CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the Cannabid sativa plant, which is also known as marijuana or help, according to the US National Library of Medicine. It's a naturally occurring substance that's used in products like oils and edibles to impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. Unlike its cousin, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the major active ingredient in marijuana, CBD is not psychoactive. You’ll find CBD products in three forms: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains small amounts of every component of the cannabis plant. That means it is possible for there to be trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the product, however, usually not enough to have a psychoactive effect for most users. Federally legal full-spectrum products will always have less than 0.3 percent THC. CBD molecules have a stronger effect in the presence of THC molecules. This is a theory that says when multiple components of cannabis work together, you reap more benefits than when taking each individually. These components include phytocannabinoids (like CBD and THC), flavonoids, and terpenes (compounds that affect cannabis’s scent). One 2011 review found that phytocannabinoids and terpenes taken together may help with pain, inflammation, and anxiety. If you want to maximize the benefits of cannabis, full-spectrum CBD could be your best bet, so speak with your healthcare provider about safe levels of each for you. Broad-spectrum CBD does not contain any THC. It does contain other components of the cannabis plant, though, like Terpenes, the molecules that give cannabis it’s distinct smell. Consider it the middle child of the three CBD choices. CBD isolate is a pure CBD product. The isolate contains no other compounds found in cannabis, except for the CBD itself. Talk to your doctor before you try CBD, whether it’s broad-spectrum or full-spectrum. The biggest difference between the two is the THC content, so decide if you want that in your product or if you prefer to skip it. Then make sure you read the labels before you make your purchase and you choose a quality product to gain the most advantage.