Out of the wide variety of CBD and Hemp extract products available on the market, most are labelled as either full-spectrum, broad-spectrum or CBD isolate. For beginners in the world of CBD, these labels can be a bit confusing as the difference between them is not immediately apparent. Understanding the nature of different kinds of CBD Hemp extracts can make a lot of difference in your final selection, and finding out which type is best suited for you is essential. Here is a short guide to explain the difference between the different kinds of CBD Hemp extracts and how they can be used.
What is CBD and How Does it Work?
Let us begin by first understanding the nature of CBD. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a phytochemical that exists within the hemp plant. It is one of the 113 cannabinoids present in the Hemp plant and may constitute around 40% of the plant matter. This compound is extracted from the Hemp plant and used in various forms as a powdered extract or as an infused oil or cosmetic formulation.
CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid system of the body. This endocannabinoid system, or ECS in short, is a natural hormonal system of the body that produces the body’s endocannabinoid compounds. These compounds perform several functions in the body in terms of regulation, balance and homeostasis. The CBD extract from the Hemp plant interacts with the receptors of the Endocannabinoid system of the body and supplements the natural and normal functioning of the connected body systems. It is believed the CBD has beneficial effects on the endocannabinoid system, which in turn takes part in the regulatory and supportive activities of the bodily systems and organs.
Different Kinds of CBD Extract
CBD Hemp extract is divided into three broad categories based on their composition and nature of chemicals that are found alongside the extract. Here is a short explanation of the three different types.
- CBD Isolate: This type of CBD Extract contains only pure crystalline CBD and no other related phytochemical of the Hemp Plant. As the hemp plant has several other compounds associated with the CBD content, this type of extract is filtered and processed post-extraction to remove other chemicals, leaving behind only the CBD extract that is found in the plant.
- Broad-Spectrum: This type of CBD contains most of the phytochemical components of the hemp plant with the removal of all THC content. THC is the compound found in trace quantities in the hemp plant which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Removing this chemical leaves behind only the isolated compounds found along with CBD that does not possess any psychoactive properties.
- Full-Spectrum CBD: This is the most natural form of the CBD extract as it contains all the beneficial compounds extracted from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC, though not enough to cause intoxication. This type of CBD extract is considered the most preferable and natural as it contains all the compounds naturally found in the Hemp plant associated with CBD which supplement its function and provide holistic effects to the endocannabinoid system of the body.
The Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-Spectrum CBD is considered a preferable form of the CBD extract as it is not subjected to any filtering or post-extraction processing and thus can remain in its natural organic form without any addition or removal of components. This means that full-spectrum CBD contains all the beneficial compounds of the Hemp plant found alongside CBD which work in tandem with CBD. This is believed to produce beneficial effects on the endocannabinoid system of the body. The Endocannabinoid system regulated the balance, equilibrium and homeostasis of the internal systems of the body and is present as a vast network of receptors. The CBD extract interacts with the receptors of the ECS in the body. It is believed to have a beneficial effect on the normal functioning of the endocannabinoid system due to the Entourage or Ensemble Effect.
How is Full-Spectrum CBD Used?
Full-spectrum CBD can be used in several formats such as capsules, edible oils, consumables infused with Full-Spectrum CBD such as gummies and chocolates etc.
It can also be used for topical application by using creams, lotions, balms and other cosmetics that contain Full-Spectrum CBD. Full-Spectrum CBD can also be used topically through infused massage oils, soaps and shampoos.
No matter what the formulation, Full-Spectrum CBD is a beneficial compound that is safe to ingest and safe for topical application. It produces the Entourage effect in all forms.
What is the Entourage Effect?
The Entourage or Ensemble effect is the name given to the phenomenon by which CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system of the body. CBD Hemp extract is believed to have beneficial effects on the endocannabinoid system of the body. The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors and hormonal pathways that regulate the normal functioning of the body and maintain balance and equilibrium. The CBD extract is believed to interact and is metabolised by the receptors of the endocannabinoid system of the body and delivers the entourage effect to the ECS.
How Can I Purchase Full-Spectrum CBD Hemp Extract Products?
There are very less companies that specialises in CBD products that contain organic, full-spectrum and vegan-friendly CBD Hemp extract in a variety of formulations. From CBD capsules to balms and cosmetic products, CBD Online Shop offers a range of quality CBD Hemp Extract products that meet international standards. For a look at the products offered, have a look at the CBD Online Shop.
