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Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum vs CBD Isolate, What’s the Difference?

Amanda — Sat, 28 Mar 2020 05:44:44 +0000

One of the most frequent questions we get is “What’s the difference between Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum CBD and CBD isolate?” The difference is important, especially if having THC in your system is a problem for you. If you’re unsure which is best for you, this article should come in handy. We’ll cover the extraction process, cannabinoids, the “entourage effect,” and give recommendations along the way.

Full Disclosure: Linked products in this article point to items for sale in our shop. You’ll find helpful product recommendations at the end of the article.

Photo by Kristen Williams Designs

How is CBD extracted?

The type of extraction used to create CBD oil is important. It determines the potency and safety of the product extracted. Most companies use one of the two following methods:

1. Solvent

Though this method is cheap fast and easy, it has its drawbacks. Solvents used to extract the oil include ethanol, butane, propane, isopropyl, or alcohol. This method dissolves plant waxes. Cannabinoids are extracted, but so is chlorophyll—which can give some products a bitter taste.

In this process, the solvent is soaked or run through the plant material to strip it of cannabinoids. Solvents then evaporate to leave concentrated cannabinoids in oil form.

The downside of this process, besides the potential for fires or explosions, is that toxic residues can remain if the evaporation step fails to eliminate them. Some studies have found traces of naphtha hydrocarbons or petroleum residue in CBD products that have been extracted using solvents. We advise against CBD products extracted using the solvent method as there is the potential for contaminants.

2. CO2 Extraction

This is the go-to method for most premium CBD producers. Despite much higher costs due to the specialized equipment required, it produces a higher quality product with a broader spectrum of terpenes, cannabinoids and vanilloids. In addition, it leaves none of the toxic residues of the solvent method, and has a much lower chance of having any contaminants whatsoever.

This process involves a three-chambered “closed-loop extractor” which pushes CO2 at supercritical pressures through the plant material to extract all the cannabinoids. Materials are separated in the final chamber where CO2 rises to the top.

This is the most recommended means of extraction. It consistently produces the highest quality CBD, is much safer than solvent extraction, and leaves behind no toxic residue.

There are other more home-mad-style techniques like the olive oil extraction technique and steam extraction technique. Generally speaking, these methods aren’t used for commercial purposes as they simply don’t produce CBD in commercially viable quantities.

Cannabinoids and Our Well-Being

CBD is a cannabinoid—which is a natural compound produced by the cannabis plant. THC and CBD are but 2 of over 113 cannabinoids we’ve identified which cannabis produces. CBD and THC are the most thoroughly researched, which means the vast majority of the cannabis plant’s medical potential is yet untapped.

Although humans have been using cannabis as medicine for over 4000 years, it was only in 1995 that researchers were able to conclusively identify how CBD and THC could benefit our minds and bodies.

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC have a multitude of beneficial effects on the body because they interact with our body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a system that spans the entire body and regulates everything from memory, to cognitive performance, pain perception, stress management, mood regulation, and immune response.

THC has psychoactive properties, a.k.a. it gets you “high.” Not so CBD.

CBD is not intoxicating and when used in conjunction with THC, CBD actually inhibits THC’s psychoactive properties and enhances THC’s medical effects.

When considering Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum or Isolate, remember that CBD is a biphasic compound regardless of the type. This means different doses can affect you in completely different ways. For example, a small dose in the morning can help improve focus and alertness, while in the evening a larger dose of CBD can improve sleep.

What’s important to remember is that the science is still very young for CBD, THC and the whole cannabis plant. Doctors do not know what doses to prescribe for various ailments. This may be because each person’s endocannabinoid system is unique and each person responds to CBD differently. For example, for some CBD may be fantastic for treating chronic pain, but have no effect on their anxiety levels.

It’s also very important to speak to a medical professional before taking CBD. CBD interacts with prescription medicine and may nullify the effects of drugs in a way similar to how grapefruit interferes with certain medications.

