In the vast and varied world of CBD, there are many factors to consider when finding the perfect product. The spectrum of purity in CBD products is a very important piece of the CBD puzzle. To isolate or not to isolate, that is the question. In this guide, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD.
Comparison Overview
The primary difference between CBD isolate and broad spectrum CBD is that CBD isolate is purified to contain only CBD, while broad spectrum CBD products also contain other cannabinoids and terpenes. These other cannabinoids and terpenes create what is called the “entourage effect,” which refers to the fact that these compounds make CBD more effective when working together.
By law, CBD products can contain up to 0.3% THC, which is not enough to produce the traditional high associated with marijuana. Still, these trace amounts of THC could, in theory, result in a positive drug test. Because of that, many CBD users who are concerned about failing drug tests opt for CBD isolate products.
What is CBD Isolate?
Now that we’ve given a broad overview of the differences between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD, let’s get into the details about the different options available. When we typically think of CBD, the mind often jumps to cannabis and THC. However, as the name suggests, CBD isolate is a form of pure CBD.
Typically sold as a powder or a crystalline solid, CBD isolate is known to be easy to consume. The main difference to keep in mind between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD is that while full-spectrum CBD products often contain small traces of THC within legal limits, high-quality CBD isolate contains virtually no THC. CBD isolate is correlated with all the benefits of CBD such as reduced aches and pains, anxiety relief, and reduction in symptoms from a number of medical issues such as epilepsy or cancer. However, as mentioned, the intensity of effects is generally poorer with CBD isolate.
What is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD refers to CBD products that are less processed and contain the full array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in hemp plants. Let’s briefly touch upon the different categories of compounds that are found in cannabis plants.
- Cannabinoids are the most common compound we associate with the cannabis plant. Though there are over one hundred types of cannabinoids, both CBD and THC are the most well known compounds. An easy way to remember cannabinoids is to note that they are the active compounds of the cannabis plant.
- Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in both cannabis and other types of plants. These compounds influence the smell of different plants. There are tens of thousands of terpenes. Terpenes are used to create different strains of cannabis, infusing different scents and colors.
- Flavonoids, like terpenes, influence the physical properties of cannabis. Flavonoids often influence color and pigmentation. As an example, a purple strain of cannabis would have a flavonoid that influences it. They are also known to have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Many chemical compounds in these categories make up full-spectrum CBD. Unlike CBD isolate, a full spectrum product includes a variety of different compounds that result in a wider range of benefits and effects.
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CBD Isolate Advantages
Several medical studies link CBD to positive health benefits. From chronic pain to mental health issues, the soothing and healing effects of CBD can be a great way to add a boost of wellness into your life. Though CBD isolate may not offer the same intensity and variety of benefits as a full or broad spectrum CBD product, the advantages of a CBD isolate are hard to deny. Here are a few of the main benefits of CBD isolate.
- No THC. There are a number of reasons why one may choose to avoid THC. THC will show up on drug tests, which could potentially create complications. Additionally, while CBD products in general contain very small percentages of THC, those who wish to avoid it may want to stick to a CBD isolate.
- Purity. The production of CBD isolate involves lots of refinement. This could be a great feature for someone who is new to CBD and wants to experiment to find the best dosage method. If you’re looking to test out CBD for the first time, CBD isolate could be a great building block.
- Lack of taste or odor. Depending on the message one wishes to consume CBD, the taste or flavor could have a big impact on their experience. For instance, if you prefer CBD powder to add into beverages or food, a tasteless and odorless option would likely be an asset. Or, if you generally don’t enjoy what CBD smells like, then CBD isolate can be an excellent choice for a more subtle CBD experience.
Full-Spectrum CBD Advantages
There are a number of great benefits that can come with a full-spectrum CBD product. As the name suggests, a full-spectrum CBD product will provide benefits of both CBD itself and a number of other compounds found in the hemp plant. Full spectrum CBD will also offer terpenes, flavonoids, and other types of cannabinoids on top of CBD for a rich variety of benefits.
- Stronger effects. Full-spectrum CBD products tend to pack the most punch out of all CBD products. If you’re planning on using CBD to aid in certain health issues such as pain or inflammation, you may need more intense healing properties. Even a small dose of a full-spectrum product can make a big difference in quality of life.
- More natural. Since CBD isolate goes through many stages of refinement, some of the natural properties can be lost as a result. If you prefer a more natural product, full-spectrum CBD can be a great choice for you. With the presence of other naturally occurring compounds such as terpenes, full-spectrum CBD offers a rich experience overall.
