Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum CBD: The Differences Explained
Over the past decade, CBD products have exploded in popularity. It’s now estimated that as many as 1 in every 3 millennial adults has tried CBD.
Even if you’ve never tried CBD, you’ve likely seen many products hitting store shelves – and many of them have different labels. Some say things like “full-spectrum” while others say “broad-spectrum.” So, what’s the difference?
At Just a Little Herb, we pride ourselves on educating customers on the benefits of CBD products, as well as their ingredients, labels, and composition. That’s why we want to dive into the crucial difference between full vs broad-spectrum CBD.
Although both have their unique benefits, it’s important for users to understand how these different kinds of products might affect their bodies and minds.
But first: let’s make sure you understand exactly what CBD is.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an all-natural component sourced from the cannabis plant. The ingredient has grown in popularity in recent years due to its potential therapeutic benefits.
Although hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the cannabis plant, they have significant differences in their chemical makeup and uses. Unlike marijuana, hemp does not produce the psychoactive effects triggered by substantial amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Therefore, hemp-derived products do not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use.
As a result, hemp-derived CBD is federally legal, as long as it does not contain more than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
According to a 2020 survey by SingleCare, up to 45% of CBD users have increased their use of CBD since the COVID-19 pandemic. A large percentage (64%) of users are seeking pain relief, while nearly half (49%) use CBD for anxiety and stress relief.
CBD Distribution Formats
You’ll find CBD in multiple forms, both online and in physical stores. Most commonly, you’ll see…
- CBD oils
- CBD capsules (or softgels)
- CBD edibles (gummies)
- CBD topicals/creams
That same SingleCare survey found that nearly half of CBD users prefer oils/tinctures, lotions, and/or gummies. However, the type of CBD product you use predominantly depends on your preferences and needs.
Speaking of finding what works for you, let’s dive into the differences between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD.
What Is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids. Most importantly, it also contains trace amounts of cannabinoids like THC – which makes it very different from broad-spectrum CBD.
Although full-spectrum CBD products still contain less than the legal limit of THC, they do contain some. This is likely not enough to produce a significant “high” or any other psychoactive effects, but it is essential to note if you are sensitive to THC in any amount.
Why do people choose full-spectrum CBD? In most cases, users are looking to experience the “entourage effect.” As described by a 2020 study, this phenomenon occurs when the natural compounds in cannabis plants work together to enhance their therapeutic benefits.
Due to the entourage effect, many believe that full-spectrum CBD can be more effective and potent than broad-spectrum CBD products or a CBD isolate. Of course, more research is needed to fully confirm this theory.
If you are interested in trying full-spectrum CBD, we recommend first speaking to your healthcare provider. This will help you determine if you need full-spectrum cannabidiol to reap the benefits, or if you would be better off opting for a broad-spectrum option.
What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD products contain many naturally occurring cannabis plant compounds and cannabinoids, such as cannabinol and terpenes, similar to full-spectrum. However, the big difference is that broad-spectrum CBD products contain zero THC.
In fact, broad-spectrum products undergo an additional refinement process to remove any trace amounts of THC. This makes them a better option for individuals who are concerned about consuming THC in any amount, due to personal sensitivities or perhaps their type of profession.
Although broad-spectrum CBD does not trigger the entourage effect as full-spectrum CBD does, users can still experience the benefits of the other compounds sourced from the hemp plant.
Note that broad-spectrum CBD products are not the same as CBD isolate products. Broad-spectrum CBD still contains a range of cannabinoids, including CBD. CBD isolates, on the other hand, contain only CBD and no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or beneficial compounds from the hemp plant.
Although broad-spectrum products do not contain THC, it’s still a good idea to discuss it with your healthcare provider before using them.
Which Is Right for You?
You might be wondering which type of CBD product best suits your needs or goals. All things considered, deciding between CBD products largely comes down to…
(1) Your THC Sensitivity
Some research indicates that individuals’ brains might be more or less sensitive to THC. It’s possible that some people process THC in the anterior (front) part of the brain, which tends to produce rewarding effects such as reduced anxiety.
On the other hand, some may process THC in the posterior (back) of the brain, which is more sensitive to THC. When this happens, the results of consuming THC may produce negative reactions such as paranoia or fear.
Although full-spectrum CBD contains very little THC and is within the legal limit, some people still prefer to avoid THC altogether due to sensitivities or past experiences.
(2) Which Health Concerns You Are Targeting
Why are you using CBD? Your answer will play a role in comparing full vs broad-spectrum CBD options.
If you’re struggling with achy joints or muscles that you are looking to ease quickly, you may want to opt for a topical full-spectrum product that produces the entourage effect. However, if you’re looking to balance stress or support general wellness, THC may not be necessary and a broad-spectrum option might be best.
(3) Personal Preferences
Ultimately, it’s all up to you and what you want from your CBD experience. Perhaps you’re interested in trying the “entourage effect” and aren’t worried about consuming a small dose of THC. On the flip side, maybe you’re looking for a product with 0.0% THC.
If you have never tried either broad or full-spectrum CBD, one option is to start with a very small dose of either one, and on a separate occasion, try the other. In both cases, monitor how your body responds and how you feel overall. This will help you determine where your preference lies and how each affects your mind and body individually.
Find the Right CBD Product for You
The bottom line is that full-spectrum CBD products contain some THC, while broad-spectrum products do not. However, both fall under the federally legal THC limit.
At Just a Little Herb, we’re committed to producing and selling truly high-quality CBD products – both in full and broad-spectrum forms. We were founded by a certified physician assistant, and we pride ourselves on creating items that are rooted in safe clinical herbal medicine practices.
To learn more about our CBD products, visit our website. You can also reach out to the Just a Little Herb team directly to ask questions.