FULL SPECTRUM VS. BROAD SPECTRUM VS. CBD ISOLATE: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

When shopping for CBD, you’ve probably come across products labeled full spectrum, broad spectrum, or CBD isolate. Although they all sound similar, they are far from the same type of product. Basically, each term is used to describe what kind of CBD is used in the product. Each type presents important factors and differences which are important to consider when choosing the best CBD product for you.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Full-spectrum CBD means all the cannabinoids present in the hemp plant during the extraction process are still present in your product when you purchase and use it. It contains all of the hemp plant’s natural and beneficial cannabinoids; it is the most unprocessed form of CBD. Full-spectrum products are sometimes referred to as whole-plant CBD since it is not chemically manipulated before it reaches the consumer.

As a result, the person receives the full benefits of the hemp plant and can experience something called the entourage effect. The entourage effect is the concept that every cannabinoid in the hemp plant alongside CBD works together to create a desirable effect. Each botanical compound has unique effects and benefits, and when they join together, it is believed these natural compounds work together and amplify one another to create a more powerful strain that effectively addresses ailments in the body.

Full-spectrum CBD products do contain trace amounts of THC, less than 0.3%, since the entire hemp plant is used. This amount is still federally legal, and a person will not experience a high or stoned feeling when using full-spectrum products. However, if you’re looking to avoid THC completely, you may want to consider broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.

What is Broad-Spectrum CBD?

Broad-spectrum CBD contains a range of naturally occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant, but it has THC removed. As a result, broad-spectrum requires more processing and manipulation than full-spectrum CBD products to effectively removed THC from the product. However, broad-spectrum CBD still offers similar benefits to full-spectrum CBD since it has a wide range of natural cannabinoids working together. As a result, broad-spectrum users can still experience the synergistic benefits of the entourage effect.

With broad-spectrum CBD, there is no risk of psychoactive effects from THC. Broad-spectrum CBD is the perfect CBD extract for those who want to experience all of CBD’s beneficial cannabinoids, but have a sensitivity to THC or are worried about potentially consuming trace amounts of THC.

What is CBD Isolate?

CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD because, during the refinement process, all other natural compounds, such as terpenes, THC, and other cannabinoids, are removed. While it is the most pure form of CBD, it is actually more processed than both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD since the CBD has to be isolated from the rest of the plant. CBD isolate is usually tasteless and odorless, but it does not deliver the enhanced benefits of the entire hemp plant.

Also, unlike broad spectrum and full spectrum, CBD isolate will not produce the entourage effect because all naturally occurring compounds besides cannabidiol are removed. However, CBD isolate is a good option for those who are sensitive to other cannabinoids or want to completely avoid THC.

Which is Right for You?

What’s the right type of CBD for you? Now that you’ve got an understanding of the differences between full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate, it will be easier for you to determine which form of CBD will fit your personal needs.

Are you seeking the full benefits of the entourage effect? Try full-spectrum CBD.

Do you want the entourage effect without THC? Try broad-spectrum CBD.

Do you have a sensitivity to THC or other cannabinoids? Try CBD isolate.

Of course, it may not be that simple. Everyone is different, and you may need to try a few different forms of CBD until you find the one that works best for you.

But we do know that staying educated about CBD is key for the best possible experience! Check back with us regularly for more articles about CBD!