The 3 Types of CBD: Isolate, Full spectrum, Broad Spectrum

When evaluating the differences between Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum or Isolate, the key is that each type has a different cannabinoid profile.

What is Full Spectrum CBD?

Full spectrum CBD contains all of the phytochemicals naturally occurring in the cannabis plant, including CBD, trace cannabinoids, terpenes, vanilloids and essential oils. Full-spectrum CBD extract also includes some THC—although in very small amounts below 0.3%

In Full Spectrum CBD, all the phytochemicals work together to create a phenomenon referred to as the entourage effect, where cannabinoids and other phytochemicals working together produce additional medicinal benefits.

Although Full Spectrum CBD cannot get you “high,” it can give you a false positive during a drug test. If having any THC system is a problem for you, you might want to skip this type of CBD and go for Broad Spectrum CBD or CBD Isolate instead.

Best For:

People who were recommended a certain THC to CBD ratio
Those with conditions that CBD Isolate and Broad Spectrum could not alleviate

What is Broad Spectrum CBD?

Broad spectrum CBD is nearly identical to Full Spectrum CBD in that is has the full range of beneficial cannabinoids, vanilloids and terpenes. This kind of CBD extract also produces an “entourage effect.” However, Broad Spectrum CBD is filtered to remove all THC. Broad Spectrum CBD extract is fully THC -free.

Best For:

Individuals with conditions CBD Isolate alone could not alleviate
People with sensitivity to THC
Those living in areas with strict THC laws
First-time users that are hesitant about THC

What is CBD Isolate?

This is CBD in its purest form. All other plant compounds and cannabinoids are completely removed, including any traces of THC, terpenes, waxes, oils, chlorophyll and more. What’s left is 99%-plus pure CBD.

Best For:

People who were specifically advised to take high doses of CBD
Individuals with THC sensitivities or problems with other cannabinoids
Those who must undergo regular drug screenings
Individuals who prefer light or no flavour
People living in areas with strict THC-laws
First-time users concerned about other cannabinoids

CBD: Start low, go slow

You’ve learned the key differences between Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum and Isolate. Now that you are acquainted with the different types of CBD, you might be ready to try it for yourself, but how do you take it? Since there are no medical guidelines for dosage, the rule of thumb is “start low, go slow.” It’s also very helpful to keep a diary or record of the effects you feel.

Start with a smaller amount, 10-20mg. Record the effects, and then up the dose by 5mg every 4-5 days. For some, 10mg might give them the effect they are looking for, for others it might be more like 2-300mg. With a little experimentation you’ll find your “sweet spot” that gives you the most relief. For more on dosage read our article How do I Use CBD?

Are there side-effects?

Generally speaking, CBD is very safe. It’s non-toxic, non-addictive and you can’t overdose. If you take very large doses of over 1000mg you can start to feel some discomfiting effects like dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue.

CBD Oil Direct recommendations:

Full Spectrum CBD Oil

Honest Botanicals has created a high quality, reliable CBD product in its Full Spectrum CBD Oil. Handcrafted In Vancouver, BC using the highest quality materials, this CBD Oil can help with a wide array of ailments including anxiety, pain, inflammation, depression, sleep issues and more. Honest Botanicals CBD is lab tested and derived from cannabis grown on Canada’s West Coast.

Thanks to the multitude of blood vessels under your tongue, a few drops of CBD oil placed there can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Make sure to hold it for 30-90 seconds for best results. For new users, this method makes it easy to manage your CBD dosage. Start with a low-dose tincture such as Honest Botanicals Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture. With a moderate dose, this made-in-Canada CBD oil gives you the flexibility to add CBD into your daily routine and determine your ideal daily dosage.

Pure CBD Oil-No THC

For those looking for CBD Oil with absolutely zero THC, this is some of the purest high-quality product you can find. Ideal for people who are looking for a CBD oil that contains zero THC.

