The use of cannabidiol or CBD has become increasingly more prevalent in the last couple of years. You can find it everywhere from your local convenience store to coffee shop,s even large chain stores specializing in housewares. With such an explosive rise in popularity it’s no surprise that there is a ton of questions and misinformation floating around.
Before we discuss the difference between full spectrum, broad spectrum, CBD isolates and hemp seed oil, let’s briefly touch on how CBD interacts with our body.
The Endocannabinoid Sytem
Our bodies have an elaborate system of neurotransmitters and receptors called the endocannabinoid system. The ESC plays a huge role in regulating a myriad of processes from physiological to cognitive and even mood. There are many cannabinoids present in the hemp plant that can interact with and influence our ECS. The two that are most well-known are THC and CBD, but there are actually more cannabinoids like CBE, CBN, CBG. These all come together to create what is known as a cannabinoid spectrum. The spectrum of each product depends on multiple factors such as the type of strain and extraction method. In addition to the CBD being extracted there are also other beneficial compounds including additional cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
There are a few different options available to consumers. Here is a quick overview so you can choose the product that best suits your needs.
Full Spectrum
Full Spectrum is the most common oil on the market. These contain the “full spectrum” of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and even small amounts of THC. The trace amounts of THC are very low and are non psychoactive. When all of these compounds are combined, they work synergistically, increasing the effectiveness of the oil. This is called the “entourage effect”.
This is a great choice for a consumer that wants the powerful benefits of the entourage effect and doesn’t mind trace amounts of THC in their products.
Broad Spectrum
Broad spectrum oils are similar to full spectrum in the fact that they also contain the multiple cannabinoids terpenes and flavonoids. This means you still get take advantage of the added benefits of the entourage effect, but they went an extra step and removed the THC. Always check the 3rd party testing to make sure the THC is at a non-detectable level.
This is a great choice if you are looking for the potency of the entourage effect but aren’t quite comfortable with ingesting THC.
CBD Isolate
Isolates are comprised of just CBD in a carrier oil. All the additional cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids and THC have been removed. These are toted as the purest form and contain 99% CBD. This is true, but just be aware that they are much less effective than full or broad spectrum oils.
The lack of THC can be a plus for some, but you will have to see if they are effective enough for you.
We do not sell any products with isolates.
Hemp Seed oil
Hemp seed is oil is just that, it only contains hemp seed oil. These do not contain ANY cannabinoids, terpenes or flavinoids. While it does contain some vitamins and fatty acids and can be beneficial to the skin, it won’t yield any of the results associated with CBD Products.
I’ve met SO MANY people that say, “I’ve been taking CBD oil for months and it’s not doing anything”. After a couple of questions you find they have been taking hemp seed oil. Many consumers do not know the difference and unfortunately there are plenty of companies that are willing to capitalize on it.
It can be extremely confusing as it’s common for hemp seed oil to be used as a carrier oil for full spectrum, broad spectrum and even isolates.
Read the label and see if the product contains anything in addition to the hemp seed oil. If the bottle has an astronomical milligram count and it’s $11.00….. you know what they say about things being too good to be true.
Be sure to do your research and make sure you know what you’re purchasing. Just do some due diligence, there are many reputable brands out there with great products.