What is the difference between Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum CBD?

It’s a question that we get a lot but don’t worry, it’s not complicated at all.

Our CBD (Cannabidiol) products here in the U.K. are derived from the Hemp plant which is part of the Cannabis family. Within the hemp plant there are hundreds of naturally occurring components that we call Cannabinoids. There are so many of these cannabinoids that, in fact, we are not yet entirely sure what they all do. What we do know is that the hemp plant has been shown to have a bunch of beneficial applications for us lovely humans.

But, back to the question at hand, what is the difference between Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum CBD? Well, in a nutshell full spectrum is the entirety of the hemp plant being used to produce products while in broad spectrum we are removing the cannabinoids associated with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). In fact there is a third type of CBD called CBD Isolate where we strip out every cannabinoid except for CBD.

Why the difference?

There are a few reasons why we differentiate between full and broad spectrum. The most common reason is because the hemp plant contains that little bit of THC. Now rest assured this will always be at a level within our products that is perfectly legal in the U.K. However, we cannot guarantee it will not register on a drugs test. Sometimes people feel it is better to be safe than sorry and that is perfectly fine. 

Something has to be said about the Entourage Effect too. Researchers are not completely sure yet, but by stripping out even a single cannabinoid there is a chance to completely change the overall effect of taking CBD. 

Broad spectrum is designed for people who feel they have a very low tolerance to THC or just don’t want to take it completely. It also tends to be a little cheaper than its full spectrum counterpart and also can be flavoured for those of you who are not fans of the earthy tastes associated with hemp.

There are people out there with a lower tolerance to THC than others too. For them the focus and drive that comes with taking CBD may be in conflict with the THC contained within a full spectrum product so would rather eliminate it entirely. 

So to recap: 

Which is the spectrum for you?

Not everyone is the same. The truth is the best product for you is going to be different from someone else. Some people will find that a few doses of broad spectrum throughout the day is exactly what they need and others a dose of full spectrum of an evening has the desired effects. 

The proof is in the pudding, as they say, but we are on hand here at Hemptronics to help you on your CBD journey.