Broad-Spectrum CBD: A Comprehensive Guide

Broad-spectrum CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural product obtained from the Cannabis sativa (hemp) plant. Its particularity is that the psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is removed during the manufacturing process. Therefore, broad-spectrum CBD may offer several potential health benefits such as pain relief, inflammation control, and anxiety reduction — with the added benefit of not inducing the intoxicating effects commonly associated with cannabis.

In this article, we will discuss broad-spectrum CBD, its potential health benefits, side effects, available forms, and administration methods, as well as the differences between broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD products.

What is broad-spectrum CBD?

Broad-spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) refers to a non-psychoactive natural product extracted from the hemp plant. Over 500 compounds can be found in cannabis plants, including cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids.

Out of these compounds, more than 100 correspond to cannabinoids, including CBD, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC), among others.

Among these, CBD and THC are the most important and studied cannabinoids, which have been credited with most of the potential beneficial properties of cannabis.

The main difference between them is that THC has psychoactive properties, inducing the 'high' usually associated with marijuana, as opposed to CBD, which is not psychoactive.

Broad-spectrum CBD products are made by extracting CBD from the hemp plant along with all other natural compounds, including terpenes, alkaloids, and flavonoids; but removing almost all THC content.

Forms of broad-spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD products are available in a variety of forms depending on their intended use.

Ultimately, the choice of intake of any given form of broad-spectrum CBD depends on individual preferences and needs.

Broad-spectrum CBD vs. full-spectrum CBD: which one is right for you?

CBD extracts can be found in three presentations: CBD isolate (only CBD, no other compounds), broad-spectrum CBD, and full-spectrum CBD. To understand the key differences between broad-spectrum vs. full-spectrum CBD products, it is important to know about the ‘entourage effect.’

The ‘entourage effect’ refers to the suggested increase in effects obtained from the cannabis plant when all its natural compounds work together in a synergic way. This proposes that the combined effects of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids are greater than the sum of their individual effects.

Taking this into account, the main differences between these two types of CBD extracts can be summed up as follows:

It is important to mention that even though full-spectrum CBD products contain THC, the amounts of this psychoactive compound are considered not high enough to produce intoxicating effects. However, if you are sensitive to THC, full-spectrum CBD may not be a suitable option for you.

This means that full-spectrum CBD might be more suitable for people who want to reap the maximum amount of benefits from CBD and are not worried about minimal THC exposure.

However, in the case of THC exposure being an issue due to personal beliefs, high sensitivity, or concerns about drug tests, broad-spectrum CBD may still be a good option for those wanting to benefit from the ‘entourage effect’ provided by all the other natural compounds in cannabis.

What are the benefits of broad-spectrum CBD?

One of the theories is that CBD exerts its effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body. This system is present in all mammals and is regulated by endocannabinoids, which are substances naturally produced in the body. Endocannabinoids help keep a balance of several functions and processes, such as mood, appetite, pain sensation, memory, and immune response.

Even though the whole process of how CBD interacts with the ECS has not been completely elucidated to date, several studies have shown that CBD may have the potential to be used as a natural remedy to achieve several health benefits.

Pain relief

CBD interacts simultaneously with multiple pain receptors of the ECS located throughout the peripheral and central nervous systems in the body. This effect is suggested to modify the perception of pain signals, making it a potential intervention to modulate pain sensation; for instance, when the pain is chronic (long-term) and of neuropathic origin (pain resulting from nerve damage).

In this sense, an animal study showed some beneficial effects when using broad-spectrum CBD for the management of fibromyalgia in mice. Further studies performed on humans demonstrated the potential therapeutic impact of CDB-derived products to achieve self-reported arthritis pain reduction, improve anxiety and stress, and increase hunger in people dealing with conditions like cancer.

