If you’ve tried CBD, by now you have likely heard of the differences in spectrum. But, if you are new to the world of CBD, different spectrums might sound complicated and confusing. Lucky for you, CBD spectrums can be easily understood with a little bit of background knowledge. 

So, are you ready to learn more about the differences in CBD spectrums and how to choose the best for you? Let’s dive in. 

What Is CBD? 

First, let’s do a quick recap on what CBD is. Also known as cannabidiol, CBD is one of many compounds that can be found naturally in hemp and cannabis plants. CBD is one of the major cannabinoids, meaning it is found in abundance and easily extracted to form a variety of products. 

CBD, unlike another well-known cannabinoid called THC, is non-intoxicating. That said, CBD can have effects on the body and brain. Some research and user reports point to CBD boasting a variety of potentially therapeutic properties like stress relief, pain management, sleep aid and more. 

The potential benefits of CBD are thought to be delivered primarily through CBD’s interaction with the ECS. The ECS, or endocannabinoid system, is responsible for vital bodily functions like inflammatory response, pain signaling, moods and emotional response, sleep cycles, motor control and more. CBD’s interaction with the ECS is thought to contribute to the over-arching goal of the bodily system, which is to return to or maintain balance and homeostasis. 

The differences in spectrums of CBD products on the market today can influence how well the ECS and CBD can work together. So, is there a spectrum that is better? Let’s find out. 

Full-Spectrum CBD 

Full-spectrum CBD products refer to any products that has the ‘full-spectrum’ of the hemp plant present, including rare cannabinoids and terpenes. This means there is more than just one cannabinoid present in these products. Full-spectrum CBD will contain more than just cannabidiol, but other rare cannabinoids will be present like CBG, CBC, CBN and THC. 

Full-spectrum CBD does typically contain THC, so if you are looking to avoid this cannabinoid, a full-spectrum product may not be the best choice for you. However, it is believed that more cannabinoids together can have a better effect on the consumer. This is due to a theory called the ‘entourage effect,’ in which multiple cannabinoids can work better together to deliver therapeutic properties to the ECS.  

A full-spectrum CBD product may be more effective for some users with the combination of multiple cannabinoids, but again if you are looking to avoid THC, turn to other spectrums of CBD. 

Broad-Spectrum CBD 

Broad-spectrum CBD products are similar to full-spectrum in that there are multiple rare cannabinoids present, but there is one major differences. There should be no THC present in high-quality broad-spectrum CBD products. Broad-spectrum CBD refers to any product that does contain rare cannabinoids like CBN, CBG and CBC, but no THC. 

If you are looking for a product that does have the potential for the entourage effect, but is THC-free, a broad-spectrum CBD product could be a great choice for you. As with any cannabinoid-based product, it is always a good idea to check third-party lab test results to ensure there is in fact no THC present in your product of choice. 

CBD Isolates

CBD isolate products refer to any CBD product that is isolated to create pure CBD. With any high-quality CBD isolate product, there should be no presence of rare cannabinoids in your product, hence the name ‘isolate.’ Generally, CBD isolates are made through processes that remove all other cannabinoids or terpenes from the product, leaving only CBD. 

If you are someone who is concerned with the presence of other cannabinoids and only are looking to utilize CBD, an isolate product could be a great choice for you. Keep in mind, choosing a CBD isolate means there is no chance for the entourage effect as only CBD will be present in your isolate product. 

Always Rely on Third-Party Lab Tests

No matter what spectrum of CBD sparks your interest most, relying on third-party lab test results is the best way to make sure you are getting a high-quality CBD product. Third-party lab tests give you insight on what cannabinoids are present in your product of choice, and at what level. 

Turning to third-party lab test results and transparent product reviews allows you to make an educated CBD purchase that will deliver the results you are looking for. Whether you want a full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or CBD isolate product, turn to Real Tested CBD for the most reliable results and reviews.