Narrow-Spectrum CBD Oils

When you’re just discovering CBD, it can be challenging and rather confusing to choose which product you want and need. You come across terms like THC, full-spectrum, and terpenes without necessarily knowing what they really mean. To help you work out if Narrow-Spectrum CBD oil is for you, we’ve collected together an array information and advice.

Keep reading to get to grips with the differences between Narrow Spectrum and Broad Spectrum and decipher the labels on CBD products.

First things first, what is CBD?

CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the Cannabis Sativa plant family. Its official scientific name is Cannabidiol, and it’s the most abundant cannabinoid - just ahead of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While this psychotropic compound remains illegal in the UK, CBD doesn’t get you high and is widely available both online and on the high street.

Depending on the extraction process and other compounds it contains, CBD has different properties, tastes, texture and delivery methods. To differentiate these products, we refer to a “spectrum”.

What is Broad-Spectrum CBD oil?

Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains numerous cannabis plant extracts including essential oils, terpenes and cannabinoids like cannabinol (CBD). These are retained during the double distillation-extraction process. As a result, they offer a stronger flavour, thicker consistency. However, it is important to note that all the THC has been removed.

How is Narrow Spectrum CBD oil different?

The difference really comes down to the extraction process. Narrow Spectrum CBD products provide CBD in more filtered form. For a lighter flavour, advanced chromatography and distillation techniques are used during extraction. This creates a “ultra-distilled” CBD oil with lower amounts of other naturally occurring cannabis compounds. There is no THC.

What about Full-Spectrum CBD?

Like Broad Spectrum CBD, Full Spectrum CBD oils are packed with different (complementary) plant compounds. But they also contain very small amounts of THC – many believe this enhances the benefits without getting you high. Full Spectrum CBD products only contain less than 0.3 THC.

And CBD isolate?

CBD isolate is CBD in its purest state (99%). The active compounds in the hemp plant are removed during extraction. During refinement, all the other phytocannabinoids, including THC, are stripped away leaving behind only the CBD chemical compound. CBD isolate can be produced using different processes including supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) and ethanol-based extractions. Depending on the process, the CBD isolate either comes as large CBD crystals or a fine white powder. Both are odour and taste free.

Why choose Narrow-Spectrum CBD?

• Less strong hemp flavour for a lighter, smoother taste
• The CBD has been distilled so the other natural compounds are present in much smaller quantities – you get the benefits of CBD on its own
• No THC
• A good place to start if you’re just starting CBD

Why you might want to choose Broad Spectrum or Full Spectrum CBD instead.

Research suggests that broad and full spectrum CBD oils have a more potent effect as they contain different cannabis/hemp plant compounds that work more effectively together. This is called the ‘entourage effect.’ We don’t yet know exactly how it works and more research is needed to determine the full benefits.

In addition to CBD, Full and Broad Spectrum CBD oils often also contain:

• Cannabinol (CBN)
• Cannabichromene (CBC)
• Cannabigerol (CBG)
• Cannabidiol acid (CBDA)
• Cannabidivarin (CBDV)

What are the benefits of CBD?

Since the 1960s when research into CBD really took off, scientists have been exploring its benefits and potential to manage a wide array of conditions. We still don’t know everything, but evidence seems to suggest that CBD can help with:

CBD for pain

Research highlights CBD’s capacity to reduce inflammation and pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitters.

CBD for anxiety

With a calming effect on the central nervous system, CBD oil is increasingly being explored as a natural and complementary way to deal with stress, depression and anxiety.

CBD & cancer

Research also indicates that CBD has the potential to help manage or reduce certain symptoms for cancer sufferers and the side effects of cancer treatments like nausea, vomiting and pain.

CBD for acne

With anti-inflammatory properties and the capacity to reduce sebum production, CBD is increasingly being used in skincare products and considered as a treatment for acne.

CBD & neurological disorders

CBD could also have benefits for neurological disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

CBD for the heart

Some researchers also believe that CBD can have a positive effect on the heart and circulatory system, for example, helping to lower high blood pressure.

More and more research is being carried out into the benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids. Watch this space as we find out more about how CBD interacts with our bodies to help restore natural balance (homeostasis) with a positive impact on our health and wellbeing.

What kind of Narrow Spectrum CBD should you choose?

Although there are far more Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum CBD products on the market, a growing number of brands are launching Narrow Spectrum CBD options.

Narrow Spectrum CBD is currently most commonly available as an oil. Alternatively, you could opt for CBD Isolate, which is very similar but has no other plant compounds in it. It is 99% pure CBD.

Things to bear in mind when picking your Narrow Spectrum CBD oil

Make sure the Narrow Spectrum CBD oil meets certain safety, quality, and transparency criteria. Here are some key questions to ask.

• Has it been third-party tested by an ISO 17025-compliant lab?
• Is the hemp grown in a country with stringent regulations?
• Is the Brand transparent about the ingredients and processes?

Discover a full range of Narrow Spectrum CBD oils, right here on mellow.

For more tips and insider advice, browse our blog.

Narrow Spectrum CBD oils

• Super-distilled CBD
• Limited amounts of other natural compounds
• No THC
• Smoother taste
• All products on mellow have 3rd party lab reports