Broad spectrum CBD oil is another hot CBD product to hit the market in recent years. If you’re a bit confused about what “broad-spectrum” means as opposed to “full-spectrum” or isolates, don’t worry — we’re about to clarify all of that and more.
What Is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD contains most of the compounds found in the hemp plant: compounds like CBD, terpenes, and other exciting cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and others.
However, whereas full-spectrum CBD still contains trace amounts of THC — the cannabinoid found primarily in marijuana that gets you high — broad-spectrum CBD oil has had all the THC removed. This makes it a good option for anyone who wants to avoid exposure to even trace amounts of THC.
Broad-spectrum CBD still carries most of the benefits of full-spectrum CBD. Because most of the cannabinoids are present, it still features the “entourage effect” that occurs when all of the compounds in the hemp plant harmonize to produce a greater therapeutic effect. The main benefit of broad-spectrum over full-spectrum CBD is that it eliminates the risk of THC exposure, which is especially important for people who undergo regular drug tests or are sensitive to THC.
How Is Broad-Spectrum CBD Made?
Broad-spectrum CBD oil is manufactured by extracting cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavinoids from the hemp plant, usually using an advanced process like CO2 extraction.
The resulting oil is then processed to remove all traces of THC. This process may involve winterization, which involves removing lipids and waxes, or distillation, which separates the different components of the extract based on boiling points.
Finally, the resulting oil is combined with a carrier oil for CBD oil products or is combined with other ingredients to make things like CBD gummies or CBD cream.
Quality control is important to make sure the final product doesn’t contain contaminants and carries the desired amount of CBD.
History of Broad-Spectrum CBD
The isolation and characterization of CBD as a compound in the 1940s was a major milestone in the development of the hemp and cannabis industry, and the development of broad-spectrum CBD can be traced back to it.
The Farm Bill in 2018 legalized hemp and CBD nationwide, and this created a growing demand for products that provide the benefits of CBD without the risk of exposure to THC. This led to the development of broad-spectrum CBD, which offers the benefits of full-spectrum CBD but without the risk of THC exposure.
Is Broad-Spectrum CBD Legal?
Yes, broad-spectrum CBD is generally legal in many countries, including the United States. In fact, even full-spectrum CBD is legal — and it contains 0.3% THC. Keep in mind that broad-spectrum CBD contains no THC at all.
Even after the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and hemp-derived products at the federal level, some states may still regulate the use and sale of CBD. Some have imposed restrictions or limitations on the use of CBD products.
Does Broad-Spectrum CBD Make You Sleepy?
Broad-spectrum CBD may not necessarily make you sleepy, though it does contain compounds like CBN that have shown efficacy in helping people sleep. In fact, some people have reported feeling drowsy after taking broad-spectrum CBD due to its relaxing effect.
Remember that the effects of CBD can vary from person to person. Factors like dosage, tolerance, and individual biochemistry also affect how it impacts sleep. If you’re concerned about feeling drowsy, start with a low dose and gradually increase it to see how your body reacts.
Which Is Stronger: Full or Broad-Spectrum CBD?
Both full and broad-spectrum CBD products have their benefits, and the strength of each product varies depending on the potency, quality, and manufacturing process. Ultimately, the answer lies not in the full- versus broad-spectrum delineation but rather in how potent the product is.
Is Broad-Spectrum or Isolate CBD Better?
When dealing with CBD and cannabis in general, you’re almost always better off with the full profile of cannabinoids. That’s because of the entourage effect, explained earlier, which theorizes that cannabinoids work better together than on their own.
What Does Broad-Spectrum CBD Do for You?
Broad-spectrum CBD can help with pain, anxiety, inflammation, sleep issues, and other health concerns — in fact, many people take it every day as part of their health regimens. It can alleviate skin issues and improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure. It is also an antioxidant. CBD-based drugs have even hit the market to treat diseases like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS).
What Are the 3 Types of CBD?
The three types of CBD are:
- Full-spectrum: contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavinoids present in the hemp plant
- Broad-spectrum: contains all of these with the exception of THC
- Isolate: contains only CBD
What Type of CBD Is Most Effective?
It is thought that full-spectrum CBD is the most effective since it preserves all cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant in their original ratios. Together, these compounds deliver a stronger therapeutic effect than they would if taken separately.
Is CBD More Sativa or Indica?
The CBD products you buy are most likely sourced from the hemp plant, which is different entirely from sativa and indica marijuana plants. However, it is the general rule of thumb that indica plants contain more CBD than THC — that’s why indica is generally associated with being relaxing.
What Is the Best CBD for Beginners?
The best place for beginners to start is with CBD gummies. The doses are generally low, and they taste delicious, letting you increase your dose gradually.
How Long Does it Take for CBD to Kick In?
If you take broad-spectrum CBD in oil form, you can expect to feel results in as little as 15 minutes.
What Does CBD Feel Like the First Time?
Broad-spectrum CBD will help relax your muscles, relieve pain, and calm anxiety and depressive thoughts. It can even make you feel a bit drowsy, though most people report the sleepiness effects to wear off after a couple of weeks of use. CBD is not intoxicating but does help your general state of mind.
