Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate: what is the difference?
1 min readWhen you choose a CBD oil you quickly come across the terms full-spectrum and broad-spectrum. The difference comes down to which natural compounds from the hemp plant are retained. Here we explain both in plain terms and help you find what suits you.
What is full-spectrum oil?
Full-spectrum oil retains the complete range of natural compounds from the hemp plant: CBD alongside other cannabinoids, natural terpenes, and a very small amount of THC. Many people choose full-spectrum oil because they want the whole range of compounds included.
What is broad-spectrum oil?
Broad-spectrum oil also contains many cannabinoids and terpenes, but THC has been largely removed, leaving only trace amounts. This suits those who want the benefit of a wide range of compounds while keeping THC to a minimum.
The cannabinoids in brief
- CBD (cannabidiol): the most common and most studied.
- CBG (cannabigerol): often called the mother cannabinoid, a precursor to the others.
- CBN (cannabinol): forms as the plant ages.
- CBC (cannabichromene): one of the less widely known cannabinoids.
It is thought that these compounds work together when present in their natural ratios. You can read the basics in the article what is CBD.
Which one is right for you?
Choose full-spectrum oil if you want the full natural range of compounds. Choose broad-spectrum if you want to keep THC to an absolute minimum. Both are high quality; the choice comes down to personal preference.
Our oils
Our full-spectrum oils are in the Natural Full Spectrum collection, available in 20% and 30%. The broad-spectrum Premium oils are in the Premium collection. Compare all strengths in the CBD oil collection.
What is isolate?
CBD isolate is pure CBD with all other cannabinoids and terpenes removed, and it contains no THC. CBD Reykjavík focuses on full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils, but isolate is the third option worth knowing about.
Frequently asked questions
What is CBG?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is a cannabinoid often called the mother cannabinoid because other cannabinoids in the plant develop from it.
Does broad-spectrum oil contain THC?
Only trace amounts. THC is largely removed from broad-spectrum oil, unlike full-spectrum which retains a small natural quantity.
Which is stronger, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum?
Strength is determined by percentage and milligrams, not by whether the oil is full-spectrum or broad-spectrum. Both are available in different strengths.