Put a few drops of this CBD oil under your tongue where it can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Make sure to hold it for 30-90 seconds for best results. For new users, CBD oil administered via dropper makes it easy to manage your CBD dosage. Start with a low-dose tincture such as Honest Botanicals CBD Oil—No THC Tincture, 250mg. With a moderate dose, this Canadian-made CBD oil gives you the flexibility to add CBD into your daily routine and determine your ideal dose.

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The post Full Spectrum CBD vs Broad Spectrum vs CBD Isolate, What’s the Difference? appeared first on CBD Oil Direct.

What’s The Best CBD Product For My Condition?

Amanda — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 04:54:03 +0000

CBD is just getting more and more popular. People are using it for everything from reducing anxiety, to mitigating arthritis pain, to improving sleep, to treating skin issues and more. However, for first-time users looking for the best CBD product for their condition, the amount of selection and variety can be somewhat daunting.

Interest in CBD has skyrocketed over the last few years and industry has responded with innovation. CBD is now available in a wide variety of products—think chocolates, tinctures, bath balms and even blankets—all of varying potency. You can ingest it, rub it on your skin, or even add it to your coffee—like “bulletproof coffee” with bonus CBD health properties. There’s already such a massive selection of products on the market that it can be a bit overwhelming for the CBD newby.

It’s important to know that the science hasn’t quite caught up with CBD. At the moment, the dose of CBD you need for your condition is not something a doctor can accurately prescribe. Your CBD dose will vary according to your condition, as well as individual factors like your current immune system health, weight, natural tolerances, not to mention your own endocannabinoid system. The human endocannabinoid system is tremendously complicated, and each person’s is unique.

As a result, everyone responds to CBD differently. As it interacts with your endocannabinoid system, which regulates everything from sleep, to appetite, to mood, it helps steer you towards homeostasis. This is the highly desirable state of balance in your bodily systems that allows you to function at peak strength and efficiency. Since each person reacts to CBD uniquely, the prevailing wisdom for dosing is “start low, go slow.” For the beginner, start with the a low dose, maybe 5-10mg, and then increase the dose by 5mg every 3-4 days. Keep track of the effects and as you increase your dose, which could be as high as 300mg, you’ll find the “sweet spot” where the dose provides the most beneficial effect.

CBD is non-toxic, non-addictive, does not get you high and has very little in the way of side-effects. People have taken doses of well over 1000mg with no side-effects. However, some will be more sensitive and could experience side-effects such as dry mouth, low blood pressure, light-headedness, and drowsiness.

CBD is gentle on the body overall. A recent critical review by the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that CBD is well tolerated, has a good safety profile, and doesn’t appear to be a risk for abuse, dependence, or other public-health related problems. As far as the WHO is concerned, CBD is all good!

IMPORTANT NOTE: CBD can interfere with medication. If you are taking prescription medication please speak to your doctor about taking CBD before trying it.

Let’s have a look at some of the best CBD products for beginners…

For Beginners

FREE SHIPPING over 100$

Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture – 500mg

A favorite among our return customers, and one of the best CBD products on the market! Thanks to the multitude of blood vessels under your tongue tongue, a few drops of CBD oil placed there can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Make sure to hold it for 30-90 seconds for best results. For new users, this method makes it easy to manage your CBD dosage. Start with a low-dose tincture such as Honest Botanicals Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture. With a moderate dose, this made-in-Canada CBD oil gives you the flexibility to add CBD into your daily routine and determine your ideal daily dosage.

For Mild Anxiety

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 100$

Full Spectrum CBD Vape Pen – 0.5g

Why choose to vape? CBD is more bio-available when inhaled through the lungs, and that means more gets to your endocannabinoid system, particularly the receptors in your brain. When you vape, you feel the effects much more quickly than with edibles. The Delush Vape Pen uses a unique ceramic-coil to heat the oil, no carcinogenic metals here! A Full Spectrum hemp-derived CBD, this formula includes organic terpenes blended into premium organic MCT Oil. Delush pens are set to heat at a low, consistent temperature (below 200°F) avoiding the production of harmful carcinogens.

