CBD Basics: Understanding the Major Forms
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. CBD is becoming increasingly popular due to potential wellness benefits.
You can find many types of CBD products on the market. Knowing the major CBD classifications helps you better understand your options.
Breaking Down the Main Categories
CBD broadly falls into three primary categories:
- Full-spectrum CBD
- Broad-spectrum CBD
- CBD isolate
The type refers to the other cannabis compounds present alongside CBD, which influences the effects.
Full-Spectrum CBD Details
Full-spectrum CBD contains all naturally occurring cannabis compounds including other cannabinoids, terpenes and small amounts of THC.
Full Cannabinoid Spectrum
Alongside CBD, full-spectrum formulas retain other beneficial cannabinoids from cannabis:
- CBC (Cannabichromene)
- CBG (Cannabigerol)
- CBN (Cannabinol)
Contains Trace THC
There’s also an allowable limit of 0.3% THC in full-spectrum products. THC levels this low won’t make you high.
Retains Terpenes & Flavonoids
Other cannabis elements like terpenes and flavonoids bring therapeutic effects and shape strain-specific flavors/aromas.
Broad-Spectrum CBD Features
Broad-spectrum CBD includes a range of cannabinoids and terpenes like full-spectrum, but goes through added processing to remove THC entirely.
No THC Whatsoever
If you want to avoid THC due to employment restrictions or personal reasons, broad-spectrum CBD contains 0.0% THC.
Other Cannabinoids & Terpenes Present
However, it retains spotted combinations of complementary CBD, CBN, CBG, CBC, and numerous terpenes for a rich chemical profile.
CBD Isolate Properties
CBD isolate is purified cannabidiol separated from all other hemp and cannabis compounds through chromatography.
Just Pure CBD - Nothing Else!
You get upwards of 99% pure CBD at crystal form. There are no fellow cannabinoids, no terpenes, no THC, etc.
Odorless & Flavorless
Lacking terpenes and other elements, CBD isolate has no distinct aroma or taste.
Most Versatile Option
The neutral nature makes CBD isolate very versatile to infuse into various products.
How Types Affect You Differently
The combination and ratio of CBD, THC, other cannabinoids and companion compounds shape the effects users experience.Full-Spectrum Pros & Cons
Potential Benefits
- Entourage effect magnifies therapeutic impact
- High concentrations of cannabinoids
- Also contains terpenes
Potential Drawbacks
- Risk of flagged drug test from trace THC
- THC exposure not for everyone
Broad-Spectrum Pros & Cons
Potential Benefits
- Avoid risks of THC
- Retains some entourage effect benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- No backing from cannabis’ THC content
- Less research on effects
CBD Isolate Pros & Cons
Potential Benefits
- Guaranteed 0.0% THC
- Very versatile product uses
Potential Drawbacks
- No entourage effect assistance
- Less optimized bioavailability
There’s no definitively superior CBD form. Choose based on your personal needs and preferences.
Other Ways Companies Distinguish CBD Oil
Companies also categorize CBD oils based on production methods for the health-conscious consumer.Organic CBD Oil
Organic CBD oils use hemp grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers per USDA standards.
Non-GMO CBD Oil
Non-GMO (genetically modified organism) CBD oils are sourced from hemp genetically unmodified at the seed level.
CO2-Extracted
CO2-extracted CBD means clean, pressurized carbon dioxide was used to pull CBD oil from plant matter.
This preserves more terpenes and cannabinoids compared to alternatives.
Common Ways to Take Different CBD Types
Manufacturers formulate all kinds of CBD products leveraging full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or isolated formats...
Oils & Tinctures
CBD oils and tinctures deliver quick absorption holding liquid under your tongue before swallowing.
Edibles
Infusing CBD into gummies, baked goods, coffee, etc. masks earthy taste many dislike for accessible daily use.Capsules
Capsules offer pre-measured CBD doses in easy-to-swallow form on-the-go.
Vapes
Inhaling vaporized CBD isolate or distillate means fast effects for acute symptoms.Topicals
CBD-infused lotions, balms and rubs target skin, muscles and joints while avoiding systemic absorption.Choosing the Best Type of CBD For You
Consider your goals and lifestyle when selecting a CBD format:- Seek full-spectrum or broad-spectrum for enhanced therapeutic effects
- Isolate works if avoiding THC entirely
- Compare organic, non-GMO, solvent-free options if that matters to you
- Consider intended use case (e.g. capsules for portability)
Combining the optimal CBD type with your preferred consumption method allows you to customize supplementation in your life.
FAQs
What's the difference between full-spectrum and isolate CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabis compounds including THC while CBD isolate is purified into just cannabidiol without anything else.
Is full-spectrum CBD better?
Full-spectrum CBD may offer enhanced effects from its additional cannabinoids and terpenes. However, isolate avoids even traces of THC.
What's broad-spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes except for THC. It aims to provide a middle ground between full-spectrum and isolate products.
How do you take the different CBD formats?
CBD isolate, broad-spectrum and full-spectrum can all be formulated into various products like tinctures, gummies, capsules, vapes and topicals.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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