- Different scents and flavor profiles. Both flavored and unflavored full-spectrum CBD options are available on the market today. However, even with unscented or unflavored CBD products, you can still find a nice earthy profile as a result of the terpenes and flavonoids present in full-spectrum CBD. If you find earthy scent or flavor appealing, full-spectrum CBD may be the perfect product for you.
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Does Full-Spectrum CBD Have THC?
A common question that tends to pop up when discussing CBD products is the presence of THC. As THC is the psychoactive component of CBD, people often want to know about the effects THC has on the body and its legal status.
Full-spectrum CBD does contain small amounts of THC. This may cause consumers to wonder if full-spectrum CBD is legal and safe to purchase. The short answer is: yes. Full-spectrum CBD products are legally required to contain no more than .3% THC. The small amount present in full-spectrum CBD is not enough to enact psychoactive effects in the body. If THC is an important factor in finding your perfect CBD match, it is important to note the ingredients in full-spectrum CBD.
Does Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil Have CBD?
Full-spectrum hemp oil is a hugely popular CBD product. Hemp oil contains several different cannabinoid compounds as well as many other elements such as terpenes, vitamins, small levels of THC, and fatty acid compounds.
CBD is one of the multiple compounds found in hemp oil. As the oil is derived directly from the hemp plant, the naturally occurring CBD can also be found in the oil.
A Third Option: Broad-Spectrum CBD
So what happens when you’d like a CBD product that contains a wide variety of benefits without the presence of THC? Broad-spectrum CBD sits between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD on the scale of compounds. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain the naturally-occurring terpenes and flavonoids but without the THC. If you’d like an option that offers benefits beyond those of CBD alone but without that .3 percentage of THC found in full-spectrum products, broad-spectrum CBD can be an excellent option for you.
Frequently-Asked Questions
CBD products are reported to offer tons of great benefits, but common questions can arise when searching for the perfect product for you. On the hunt for your perfect product match, consider the properties that are most important to you. Let’s tackle some of the most frequently-asked questions that come up when we think about CBD.
Which is Better, Full Spectrum or CBD Isolate?
What’s the best type of CBD? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate all cater to different types of people with different types of needs. Full-spectrum CBD contains the most compounds of all the options available and many people have found that this makes for the most powerful product. However, if you prefer a product without THC, CBD isolate can be an effective alternative, depending on your needs. The right CBD product really depends on each individual’s preferences. The product you feel will be best for you is the best option.
Is CBD Isolate Good for Inflammation?
Animal studies have shown the benefits of CBD as it relates to inflammation. While CBD isolate may not be as potent as full-spectrum CBD, it likely offers at least some of the anti-inflammatory benefit of full-spectrum CBD. We recommend experimenting with dosages to find the right amount for your needs.
Can Full-Spectrum CBD Get You High?
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A common question that surrounds CBD in general is the possibility of getting a high from the products. Cannabis has varied legality both within the United States and internationally, so the presence of THC on a drug test could potentially lead to issues depending on the situation. Many consumers have concerns that their CBD products will lead to a psychoactive high.
While full-spectrum CBD products contain the highest levels of THC amongst the family of CBD products, there are legal limits in place to ensure that use of a product will not result in a high. Full-spectrum CBD products on the market today contain an absolute maximum of .3 percent THC, far lower than the amount needed to produce an intoxicating effect.
How Long Does Full-Spectrum CBD Stay in Your System?
Another important factor to consider when buying CBD products is the length of how each product stays in the system. When it comes to using CBD to tackle pain relief or sleep issues, the length of effective usage can be really important to consider.
The length of time that full-spectrum CBD stays in the system depends on a number of factors. For example, a lower dosage will lead to less time in the body. There are several other biological factors such as metabolism and body composition that play a role. The frequency of use also impacts the longevity of the product. A good rule of thumb is that full-spectrum CBD tends to stay in the system for about 2-5 days, though this can be longer in some individuals.
Find the CBD Products that are Right for Your Needs
Navigating the world of CBD products can feel like a never-ending labyrinth at times. There are spectrums, compounds, formulas, and methods to consider amongst other things. The most important things to consider when choosing the right CBD products for you are your lifestyle and the benefits that you hope to gain from CBD. For some, full-spectrum will be a perfect match. For others, CBD isolate is the best choice of all. Remember, if you ever need help finding the product of your dreams, check out our list of the best CBD products.
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