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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal federally but still illegal under some state laws. Marijuana-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws. Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved nonprescription CBD products, which may be inaccurately labeled.
Broad-spectrum CBD is one of the main forms of cannabidiol (CBD). The others are full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum CBD contains a range of naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant, but typically no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
While CBD isolate contains only pure CBD and no other compounds from the cannabis plant, full-spectrum CBD contains all the compounds from the cannabis plant, including a maximum of
Anecdotal evidence shows positive effects when consuming CBD products for anxiety, pain, and other ailments.
This article looks at some benefits of broad-spectrum CBD and lists some top broad-spectrum CBD oils.
A quick look at the 7 best broad-spectrum CBD oils
- Best for stress: R+R Medicinals Fresh Mint THC-Free Tincture | Skip to Review
- Best CBD topical: CBDfx CBD Cream for Muscle and Joint: Cooling Formula | Skip to Review
- Best for sleep: Calm by Wellness CBN + CBD Oil Tincture | Skip to Review
- Best CBD/CBG combination: CBDfx CBD + CBG Wellness Tincture | Skip to Review
- Best for relaxation: CBDistillery Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture | Skip to Review
- Best softgel: Zatural Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels | Skip to Review
- Best organic: Joy Organics Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture | Skip to Review
An individual may wish to use CBD oil due to anecdotal evidence of its benefits for anxiety, depression, pain reduction, acne, and heart problems.
CBD may also help with relaxation, so people may use it when they feel stressed or experience sleep disturbances.
Broad-spectrum CBD products contain various compounds and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. These include cannabichromene, cannabinol, and terpenes, such as myrcene, limonene, or pinene.
Broad-spectrum CBD typically contains no THC. However, some products will contain trace quantities.
There are several ways to extract CBD from the cannabis plant. These include:
- steam distillation
- solvent extraction
- carbon dioxide extraction
- lipid extraction
The strain of the cannabis plant, its classification, and the extraction process may affect CBD’s composition.
Broad-spectrum CBD falls somewhere between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. Although broad-spectrum CBD contains multiple compounds, it does not typically contain THC.
Unlike CBD isolate, which contains only pure CBD, broad-spectrum CBD products may produce heightened effects because they contain additional compounds that work together.
Broad-spectrum CBD does not typically contain THC, meaning it will not produce any unwanted “high” feeling.
Although there are some relatively recent studies about the entourage effect, there is currently minimal research on the individual types of CBD or which type may benefit a particular health condition.
Below is a breakdown of some potential advantages of each form of CBD. None of these types of CBD is necessarily better than the other.
CBD isolate
- a pure form of CBD
- does not contain THC
- does not contain any other cannabinoids, terpenes, or other plant compounds
- does not have an odor or taste
Some people believe that CBD isolate is the safest to use, as it is pure, but it is a highly processed product. Also, because it does not contain any other potentially beneficial compounds, it may not offer all the health benefits of full- and broad-spectrum CBD.
A 2015 study suggests that to get pain relief from CBD isolate, people may have to take much higher doses than they would in the case of other forms of CBD.
Learn more about CBD isolate here.
Full-spectrum CBD
- may produce more benefits because of the entourage effect
- not as refined as CBD isolate
- contains up to 0.3% THC in dry weight form
Full-spectrum CBD products contain all the compounds from a cannabis plant, including low doses of THC. This means that the entourage effect is strongest in full-spectrum CBD products. It is also the most natural form of CBD because it undergoes the least amount of processing.
While full-spectrum products contain THC, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stipulates that they must not contain more than
Learn about full-spectrum CBD vs. CBD isolate here.
Broad-spectrum CBD
- contains other cannabinoids and terpenes alongside CBD, so it may produce the entourage effect
- trace amounts of THC
The entourage effect caused by these compounds working together
Some companies use the terms “oil” and “tincture” interchangeably. However, they are not the same. The main difference lies in the manufacturing process and how producers extract the CBD.
Learn more about CBD oil here.
Manufacturers produce a CBD tincture by soaking cannabis in alcohol, allowing them to infuse. Slowly heating the solution removes the alcohol, resulting in a CBD-infused liquid.
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: Products must contain safe and high quality ingredients, and their labels must state all ingredients clearly. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: Products must clearly state the CBD dosage.
- Serving size: Manufacturers must suggest a safe serving size.
- Third-party labs: Products must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: The company must demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following receipt of its third-party lab results.
