A beginners guide to CBD, CBD
How to Choose Between Broad Spectrum vs Full Spectrum CBD: A Practical Guide
Oct
Table of Contents
Between 4-6 million people in the UK have tried CBD products – that’s approximately 8-11% of UK adults. With this growing popularity comes the need to understand what you’re actually buying.
If you’ve looked at CBD products online or in health stores, you’ve probably come across terms like “broad spectrum” and “full spectrum” CBD. These distinctions matter more than you might think, as they affect everything from the product’s potency to how your body processes it.
There are three main types of CBD products on the market: full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate. Each contains different combinations of compounds from the cannabis plant.
Full spectrum CBD includes all the naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant, including a small amount of THC – typically less than 0.3% in many countries, though UK regulations are stricter. Broad spectrum CBD sits somewhere in between, containing most cannabis plant compounds but with the THC removed or reduced to undetectable levels, making it suitable for those concerned about THC sensitivity. CBD isolate, meanwhile, contains only pure CBD with all other plant compounds stripped away.
The distinction between these types centres on what scientists call the entourage effect – the theory that cannabis compounds work together to create enhanced therapeutic benefits compared to isolated compounds alone. This concept is important when deciding which CBD product might suit your particular needs.
If you’re considering using CBD oil, you should speak to your GP or other healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you to do so.
What are the different types of CBD?
Before selecting a CBD product, it’s important to understand what distinguishes the three main types available. Each contains different combinations of compounds from the cannabis plant and offers distinct characteristics.
Full spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD contains all the compounds naturally found in the cannabis plant. Beyond CBD itself, this includes terpenes, flavonoids, essential oils, and other cannabinoids. The defining feature of full spectrum products is their THC content – typically less than 0.3% in the US and 0.2% in the UK.
Some manufacturers describe these as “whole plant CBD” products because they preserve the complete plant profile. Despite containing THC, these trace amounts are insufficient to produce the psychoactive effects associated with recreational cannabis.
Full spectrum CBD is particularly valued for what researchers term the “entourage effect” – the theory that cannabis compounds work together to enhance each other’s therapeutic properties. This synergy may make full spectrum products more effective for certain conditions compared to isolated CBD.
Broad spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum CBD occupies the middle ground between full spectrum and isolate products. It contains multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the cannabis plant, but with one crucial difference: the THC has been removed or reduced to undetectable levels.
Although broad spectrum products aim to be THC-free, some may contain trace amounts that are typically undetectable. The manufacturing process is more complex than full spectrum production, as it requires removing THC while preserving other beneficial compounds.
Broad spectrum products may still produce some entourage effect, though potentially less pronounced due to THC’s absence. This makes them suitable for those concerned about THC sensitivity or drug testing whilst still wanting more than pure CBD.
CBD isolate
CBD isolate is pure cannabidiol, usually in crystalline powder form. Unlike other types, isolate contains no additional cannabinoids, terpenes, or plant compounds – it’s typically 99% pure CBD or higher.
The main differences between CBD types include:
1. Compound composition Full spectrum contains all plant compounds, whilst isolate contains only CBD.
2. Therapeutic potential Research suggests full spectrum may be more effective for pain relief due to the entourage effect. Full spectrum CBD’s effects tend to increase with higher doses, whereas isolate may only work at specific dosages.
3. Taste and appearance Full spectrum has a distinctive cannabis flavour from terpenes, whilst isolate is tasteless and odourless.
4. Drug testing considerations CBD isolate contains no THC and shouldn’t trigger positive drug tests, making it preferable for workplace testing scenarios.
5. User suitability Isolate may suit first-time users who want to experience CBD without other plant compounds affecting the results.
Your choice between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD depends on your THC tolerance, specific needs, and whether you want to benefit from the potential entourage effect.
How the entourage effect works
The idea that cannabis compounds work better together than alone helps explain why your choice between broad spectrum vs full spectrum CBD matters for therapeutic outcomes.
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect describes how cannabis compounds interact with each other to produce enhanced therapeutic results compared to isolated compounds working individually. Researchers Mechoulam and Ben-Shabat first introduced this concept in 1999, and it has since changed how we understand cannabis medicine.
The theory suggests that cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant chemicals work together to create effects greater than what each compound could achieve alone. As one researcher put it, the entourage effect represents “the sum of all the parts that leads to the magic or power of cannabis”.
Scientists have identified two types of interactions:
Intra-entourage effects – when cannabinoids interact with other cannabinoids, or terpenes with other terpenes
Inter-entourage effects – when cannabinoids and terpenes interact with each other
Research shows that individual terpenes can activate CB1 receptors at about 10-50% of THC’s activation level. More importantly, certain terpenes combined with THC can increase CB1 receptor activity by several times compared to THC alone.
