What is the difference between CBD Isolate vs full spectrum CBD? There are three main types of CBD extract available. The main difference between CBD Isolate vs Full Spectrum CBD relates to the other naturally occurring plant compounds in the extract. The other kind is Broad Spectrum CBD.
CBD ISOLATE vs FULL SPECTRUM: THE CHEMICAL DIFFERENCE
The Important difference between CBD Isolate vs Full Spectrum CBD is the compounds contains in each.
A Full Spectrum CBD is going to contain several naturally occurring cannabis plant extracts, like flavonoids and terpenes, and other cannabinoids, including up to 0.3% THC. Although this is not typically enough THC to cause a psychoactive effect. Other ingredients of Full Spectrum CBD include essential vitamins and minerals, plant-based protein fiber, beneficial fatty acids, and chlorophyll.
CBD Isolate is exactly what it sounds like, purified CBD. All other plant compounds have been removed as much as possible. CBD isolate is a more refined product. It most often comes from hemp plants, which typically contain a low amount of THC in the first place. Often ground up and sold as a powder, CBD Isolate is a crystal form of CBD.
So what does this mean? Each product is going to have somewhat different effects. And which one is right for you is going to depend on individual circumstances.
BENEFITS OF FULL SPECTRUM CBD
Research points to the existence of the “entourage effect,” in which it is suggested that when multiple cannabis plant compounds are present along with CBD extract, this increases the health benefits of the CBD. So, some people may prefer the Full spectrum CBD. One 2018 study’s findings suggest that full-spectrum CBD is more effective for pain than CBD isolate because of the combined effects of CBD and THC. Not to mention many of the other compounds besides CBD may be beneficial in themselves, without even considering the “entourage effect.” Full Spectrum CBD is also going to be less processed than CBD isolate.
It is quite unlikely that you would fail a drug test from using Full Spectrum CBD, but it cannot be completely ruled out. There are an innumerable amount of drug tests on the market, so while unlikely, it would not be completely impossible for some of the more sensitive ones to test positive, due to very trace amounts of THC found in Full Spectrum CBD.
BENEFITS OF CBD ISOLATE
While, it may be safer for passing a drug test, you are missing the benefits of all those other compounds besides CBD. However, by trying CBD Isolate, you may be able to determine if CBD alone can help alleviate your ailments. If you want to stay 100% away from THC, CBD Isolate may be the right choice for you.
While Full Spectrum CBD is less processed, CBD Isolate is going to be more refined. You will likely be able to find CBD Isolate at a lower price point than Full Spectrum CBD, because it has fewer ingredients.
You should take care to get the correct dosage if you use CBD Isolate in powder form.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CBD
While a lot of research is still being done, some studies, and a lot of individuals, suggest that CBD and other Cannabis compounds have numerous health benefits, and help alleviate ailments and symptoms of ailments. CBN, for example, is highly suspected to have antibiotic, anti-seizure, and anti-inflammatory properties.
A combination of terpenes and cannabinoids is thought to help with:
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Inflammation
- Cancer
- Fungal Infections
CBD may also help lessen unwanted THC side effects, like hunger and anxiety.
It is possible that some of the terpenes and flavonoids found in cannabis may reduce inflammation and offer neuroprotective effects.
Although more research is needed to say for sure how the “entourage effect” works, some uses for full-spectrum CBD include:
- Anti-seizure
- Anti-anxiety
- Pain Relief
- Muscle Spasm Relief
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Treatment for Psychotic Disorders
BROAD SPECTRUM CBD
Broad Spectrum CBD does not contain any THC, but it does contain cannabidiol and the other natural compounds. So you may also get the “entourage effect” form Broad Spectrum. It will have less than the up to 0.3% of THC found in Full Spectrum CBD.
SUMMARY
Which CBD product you choose is up to you and largely subject to your individual needs. CBD Isolate allows you to test if CBD alone may be beneficial for your ailments. It’s probably the way to go if you for some reason want to avoid even minimal amounts of THC.
There are thought to be numerous benefits to some of the other compounds found in Full Spectrum CBD. And although more research needs to be done, there is a suspected “entourage effect,” meaning it is thought that the compounds are more beneficial, when taken together. Either one that you choose, you will likely experience health benefits form cannabis.
You should always pay close attention to labels. And always consult a health professional before trying CBD, or beginning any health regimens. Always buy your product from a trust worthy source that offers third party lab results.
Need New Products?
Try ours! We have a wide variety.