Before purchasing a CBD product, individuals should always read the product labels.
However, the FDA does not regulate many CBD product terms. A THC-free product, for instance, may still contain traces of the compound. Reading labels can help avoid any misunderstandings and adverse effects.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best for stress: R+R Medicinals Fresh Mint THC-Free Tincture
- CBD amount: 1,000 mg
- Size: 30 ml
- CBD dosage per 1-ml serving: 33.3 mg
- Price: $49.99
This tincture is THC-free and is USDA-certified organic. It only contains three ingredients: organic broad-spectrum hemp extract, organic MCT oil from coconut, and organic natural mint flavoring.
The company states that this tincture is especially beneficial for sleep, pain, and stress.
R+R Medicinals offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.
People can view the COA for this product here.
Pros
- organic ingredients
- fresh, minty, flavor
- high potency
Cons
- only available in one strength
- not available in any other flavors
Best CBD topical: CBDfx CBD Cream for Muscle and Joint: Cooling Formula
- CBD amount: 1,000 mg or 3,000 mg
- Size: 50 ml
- CBD dose per serving: no information available
- Price: from $79.99
CBDfx states that this cream contains organic broad-spectrum CBD alongside several other ingredients, such as menthol, willow bark, and caffeine. These ingredients may help cool and soothe painful muscles and joints.
The company is cruelty-free.
Each batch undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals, solvents, microorganisms, pesticides, and THC. This makes it a suitable option for people seeking pure CBD products, such as athletes or people who undergo regular drug tests.
People can view the COA for this product here.
Pros
- available in two strengths for greater pain relief
- provides a cooling sensation
- easy to apply cream
- purity tested
Cons
- more expensive than some other products
Best for sleep: Calm by Wellness CBN + CBD Oil Tincture
- CBD amount: 1,000 mg
- Size: 30 ml
- CBD dosage per 1-ml serving: 34 mg
- Price: $99.99
This product may suit people who experience difficulty sleeping or who are looking for a natural way to encourage peaceful rest.
Learn about using CBD for sleep here.
Unlike other CBD sleep products, this oil tincture does not contain melatonin. It has a blend of CBD oil, blueberry lavender terpenes, and essential oils, such as chamomile, lemongrass, and jasmine
A person can view the COA for this product here.
Pros
- sourced from organic hemp
- gluten-free
- contains cannabinol, also known as CBN or the “sleeper” cannabinoid, to help with sleep
Cons
- unflavored
- only available in high dosage
Learn about the best CBD tinctures here.
Use code MNT20 for 20% off.
Best CBD/CBG combination: CBDfx CBD + CBG Wellness Tincture
- CBD amount: 1,000 mg, 2,00 mg, 4,000 mg, or 6,000 mg
- Size: 30 ml
- CBD dosage per 1-ml serving: 33 mg, 67 mg, 133 mg, or 200 mg
- Price: from $69.99
This broad-spectrum tincture contains a 2:1 ratio of CBD and cannabigerol (CBG).
A
This product is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. It does not contain gluten or solvents and is sourced from hemp with verified potency grown in the U.S.
Other ingredients include curcumin and coenzyme Q10.
People can view the COA for this product here.
Pros
- range of prices and dosage strengths
- vegan
- gluten-free
Cons
- unflavored
- contains sweetener
- high dosages may be unsuitable for some people
Best for relaxation: CBDistillery Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture
- CBD amount: 500 mg, 1,000 mg, or 2,500 mg
- Size: 30 ml
- CBD dosage per 1-ml serving: 17 mg, 33 mg, or 83 mg
- Price: from $50
This broad-spectrum CBD oil tincture contains natural terpenes and fractionated coconut oil. CBDistillery reports that this product may contain less than 0.01% THC.
According to a customer survey, this product may help people reduce anxiety, relax the mind, improve sleep, and reduce pain.
It recommends an oral dose of 1 ml, but a person can adjust this as necessary. The manufacturer suggests that it may promote relaxation.
Learn about the best CBD products for anxiety here.
CBDistillery sources the CBD from hemp grown in the U.S. using natural farming processes.
The company publicly shares the product’s third-party testing results.
A person can view the COA here.
Pros
- cost-effective
- flexible serving sizes
Cons
- unflavored
Learn more about CBDistillery here.
