Learn the Difference: Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum vs Isolate

When shopping for CBD products, you will encounter several options such as full-spectrum and broad-spectrum, but you might be puzzled about the differences. Basically, the two terms are used to refer to the types of cannabinoids found in the products. It is believed that Cannabis plants (such as hemp) contain 113 cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD). Each one interacts with the body differently and appears to complement each other. Let’s explore the differences between full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum CBD. 

What is Full-Spectrum CBD? 

Hemp is brimming with cannabinoids. You are probably familiar with the two most popular, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD, but there are many others found in the plant including terpenes and flavonoids. Full-spectrum CBD products contain varying percentages of all the natural ingredients found in cannabis. However, with hemp-extracted CBD products, a full-spectrum blend must have less than 0.3 percent THC as mandated by law. The low percentage of THC renders no intoxicating side. Even still it’s possible that a consumer could yield a failing score on a drug test given the trace amounts of THC in full-spectrum CBD.

Full-spectrum is an all-natural option that contains all the plant’s naturally occurring cannabinoids in varying percentages for a whole-body experience. But if THC testing is a concern, broad-spectrum is the product for you.

What is Broad-Spectrum CBD? 

Broad-spectrum CBD is remarkably familiar to full-spectrum CBD. It contains all the terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids minus THC. Many people do not want to ingest THC because they face regular work-related drug tests and are concerned that even a small amount might show up. Others are just not comfortable ingesting a cannabinoid that is known to have potential psychoactive effects. 

Benefits of a Broad-Spectrum CBD 

Below are a few benefits of a broad-spectrum CBD product:

 

  • No risk of experiencing any psychoactive effects
  • Contains most other natural cannabinoids found in the hemp plant so promotes the ‘entourage effect’ which is where all the cannabinoids work together in harmony within the human body. 
  • Undergoes less processing than an isolate CBD product (isolates contain only CBD and no other cannabinoids) 
  • Ideal choice for individuals who experience THC sensitivity 

 

Understanding the Entourage Effect

The components found in hemp can create a synergy within the human body that is referred to as the ‘entourage effect.’  The plant’s cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids all work together to enhance each other when ingested and are believed to promote therapeutic benefits. The entourage effect is achieved with both broad and full-spectrum CBD products. 

The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) is made up of millions of receptors located throughout the central nervous system and the brain.

 Two cannabinoid receptors:

  • CB1 receptor is predominantly found in the brain and impacts our coordination and movement, pain, emotions, thinking, appetite, memories and other functions.
  • CB2 receptor is predominantly found in the immune system and affects inflammation and pain in the body.

The key function of the ECS is to create a state of homeostasis within the body.

Interestingly, the cannabinoids of cannabis bind with the ECS receptors in a positive way. 

Both full and broad-spectrum CBD contains a bevy of cannabinoids such as: 

 

  •       Cannabinol (CBN)
  •       Cannabichromene (CBC)
  •       Cannabigerol (CBG)
  •       Cannabidiol acid (CBDA)
  •       Cannabidivarin (CBDV)

Additional Nutrients in Full-Spectrum CBD

The potency of full-spectrum doesn’t stop there. Anecdotal evidence suggests that using the whole plant increases the working power of every benefit—pain relief, lowered stress, and overall strength and health, to name a few.

Whole hemp extract is packed with nutrients including: 

  • Vitamins: A, C, and E, along with complex B vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine. 
  • Minerals: Zinc, potassium, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. 
  • Protein: which helps repair and build tissue. 
  • Amino Acids: including omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, which promote better heart health.

What are Terpenes in Cannabis?

You will notice that both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum are brimming with the hemp plant’s natural terpenes. Terpenes are molecules that occur in all plants. They are what make the aroma of spices, fruits, and vegetables. For centuries, aromatherapists have turned to terpenes. Cannabis contains over 200 terpenes that also bind with the receptors of the body in much the same manner as the cannabinoids. Many terpenes that occur in cannabis are also found in other plants such as beta-caryophyllene which occurs in leafy greens, black pepper, and oregano. 


At Also Organics, you will find an assortment of full-spectrum CBD products. We offer both CBD and CBG dominant products that also contain all the hemp plant’s other natural cannabinoids and terpenes. All our products are made from 100 percent organic hemp that is non-GMO and has been cultivated in the United States. 

 

You’ll find a wide array of CBD products at Also Organics such as tinctures, lotions, balms, gel caps, gummies, and more. We use a warm water ultrasound extraction processing system that is chemical-free so leaves behind no solvent residue in the final product. In addition, we feel that the CBD molecules are further enhanced into nanoparticles so that your body can more readily absorb the cannabinoids. 


Please contact us today to learn more about our products and to find out more about full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum

We’ve caught some attention

Our Products Are Featured In: