Thanks to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD became available for purchase across the United States. The compound is relatively new but has exploded in popularity, with one in seven Americans having tried it over the past two years. Why is it so popular? Countless anecdotal stories and some scientific evidence have found that CBD can address a variety of physical and emotional problems. In this article we will discuss the three types of CBD available – isolate, full spectrum or broad spectrum.
Three Types of CBD Oil
CBD is not a “one-size-fits-all” model. Indeed, there are three types of it available. All CBD comes from the hemp plant. Processing can involve extracting certain compounds, then putting it into a form that can be consumed in any number of ways.
The hemp plant is processed trying to maintain as many of its component parts as possible, including all naturally occurring flavonoids, terpenes, and cannabinoids. CBD is a cannabinoid which reacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system. There are over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. Another naturally occurring cannabinoid is THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, the cannabinoid in marijuana that is associated with euphoria. A hemp plant is a cannabis subspecies that has less than 0.3% THC in it. As the hemp plant is processed, it can be formulated in three different ways:
- Full Spectrum: CBD that contains all naturally occurring components, including THC.
- Broad Spectrum: Identical to Full Spectrum except all THC has been removed.
- Isolate: A substance that has all components filtered out except CBD.
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Which Type Is Best – Isolate, Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum?
This depends on your own personal preferences.
Many users swear by Full Spectrum CBD, citing the power of the Entourage Effect. This is the idea that CBD is more effective when all the naturally occurring components, including THC work together.
However, one thing is certain: Though doubtful, it is possible for the consumption of this type of CBD to result in a positive drug test. For individuals who are regularly drug tested, this can create a real problem.
Broad Spectrum CBD contains no THC. As such, it may be a safer choice for individuals concerned with a positive drug test.
Isolate is pure CBD and often used by people who are interested in formulating their own CBD concoctions. Many users also enjoy dabbing CBD and consuming it in that form.
However, there are no guarantees that isolate or broad spectrum will produce a negative drug test result. Some tests screen for cannabinoids other than THC.
Everyone has their preference. For CBD use, it will be a trial and error period to find the best product for you. Check out some of our favorites.