What’s the Difference Between Full-Spectrum and Broad-Spectrum CBD?

Whether youre a CBD connoisseur or youre new to the industry, the difference between types of CBD can be confusing. Below weve broken down the difference between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and THC-free CBD products.

You might be wondering – why are there three different types of cannabidiol products?

Having three types of cannabidiol makes CBD accessible to everyone. Each version of CBD is formulated with a specific customer in mind. Keep reading to find out which type of CBD is best for you.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Full-spectrum products contain the entire plant-profile; cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils. All of these beneficial plant-based compounds are thought to work together synergistically. This idea is also referred to as the entourage effect. Some believe that the best way to get the most out of plant-medicine is to use the entire plant.

Why choose full-spectrum CBD products? The ability to cultivate the benefits of the entire plant without the high. Hemp has over 85 different cannabinoids, each with the ability to interact uniquely with the body. More research needs to be done, but preliminary reports continue to uncover the potential of hemp and all of its naturally occurring compounds. The benefits of CBD are undeniable, and the possibilities that lie within minor cannabinoids is something we are only beginning to understand.

What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?

Broad-Spectrum CBD encompasses the entire plant – minus the THC. Each broad-spectrum CBD product contains CBD and other minor cannabinoids such as CBG and CBN. Before these products are formulated, the THC is extracted. This process ensures consumers can enjoy the benefits of the hemp plant without having to worry about this controversial cannabinoid. Broad-spectrum products are an optimal choice for so many because they offer all the benefits of the plant without the risk associated with THC.

What is THC-Free CBD?

THC-Free products, also known as CBD-only, are CBD infused commodities that contain none of the other cannabinoids. Most notably, these products are THC-free. CBD-only products are generally considered drug test safe.

Either out of preference or necessity, a plethora of consumers prefer these products. THC is still illegal in many states, and companies in legal states continue to drug test for THC.

The one definitive statement we can make about THC is that more research must be done. For most Americans, THC in their CBD products isnt an option but that doesnt mean they don’t understand the value of the hemp plant.

I Know the Difference Between Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, and THC-Free products, but which type of CBD is the right fit for me?

We’ve covered the differences between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and THC-free, but which one is right for you?

While there isnt a one-size-fits-all solution, here are a few guidelines to help you decide which type of CBD is best for you?

1. Do you have to pass a drug test?
   If drug testing is a concern for you, we recommend avoiding full-spectrum CBD products. Be sure to talk with your employer before using any full-spectrum CBD. Legally, the amount of THC in a full-spectrum CBD product is negligible, but the risk typically isnt worth it. Wed recommend looking at broad-spectrum or THC-free products.
2. I love CBD, but I dont want to mess around with THC.
   THC isnt for everyone. That is the beauty of broad-spectrum CBD. If full-spectrum CBD makes you nervous, broad-spectrum products offer all of the same benefits – minus the THC. There is no denying the upside of CBD alone.
3. I don’t get tested for supplements and I want the best CBD available.
   If youre seeking the best CBD you can find, and you’re not worried about a drug test, both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products are great options.

Full-spectrum CBD products offer unrivaled whole-plant relief. Full-spectrum CBD allows you to experience the entourage effect, or the plants naturally occurring compounds working synergistically together.

Looking for more information on CBD? Check out our CBD 101 – A complete guide to CBD.