With the rapid growth in the cannabidiol (CBD) oil industry, we are witnessing the arrival of new products to the market at an ever-growing pace. This only adds to the confusion and complexity of choosing the right product. With so many types of products available, not to mention all the types of oil, it is challenging to understand the benefits of each offer and navigate in CBD-related terminology.
Before buying any CBD product, it is essential to know the basics and understand the difference between the various products.
Full-spectrum CBD oil
The most important fact is that CBD itself is one of hundreds of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Full-spectrum CBD oil includes most of these cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychological (euphoric) effects of cannabis, but legal products in the UK must contain less than 0.2 % of this cannabinoid.
Besides, full-spectrum CBD oil contains a number of different plant-based ingredients like:
- Essential vitamins
- Minerals
- Fatty acids
- Plant-based protein and fiber
- Chlorophyll
- Terpenes
- Flavonoids
Broad-spectrum CBD oil
Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum CBD oil, and sometimes it is thought of as its variation. The only difference is that one component – THC – is almost completely striped along with many of the other cannabinoids. That is why it is also sometimes called a’ hybrid full spectrum’
Both full-spectrum CBD and broad-spectrum CBD show the full benefits of the cannabis plant called entourage effect described in British Journal of Pharmacology in 20112.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil is preferable among individuals with sensitivity to THC and who can’t face strong psychoactive effects after taking THC even in the lowest doses. Also, it is recommended for individuals taking CBD for the first time and who are hesitant about THC.
CBD isolate
A CBD isolate is a pure, isolated CBD compound. It comes as a powder of white color and contains no other active components. In the UK this product is currently illegal to ingest however it can be found in a number of vape and cosmetic products. It has been described by many as odourless.
CBD isolate is considered entirely safe, and it has no risk of psychoactive effect due to containing 0% THC. However, it would not bring the desired ‘entourage effect’.
What product to choose?
There are many factors influencing your choice. Since full-spectrum CBD oil is safe and legal in the UK and contains a minimum legal dose of THC you may wish to enjoy its benefits. But consider your personal sensitivity to the chemical, body-weight, and medical history.
References
1. Gallily R, Yekhtin Z, Hanuš LO. Overcoming the Bell-Shaped Dose-Response of Cannabidiol by Using Cannabis Extract Enriched in Cannabidiol. Pharmacol Pharm. 2015;06(02):75-85. doi:10.4236/pp.2015.62010
2. Russo EB. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. Br J Pharmacol. 2011;163(7):1344-1364. doi:10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