Best softgel: Zatural Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels
- CBD amount: 100—2,250 mg
- Size: 10—90 softgels
- CBD dosage per serving: 10 mg or 25 mg
- Price: from $13.99
Some people may prefer to take CBD in the form of softgel capsules. These can be a convenient and portable option. However, people who have difficulty swallowing capsules or tablets may prefer liquid options.
Learn about the best CBD softgels here.
Ingredients include hemp extract, MCT oil, gelatin, glycerin, and purified water.
Zatural recommends people take three softgels daily. The company also has a dosage recommendation chart based on a person’s body weight.
A person can view the COA for the product here.
Pros
- convenient to take on the go
- lots of dosage options
Cons
- not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
- no flavor options
Learn more about Zatural CBD here.
Best organic: Joy Organics Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture
- CBD amount: 450 mg, 900 mg, 1,350 mg, and 2,250 mg
- Size: 30 ml
- CBD dosage per 1-ml serving: 15 mg, 30 mg, 45 mg, or 75 mg
- Cost: from $44.95
This product contains USDA certified-organic ingredients, including extra virgin olive oil, hemp extract, and essential oils. The liquid is available in a range of flavors.
Joy Organics claims that this tincture helps to reduce stress, aid sleep, and balances overall wellness. The product is also suitable for vegans.
A person can view the COA for this product here.
Pros
- 90-day satisfaction guarantee
- cruelty-free
- carbon neutral shipping
Cons
- high cost than other options
The following table compares the products in this article on key featues:
| Form | CBD amount | Size | CBD dosage per serving | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R+R Medicinals | oil | 1,000 mg | 30 ml | 33.3 mg | $49.99 |
| CBDfx Cream | cream | 1,000–3,000 mg | 50 ml | no information | from $79.99 |
| Calm by Wellness | oil | 1,000 mg | 30 ml | 34 mg | $99.99 |
| CBDfx Tincture | oil | 1,000–6,000 mg | 30 ml | 33–200 mg | from $69.99 |
| CBDistillery | oil | 500–2,500 mg | 30 ml | 17–83 mg | from $50 |
| Zatural | softgels | 100–2,250 mg | 10–90 count | 10–25 mg | from $13.99 |
| Joy Organics | oil | 450–2,250 mg | 30 ml | 15–75 mg | from $44.95 |
Anecdotal evidence suggests that many people tolerate CBD well, but it can have
Speak with a doctor before trying CBD, particularly if the aim is to help with pain, lack of sleep, or another health-related issue.
The following are commonquestions relating to broad-spectrum CBD:
Is broad-spectrum CBD safe?
Broad-spectrum CBD contains little to no traces of THC, which is the compound in the cannabis plant that people associate with the “high” feeling. According to the
However, a person taking prescription medication should check with a healthcare professional before using CBD. It may interact with their medication.
Can I get broad-spectrum CBD on prescription?
A doctor cannot currently prescribe broad-spectrum CBD. However, discussing CBD use with a doctor may help guide a person’s decision to use CBD to treat health conditions.
What are the potential benefits of broad-spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD contains various compounds that may hold additional health benefits in comparison to CBD isolate. The compounds may help relieve pain, improve skin health, reduce anxiety, and help with sleep.
Read more about CBD benefits here.
Does broad-spectrum CBD make you sleepy?
CBD alone does not have the intoxicating properties of THC, so it should not cause sleepiness. But some CBD products have additional ingredients to help with sleep, such as the product from Calm by Wellness.
Exercise caution when using CBD products if drowsiness is a concern, for example, when driving or operating machinery. Read product labels carefully before use.
Which is better: CBD isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum CBD?
There are minor differences, and the right choice comes down to a person’s preference.
A 2018 study found that full-spectrum CBD eases pain due to the combined effects of CBD and THC.
As broad-spectrum CBD also contains additional compounds, it may have effects similar to those of full-spectrum CBD. However, broad-spectrum products typically have less THC, usually 0.3% or less.
CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form, with no other cannabinoids. These products may best suit people trying a CBD product for the first time. Isolate contains no other hemp extracts that could potentially alter its effects.
Will broad-spectrum CBD fail a drug test?
CBD should not show up on a drug test.
However, broad-spectrum CBD can contain trace amounts of THC, so it is possible that it will show up on a drug test. People should exercise caution when using CBD if drug testing is a concern.
Broad-spectrum CBD products contain other cannabinoids but only trace amounts of THC, if any. These products may have more pronounced effects than products with CBD isolate.
It is important to keep in mind that research into the effects of broad-spectrum CBD is still emerging.