When you explore an online dispensary, you might find yourself asking what terms like full or broad-spectrum CBD really signify. CBD, the non-psychoactive element, is recognized for its purity. Some products offer solely CBD, while others incorporate various components of the cannabis plant.
Understanding the differences between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum cannabis extracts reveals unique compositions and characteristics that could shape your CBD experience. Armed with this insight, you can choose the best extracts online Canada that align with your preferences.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Full-spectrum CBD encompasses CBD, THC, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Broad-spectrum CBD features all these elements except THC.
- Both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum enhance the advantages of cannabis due to their entourage effects.
- CO2 and Alcohol extraction techniques are the two prevalent methods for creating CBD extracts.
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD refers to a CBD product that contains a diverse range of cannabinoids, various types of terpenes, and trace amounts of THC.
- Cannabinoids: Full-spectrum CBD typically has a higher concentration of CBD but also includes small amounts of THC and other cannabinoids. Not every full-spectrum product contains all 100-plus cannabinoids, as some may be present in minimal amounts or could be lost during extraction.
- Terpenes and Flavonoids: Terpenes provide the plant with a unique aroma, while flavonoids contribute color and perform various biological functions. The combination of terpenes, flavonoids, and CBD may enhance the entourage effect.
- THC: Full-spectrum CBD contains trace levels of THC, with concentrations never exceeding 0.3%. These minimal amounts are not sufficient to produce any psychoactive effects.
Entourage Effects in Full-Spectrum
The entourage effect posits that the collective impact of cannabis compounds, like cannabinoids, terpenes, and other elements, amplifies therapeutic benefits. CBD may enhance THC’s effects while mitigating some unwanted side effects.
Full-spectrum cannabis concentrates also include various forms of cannabinoids, such as CBN, CBG, CBDV, CBDA, and CBD. Research into cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG) indicates potential anti-stress and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract featuring multiple active compounds from the cannabis plant, including CBD, CBN, and terpenes. Unlike full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum cannabis concentrates do not possess detectable levels of THC. Manufacturers often label it accordingly 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), which governs several physiological functions such as temperature, energy metabolism, appetite, and digestion.
These cannabinoids act by binding to specific receptors in the ECS known as CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the body. Through this binding process, CBD can help regulate 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 distinct advantages and disadvantages, making neither inherently superior.
Alcohol Extraction Method
A simple method for producing cannabis extracts in the industry involves using alcohol as a solvent, with ethanol being the preferred choice.
The cannabis plant material is soaked in ethanol to dissolve the cannabis trichomes, the tiny, hair-like structures found abundantly on the plant’s flowers and leaves. These trichomes contain a wealth of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds.
After soaking, manufacturers remove the plant material and purge the alcohol, resulting in a full-spectrum CBD extract.
CO2 Extraction
This advanced technique involves pressurizing and heating CO2 to convert it into a supercritical fluid. The fluid is then passed over the plant material to extract the trichomes and produce a CBD-rich oil.
A significant advantage of CO2 extraction is its high level of adjustability. By managing temperature and pressure, companies can selectively target specific compounds while leaving others behind.
CO2 extraction requires expensive equipment, making it more common among larger CBD companies.
Understanding CBD extraction may seem relevant only to manufacturers and CBD companies. However, the extraction process affects the quality of the final product, so it’s beneficial for you to know the basics.
CO2 extraction is recognized as the most efficient and safest method, which is why it is the primary choice for many 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 while still wanting the benefits of other compounds. |
Benefits of Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD
These CBD products offer similar benefits since they contain nearly identical compounds except THC. Full-spectrum CBD may have a more significant impact on symptom management compared to broad-spectrum CBD, although both types still provide equivalent advantages.
Reduce Anxiety and Depression While Improving Sleep
A 2019 study in The Permanente Journal reviewed the medical records of 72 patients with anxiety or sleep challenges. Within the first month, researchers noted a decrease in anxiety levels among 79.2% of the patients, with 66.7% experiencing initial improvements in sleep scores.
Social Anxiety
Reviews of human studies indicate that potent CBD cannabis extracts can positively affect patients with social anxiety disorder, particularly when consumed orally in doses between 300 to 600 milligrams.
Chronic Pain
A 2021 survey involving around 250 patients from seven pain management clinics in Southern California examined their experiences with CBD. The survey results indicated that CBD cannabis concentrates, like oil, significantly helped improve pain levels, especially back and neck pain.
Reduces Nausea and Vomiting
A 2020 study published in the Annals of Oncology suggests that combining CBD with anti-nausea medications could alleviate symptoms in chemotherapy patients, with approximately 85% preferring this treatment over a placebo.
Anti-Inflammatory
Research from 2020 has shown that both full- and broad-spectrum CBD, when taken orally or applied topically, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
This aligns with scientific studies and anecdotal evidence indicating that CBD holds promise in alleviating inflammation across various conditions, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, acne, and others.
How to use Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD
- Smoking or vaping: Vaping is the fastest and most efficient way to deliver CBD extract into your system, primarily 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 where you need it most.
- Take it sublingually (under the tongue): For oils, this method entails placing them under your tongue or mixing them into your food or beverages.
- Add to edibles or capsules: Extracts in capsules and edibles offer a more straightforward experience. Although the effects may take longer to onset, they tend to last longer.
Dosage is crucial and varies based on factors like weight, health status, and individual reactions to cannabis. Start with 2-6 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight. Gradually increasing the dosage over a few days while monitoring your response will help you find the optimal level of relief.
Conclusion
The decision between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum depends on your objectives and sensitivity to the ingredients. If you seek the health benefits of CBD without the impact of THC, broad-spectrum options are likely your best choice. Conversely, if you’re open to THC and aim to maximize the potential benefits of CBD, full-spectrum products are likely your ideal option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you find the best CBD extracts and various concentrates?
An online dispensary is the place to shop for concentrates like shatter or live resin and the best cannabis extracts, such as CBD oils, delivered discreetly. Browse a wide range of options and discover exciting ways to save on every purchase.
Is there a CBD extract that contains only CBD?
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD available. It contains no additional cannabinoids or compounds from the cannabis plant, lacking the synergistic advantages associated with the entourage effect.
Isolates are devoid of flavor and odor unless intentionally enhanced with flavorings. This quality makes them particularly appealing for consumers who find the earthy taste of standard CBD products unappealing.
Which method of consumption can relieve pain more effectively?
Various methods of consuming CBD can effectively alleviate pain, though the onset and duration of relief may differ. Smoking, vaping, and sublingual administration provide rapid relief but may last only a few hours. Gummies and capsules can deliver prolonged relief, sometimes lasting up to 8 hours. For localized pain, topical applications are suitable.
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