When talking about CBD and CBD oils, the terms full-spectrum and broad-spectrum are often used. But what exactly do they mean and what should you know about them?
The female flower of the hemp plant is used in the production of both full- and broad-spectrum oils, as this is where the highest cannabinoid content is found. In principle, a hemp plant can produce over 100 different cannabinoids. The best known are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Full-spectrum CBD oil – the full power of the hemp plant
The term full-spectrum in CBD oils means that the oil contains other cannabinoids and plant substances found in the hemp plant in addition to CBD. Full-spectrum CBD oils contain the natural and untreated full extract and therefore the full spectrum of active ingredients.
Specifically, full-spectrum CBD oils contain all the important cannabinoids, terpenes (which give the plant its fragrance), flavonoids and other ingredients from the hemp plant. The cannabinoids and terpenes in these oils have a stronger effect in combination than in isolation and therefore offer more health benefits. This is also referred to as the “entourage effect” (interaction of several substances).
Broad spectrum CBD oil – no detectable THC content
Simply put, broad-spectrum CBD oil is very similar to full-spectrum CBD oil. This is because broad-spectrum CBD oil also contains terpenes and flavonoids from the hemp plant in addition to the cannabinoid CBD. The only difference between the two oil variants is the THC content – while this is less than 0.2% in full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum CBD oil contains no THC or undetectable amounts. This means that the latter also contains all the advantages of the entourage effect, simply without the THC content.
Why are there two different products?
Even though the THC content in full-spectrum CBD oil is very low, this oil is considered potentially mildly intoxicating. Not all users want to consume THC or are very sensitive to THC, but still want to benefit from the entourage effect. For these people, broad-spectrum CBD oil is very suitable.
Which oil is the right one?
Basically, there is no right or wrong, because every oil has a different function and a different benefit, depending on the situation and compatibility.
