If you're looking for a natural way to alleviate various health conditions, you may have heard about the benefits of CBD. However, with so many different types of CBD products on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. One popular option is broad spectrum CBD, which contains a wide range of beneficial cannabinoids and other plant compounds. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at what broad spectrum CBD is, how it differs from other types of CBD, and how it can benefit your health.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce a "high." Instead, it is believed to have a range of therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep.
CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating various physiological functions, such as mood, appetite, and sleep. The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced naturally by the body), and enzymes that break down cannabinoids.
What Is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract that contains a wide range of beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. However, unlike full spectrum CBD, which contains all the compounds found in the plant, broad spectrum CBD is THC-free.
To create broad spectrum CBD, the extract is refined to remove all traces of THC while retaining the other beneficial compounds. This makes it a good option for people who want to experience the benefits of the entourage effect (the theory that the different compounds in cannabis work together to produce greater effects than they would alone) without consuming THC.
Broad Spectrum CBD vs. Full Spectrum CBD
Broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD are both CBD extracts that contain various cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant. The main difference between them is that full-spectrum CBD contains THC, while broad-spectrum CBD does not. Full-spectrum CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, which is the legal limit in the United States. While this amount of THC is not enough to produce any psychoactive effects, it may still show up on a drug test. Broad-spectrum CBD products are a better option for those who want to avoid THC completely.
How Does Broad Spectrum CBD Differ from Other Types of CBD?
In addition to broad spectrum CBD, there are two other types of CBD extract: full spectrum and CBD isolate.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD contains all the beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC. While the amount of THC is typically very low (less than 0.3%), it can still show up on drug tests and may produce psychoactive effects in some people. Full spectrum CBD is believed to be the most effective type of CBD due to the entourage effect.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD extract, containing only CBD and no other compounds. While it may still have therapeutic benefits, it does not produce the entourage effect.
Benefits of Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum CBD may offer a range of therapeutic benefits, similar to other types of CBD extract. However, because it contains a wider range of compounds, it may be more effective for some people. Here are some of the potential benefits of broad spectrum CBD:
Pain relief
CBD is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, and migraines. The other compounds in broad spectrum CBD may enhance these effects.
Anxiety relief
CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The other compounds in broad spectrum CBD may also contribute to these effects.
Better sleep
CBD has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration in people with sleep disorders. The other compounds in broad spectrum CBD may enhance these effects.
Neuroprotection
CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain from damage caused by conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The other compounds in broad spectrum CBD may enhance these effects.
