What Are the Types of CBD Products? + CBD Glossary

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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! 

What Is CBD?

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.

Types of CBD

There are three types of CBD extracts that you can expect to encounter in the marketplace:

• Full-spectrum CBD: Contains all naturally occurring compounds from the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and trace amounts of THC. 
• Broad-spectrum CBD: Includes a range of cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant but removes all traces of THC. 
• CBD isolate: The purest form of CBD, containing only cannabidiol (CBD) with no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or THC.

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.

What Is Nano 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.

Types of CBD Products

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.

CBD Terminology

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.

Which Type of CBD Is Best?

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. 

• Full-spectrum CBD is the go-to form of CBD for those looking for the entourage effect. It includes all of the plant compounds, including trace amounts of THC.
• Broad-spectrum CBD contains all of the plant compounds except for THC. This makes it a great option if you want to avoid THC while tapping into the potential benefits of cannabis.
• CBD isolate is pure CBD, so it might be the way to go if you want to steer clear of THC or you want to see what straight-up CBD can do for you.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions