As awareness of CBD oil grows, people are becoming more curious about the different types of CBD oil available in the UK. With different extraction methods, formulations and strengths to consider, choosing a product can initially feel overwhelming.
In this CBD oil comparison, we explore three popular options: whole-plant CBD oil, Gold CBD oil and broad-spectrum CBD oil. We also explain how CBG oil differs and what to consider when choosing a product.
If you are new to CBD, our CBD Oil Guide explains the basics of CBD products and how to use them.
Here’s what sets these products apart from one another:
Whole Plant CBD Oil
Whole-plant CBD oil is commonly described as full-spectrum CBD oil. It is produced using hemp extracts that retain a broad range of naturally occurring plant compounds. Full-spectrum oils may contain trace amounts of THC, so check the laboratory report for the specific product rather than relying on a general percentage claim.
Alongside CBD, whole-plant CBD oil can contain other cannabinoids, such as CBG (cannabigerol), CBD-A (cannabidiolic acid) and CBC (cannabichromene). The exact cannabinoid profile depends on the hemp extract and production process.
In addition to cannabinoids, whole-plant CBD oils can contain different terpenes, which are aromatic compounds found in hemp, including pinene, linalool, myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene and humulene. They can also contain flavonoids, including apigenin, luteolin, kaempferol and quercetin.
These compounds are associated with the proposed “entourage effect”. This describes the theory that cannabinoids and other hemp compounds may interact differently when present together than when CBD is used alone. Research into this effect remains ongoing.
Whole-plant CBD oils can be produced using supercritical CO2 extraction to extract cannabinoids and other compounds from hemp. Depending on the processing conditions, this high-pressure method can also extract plant lipids, waxes and chlorophyll, which contribute to the oil’s darker colour and bitter taste.
The one criticism that some people have about whole-plant CBD oils is their stronger flavour. This can make them less appealing to customers who prefer a milder-tasting product. Always follow the product instructions, including any directions about holding the oil under your tongue.
Whole-plant oils generally have a stronger, earthier flavour because they retain more of the original hemp plant material. Explore our range of whole-plant CBD oils, including 3%, 5%, 10% and 20% options.
For experienced customers comparing high-strength full-spectrum CBD oils, our 20% Whole-Plant CBD Oil provides a concentrated option.
Gold CBD Oil
Gold CBD oil is also a full-spectrum CBD oil containing cannabinoids, terpenes and other compounds from hemp. However, the production process removes more of the darker, bitter-tasting plant material, creating a lighter oil with a milder flavour.
Bristol CBD’s Gold oils are produced using sub-critical CO2 extraction. This process uses pressurised carbon dioxide in its liquid state under controlled temperature and pressure conditions to extract compounds from hemp.
The extraction and refinement process leaves behind much of the heavier, darker plant material. This means Gold CBD oils have a mild taste that can be more palatable than whole-plant oils, and some customers find them easier to include in their routine.
CO2 extraction uses specialist equipment and carefully controlled processing to produce hemp extracts. When comparing CBD oil quality, look at the ingredients, production information and laboratory reports rather than assuming that a particular extraction method guarantees a better product.
Bristol CBD’s Gold CBD oils combine full-spectrum hemp extract with organic hemp seed oil. Their golden colour and milder flavour distinguish them from darker whole-plant oils, although colour alone does not establish purity or quality.
Explore our range of Gold CBD oils, including 5% Gold CBD Oil, 10% Gold CBD Oil and 20% Gold CBD Oil.
Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains CBD alongside selected additional cannabinoids and hemp compounds. It typically undergoes additional processing to remove THC. Check the laboratory report to confirm the cannabinoid profile and whether THC is detectable in the specific product.
Processes such as filtration and distillation help create a more selective hemp extract. Broad-spectrum CBD oil generally has a lighter flavour than whole-plant oil, although its taste also depends on the carrier oil and other ingredients.
While full-spectrum CBD oil retains a wider range of naturally occurring hemp compounds, broad-spectrum formulations are often chosen by customers looking for an oil without detectable THC. Neither formulation is automatically better; the choice depends on your preferences and the product’s ingredients.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil should be used according to the instructions supplied with the product. Oils intended for oral use should not be vaped. If you want a product for your skin, choose one specifically formulated for topical use.
Another advantage of broad-spectrum CBD oil is its mild taste. Some whole-plant oils have a stronger flavour or aroma, which may not appeal to everyone, while broad-spectrum products can be easier to incorporate into a daily routine.
The broader cannabinoid profile of full-spectrum oils is often discussed in relation to the proposed entourage effect. However, this does not mean broad-spectrum CBD oil is necessarily less effective or that customers should take more of it. Always compare the labelled CBD content and follow the serving instructions.
Bristol CBD’s broad-spectrum oils offer a mild-tasting option in several strengths. Browse our broad-spectrum CBD oils, or explore our 20% Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil if you are comparing higher-strength products.
How Does CBG Oil Compare with CBD Oil?
CBG, or cannabigerol, is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp. It can be present in full-spectrum CBD oils, although usually in smaller quantities than CBD.
A dedicated CBG oil contains a higher concentration of cannabigerol and may combine it with CBD and other hemp compounds. The main difference is the cannabinoid composition, rather than simply the oil’s colour or flavour.
For customers comparing CBG oil in the UK, our 20% Gold CBG and CBD Full-Spectrum Oil contains 10% CBG and 10% CBD in a mild-tasting Gold formulation. The 20% refers to the combined CBG and CBD concentration, not 20% CBG alone.
As with other concentrated oils, check the ingredients, laboratory information and serving instructions before choosing a product.
Conclusion: Which CBD Oil Should You Choose?
Whole-plant CBD oil, Gold CBD oil and broad-spectrum CBD oil each offer different characteristics. Choosing the right type comes down to your preferred flavour, formulation, strength and previous experience.
Whole-plant CBD oil offers a broad cannabinoid profile and a stronger, earthier taste. Gold CBD oil is also full spectrum but has a milder flavour. Broad-spectrum CBD oil generally offers a mild taste and undergoes additional processing to remove THC.
CBG oil provides another option for customers interested in a different cannabinoid balance, including formulations that combine CBD and CBG.
A broader cannabinoid profile does not automatically make an oil stronger. Compare the amount of CBD and other cannabinoids in each serving, rather than judging a product solely by its extract type.
If you are unsure which concentration to choose, read our guide to what strength CBD oil to start with.
Regardless of which type you choose, responsible farming, transparent extraction information and reliable laboratory testing are important considerations. Look for a trusted supplier that provides clear ingredient lists, accurate cannabinoid content and accessible product testing.
In short, compare the extract type, flavour and labelled strength to find the CBD oil that best matches your preferences.
About Bristol CBD
Bristol CBD is the most trusted CBD brand in the UK with a trust score of 4.9 stars on both Google and Trustpilot. We also offer unparalleled customer service, support, guidance and advice and a 100% money back guarantee if you are not entirely satisfied with your CBD product.
If you have any questions about how to buy or use CBD products, please feel free to call us on 07706 031 935 at any time. We are always happy to share our experiences and help people to find the best solution for their own needs.
Please note that Bristol CBD staff are not qualified doctors or nurses and therefore we do not make any medical claims and cannot recommend CBD for specific ailments. Our articles are simply based on our own research and over 12 years experience of working with CBD. We always encourage people to talk with their GPs, physicians or nurses before taking CBD products.