Where does CBD come from?

CBD is separated from the hemp plant through a multitude of extraction and refinement processes. Additional steps and specialized equipment are required to get from a full spectrum CBD oil all the way to the isolated CBD molecule. Listed below are the different types of CBD found in today’s products. Your body responds to CBD differently depending on its type, so it’s important to understand these variations when deciding what’s right for you.

Full Spectrum

Full Spectrum CBD extracts a full profile of beneficial cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes from the plant. Sometimes referred to as “whole plant” CBD, the entire hemp plant, leaves, stalk, seeds and root are harnessed for extraction creating a full spectrum oil.

Full spectrum does contain THC, but most CBD products are derived from hemp, which is naturally low in THC content. Legally, hemp grown in the USA can only contain up to 0.3% THC. This negligible amount doesn’t produce mind altering effects – it won’t get you ‘high’ – though it could result in a positive reading for THC in a drug test.

Broad Spectrum

Broad spectrum CBD might be a better choice for people who are nervous about trace elements of THC in their system, whether for medical, personal or legal reasons. We use broad spectrum in our Wonderfeel tincture oils.

Broad spectrum CBD is quite diverse containing numerous (nonpsychoactive) cannabinoids and terpenes, but with 0% THC. Because other parts of the plant are still present, a phenomenon called, “the entourage effect” comes into play. This effect where all the cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically, and when taken together they produce a better effect than when taken alone.

Distillate

CBD Distillate is a highly refined form of full or broad spectrum CBD oil and one of the most potent types of concentrate around. However, it is not as beneficial as Broad Spectrum or Full Spectrum due to the lack of other terpenes and cannabinoids in the oil. It usually contains more than 80% CBD with negligible amounts of THC. After going through several different refinement processes, beginning with crude extraction, the CBD distillate retains an array of beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant extracts. CBD distillate looks a bit like honey in its liquid form. It is often used in the production of edibles, topicals, and vape pens.

Isolate

CBD Isolate means that cannabidiol has been stripped down to its molecule form and has no other cannabinoids, terpenes or flavonoids. Isolates were popular in early stages of the CBD marketplace as they were easier to add to a vast array of formulas including edibles, and less of a hassle to store and transport. CBD in an isolated form is considered to be less effective. The isolate begins as a pure powder or crystal, and appears in many consumer products.