Once you’ve started down the path of introducing CBD into your wellness routine, one of the first things you may notice are products labeled “full spectrum” and those labeled “broad spectrum”. And, you might be wondering what the difference is. In short, these categories refer to the type of CBD oil used in the product.
Through a CO2 extraction process, CBD oil is pulled from the PCR hemp plant resulting in a raw, pure form of CBD oil. From there, the product is then run through a series of filtering and further extraction processes to create full and broad spectrum CBD oils.
Both of these types have unique chemical structures and benefits with key differences to consider when deciding which type is best for you.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD is the oil that results after the first round of extraction and filtration which contains terpenes as well as other cannabinoid compounds similar to CBD. Because it retains the natural balance of cannabinoids and terpenes found in the PCR hemp plant, they are considered “full spectrum”.
Although full spectrum products contain THC, the amounts are negligible and must remain under the federal requirements of 0.3%. Full spectrum CBD products are not known to give psychoactive effects to the user.
What are some of the other cannabinoids in full spectrum CBD?
Cannabichromene (CBC): Supports mood, joint, and muscle function. The third most common cannabinoid.
Cannabigerol (CBG): Wide range of therapeutic benefits, including reducing inflammation, relieving pain, promoting a healthy sleep cycle, and fighting bacteria.
Cannabinoil (CBN): Research shows potential benefits include promoting restful sleep and supporting healthy joints and muscles.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): Wide range of therapeutic benefits, including reducing pain, relieving anxiety, fighting inflammation, and managing insomnia.
What are the other plant materials in full spectrum?
Terpenes: Comparable to essential oils, terpenes are aromatic and flavor molecules of the plant. Thought to also provide an aromatherapy effect.
Flavonoids: The largest group of phytonutrients (natural compounds produced by plants) responsible for diverse colors found in fruits and vegetables. They are known for their powerful antioxidant properties.
What is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD is a result of further filtrating full spectrum CBD to remove all THC from the oil. Although THC is removed, broad spectrum products still contain other photocanabinoids that can promote the entourage effect.
At Soothe Organic, our broad spectrum products have the THC removed through a proprietary USDA organic certified chromatography process.
An Important Final Note
No matter whether you decide on full or broad spectrum CBD products, when choosing a CBD brand for your wellness journey, it is important to check lab reports to ensure not only THC amounts but also any other chemicals such as pesticides, heavy metals, and any other solvents included in the product. Soothe Organic provides the lab reports for each product so you can be 100% confident in what you’re putting in or on your body.
To learn more about CBD, sign up for our Soothe Organic email list (we promise to only send what we think you want to know), explore our additional education and resources, or check out our product line with CBD all-stars. Have questions? Drop us a line.
