When exploring an online dispensary, you might find yourself questioning the meanings of terms like full or broad-spectrum CBD. CBD, the non-psychoactive component, is defined by its purity. Some products consist solely of CBD, while others incorporate additional elements from the cannabis plant.
Understanding the differences between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum cannabis extracts reveals unique compositions and characteristics that can impact your CBD experience. With this information, you can choose the best extracts online Canada that meet your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Full-spectrum CBD contains CBD, THC, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Broad-spectrum CBD features all these components except for THC.
- Both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum enhance the advantages of cannabis through their entourage effects.
- CO2 and Alcohol extraction methods are the two primary techniques for creating CBD extracts.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD is a product that encompasses a diverse range of cannabinoids, various terpenes, and trace amounts of THC.
- Cannabinoids: Full-spectrum CBD has a higher CBD concentration but also contains small quantities of THC and other cannabinoids. Not all full-spectrum products comprise all 100-plus CBDs, as some may exist in minimal amounts or be lost during extraction.
- Terpenes and Flavonoids: Terpenes contribute to the plant’s unique aroma, while flavonoids provide color and serve multiple biological roles. The synergy of terpenes, flavonoids, and CBD may enhance the entourage effect.
- THC: Full-spectrum CBD features trace levels of THC, but the THC concentration in full-spectrum CBD oil is always below 0.3%. These minimal amounts are insufficient to cause any psychoactive effects.
Entourage Effects in Full-Spectrum
The entourage effect suggests that the combined influence of cannabis compounds, such as cannabinoids and terpenes, heightens therapeutic benefits. CBD may amplify THC’s effects while mitigating some of its undesirable impacts.
Full-spectrum cannabis concentrates also include various forms of cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBDV, CBDA, and CBD. Research into cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG) indicates potential in reducing stress and inflammation.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD refers to a type of CBD extract that consists of various active compounds found in the cannabis plant, including CBD, CBN, and terpenes. Unlike full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum cannabis concentrates do not contain detectable THC levels. Manufacturers typically label it clearly and may provide details about the specific cannabinoids in their products.
How It Works
Broad-spectrum CBD retains several cannabinoids that can create an entourage effect without THC. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), regulating numerous physiological processes such as temperature, energy metabolism, appetite, and digestion.
These cannabinoids act by binding to specific receptors within the ECS known as CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are distributed throughout the body. Through this binding process, CBD aids in managing the body’s natural responses to inflammation and pain while also influencing mood and anxiety symptoms.
Extraction Process of CBD
The two main CBD extraction methods utilize alcohol or CO2 as solvents. Each method has its unique strengths and drawbacks, making neither inherently superior.
Alcohol Extraction Method
One of the most straightforward techniques for producing cannabis extracts involves using alcohol as a solvent, with ethanol being the preferred choice.
The cannabis plant material is soaked in ethanol to dissolve the trichomes, the tiny, hair-like structures found abundantly on the plant’s flowers and leaves. These trichomes are rich in cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds.
After soaking, manufacturers remove the plant material and evaporate the alcohol, leaving behind a full-spectrum CBD extract.
CO2 Extraction
This sophisticated method involves pressurizing and heating CO2 to convert it into a supercritical fluid. The fluid is then flowed over the plant material to extract the trichomes and create a CBD-rich oil.
A key advantage of CO2 extraction is its high level of adjustability. By regulating temperature and pressure, companies can selectively target specific compounds while leaving others behind.
CO2 extraction requires costly equipment, which makes it more commonly employed by larger CBD companies.
Understanding CBD extraction may seem primarily relevant to manufacturers and CBD companies. However, the extraction process significantly affects the quality of the final product, so it’s essential for you to understand the basics.
CO2 extraction is the most effective and safest technique, making it the method of choice for numerous CBD products.
Key Differences Between Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD
| Criteria | Full-Spectrum CBD | Broad-Spectrum CBD |
| Compounds | CBD, THC, other cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils | CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils |
| THC Content | Contains up to 0.3% THC | THC-free |
| Suitable for | Those who don’t mind THC and desire the complete range of cannabis compounds. | Individuals who prefer THC-free products but still want the advantages of other compounds. |
Benefits of Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD
Both types of CBD products offer similar benefits since they contain nearly identical compounds aside from THC. Full-spectrum CBD is likely to have a stronger impact on symptom management compared to broad-spectrum CBD, although both still provide comparable benefits.
Reduce Anxiety and Depression While Improving Sleep
A 2019 study in The Permanente Journal reviewed the medical records of 72 patients experiencing anxiety or sleep problems. Within the first month, researchers observed a reduction in anxiety levels among 79.2% of patients, with 66.7% reporting initial improvements in their sleep scores.
Social Anxiety
Reviews of human studies suggest that potent CBD cannabis extracts can positively affect patients with social anxiety disorder, particularly when taken orally in doses ranging from 300 to 600 milligrams.
Chronic Pain
A 2021 survey involving about 250 patients from seven pain management clinics in Southern California examined their experiences with CBD. Findings revealed that CBD cannabis concentrates, such as oil, significantly improved pain levels, especially back and neck pain.
Reduces Nausea and Vomiting
A 2020 study published in the Annals of Oncology indicates that combining CBD with anti-nausea medications may enhance symptoms in chemotherapy patients. Approximately 85% of participants favored this treatment over a placebo.
Anti-Inflammatory
Research from 2020 shows that both full- and broad-spectrum CBD demonstrate anti-inflammatory properties when taken orally or applied topically.
This aligns with scientific studies and anecdotal evidence suggesting that CBD holds promise in alleviating inflammation across various conditions, including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, acne, and more.
How to Use Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD
- Smoking or vaping: Vaping is the quickest and most efficient way to deliver CBD extract into your system due to its high bioavailability, which can reach up to 60%.
- Apply it topically on your skin: Topicals provide targeted relief and can be applied wherever needed.
- Take it sublingually (under the tongue): For oils, this method involves placing them under your tongue or incorporating them into food or beverages.
- Add to edibles or capsules: Extracts in capsules and edibles offer a simpler experience. Though the onset of effects may be slower, they provide a longer-lasting impact.
Dosage is crucial and varies based on factors such as weight, health status, and reactions to cannabis. Start with 2-6 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. Gradually increasing the dosage over several days while monitoring your response ensures you find the optimal balance of relief.
Conclusion
The decision between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum depends on your objectives and sensitivity to the ingredients. If you’re looking for the health benefits of CBD without THC’s influence, broad-spectrum options are likely your best choice. Conversely, if you’re open to THC and wish to maximize CBD’s potential benefits, full-spectrum products are likely your most suitable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you find the best CBD extracts and various concentrates?
An online dispensary is the place to purchase concentrates like shatter or live resin and the best cannabis extracts, such as CBD oils, discreetly packaged. Explore multiple options and discover exciting ways to save on every purchase at HighGradeAid Canada.
Is there a CBD extract that contains only CBD?
CBD isolate represents the purest form of CBD available. It contains no other cannabinoids or compounds from the cannabis plant and lacks the synergistic advantages linked to the entourage effect.
Isolates have no flavor or aroma unless intentionally enhanced with flavorings. This quality makes them particularly suitable for customers who dislike the natural, earthy taste of standard CBD products.
Which consumption method is most effective for pain relief?
Various methods of consuming CBD can effectively alleviate pain, although the timing and duration of relief may differ. Smoking, vaping, and sublingual administration provide rapid onset but last only a few hours. Gummies and capsules can deliver longer-lasting relief, sometimes lasting up to 8 hours. For localized pain, topicals can be an effective choice.
Related Article:
