You’ve probably come across CBD products labelled as “CBD isolate” or “full-spectrum CBD oil” that has left you perplexed.
Simply put, cannabidiol (CBD) comes in three different forms. Among the various forms of CBD, isolate is the purest, while full-spectrum CBD is an extract that contains terpenes and other cannabinoids from the hemp plant. Broad-spectrum CBD is the third type.
Although both are derived from the hemp plant, there are significant differences between the two types of CBD. Full-spectrum CBD products also contain trace levels of other cannabinoids (including trace amounts of THC), as well as plant metabolites known as flavonoids and terpenes, which give them their distinct aroma and flavour. On the other hand, CBD isolate contains only CBD and no other additives.
So, what are the benefits of each extraction, and how do they differ? What exactly are the pros and cons of each product? Let’s compare CBD isolate vs. full-spectrum CBD to understand the differences between them better. To do that, you first need to learn more about cannabinoids and their general properties.
Introducing Cannabis
Cannabinoids are plant chemicals found in hemp. Over 100 different and unique cannabinoids are on the market, with CBD and THC being the two best known. These cannabinoids act on the body’s endocannabinoid system by interacting with specific cannabinoid receptor sites. Once a cannabinoid reaches a receptor site, it can alter appetite, pain perception, memory, mood, and other bodily functions.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is known for its relaxing and soothing properties. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a psychoactive compound that causes the well-known high. Other cannabinoids, such as CBN (cannabinol), CBC (cannabichromene), and CBG (cannabigerol), interact with the endocannabinoid system in unique ways.
When consumers ingest multiple cannabinoids simultaneously, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect occurs. The entourage effect implies that the mixture of cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, THC, and CBD has a more significant impact than cannabinoids alone. The entourage effect can happen when any number of cannabinoids are consumed, not just CBD and THC.
Terpenes and terpenoids, organic chemicals, will also influence the entourage effect. These chemicals can be found in various plants and are the main constituents of essential oils. They’re also responsible for how cannabis plants smell.
Each terpene has its effect, much like cannabinoids. Terpenes including limonene, humulene, myrcene, and ocimene are widely found in hemp plants.
Cannabinoids & Their Role in Our Wellbeing
Have you ever wondered why cannabinoids are so beneficial to our health? Since they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), an extensive structure of cannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitters is distributed throughout the body, encompassing the brain, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, and immune cells.
Memory, cognitive function, pain perception, stress management, mood regulation, and immunological responses are just a few of the biological activities controlled by the ECS. Researchers discovered in 1995 that cannabinoids like CBD and THC could help the body and brain in various ways.
They later found that each cannabinoid uniquely interacts with the endocannabinoid system. For example, THC has psychoactive effects associated with “being high.” On the other hand, CBD does not cause euphoria. In other words, it won’t get you high. It has the potential to change THC’s psychoactive effects. It has several essential health benefits, including stress alleviation.
CBD can be somewhat stimulating in low doses, but it has soothing properties at higher doses. Other cannabinoids, like cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN), have different effects. The “cannabinoid spectrum” refers to the whole range of cannabinoids. Having learned more about cannabinoids and how they impact our bodies, it’s time to know in detail about CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD.
CBD Isolate Overview
Unlike full-spectrum CBD and broad-spectrum CBD, CBD isolate is a pure extract of the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD). Isolate products contain only cannabidiol and no other cannabinoids or terpenes found naturally in Cannabaceae plants.
CBD isolates are perfect for those who want to experiment with CBD but don’t want to try the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. If you’ve had a bad experience with full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD products, isolates could be the solution.
Isolates work after altering the cannabinoid receptors of the body’s endocannabinoid system. The CBD in these isolates can affect various bodily activities when it interacts with these receptors.
Full Spectrum CBD Overview
Full-spectrum CBD oils are the most widely used medical cannabis product. Full-spectrum CBD is derived from cannabis plants, which by definition contain THC, the psychoactive component of the marijuana plant. CBD full spectrum, unlike CBD isolate, consists of hundreds of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
CBD enthusiasts claim that the combination of full-spectrum CBD products (a scenario known as the “entourage effect”) provides an effective CBD treatment that outperforms so-called CBD isolate products by independently helping to cure specific medical conditions. Protein, fibre, fatty acids, and essential vitamins are among the therapeutic characteristics found in these substances.
