemp. These brands are known for their high-grade products and have every batch extensively tested by external laboratories. That way you know what is in the product.
Personal advice
The choice between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD is very personal. It depends on your specific situation and preferences. Are you still unsure which form is most suitable for you? Then feel free to get in touch with us. We are happy to advise you in making the right choice.
Would you like to know more about how different cannabinoids work? Then also read our article about cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system.