Why this matters for CBD products
The entourage effect directly affects how well your CBD product might work. Studies consistently show that whole plant extracts outperform isolated compounds in clinical settings.
For example, CBD-dominant cannabis extracts needed significantly lower doses to reduce epileptic seizure frequency than pure CBD, despite both showing improvements. Another study found that patients with severe pain experienced no significant improvement from THC alone compared to placebo, but whole plant extract containing both THC and CBD provided considerable pain relief.
The entourage effect may offer several advantages:
- Greater therapeutic effectiveness than isolated compounds
- Enhanced anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving actions
- Improved absorption of cannabinoids in the body
- Reduced THC-related side effects when balanced with CBD
This explains why many medical cannabis practitioners prefer full-spectrum products over isolated compounds – they utilise the complex interactions between plant components.
Which products provide entourage effects?
Not all CBD types benefit equally from the entourage effect:
Full spectrum CBD provides the most complete entourage effect because it contains all plant compounds, including trace THC (typically under 0.2% in UK products). This complete profile allows for all possible interactions between compounds.
Broad spectrum CBD still benefits from entourage effects, though potentially less pronounced due to THC removal. However, it contains multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work together.
CBD isolate produces no entourage effects as it contains only pure CBD with no other plant compounds.
Interestingly, research suggests that the most effective terpene combinations aren’t necessarily those found naturally in the highest concentrations in cannabis plants. This means that products can potentially be enhanced by adding specific terpenes rather than simply using whole plant extracts.
Understanding this helps when choosing between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD – you need to weigh whether the potential benefits of complete entourage effects justify any concerns about minimal THC content.
How full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD compare
When deciding between CBD products, the differences in composition and effects matter for your individual needs.
What’s actually in each type
Full spectrum CBD contains all compounds naturally found in the cannabis plant, including multiple cannabinoids (CBD, CBG, CBN), terpenes, essential oils, and flavonoids. These compounds work together to create the “entourage effect.”
Broad spectrum CBD offers a similar profile but undergoes additional processing to remove THC whilst keeping other beneficial compounds. Both types contain various cannabinoids and terpenes, but they differ significantly in their THC content.
THC content and UK law
UK CBD products must comply with strict legal requirements regarding THC. Full spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC (usually less than 0.2% during production), with the final product legally required to contain no more than 1mg of THC per container.
Broad spectrum CBD products aim to be entirely THC-free, with THC content typically non-detectable (below 0.01%). This makes broad spectrum an appealing choice for those wanting to avoid THC completely.
Which works better
Research suggests full spectrum CBD may provide enhanced therapeutic benefits for certain conditions. One study found that people receiving full spectrum CBD experienced higher levels of relief compared to those using CBD isolate. Full spectrum CBD also showed improved effects at higher doses, whereas isolated CBD maintained consistent effects regardless of dose increases.
Full spectrum products might be more effective for managing severe pain, inflammation, and sleep problems due to the complete entourage effect. Broad spectrum products still offer many similar benefits but possibly with slightly reduced potency because THC’s contribution to the entourage effect is absent.
Drug testing considerations
For people subject to regular drug testing, choosing between these CBD types becomes particularly important. Even legal full spectrum products containing minimal THC could potentially build up in your system with regular use.
The threshold for a positive cannabis drug test is typically set at 150 ng/mL of 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC in urine. Studies have found that consuming more than 1mg of THC daily could lead to positive urine tests for several days. Broad spectrum CBD presents a safer option for:
• Individuals with THC sensitivity
• People undergoing regular workplace drug testing
• Athletes (as WADA prohibits cannabinoids except CBD in competition)
• Those who need to drive or operate machinery regularly
How do you choose the right type for your needs?
Selecting between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD depends on several personal factors. Understanding these considerations will help you make an informed decision about which product might work best for you.
What are your wellness goals?
Your specific health objectives should guide your CBD selection. Different types may be more suitable for different purposes:
- Full spectrum CBD – May offer enhanced benefits for managing severe pain and inflammation through the complete entourage effect
- Broad spectrum CBD – Suitable for general wellness without THC concerns
- CBD isolate – Ideal if you want precise dosing or pure CBD effects
Reflecting on what you hope to achieve with CBD usage helps narrow your options . However, it’s worth noting that individual responses to CBD vary considerably, and what works for one person may not work identically for another.
Do you have concerns about THC?
Your sensitivity to THC is a crucial factor when choosing between these options. Although legal full spectrum products contain minimal THC, these trace amounts could potentially accumulate in your system with regular use .