In this regard, full-spectrum CBD oil is widely considered to help treat severe disorders such as anxiety, depression, muscle pain, migraines, and other problems. It’s worth mentioning that full-spectrum extracts also contain the complete flavour profile of the plant they come from. Many people enjoy it, but some find the “hempy” taste hard to take, even when mixed with food or drink.
Full Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate
The term “full-spectrum” points out the key differences, stating that full-spectrum CBD oil is derived from a single hemp plant and contains various constituents.
Cannabinoids like CBN (Cannabinol), CBG (Cannabigerol), and THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) are examples of such molecules. On the other hand, CBD isolate is a single strain of CBD that has been extracted from a cannabis plant and separated from other marijuana constituents.
The most significant difference between these two is potency and longevity. This is due to the “team approach” that full-spectrum CBD products have. Full-spectrum CBD is also often regarded as more effective than CBD isolate. This is because isolated products have a weaker effect and a shorter lifespan in the body compared to full-spectrum CBD.
Why would you choose an isolate over a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum product? CBD might be just up your alley if you:
- Wish to stay away from THC.
- Wanting to take higher CBD doses
- is looking for something without flavour or odour (some products do have flavour added!).
- Must pass a THC drug test.
On the other hand, full-spectrum CBD products are best for:
- CBD users want the benefits of trace amounts of THC in their extracts.
- Individuals suffering from more severe symptoms for which CBD isolate and broad-spectrum solutions have failed to provide relief.
- Individuals are living in states and provinces where cannabis is legal.
Benefits of Full-Spectrum CBD
So far, full-spectrum CBD oil has received considerable attention, although research on the efficacy and risks of CBD products is ongoing. Moreover, full-spectrum CBD is attracting even more attention, mainly because of its potential health benefits.
While the evidence is limited, and most studies focus on the effects of full-spectrum CBD oil in mice rather than humans, early results suggest that full-spectrum CBD shows promise, particularly in these areas.
Full-Spectrum CBD Is Sustainable
The most important conclusion from early tests on full-spectrum CBD is that it works considerably better in treating various illnesses than isolated CBD. Full-spectrum CBD’s “team effect” lasts longer when used for different conditions since it combines numerous cannabinoids into a single, bundled medication, giving users more effective and sustainable treatment alternatives.
It’s Bountiful
Full-spectrum CBD contains at least 113 cannabinoids, all of which are produced by a single hemp plant. More cannabis product manufacturers extract the plant’s most potent components and use them for various medical treatments, particularly the plant’s fatty acids and hemp oils, which demand cannabis products.
The Entourage Effect
The entourage effect theory suggests that combining CBD and THC with terpenes may be more beneficial than taking either cannabinoid product alone. So, it’s understandable that many users like full-spectrum CBD more than other products. According to a 2011 investigation published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, combining terpenes and cannabinoids can aid with:
- Stress
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Seizures
- Cancer
- Fungal infections
The same research also concluded that CBD might help reduce the adverse effects of THC, such as hunger, anxiety, and drowsiness.
According to another study published in 2018, some terpenes and flavonoids present in cannabis can lower inflammation and provide neuroprotective effects. But let’s not forget that research on the entourage effect, like so many other components of CBD, is still ongoing.
Completely Natural
Full-spectrum CBD comes straight from Mother Nature, which both cannabis developers and users appreciate. Most full-spectrum CBD products are not modified genetically, pesticide-free, and chemical-free.
Full Spectrum CBD Side Effects
Full-spectrum CBD oil has been little refined and typically contains traces of THC, which can cause a high and show up on a drug test. THC is only allowed in the UK in goods containing no more than 1mg of the substance and are not advertised as medically beneficial – any amount over that will result in a lifetime of orange jumpsuit wear (well, that’s an exaggeration, but you get the idea).
Benefits of CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is popular among CBD users because of its relaxing properties and medicinal potential. We already know that it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to stimulate receptors in the brain and restore homeostasis, which encompasses our mood, body temperature, water content, and other factors. Let’s read more about the benefits of CBD isolates.
