The CBD chemical compound is extracted from the cannabis plant and used to make many oil-based health products. Although there are lots of options available, CBD isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum are the most popular choices.
When considering CBD oil products for the first time, information on the three main types is an ideal basic CBD introduction. It helps you make an informed decision when you’re ready to buy CBD oil UK-based products.
Read on to learn more.
What Is CBD?
CBD is one of many active compounds in the cannabis plant. It helps maintain a state of balance by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system.
CBD is unlikely to cause a “high” like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Its popularity stems from the potential health benefits associated with its use. Although research is still ongoing, preliminary studies highlight some of those health benefits:
- Offset anxiety and depression
- Better sleep
- Ease diabetic complications
- Unmanageable pain relief
- Intervention for some types of addition
- Protection against neurological disease
Different CBD Types
Manufacturers of CBD products use different methods to extract the CBD compound from the plant, and the diffusion method used creates a specific product. Although in theory, depending on the cannabinoid context and extraction process, there can be hundreds of types of CBD oil.
Here are the main types you’re likely to encounter:
- CBD Isolate only contains CBD and no other cannabinoids or THC. A product with isolated CBD may not produce any significant effects.
- Full-Spectrum CBD comprises all components of the cannabis plant. Full-spectrum products contain less than 0.3 THC.
- Broad-Spectrum CBD contains most of the cannabis plant compounds. A broad-spectrum product will contain trace amounts of THC.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is an isolated form of CBD or cannabidiol. This type resembles the purest form of CBD oil, as it doesn’t contain other cannabinoids or natural compounds of the cannabis plant. All of the plant’s compounds, excluding CBD, are removed through an extensive extraction process.
High-quality CBD isolates are typically over 99% pure, depending on the extraction process. The purity level is the main benefit of CBD isolate, as the potency is maintained when added to other substances like food, shampoo, and lotion.
This type is also ideal if you wish to avoid THC altogether. It does not contain any other cannabinoids, including the well-known psychoactive component of cannabis.
Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD oil is a CBD-rich oil with small amounts of THC (up to 0.2%), flavonoids, and terpenes. Some people prefer this type over CBD isolate due to the theory that taking CBD, THC, and other cannabis compounds together may be more effective than cannabidiol alone. This is known as the “entourage effect”. But more about this later.
The components comprised in full-spectrum CBD offer many favourable effects. Thus, it might be the ideal type for you if you prefer a less polished product and don’t mind its original earthy flavour. That said, there are flavoured full-spectrum types.
Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Broad-spectrum CBD falls somewhere in between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD. It primarily contains cannabidiol with small amounts of other cannabis compounds but not THC. However, some CBD products will contain trace amounts of THC.
Like full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum may produce increased effects due to the additional components working together. Typical compounds added include cannabinol (CBC) and terpenes like limonene, pinene, and myrcene.
People wanting the benefits of the aforementioned “entourage effect” without taking THC usually prefer broad-spectrum CBD for more significant benefits.
Entourage Effect
You might be wondering which type of CBD is best for you.
Research suggests that compounds of the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids (like CBD and THC) and other natural compounds, like flavonoids and terpenes, are more efficient when taken together. This is known as the “entourage effect” theory.
To get the full benefits of the “entourage effect”, go for a full-spectrum CBD product. However, be aware that a large enough dose of an intense CBD product means more THC exposure. As a consequence, euphoric effects are possible – but rare.
To avoid any chance of an intoxicating experience, go for a board-spectrum or isolate CBD product. Although, you may not reap the CBD benefits using these forms.
Over to You Now
There are three main types of CBD. In its purest form, and with no other compounds, is CBD isolate. At the opposite end of the spectrum is full-spectrum, where all components are retained, including
a small amount (less than 0.3%) of THC. And somewhere in the middle is broad-spectrum, which includes all components except THC.
When considering CBD products, be clear on the benefits you’re looking for to help decide on a suitable product to meet your needs. Browse the Advance Biotech website for more information and assistance to buy CBD oil UK-based products.