Are you shopping for CBD? You may come across the terms ‘isolate’ and ‘full-spectrum’ CBD products. Essentially, this is referring to the cannabinoid content.
Let’s take a look at what isolate and full-spectrum CBD are and the advantages and disadvantages you should expect.
What is CBD Isolate?
Isolate is CBD in its purest form. This means it doesn’t contain anything, such as terpenes, cannabinoids or flavonoids. While it sounds basic, it’s actually a hard process to make CBD isolate. This is because everything else is extracted. You’ll often find this option in dabs, which can be powder form, as well as wax, crystals or shatter. But you can also enjoy CBD isolate as edibles, capsules and oils.
What is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD contains lots of cannabinoids from the plant; they aren’t removed during extraction. But this means it does contain THC. This isn’t a big deal if you live somewhere in the US where cannabis is legal. Federal laws do state that CBD products have to be extracted from hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC. So, while full-spectrum CBD does contain THC, it’s not enough to feel high. But it can have the entourage effect, which is when cannabinoids work together and can give you a sense of relief.
What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?
You may see products that say they contain ‘broad-spectrum’ CBD. This means that it will contain other cannabinoids but there should be no THC. You can experience the entourage effect, but this is without THC. This can remove your worries about consuming it in an environment when it’s not suitable.
Is Full-Spectrum or CBD Isolate Best for Me?
Now you know what they mean, you’ll be wondering which one you should choose. Well, it’s all about weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of both. It’s ultimately your decision and the one you like the most.
If you’re looking for the most potent option, this is going to be CBD isolate. This is pure and contain up from 90% cannabidiol. It contains only miniscule amounts of THC, which means there aren’t any psychoactive effects. There’s also minimal risk of failing a drug test. You may find CBD isolate easier to take; it doesn’t have a taste and it’s odorless. You can chook with it and it won’t add flavor to your dishes. The only disadvantage of this option is that it doesn’t create the entourage effect.
On the other hand, you’ve got full-spectrum CBD; this does create the entourage effect. This is going to be best if you’re looking for powerful CBD. It’s classed as the most natural, as it goes through less processing. There are some drawbacks to full-spectrum CBD. You may show positive on a drug test and flavonoids can create a strong taste. There can also be an unpleasant aroma.
Choose CBD Isolate If:
- You’re sensitive to THC.
- You live in a state with strict legislation on THC.
- You take regular drug tests.
- You want to cook with CBD.
Choose Full-Spectrum CBD If:
- You live in a state that has fully legalized cannabis use.
- You want to fully experience CBD.