CBD is one of the most popular health supplements in the world right now. This extract from the cannabis plant is purported to provide a number of health benefits, with many of these now being supported by scientific research. However, there are a variety of different CBD products out there, and different formulations of the compound, which makes choosing the right one difficult if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Fortunately, CBD is not nearly as complicated as you might think from this first impression. While there are lots of different types of CBD product, it’s generally quite easy to work out which one you want. Ultimately, any formulation of CBD can be useful; there are only a few instances in which you would want a specific formulation i.e. a topical formulation for treating skin issues.
Full-Spectrum, Broad Spectrum and Isolate
One of the first terms you will encounter once you start looking at CBD products is full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate. These terms refer to the method by which CBD is extracted from the cannabis or hemp plant.
The terms are pretty self-explanatory; full spectrum means that the extract contains all of the compounds present in the plant that can be extracted by the method used. Usually, full spectrum extract oil is made from hemp plants, which contain no THC. THC is the compound which causes the psychoactive effects of cannabis and is illegal throughout the US. CBD, on the other hand, is not recreational and is legal.
A broad spectrum extract is a full-spectrum extract with the THC taken out. From the perspective of the average CBD user, there is little difference between a full spectrum and a broad-spectrum product. However, isolate consists of just CBD and is, therefore, the most ‘potent’ product.
Which One Should I Use?
In terms of the effect, all of these forms of CBD will be largely the same. While full spectrum and broad-spectrum products will contain additional compounds, there is little to no research on most of them and so it’s impossible to say whether they do anything medically, let alone whether any of those things are beneficial.
Can I Make My Own?
Yes. However, make sure that you check the laws in your state. While CBD is generally accepted as legal throughout the US, not all states will allow you to grow hemp plants. Obviously, in states where weed is legal recreationally, you’re free to grow a certain amount of cannabis anyway. If you are in a state where you can grow hemp, then you can order hemp seeds CBD online easily.
Which Formulation to Choose
There are plenty of different formulations of CBD out there, and these encompass oils, topical solutions, edible food and a variety of other forms. Really, the best one for you is whatever is the most convenient. In terms of the effects, vaping will generally have a shorter duration and eating will have a longer duration.
As a general rule, if you want to use CBD to treat something acute, for example, short term pain management, then vaporized products will have the fastest onset and can easily be re-dosed. However, if you are not going to be able to take more CBD throughout the day, for example, if you’re at work, then you should look to an edible formulation.
Are you considering giving CBD a try? Let us know in the comments.
