Sure, taking CBD comes with the promise of improved sleep, better peace of mind, and enhanced athletic performance, among other benefits. However, the number of benefits you can enjoy from taking CBD will greatly depend on the type of CBD you choose to take. There is a diversity of CBD varieties with regard to the ingredient profiles, the source plant, and the method of intake, and understanding each one of these will enhance your journey of using the product.
Among the most vital aspects to understand about the different CBD varieties is the composition profile of the extracts. This includes full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate varieties.
Read on to learn some more about these varieties and how to choose between them.
The Extraction Process of CBD
Understanding the extraction profile of CBD can be vital in learning about the different composition profiles and the benefits they can offer you. Ideally, the most common methods of CBD extraction in the hemp industry are the supercritical CO2 extraction method and alcohol extraction via ethanol. Generally, the latter method is less expensive, though it produces a lower quality CBD product.
If done wrong, it can result in some residue of ethanol in the final extract. However, there are reputable extractors that know how to utilize this method without making this mistake. The CO2 extraction method is the more preferred extraction option as the resulting oil is typically cleaner and healthier.
There are a couple of CBD extraction methods, including the subcritical extraction that uses high temperatures and the supercritical extraction that uses low temperatures. The supercritical option (low-temperature method), is preferred as it prevents cannabinoid loss in the extraction process.
CBD Full Spectrum Extract
CBD full-spectrum extracts contain a full range terpenes and cannabinoid profile, meaning that it offers the highest range of benefits. As long as the extraction process used was of high-quality, its chemical content will closely mirror that of the actual plant. This option typically contains THC, though at low levels.
This is because the CBD will be extracted from the hemp plant, which has a lower THC profile than the marijuana plant, typically less than 0.3% by dry weight. Companies looking to sell CBD typically have to adhere to these levels of THC content to sell their CBD legally. At such low levels of THC content, the oil is typically non-psychoactive.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolates are created by isolating cannabidiol to the single-molecule. The resulting extract is a white powder with high concentrations of CBD. It can then be added to a variety of carriers for consumption, such as MCT oil. Unlike the other options, isolates will require higher and more precise dosing to get similar benefits.
Ideally, the naturally occurring terpenes need also to be removed to come up with a completely pure isolate. However, since these terpenes have a variety of health benefits, some companies tend to re-add them to the isolates to come up with terpsolate, which shouldn’t be confused with broad-spectrum CBD.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
Ideally, the content profile of broad-spectrum CBD products is similar to that of the full spectrum variety, with the exception of THC. This makes this option great for people who do not want to consume THC for reasons such as drug tests. As a result, they can enjoy the maximum therapeutic benefits of CBD without worrying about consuming THC.
Before the introduction of this option, the only THC-free option in the market was the CBD isolate. The broad-spectrum option came about through advancements in technology that enabled companies to extract THC from the extract through chromatography.
Check Lab Results Before Purchase
Depending on your reasons for taking CBD products, choosing the right CBD option is essential. For instance, if you want to stay away from THC, the full spectrum option will not be ideal for you. Sadly, the regulation of the CBD industry is only starting, meaning that quality isn’t currently standardized in the industry.
While most reputable companies will offer quality products, some brands might offer CBD products of low quality, which means that you need to be careful with the kind of brands you purchase from. In the interest of transparency, reputable brands have started offering lab results to detail the composition of their CBD products.
These lab results can either be done in-house or by third-party vendors. Read through such results when purchasing your CBD products to ensure that they contain the chemical compositions you need.
Which is the Most Effective: Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, or Isolate
The full-spectrum variety is the most beneficial option for people looking to take CBD products since it mirrors the chemical profile of the hemp plant. The negative thing is that it also contains THC, which is psychoactive. Previously, the only option that was available for people who want to enjoy THC-free CBD products was the isolate option. Luckily, the broad spectrum option offers you maximum therapeutic benefits without the risk of exposure to THC.
Taking the Right Dosage of CBD
Your body might not function like everyone else’s. While a friend of yours might need only a few milligrams of CBD to get the full benefit they desire, you might require a little bit more. When starting out, it might be ideal to talk to a doctor to help you pick the right initial dosage.
While an under-dose will mean that you aren’t getting the most from your purchase, and over-dose might lead to a few uncomfortable side effects, though they are non-lethal. You can start with a low dosage and watch how it helps you achieve your intended purpose. For instance, if you are taking CBD to improve your workout regimen, note down how your initial dosage affects your workout sessions.
If you aren’t getting the desired results, you can increase your dosage by a few milligrams. After a few days of observation, you should manage to settle on the most effective dosage.
Investing in the right CBD product is ideal for your health and well-being, and it all starts with how well you understand the different types of CBD. The trick lies in picking the products that will offer you the most bang for your buck. Be sure to purchase your products from reputable vendors to ensure that you are getting quality products.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for information and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to reflect the specific views of the publication.