For Skin

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 100$

Whipped Body Butter – 300mg CBD

Best used straight after a shower when your skin is primed to absorb revitalizing nutrients, this body butter by Delush is rich as buttercream frosting. Cannabinoids absorbed through the skin stimulate your body’s endocannabinoid system to heal and restore homeostasis. Whipped Body Butter combats dry, flaky skin caused by eczema, psoriasis, and rashes thanks to a nutrient-rich formulation. If you want velvety smooth skin, this is for you! Made with some of best CBD oil produced by Canada’s West coast artisans.

For Post-Workout Muscle Aches

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 100$

The Good Budder Pain Relief Balm, 500mg CBD

Topical CBD products are useful for treating a host of problems including inflammation, arthritis, muscular aches, and pains, sprains, tendonitis, nerve damage, rheumatism and minor burns. Just apply the creams, salve or balm directly onto the sore areas of your body, where the CBD can react with localized receptors.

Made with all-natural organic ingredients, The Good Budder Pain Relief is great for muscular aches and pains from sports, intense physical training, chronic inflammation and everyday stress. It’s even better incorporated into a therapeutic massage! With a high CBD dose for a topical product, The Good Budder packs a bigger therapeutic punch while supporting your health and wellness.

For Travel

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 100$

THC-free Pure CBD Oil, 1000mg

Tinctures are a convenient way to consume CBD while traveling. Throw a 1oz bottle in your bag, and you’ll have a fast-acting CBD ready to go anytime. Great for calming those pre-flight nerves, Honest Botanicals THC-free Pure CBD Oil is made from the highest quality organic CBD oil in Canada sourced from the West coast.

For Sleep

Premium Mint-Flavoured Vegan CBD + Herbal Sleep Capsules by SleeBD, 600mg CBD

In a 2019 CBDistillery customer survey, 89% of CBD users reported better sleep when using CBD. SleeBD’s capsules are formulated as premium herbal sleep aids. Infused with melatonin, chamomile, valerian root and vitamin B6 these capsules promote deep, tranquil sleep. CBD in edible form take longer getting to your endocannabinoid system, so take 1-3 capsules (20mg each) about 1 hour before bed.

For Pets

FREE SHIPPING over 100$

Bacon Flavored CBD Oil for Dogs (small, medium, large dog sizes)

This natural wellness craze isn’t for people alone, CBD is huge with pet parents too! Made from CBD isolate extracted from Canadian-grown hemp, and flavored with a natural bacon flavoring, you can just drop some on your pup’s favorite kibble, snack or wet food. Non-allergenic, non-toxic. Made for pet lovers!

For Bath Time

FREE SHIPPING over 100$

Sweet Heart Bath Bombs, 75mg CBD

Just drop a whole heart in the bath and relax! Sweet Heart Bath Bombs, the perfect way to luxuriate and recover at the end of a long day. For that deep relaxation, soak for at least 30 minutes.

Gummies

FREE SHIPPING over 100$

Sour CBD Gummies, 300mg pack – 20mg CBD per gummy

A staff favorite, one of the best CBD products in the edible category as far as we’re concerned. Gummies are one of the most discreet ways to consume CBD when you’re out and about. These delicious sour gummies (also available in “Sweet” and vegan “Wine O’clock flavours) slow-release CBD so you feel effects in a gradual way over a longer period of time. Superb quality, organic CBD from Canada’s West coast ensures you’re getting nothing but the best. Just take 1 gummy in the morning and 1 gummy in the evening for increased wakefulness and sleep quality. Relieves anxiety and neuropathic pain too!

Additional resource:

For more info on CBD dosage, have a look at our article How do I use CBD?