Full Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate: Which One is Better?

If you’re on a full CBD shopping spree, then you’ll come across several new terms. Isolate and full-spectrum are some of the new terminologies you’ll find in the CBD world. Don’t be scared if you don’t know the meaning of the terms; you’re not alone. That’s why this article is made. The purpose of this article is to help you differentiate between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate while finding out which one suits your needs better. Let’s discuss the difference of Full Spectrum CBD vs. CBD isolate.

What Are The Terms For?

The “complicated” terms are nothing more but terms to differentiate the content of each product. CBD isolate is used for products that are just CBD and no other beneficial cannabinoids such as, CBG, CBN, CBC, CBD-V. Meanwhile, full-spectrum is the terminology for products that contain CBD, THC, and all of the other cannabinoids.

What Is CBD Isolate?

As it has been stated, CBD isolate is used for products that purely contain CBD and have no involvement with other materials whatsoever. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Creating a CBD isolate is more complicated than it sounds. Since CBD isolate is pure CBD, the extractors need to work in such a way that other materials in the hemp won’t be mixed with CBD during extraction. Most manufacturers prefer to use CO2 method when creating a CBD-only product, as the process usually gives the purest CBD extraction. 

There are different kinds of CBD isolate products. It can be in the form of oil, gummies, capsules, lotions, and so on. Another way is dabbing, which is the process of vaporizing the product and inhaling it. Examples of dabs are powder, wax, resin, and the list goes on. Most people nowadays tend to use non-dab products, though.

What Is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Full-spectrum CBD is CBD combined with all of the other cannabinoids. The extraction process is still the same, but in this case, manufacturers no longer isolate CBD during the extraction.

The reason why manufacturers combine CBD with THC for full-spectrum CBD is because of its effectiveness. In 2005, a study found out that combining CBD and THC is more effective than using CBD isolate alone. Such a phenomenon is called the “entourage effect.”

It’s not that THC and CBD cannot be used on their own. Fortunately, a study conducted in 2016 proved that combining THC with CBD can reduce the disadvantages of THC. To make it even better, another study in 2015 stated that CBD could be more effective if it’s extracted with other raw materials. In this case, the content is THC. And thus, full-spectrum CBD is born.

Full-Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate

Now that we know what full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate are, here comes the big question: which one is better? It depends on you as the consumer, of course. Both products have their advantages and drawbacks that can either be a hit or a miss for you.

Advantages Of Full-Spectrum CBD

Since full-spectrum CBD has been proven to be more effective than CBD isolate, full-spectrum CBD is best for those who want to use the product for a specific problem. It should also be noted that full-spectrum CBD is probably the closest to the raw plant since there’s no isolation whatsoever. If you want something potent and useful, you can opt for full-spectrum CBD.

Another use of our natural flavor full-spectrum CBD  is for cooking. Since it is light in taste and effect, you use a small hint of CBD full-spectrum to enhance the effects of your cuisine. So if you want something that’s not too heavy and can be used anytime, natural CBD full-spectrum is definitely for you.

Disadvantages Of Full-Spectrum CBD

Although full-spectrum CBD contains less than 0.3% THC since hemp only has that much, not every country considers THC legal. There’s also the matter of drug test; there’s a possibility it might show up in the analysis. Although it will probably be dismissed during the second drug test, the first test might stress you out. So if you want to use full-spectrum CBD, you need to check whether your country considers THC as legal or not.

Advantages of CBD isolate

CBD isolate is best for those who want to use CBD without worry. It won’t appear in your drug test, and there’s little chance you’re breaking the law in countries outside of the United States, which legalized CBD with .3% THC or less federally in the 2018 Farm and Agriculture Bill. After all, 90% of CBD isolate contains pure CBD – no mixture with other cannabinoids whatsoever. It is perfect for those who live in a country that has strict laws.

Disadvantages Of CBD Isolate

Unfortunately, CBD isolate is not as potent as full-spectrum CBD due to the isolation of CBD. The separation means you cannot use CBD isolate for something significant. So if you want to taste something closer to the raw material or have something potent, CBD isolation is not your guy.

Full-Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate: Who’s the Winner?

As it can be seen, both full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate have their uses and setbacks. There is no real winner in this “competition.” Everything depends on what you want to have. Do you need something efficient and robust? Then it would be best if you opted for full-spectrum CBD. If you need something light with flexible use, then CBD isolate is your answer.

Before purchasing your full-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate, make sure you have done thorough research on your country’s law regarding the two products. Don’t forget to find their full uses and drawbacks, as it is not a good idea to purchase something without knowing its uses and disadvantages. Once you’ve decided what to pick after you find out everything, time to purchase your product!