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Confused by all the labels on CBD products? I get it — when I first started looking for CBD for my dog, I was completely overwhelmed by terms like isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum. Turns out, I wasn’t alone! A 2024 survey found that one in three adults in the US feels the same way.
But understanding these forms of CBD is simpler than it seems, and it’s the first step to finding the right product for you (or your furry friend). Let’s break it down together!
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 140 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, right behind THC—but unlike THC, it won’t get you high. Instead, CBD works with your body’s endocannabinoid system to influence the nervous system, which may have therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties.
Many people love that CBD can offer symptom relief without any intoxicating effects, making it a go-to option for feeling better naturally.
There are three types of CBD extracts that you can expect to encounter in the marketplace:
You’ll also find CBD that has undergone an additional process known as nanoemulsification. These CBD products are labeled as nano CBD or nano-optimized CBD.
Nano CBD is CBD with reduced molecule size for enhanced bioavailability, allowing it to be absorbed faster and more effectively by the body. This means quicker effects, improved efficiency, and potentially using less product. Many brands incorporate nano CBD into their formulations.
While certain forms of CBD are more common than others, you’ll see CBD oil made into the following kinds of products for humans and pets:
This is surely not an exhaustive list — new products are constantly being developed.
When you’re discussing or shopping for CBD, it’s helpful to know these terms:
| Cannabinoids | A class of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. Examples include CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). |
| CBD | CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, known for its potential therapeutic benefits such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties. |
| THC | THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the "high" associated with marijuana use. |
| Full-spectrum CBD | This type of CBD contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC, offering a holistic therapeutic approach known as the entourage effect. |
| Broad-spectrum CBD | Broad-spectrum CBD includes multiple cannabinoids and terpenes with only trace amounts of THC, providing the entourage effect without the psychoactive component. |
| CBD isolate | The purest form of cannabidiol, containing only CBD with no THC. All other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds are removed. |
| Nano CBD | CBD molecules that have been reduced to nano-sized particles to improve bioavailability. |
| Terpenes | Aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants, contributing to the plant's scent and potentially enhancing the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids through the entourage effect. |
| Flavonoids | Plant compounds with antioxidant properties that contribute to the color, taste, and potential health benefits of cannabis. |
| Certificate of analysis (COA) | A document provided by an independent lab that details the contents, purity, and potency of a CBD product, ensuring it meets specified quality standards and is free from contaminants. |
The best type of CBD comes down to your needs and preferences — there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
How CBD is extracted determines whether it includes THC and other plant compounds like flavonoids and terpenes. These compounds not only add to the plant’s color, aroma, and flavor, as well as their antioxidant content.
When cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids work together, they create what’s called the entourage effect, which may boost CBD’s overall therapeutic impact.
All forms of CBD can be found in a growing spectrum of products and in nano form, which is absorbed by the body faster.
Choosing the right CBD for you depends on your goals, sensitivity to cannabinoids, and local laws. With a little research, you can find your perfect fit!
The best type of CBD depends on individual needs and preferences, as there is no universally superior option.
The three main types of CBD are: Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full- and broad-spectrum CBD include a range of plant compounds, with full-spectrum containing trace amounts of THC. CBD isolate is pure cannabidiol without any other plant compounds.
Many consider full-spectrum CBD the most effective because it’s packed with cannabinoids, terpenes, and other natural compounds that work together in the "entourage effect," enhancing their overall impact.
CBD comes in lots of forms! Popular options include oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, creams, and even CBD-infused foods and drinks.
It depends on personal preference, but CBD edibles, oils, and tinctures are fan favorites for their convenience and versatility.
CBD drops or edibles are perfect for beginners. They’re easy to measure, simple to use, and a gentle way to see how CBD works for you.
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