Full Spectrum vs Isolate; Which is Best for You?
With thousands of CBD products available, shoppers have an abundance of choices, from potency and flavor to different consumption methods and beyond.
Among the many options, Full Spectrum and Isolate hemp products stand out as two popular choices. While each offers unique benefits depending on individual needs, they are fundamentally different. The real question is, which one suits you best?
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD includes not just CBD but also other cannabinoids such as Delta THC, CBN, and THCA. Currently, researchers have identified over 100 cannabinoids within the hemp plant, each contributing to its unique properties.
By choosing a full spectrum CBD product, you tap into the entourage effect, a phenomenon where multiple cannabinoids work together within the endocannabinoid system to produce enhanced effects that a single cannabinoid alone cannot achieve.
A 2019 study published in Frontiers Science supports this idea, stating that cannabis extracts containing a combination of compounds like CBD, THC, THCA, THCV, CBDV, linalool, and caryophyllene demonstrate greater efficacy in anticonvulsant applications.
To understand the cannabinoid content of a full spectrum CBD product, reviewing its Certificate of Analysis (COA) is essential. This document provides valuable insights into the product’s composition, helping you make an informed decision. If you’re unfamiliar with COAs and what they reveal, keep reading to learn more.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate contains only pure CBD, unlike full spectrum hemp products that include cannabinoids such as THC, CBG, and CBN. Through specialized extraction techniques, all other cannabinoids are removed, leaving behind only CBD.
There are several ways to extract CBD isolate. According to Quadro Engineering, one method involves harvesting crystals from a distillate mix, milling them into a fine powder, and then drying the powder to achieve the final product.
CBD isolate is ideal for individuals who want the benefits of CBD without any Delta THC. This makes it a preferred option for those who undergo drug testing or simply wish to avoid the psychoactive effects associated with Delta THC cannabinoids.
How to Find the Right CBD Product for Your Needs
After determining whether a full spectrum or isolate hemp product is best for you, there are additional factors to consider. Think about how you prefer to consume CBD, the ideal serving size, and your preferred flavor.
Once those basic decisions are made, it’s time to focus on selecting a high-quality product. One of the most important factors is the Certificate of Analysis. This document, issued by third-party laboratories, verifies potency, heavy metal content, terpene profile, and cannabinoid composition, making it an invaluable resource when evaluating CBD products.
Another key factor is the company behind the product. A reputable brand will have multiple ways for customers to contact them, demonstrate transparency in their products and business practices, and provide education about both their offerings and the hemp plant in general.
Finally, checking customer reviews can provide insight into the quality of the product. Reviews offer real experiences from other buyers, and trustworthy brands actively engage with and address customer feedback to improve their offerings.
Finding the right CBD product doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The best approach is to educate yourself on different product types and how to identify high-quality options. With the right knowledge, selecting the perfect CBD product becomes a much simpler process.