Nevertheless, even though CBD may be potentially useful as a natural remedy to achieve chronic pain relief and help control symptoms in people with certain conditions, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking broad-spectrum CBD or other hemp-derived products.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits

Some anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties have been attributed to CBD. Antioxidants are molecules that help neutralize compounds known as free radicals, which have the potential to cause damage to the cells and tissues of the body by causing oxidative stress.

Besides having an antioxidant effect, CBD may also induce an anti-inflammatory response by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Thus, broad-spectrum CBD is a promising product that may be useful to aid in the management of many conditions, including inflammatory diseases and those associated with oxidative stress. However, research is ongoing and more evidence is necessary in this regard.

Anxiety reduction

CBD may help decrease anxiety by interacting with the ECS and serotonin receptors found in the central and peripheral nervous systems. This effect may aid in the management of some mental health disorders characterized by anxiety.

Therefore, CBD may be beneficial to help people with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

However, people considering broad-spectrum CBD for anxiety reduction should consult with a healthcare professional to make sure this product is safe in their particular situation.

Sleep improvement

Some studies performed on rats found that CBD interacts with receptors of the ECS, potentially leading to a positive effect on overall sleep improvement.

Furthermore, because of its potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and pain-relieving effects, CBD may be used by some people to help them fall asleep and have a good night's rest.

Despite this, the evidence supporting the use of CBD as a potential intervention to help manage sleep disorders is scarce, and the results of human trials have been contradictory.

To date, there is insufficient data to confirm whether broad-spectrum CBD and other CBD derivates are effective as natural remedies for sleep improvement.

Seizure control

The FDA approved a CBD-based drug called EpidiolexⓇ to help treat some rare diseases of childhood epilepsy, namely Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome (DS), in patients aged 2 years and older.

However, even though this CBD-based drug gained FDA approval to help control seizures, it is imperative to always consult with a doctor before attempting to use broad-spectrum CBD or any other hemp-derived products with the intent to treat or manage any disease or condition.

Side effects of broad-spectrum CBD

CBD is likely safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, sensitive individuals may experience certain side effects of CBD, including appetite changes, diarrhea, drowsiness, or mood changes.

Furthermore, since high-dose CBD may lead to liver problems, additional precautions must be taken when ingesting CBD with medications that are processed in the liver, including drugs like paracetamol, omeprazole, and some antibiotics.

People taking medication for other health problems must also be aware that potential interactions may happen when taking CBD. So, consulting with a healthcare practitioner is of utmost importance to prevent health problems derived from drug interactions.

What are the applications of broad-spectrum CBD?

Broad-spectrum CBD products may be used as a natural remedy to aid in multiple health concerns without the psychoactive effects of THC.

For instance, broad-spectrum CBD may be useful for mental health support, stress management, inflammation control, pain relief in multiple chronic conditions, and overall wellness.

However, research is ongoing, and further evidence regarding the use of broad-spectrum CBD for these conditions is necessary to reach a definitive consensus.

Currently, only one CBD-based drug EpidiolexⓇ gained FDA approval for the treatment of rare forms of difficult-to-control childhood epilepsy. Therefore, the use of broad-spectrum CBD should only be carried out under strict medical vigilance.

How to use broad-spectrum CBD

There is no established dosage of broad-spectrum CBD, and its rate of absorption can vary depending on several factors, such as the individual's characteristics, the dosage, the quality, and the administration method of the product.

In this regard, broad-spectrum CBD offers some flexibility in how it can be used. Whether it is in the form of oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, sprays, capsules, or powder, each method provides different benefits and can be tailored to the individual's preferences and needs.

Bottom line

Broad-spectrum CBD is a non-psychoactive product extracted from the hemp plant, which may be potentially used for a variety of health benefits, including chronic pain relief, mental health support, and inflammation control, among others.

These effects are believed to be enhanced by the combination of several natural compounds of the cannabis plant — including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids — known as the ‘entourage effect.’

Despite this, individuals considering using broad-spectrum CBD for therapeutical purposes must first consult with a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and suitability.