Broad spectrum CBD offers a safer alternative if you:
- Undergo regular workplace drug testing
- Are an athlete subject to testing
- Operate machinery regularly
- Simply prefer to avoid THC entirely
This option provides many similar benefits whilst remaining virtually THC-free .
Which product format suits your lifestyle?
Beyond choosing the type of CBD, consider how different formats fit your daily routine. Oils and tinctures offer flexibility and quick absorption, whilst capsules provide convenience and pre-measured doses . Consider when and how you’ll use CBD – whether for morning wellness, evening relaxation, or specific situations .
How should you start with dosing?
Regardless of which CBD type you select, starting with a modest dose and gradually increasing is advisable. For newcomers, beginning with approximately 5mg three times daily is recommended .
Track your body’s response carefully after each adjustment, noting any changes in symptoms or effects . Finding your ideal dosage requires patience and careful observation, as CBD affects everyone differently .
This is particularly important if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, if you have any pre-existing conditions or if you are taking any medication.
What should you look for in a quality CBD product?
Quality control becomes particularly important with CBD products, as the market remains largely unregulated. Poor quality or mislabelled products could potentially cause more harm than benefit.
1. Third-party lab reports
Certificate of Analysis (COA) reports should be your first port of call when evaluating any CBD product. These documents verify what actually exists in the product you’re considering. Studies have shown widespread mislabelling of hemp and cannabis products, with both under-labelling and over-labelling of CBD and THC content.
A proper COA should include tests for cannabinoid content, heavy metals, pesticides, residual solvents, and microbiological safety. Always check that the COA matches your product’s batch number – if a company cannot provide this information easily, consider looking elsewhere.
2. Extraction methods
The method used to extract CBD from the cannabis plant directly affects product quality and safety. CO2 extraction is widely regarded as the safest approach because carbon dioxide is non-toxic and non-flammable. This method allows precise control over temperature and pressure, enabling selective extraction whilst preserving the integrity of beneficial compounds.
Some manufacturers use ethanol-based extractions, which can effectively extract both polar and non-polar compounds. However, these methods may require additional purification steps to remove any residual solvents.
3. Misleading labelling
Be particularly wary of products marketed as “cannabis sativa seed oil” rather than clearly listing “cannabidiol” or “hemp extracts” as primary ingredients. Many brands deliberately confuse consumers by using cannabis imagery on products that contain no actual CBD.
Legitimate CBD products should clearly state their CBD content in milligrams. If this information is missing or unclear, question what you’re actually purchasing.
4. Manufacturing standards
Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification indicates that a manufacturer follows strict quality standards throughout production. GMP-certified facilities undergo independent audits to confirm they test ingredients, maintain clean facilities, train staff appropriately, and document every stage of production.
Products should also be tested for pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants – this is particularly important if you have a compromised immune system.
It’s worth noting that there are currently no CBD products authorised for use in animals in the UK.
Making your choice
The decision between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD depends on your individual circumstances and what you hope to achieve. Full spectrum products may offer enhanced benefits through the complete entourage effect, whilst broad spectrum provides similar advantages without THC concerns.
Quality should be your top priority regardless of which type you choose. Look for products with Certificate of Analysis reports, proper extraction methods, and clear labelling. GMP certification indicates that a manufacturer follows strict quality standards throughout production.
Start with a low dose and adjust gradually based on how your body responds. CBD affects everyone differently, so what works for others may not work the same way for you. This process requires patience and careful observation of any changes.
The differences between these CBD types may seem subtle, but understanding them helps you make informed decisions about your wellness routine. Consider your THC sensitivity, any drug testing requirements, and your specific health objectives when making your choice.
Remember that CBD research is still developing, and individual responses vary considerably. The most suitable CBD product for you aligns with your personal needs whilst providing the benefits you’re seeking.
This is particularly important if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, if you have any pre-existing conditions or if you are taking any medication.
All health content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the differences between CBD types empowers you to make informed decisions that align with your wellness goals and lifestyle requirements.
• Full spectrum CBD contains all plant compounds including trace THC (<0.2%), potentially offering enhanced therapeutic benefits through the complete entourage effect
• Broad spectrum CBD provides similar benefits without THC, making it ideal for those concerned about drug testing or THC sensitivity
• The entourage effect occurs when cannabis compounds work synergistically together, potentially making full spectrum products more effective than isolated CBD
• Always verify third-party lab reports (COAs) and look for GMP certification to ensure product quality and safety before purchasing
• Start with low doses (around 5mg three times daily) and gradually adjust based on your body’s response and specific health objectives
When choosing between broad spectrum vs full spectrum CBD, consider your THC tolerance, drug testing requirements, and desired therapeutic outcomes. Quality matters more than type—prioritise reputable manufacturers with transparent testing and proper certifications for the safest, most effective experience.