Isolate Has No THC
First of all, since CBD isolates don’t contain THC, they won’t show up on a drug test if you use authentic CBD isolates. This is because these products are made entirely from CBD. Although it’s extremely rare, minuscule THC levels in hemp-derived CBD oil might conceivably be present in your CBD isolate product, but there will likely be no trace of it in a drug test result. Always read labels to ensure you’re buying what you should.
Anti Inflammatory Properties
According to research, CBD has anti-inflammatory qualities. CBD, mainly applied topically or eaten, has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in individuals with inflammatory diseases. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial to a wide range of people, with the ability to treat arthritis, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and much more.
Dosing Is Simple
The dosage of CBD isolates is relatively easy to calculate, as there is nothing else to consider besides pure CBD. The cannabinoid is blended with other cannabinoids in various CBD-based products, such as broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD oil, making it more challenging to determine the exact amount of CBD ingested at times.
Varieties of Consumption
Another evident advantage is the numerous imaginative methods by which CBD isolate can be prepared for usage. We’ll explore in detail below under How to Use CBD Isolates. This crystalline CBD powder is suitable for various consumption methods, including sublingual administration and combination with foods and drinks.
CBD Isolate Side Effects
While taking CBD isolate may seem like a good idea, consider that isolating CBD from other cannabis chemicals has a significant downside. According to research, the entourage effect is a synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes that amplifies the individual benefits of each component involved. You won’t get the help of the entourage effect if you remove all other cannabinoids, and that’s precisely what CBD isolate does.
How to Use CBD Isolate
CBD isolates can be used in various ways, from oils and sweets to topicals and vapes. It’s entirely up to you how you take CBD, although oils and vapes are the most bioavailable options.
CBD Isolate Oil
CBD isolates are most commonly found in the form of CBD oil. It’s best to use a dropper to place small amounts of the oil under your tongue. You can also use these drops to jazz up your food and beverages.
CBD oil is ideal if you want to keep a careful eye on your dosage. Because you can change the amount of oil consumed by dropping more or less oil under the tongue, you have complete control over your dosage. Although CBD oil gives you many dosing options, it’s not as easy to administer a specific dose correctly as it is with edibles.
CBD Isolate Edibles
CBD edibles are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They make it easy for you to ingest pure CBD pleasantly. CBD is precisely dosed in each CBD consumable, such as a gummy, honey stick, or lollypop.
Although potencies differ between products, if you buy a pack of gummies, you can ensure that each piece contains the same quantity of CBD. If you don’t like the taste of raw CBD isolate oil but still want to take it orally, edibles are a great option. They’re also ideal if you’re concerned about how much CBD you’re taking and want to keep a careful eye on your dosage.
Capsules of CBD Isolate
CBD Capsules are pill-shaped capsules that provide a precise amount of CBD. Dry and soft gel capsules are available. Both are taken as you would any other drug, supplement, or vitamin in pill form.
Capsules, like edibles, provide you with a lot of control over the dosage. The amount of CBD supplied by the manufacturer is precisely displayed to each capsule. They’re ideal if you want to absorb CBD without tasting it and have perfect control over the amount you consume.
CBD Vaporizers
CBD isolate in vapour form is a highly effective way to ingest CBD. The cannabinoid is absorbed much more efficiently in the lung tissue when inhaled rather than eaten. The most common concern with vaping CBD is damage to the lungs. Although vaping is much healthier than smoking, the health consequences are unknown.
It’s also not recommended to smoke CBD vaporizers if you have a respiratory problem like asthma. Aside from the potential health hazards, vaping CBD is a highly bioavailable method of consuming CBD. If you’re suffering from stress, anxiety, or depression, this is an excellent method to use CBD.
How to Choose the Best CBD Product
Your personal preferences and demands will determine which CBD product is best for you. CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD available, whereas full spectrum CBD contains all of the hemp plant’s natural and valuable cannabinoids. The entourage effect, which increases the energizing potential of cannabis, is enhanced by full-spectrum CBD. However, this doesn’t apply to CBD isolates.
It depends on what you’re searching for! CBD isolate has few therapeutic effects, according to experienced CBD users. It can, however, be a gentle introduction if you’re starting. On the other hand, Full Spectrum CBD can be a touch too potent in terms of substance. We recommend moderation and a step-by-step approach!
