February 8, 2021
Different Types of CBD Products
Table of Contents
Over the past few years, awareness of the therapeutic potential of cannabis has grown, leading to more CBD products on the market. Although the variety can be exciting for those seeking natural relief, it also makes it difficult to determine which one is right for you.
Here, we cover everything from topicals to edibles to help you understand the differences and benefits of various types of CBD products so that you can make an informed purchase.
Tinctures
One of the most popular methods of administering CBD is through a tincture. A tincture is an oil-carried form of CBD that is produced by steeping cannabis flowers or isolates in a high-proof grain alcohol and then applying them to low heat. The result is a potent liquid that allows you to experience the effects of CBD without smoking or another form of combustion. Tinctures are concentrated and designed to be taken in small doses, which is why most come with a built-in dropper, allowing you to take carefully measured quantities.
Tinctures are typically taken as a drop underneath the tongue, but they can easily be incorporated into your favorite recipes. Try adding a drop or two to foods like soups and pasta, or drinks like coffee and tea.
CBD Edibles
For those seeking a different way to take CBD, you’ll love edibles. CBD edibles are made by adding an extract or isolate into a food product. The most common type of CBD edibles are CBD gummies, although there are also CBD-infused baked goods.
CBD Concentrates
CBD concentrates are high-potency extracts of the hemp plant and contain a high level of cannabidiol. The concentrates typically contain CBD-isolate extracts, but broad and full-spectrum hemp concentrates are common as well. You can mix the concentrate with your normal CBD flower to enhance its effects.
CBD Topicals
CBD topicals are creams, lotions, and salves that are infused with CBD and can be applied directly to the skin. Because of the cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body, CBD is able to penetrate the skin without entering the bloodstream. These products offer the relief of CBD while also hydrating and moisturizing your skin.
CBD Flower
CBD flower refers to the flower on the female hemp plant. The CBD flowers contain several terpenes and cannabinoids that typically aren’t found in CBD tincture. They have a greater variety of hemp compounds that result in longer-lasting effects.
CBD Sprays
Another route you can go with consuming CBD is by using CBD oral spray. Most brands will have the spray come in a bottle with an applicator. Similar to tinctures, you can dispense the liquid directly under your tongue. But if you don’t feel like having direct contact with it, you can also spritz some on your food or drinks.
Although CBD spray is praised for its easy use and versatility, most companies don’t produce this line of products. This doesn’t mean it is impossible to buy, but you likely won’t find it at your local hemp shop. However, since hemp is federally legal, you can easily find a selection of sprays online with different flavors and brands to choose from.
CBD Vapes
Vaping is hands-down one of the quickest, most delicious methods to consume hemp. There are two different tools you can use to vape CBD. You can either purchase a CBD disposable or a CBD cartridge. Both will offer you a convent and discreet experience, but the main difference comes down to your preference.
Disposable vape pens are ideal for those who don’t want to spend the time to charge a battery. Instead, cartridges are pre-filled pens that contain vape juice and are pre-charged. From the moment you open the packaging, you can instantly enjoy CBD without having to worry about a single thing. Once the chamber is empty, simply toss it in the trash and purchase a new one.
CBD cartridges come with a tank full of CBD, along with a mouthpiece at the top. To use this, you need to have a battery, specifically a 510 threaded pen. After the pen is fully charged up, simply screw in the cart and vape away.
These products are relatively popular, so you shouldn’t have an issue finding them. Common places that carry them would be at your local hemp shop, gas station, or online.
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules have similarities to tinctures but come in either soft gel capsules or hard-shelled capsules. This consumption method is intended to be taken like you would any pill. While many prefer soft gel capsules for a smooth swallow, both tablets will offer you the same effects. If you enjoy edibles but don’t want all the calories and sugar that come with them, this would be the perfect alternative.
Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum
As you can tell, there is a variety of CBD products to choose from, with each offering you something that the other doesn’t. But how do you determine the right extract for you?
Before purchasing a CBD product, you should know the primary differences between broad-spectrum CBD and full-spectrum CBD. To start, broad-spectrum CBD features a variety of naturally-derived cannabinoids, except for THC.
Full-spectrum CBD is almost identical to broad-spectrum, but in this mixture, it can have up to 0.3% of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. This extract contains the full range of hemp’s cannabinoids, terpenes, and essential oils that have been known to encourage the entourage effect. Now, what’s the entourage effect?
The entourage effect is a phenomenon that occurs when a combination of cannabinoids come together to provide a fuller experience synergistically. This can also occur with broad-spectrum CBD, but it may not be as noticeable as full-spectrum CBD.
If the entourage effect has piqued your interest, our line of Select Spectrum products may be exactly what you’re looking for. While Select Spectrum isn’t considered a CBD product, it does contain a select ratio of CBD to THC. For example, in each of our Balance Gummies, 10 mg of CBD, and 10 mg of hemp-derived Delta-9 TCH synergize to yield a balanced mind and body experience.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there is a variety of CBD products on the market. Each type offers the relaxing properties of CBD, but the formats differ to suit individuals' unique needs. Try a topical for a moisturizing and targeted effect, or an edible for a full-body experience. Just remember to check whether your product is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate so you know whether to expect the psychoactive effects of THC, moderate effects of other cannabinoids, or gentle effects of pure CBD.
Until next time, happy exploring and Mind Your Mind!
FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.