In the world of wellness, CBD oils have earned an important place. You may well have heard about them, even considering buying one, but they raise many questions: what makes them different from each other? Why do some oils contain more compounds than others? And how can you know which one best suits what you’re looking for? Throughout this article, we will explain how they differ according to their composition, what ingredients can accompany them and how they are also presented in different formulas. At Maionais we work with different alternatives, and we believe that understanding what you wear is an essential part of your well-being.
What is a CBD oil?
Before going into the types of oil, it is worth pausing for a moment to understand what this product is. When we talk about CBD oil, we are referring to a preparation that combines hemp extracts with a vegetable oil. Hemp is a variety of cannabis with very low levels of THC, which is the substance best known for its psychoactive effects. CBD, on the other hand, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has attracted attention for its potential and safety profile.
This extract is mixed with oils such as coconut, olive or hemp seed oil, which stabilise the formula and facilitate its application. Depending on how it has been made, an oil can retain different elements of the original hemp or focus only on cannabidiol. And it is precisely this choice that gives rise to the different types of oils that you will find on the market.
Differences according to the spectrum of CBD oils
One of the most common ways to classify CBD oils is according to their “spectrum.” This word refers to the set of compounds contained in each formula. Hemp doesn’t just provide CBD: it also contains other cannabinoids, terpenes (which are flavored molecules), and flavonoids (plant compounds with other potentially beneficial properties). Depending on the extraction and filtering process, some oils retain more of these elements, while others opt for a simpler formula.
Full-spectrum oil
This type of oil retains most of the compounds that are present in the hemp plant. In addition to CBD, it usually contains small amounts of other cannabinoids such as CBG or CBN, as well as natural terpenes and a very low amount of THC, always below 0.2%, which is the legal limit allowed.
The interesting thing about this type of formula is that it relies on what some studies have called the “entourage effect”: a possible interaction between the different components of hemp that could amplify its properties together. Although its true scope is still being researched, many people value this type of extract for its chemical richness and for preserving the natural complexity of the plant.
Broad-spectrum oil
Very similar to the above, broad-spectrum oil also includes several hemp compounds, such as minor cannabinoids and terpenes. The main difference is that it goes through a purification process to completely remove THC.
This makes it an option that is still complete in terms of plant variety, but without the presence of that particular cannabinoid. It’s considered a good alternative if you’re interested in a formula that’s close to natural, but prefer to avoid any traces of tetrahydrocannabinol.
CBD Oil Isolate
Isolate is the most refined form of cannabidiol oils. In this case, the formula contains exclusively CBD, without terpenes or other cannabinoids. To obtain it, cannabidiol is separated from the rest of the hemp compounds through specific purification processes.
It is an option that some people choose because of its predictability and simplicity. It can be useful when you want to have full control over what you are using, especially in environments where strict regulations are applied or you are looking to avoid any interaction with other plant compounds.
Additional Ingredients in CBD Oils
Beyond the type of spectrum, there are also oils that incorporate complementary ingredients of natural origin. These formulas seek to offer a more diverse profile, depending on different needs or preferences.
Some products include minor cannabinoids such as CBG or CBN, which are also being studied for their potential. Others add elements such as natural extracts, essential oils or vitamin D, known for their possible contributions to everyday well-being. In all cases, these are combinations that seek to expand the field of action of the oil.
At Maionais we develop different versions that contemplate this type of variants, making sure to choose only natural ingredients and explain everything in our store, so that you can choose with the security of knowing exactly what each option contains.
Which type of CBD oil to choose according to the spectrum?
The main reason why many people pay attention to the type of spectrum in CBD oils is the so-called “entourage effect”. This expression refers to the possible synergy that occurs when several hemp compounds act together. Rather than looking at just cannabidiol, this look proposes that terpenes, minor cannabinoids, and other elements of the plant could interact with each other, amplifying or modulating their overall effect. In his 2011 review, researcher Ethan Russo suggested that this interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes could have a relevant impact on perceived benefits, as well as how some compounds are tolerated (Russo, 2011).
For this reason, both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils are often chosen by those who want formulas that retain some of that chemical richness. By maintaining multiple plant compounds, these oils could better take advantage of that potential combined effect, compared to an oil that contains only CBD isolate.
Now, that doesn’t mean that CBD isolate doesn’t have advantages. One of its main strengths is to offer a clean formula without other compounds present in hemp, which allows elements such as THC to be completely avoided. Plus, by working with only purified cannabidiol, you can have peace of mind knowing exactly what you’re using in each drop.
Available percentages and concentrations
In addition to composition, CBD oils are also distinguished by their concentration. This value, which is usually expressed as a percentage, indicates the proportion of cannabidiol present in relation to the total volume of the oil.
In today’s market, you can find formulas ranging from very low amounts like 3% or 5% to 40% or more. Each concentration represents a different intensity and can be designed for a variety of uses. For example, those who are just starting out tend to do so with low percentages, while others look for more concentrated extracts because they already have experience with CBD.
At Maionais we work with different concentrations that adapt to this range. Our goal is for you to be able to get to know each option, compare them calmly and choose the one that you feel is most aligned with what you are looking for.
CBD oils for animals
One aspect that often goes unnoticed is that cannabidiol oils can also be formulated for animals. Like humans, dogs and cats have an endocannabinoid system that is involved in key functions in the body. This has led to various investigations on how to adapt these oils to the needs of pets.
Veterinary versions tend to have lower concentrations and are made with ingredients that are suitable for your body. In the case of Maionais, our CBD oils for pets contain between 3% and 6% concentration, so you can choose depending on their weight and your goals. Some studies have indicated that these oils could play a role in situations such as stress, behavioral agitation, or general well-being (Corsato Alvarenga et al., 2023).
Of course, its use must always be careful. It is recommended to observe changes carefully and have the guidance of a veterinary professional.
Conclusion
As you can see, the universe of CBD oils is broader and more nuanced than it seems at first glance. Each type of oil has a logic behind it: from its spectrum of compounds to its concentration or the ingredients that accompany it. Understanding these nuances not only helps you make better choices, but allows you to use these products with greater peace of mind.
At Maionais we believe that knowing what you’re wearing is a form of wellness in itself. That is why we invite you to continue learning on our blog and carefully analyze all the information in our store, designed so that you can make an informed and responsible decision on how to take care of yourself.
References
Russo E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344–1364. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x
Corsato Alvarenga, I., Panickar, K. S., Hess, H., & McGrath, S. (2023). Scientific Validation of Cannabidiol for Management of Dog and Cat Diseases. Annual review of animal biosciences, 11, 227–246. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-animal-081122-070236