When purchasing CBD oil, make sure it has been laboratory tested and has a valid certificate of analysis. This and other factors can help you find the most reliable company from which to buy your favourite products.
Buying The Best CBD Product
When looking for CBD isolate, look for products from reliable sources that have been lab-tested by an independent third party. Like wholesale CBD products by Fluxxlab (you can learn more about Fluxxlab). This should guarantee that your isolate contains no THC, extra plant components, or other contaminants.
So, it’s safe to say that you should conduct some research before selecting a high-quality CBD isolate and full-spectrum product. Always double-check for quality, safety, and transparency. Each product includes the following features:
- Must be manufactured by a company that can demonstrate third-party testing by an ISO 17025-certified laboratory.
- Under the Certificate of Analysis (COA), products must be manufactured by a company that discloses the source of its hemp and contain no more than 0.3 percent THC
It would be best if you also thought about:
- the potency of the product
- ingredients in general
- Signs of user trust and brand reputation, including customer reviews, whether the company has received a warning letter from the FDA, and whether the corporation makes any health claims that aren’t backed up by evidence.
CBD On A Drug Test: Detectable or Not?
The answer to that question is yes. But only if the drug test looks explicitly for CBD. However, this is never heard of because it isn’t something employers or law enforcement look for by default. Drug tests detect illegal chemicals such as THC, opioids, steroids, and similar compounds.
There is no reason for organizations to test for CBD because it is federally lawful and does not harm or artificially boost athletic performance. It would be a total waste of finances, time, and resources. However, some CBD products like full-spectrum CBD contain small amounts of THC (about 0.3 percent), as we mentioned earlier. So, if you don’t want to fail a drug test, avoid full-spectrum CBD products.
Beware of False Products
Even if a company uses the proper extraction process, it may still deliver a product with detectable levels of THC. That’s why you must purchase from reliable and certified companies. This can be done in the ways described below.
Cross-Contamination
One would think that hemp and “marijuana” enthusiasts would benefit from cannabis being semi-legal in the United States. For hemp growers, though, it has proven to be a double-edged sword – and a complete nightmare.
The fact that high-THC and low-THC cannabis chemovars grow in the same state is a huge problem. The arrangement often results in cross-pollination, which lowers the THC content in industrial hemp.
Farmers of hemp have no choice but to destroy their crops with more than 0.3 percent THC. So, customers could be getting something with a lot more THC if growers don’t test their plants and products regularly.
Mislabeling of CBD Products
CBD products that were mislabeled were (and most likely still are) a significant problem. When the Food and Drug Administration examined various CBD products, they discovered that roughly 70% included more or less CBD than stated, with some containing none at all.
Worse, several of these products “included a large amount of THC,” according to the FDA. This is a significant issue, given that CBD oil is well-known for treating certain types of pediatric epilepsy. Due to insufficient or misleading labelling, some parents may unintentionally provide THC to their children.
Customers may also have difficulty convincing an employer that you consume less than 0.3 percent THC when a drug test indicates otherwise.
How Does It Show
As mentioned before, CBD won’t show up on a regular drug test because employers and law enforcement don’t care about it. However, using the incorrect CBD oil, such as full-spectrum CBD oil, can result in a positive THC result.
To avoid potential difficulties on the road:
- Stick with a broad spectrum THC-free.
- Always remember to do your homework and understand how to read CBD product labels.
- Once you choose a manufacturer, check their credentials and ensure they’ve never had any difficulties with incorrect labelling.
By now, you must be thinking that CBD is a complex topic to master. But, with the correct tools and enough research, you can avoid failing drug tests by using CBD oil contaminated with THC.
Final Word
It’s only natural to have difficulty figuring out which cannabis extract is best for you. Start by looking at the different options available on the market today to pick the CBD product that best meets your needs. While pure oils of CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD are popular and, of course, available, there are many additional ways to take CBD.
CBD isolate, and full-spectrum CBD products offer their own set of benefits. The most significant difference among these two is potency and longevity. Full-spectrum CBD is often regarded as being more effective than CBD isolate. Of course, only when it comes to the overall effects of these substances in the body.
Last but not least, don’t forget to read the labels carefully and consult with a doctor or healthcare provider before purchasing any CBD product. That’s just as important as finding a reliable producer to get your product.