Besides choosing CBD products, you also have to pay attention to the type of CBD used in making the products. That's because different CBD products will have different potencies, and the experiences will also vary.
Top of the list of CBD extracts to look into when choosing CBD products are full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. Although both extracts contain CBD, numerous underlying differences could determine your experience.
What is Full-Spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract that contains many compounds from the hemp material, including terpenes, other cannabinoids and essential oils. Full-spectrum CBD might also contain trace amounts of THC but within the acceptable legal limits of 0.2% for CBD products. However, the composition of THC is minuscule and doesn’t produce any of its psychoactive effects in these amounts.
Is Full-spectrum CBD Legal?
Some CBD consumers might be concerned about the legality of full-spectrum CBD because of the presence of THC and its standing with the law. However, Full-spectrum CBD is processed in accordance with the legal regulations and derived from approved hemp strains, ensuring it is legal.
The Entourage Effect
The Entourage effect is one of the distinguishing factors between full-spectrum, and CBD isolate products. The Entourage effect results from multiple cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids contained in CBD extract working together to create a more intense and potent experience than CBD working alone.
Besides the entourage effect, full-spectrum CBD also has a distinct scent because of the concentration of terpenes and flavonoids in the extract. Some of the most common terpenes in the hemp plant include ocimene, limonene, humulene and myrcene.
These characteristics separate full-spectrum from CBD isolate. However, CBD isolate also has unique properties and benefits that many people like.
Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD
Full-spectrum CBD has more impact on the body than pure CBD because it contains multiple hemp compounds. In addition, full-spectrum CBD appreciators can enjoy the entourage effect because of the many cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes that work together to deliver added whole-plant benefits.
The extensive selection of terpenes and cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD also has its benefits which compound the overall benefits of full-spectrum CBD products.
Full-spectrum CBD Drawbacks
Behind the massive benefits that full-spectrum CBD offers, there are several drawbacks that you ought to be aware of as well. Full-spectrum CBD undergoes minimal refining and contains traces of THC, which might not sit well with consumers who regularly undergo drug tests.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is created by extracting CBD from the hemp plant, followed by processing it to remove all the other cannabinoid components, including THC. Essentially, CBD isolate is 99% CBD. It doesn't retain any terpenes of flavonoids.
CBD isolate is a white, powdery or crystalline substance that can be infused with a carrier oil or other ingredients to make CBD products like
CBD oil,
CBD balms,
capsules,
CBD edibles, gummies and gels.
Are CBD Isolates Safe?
CBD isolate must follow legal regulations during the processing phase, ensuring it has less than 0.2% THC content, among other quality requirements. The CBD extract used comes from the designated hemp plants to guarantee consistency and composition. CBD isolates don't contain any of the beneficial flavonoids or terpenes that would contribute to an entourage effect. However, it does retain other potent effects that you can feel.
Benefits of CBD Isolates
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD. Because there are no other forms of hemp elements, CBD isolates are perfect for first-time consumers who wish to experience CBD without interacting with any of the other compounds, especially THC.
CBD isolate is also extra refined. There is no distinctive odour or flavour, which is ideal for consumers that might be sensitive when using CBD isolate products. Overall, CBD isolates consumers can use as much CBD as they want without the risk of triggering a positive drug test.
CBD Isolate Drawbacks
The only drawback you can expect with CBD isolate is missing out on the entourage effect and added benefits of terpenes, other cannabinoids and flavonoids found in full-spectrum CBD.
Full-spectrum CBD Vs. CBD Isolate: Which is Better?
Each type of CBD has its benefits and downsides. You're likely to have a better CBD experience if you can choose which of the two varieties of CBD works best for you.
When is full-spectrum CBD better for you?
Full-spectrum CBD is perfect for seasoned CBD connoisseurs who understand the effects of CBD and have high regard for the type of effects they expect. Full-spectrum CBD is also ideal for consumers looking for the entourage effect and has no worries about consuming a little THC in the process.
Why not also check out our
CBD inhalers.
When is CBD isolate better for you?
CBD isolate is perfect for consumers without high expectations from their CB products and who want to enjoy the benefits without consuming any THC. CBD isolate is also ideal for new CBD consumers who want to test how their body responds by using a CBD variation with a "milder" effect.
Final Thoughts
On paper, full-spectrum CBD is the better choice because of its broad composition and additional wellness benefits. However, not all people are looking for the same effects. Therefore, there are those who still find CBD isolate more beneficial because it meets their expectations, and they can consume CBD isolate products without any concerns about triggering positive drug tests.
