It is possible to obtain Cannabidiol (CBD) in three different variations. CBD isolate is the pure form of CBD, it is selected, extracted and purified and comes in crystallized form. CBD is only one of the cannabinoids present in the Cannabis phytocomplex (there are over 113). When we talk instead of full spectrum, we mean the complete extract of all its cannabinoids, including terpenes and flavonoids.
The most famous Cannabinoids are:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, Δ9-THC)
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Cannabinol (CBN)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabielsoin (CBE)
- Cannabichromene (CBC)
- Cannabicyclol (CBL)
- Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)
The third derivative containing CBD is the broad spectrum, which is the complete phytocomplex from which THC is chemically removed. The latter, having a psychotropic effect, can give undesirable effects if taken orally (sublingually).
CBD Isolate
As we said, it is the purest form of CBD. Thanks to its crystallized form is often used in cosmetics for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and in nutraceuticals for its many relaxing, anxiolytic and pain relieving properties. Since February 2021, CBD has been included in CosING – European Cosmetic ingredients database.
Full Spectrum
It contains multiple extracts of the plant, cannabinoids, essential oils, terpenes and flavonoids. Among the extracted cannabinoids is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): dilution in an excipient such as hemp seed oil, olive oil or coconut oil (MCT), however, lowers the THC level below 0.3%, a relatively low percentage and not strong enough to have psychotropic effects.
Broad Spectrum
Very similar to the full spectrum, but with relatively low traces of THC, its effect is definitely more effective than the CBD isolate thanks to what is called “entourage effect”
Entourage Effect
The term “entourage effect” describes the synergistic effectiveness of the combination of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids extracted from Cannabis Sativa. Their combination increases the effectiveness over their individual benefits. As in an orchestra, no matter how good a soloist is, his or her skill will be even more emphasized when playing within a group of musicians with various instruments. The entourage effect comes from both the individual benefits of members and the interactions between them.
