A Quick Overview of CBD
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the (over 400) cannabinoids naturally-produced in the cannabis plant. The other very popu;ar cannabinoid is THC. You’ve undoubtedly heard about this one, too.
Unlike THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, the cannabis compound notorious for getting people high), CBD won’t leave you feeling like you’ve traveled to another planet. Instead, CBD can potentially help you chill out, get more sleep, have better sex, and manage period-related pain. Think about it like this: CBD is THC’s cool (sober) little sister.
So what does it mean when you see “full-spectrum” or “broad spectrum” on a bottle of CBD? Well, we’ll tell you.
The Different Types of CBD
A quick little Google search of “different types of CBD'' will give you a migraine; there’s just so much info online that it can all feel overwhelming. With the rise in popularity also came the rise in confusing CBD terminology. We’re going to cut straight to the chase.
Understanding the differences between the most common types of CBD is important—especially when we’re talking about full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum CBD.
Okay here are the three main types of CBD:
- Full-spectrum CBD: made with CBD + other cannabinoids, including THC (0.3% or less).
- Broad-spectrum CBD: made with CBD + other cannabinoids, minus THC.
- CBD Isolate: made with only CBD—literally nothing else.
Let’s dive in a little deeper…👇
What is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD is a product that contains many, if not all, of the cannabinoids naturally found in the cannabis + hemp plant, including very small (legal) amounts of THC.
But while the recently-passed Farm Bill does allow for the sale + consumption of CBD products with less than .3% THC in them on a federal level, it does get a bit sticky from here.
For example, if you have a job where they perform routine drug tests, you could potentially provide a positive drug test–even if you're not smoking weed. While this is definitely something you can talk to your employer about, full-spectrum CBD is something that many people in the corporate world avoid due to the risk.
Additionally, there are still some states (sigh) that haven’t yet legalized full-spectrum CBD, or that have allowed it but with heavy restrictions. Here is a map of the 50 states with the current legal status of CBD. Full-spectrum CBD supposedly plays into the entourage effect, where all the different parts of the plant play off of each other to elevate the benefits. However, there isn’t much research that supports the need for using full-spectrum CBD.
You can also use broad-spectrum THC if you want to reap the benefits of other cannabinoids—like CBN and CBC. Speaking of broad-spectrum…
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
If you're looking for a little peace and calm without the THC buzz, opt for broad-spectrum CBD.Broad-spectrum CBD includes a range of other beneficial cannabinoids, like CBD and CBC, that blend well together to bring out the benefits of the plant. Only, THC wasn’t invited to this party.
With 1200mg of CBD in each bottle, Never better is our strongest formula yet. This adaptogen-free blend combines broad-spectrum CBD and omega-3-rich MCT oil. Every 40 mg serving of the unflavored sublingual tincture is strong, effective, and manageable.
Even though CBD is technically considered psychoactive, it’s not going to get you “high” or make you feel like you’re stoned. Often confused for psychedelic (which CBD is not) the term psychoactive simply means that it alters your “normal, everyday activity, causing changes in mood, awareness, and behavior” (National Institute on Drug Abuse).
FYI, psychoactive drugs include caffeine, energy drinks and painkillers, so this term shouldn’t raise alarm in the context of CBD and its relatives.
So, What is the Difference Between Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD?
In summary, the difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD is quite simple:
Full-spectrum CBD contains THC, while broad-spectrum CBD does not.
Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum CBD; Which is Better?
The term “better” is subjective, and depends on who’s using it and for what reason.
Finding the CBD that works best for you is so very important. Even though CBD is generally regarded as safe and effective for most people, we’re still in the early phases of research island scientists are still learning about this plant.
We (always) recommend that you do your own research, be patient with the results, buy only the best-quality CBD, and talk to your doctor before making any lifestyle changes—especially if you’re incorporating CBD into your routine.
Here’s what you should know when you’re shopping for broad-spectrum CBD:
- Even though it can help with a wide variety of issues, CBD products are not a magical potion that will cure all your woes–and you should be cautious of anyone claiming that it is.
- Check the certificate of analysis (COA) provided by the company to verify third-party testing, and make sure the products pass tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds.
- For a CBD product to be fully legal, it has to have 0.3% or less THC. Make sure to read the label!
- Check out what other customers have to say via the company reviews and social media pages.
- Make sure that the hemp comes from the US and is sun-grown.
In Short
If you’re looking for the highlight reel because that was too much info, here you go:
The real difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD is quite simple: Full-spectrum CBD contains THC, broad-spectrum CBD does not.
Basically it all boils down to what you’re looking for in your CBD. If you want all the cannabinoids you can get, a full-spectrum CBD might be what you’re looking for. If you want to keep it simple and sweet, and you're concerned about having trace amounts of THC in your system, we suggest sticking with broad-spectrum CBD.
Bring It might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Most of our ingredients are organic, meaning we don't use pesticides or harmful chemicals. You'll find on our website that each and every product includes the ingredients inside, so you know exactly what you're putting in and on your body.
Our hemp is sun-grown in Oregon (where hemp laws and best practices are some of the strictest in the country) and crafted specifically without any artificial ingredients. Our handcrafted blends combine broad-spectrum CBD with MCT and avocado oils, as well as a proprietary adaptogen blend. Additionally, all of our products are third-party lab-tested, which helps ensure purity and potency.
Interested in trying out broad-spectrum CBD, but not sure where to start? Here are some additional articles about CBD to help you become an expert:
- What Does CBD Feel Like?
- Is CBD Legal? Here’s the Scoop
- Are There Side Effects of CBD?
- Complete CBD Dosage Guide
- Product Spotlight: Bring It
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According to the Controlled Substances Act, hemp is no longer included in the definition of marijuana. Consequently, CBD products derived from hemp containing less than 0.3 percent THC are permitted under federal law. Still, CBD products with higher than 0.3 percent THC are classed as marijuana under federal law and may be legal in some states. It's important to check the laws of your state before you purchase CBD products. As the FDA hasn't approved nonprescription CBD products, some products could be labeled incorrectly. Information contained on our website is not to be used as legal or medical advice. Please talk to your doctor before trying CBD, especially if you’re taking it for the first time.