Full spectrum hemp oil extract contains traces of the cannabinoid THC which In greater amounts, creates the well-recognized high. Legally, hemp-derived cannabis oil can contain no more than 0.3% THC, far below the amount necessary to even slightly intoxicate a user.

The upside here is that by not removing it, the product avoids further processing which risks removing other cannabinoids along with it – collateral damage. So it has the richest array of cannabinoids and terpenes, making it the most effective form taking full advantage of the “entourage effect.” This occurs when multiple cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes act together. They don’t just have an additive effect, but the phytochemicals work together to create an overall effect greater than the sum of its parts.

In its favor, too, many experts feel that there is a synergistic effect when a small amount of THC remains in the mix. That exact amount for an effect can vary widely depending on the target symptom(s), and the individual’s own biochemistry. And even though science is supposedly objective, the source of the opinion also has some influence here.

Of concern, however, is that even traces of THC can accumulate in the system and could possibly produce a positive test for THC, an issue for those who are subject to drug testing for various reasons.

Broad Spectrum which is THC-free describes our very successful original product. It was called Full Spectrum until the nomenclature changed. The THC is removed from the Full Spectrum with ethanol which is then itself safely removed. The only downside is that in the process of removing the THC, we may also lose some other therapeutic cannabinoids from the extract. On the upside, no THC will show up on a drug test. By law, we can’t say it’s 100% THC free since test results will only go as low as the lab can measure. For that reason, and the fear of any micro-trace of THC, some will opt for the Isolate.

Isolate THC-free is pure CBD, with all the other cannabinoids and terpenes removed. It’s the one most often used in topical (skin) products. Although we have not seen a positive drug test with our broad spectrum, for individuals who absolutely cannot have THC show up on a test, isolate is the preferred choice. An option here is to add in some terpenes back in, since they have therapeutic qualities in their own right. We have added activating terpenes to the Daytime Formula and relaxing ones in the Nighttime Formula. The combo formula has both, which provide their effects but still won’t put you to sleep during the day or energize you at night. They tend to neutralize those effects while maintaining their other therapeutic effects.