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If you have shopped for CBD, you’ve probably seen products marked either “full-spectrum” or “isolate”. While these terms sound confusing, they simply refer to the variety ofcannabinoidd in the product.
Here is a breakdown of the differences between Full-Spectrum and Isolate CBD.
Full-Spectrum CBD is the most common variety you will find and the best option if you are looking for CBD to help with a variety of aliments. Full-Spectrum CDB products are made with multiple cannabinoids extracted from the hemp plant. Contrary to popular belief and the spread of misinformation, CBD does not contain TCH.
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or TCH is a psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for a marijuana high. Federal law requires all that CBD products be extracted from hemp and not marijuana plants. As a result, CDB only contains trace amounts of TCH that will not cause a high.
In short, Full-Spectrum CDB is a combination of different cannabinoids combined to work together for maximum benefits. A 2005 study conducted in Jerusalem showed that those given Full-Spectrum CBD “experienced heightened relief“ versus subjects given CBD isolate.
CBD isolate is the most basic form of CBD. Isolates do not contain other cannabinoids-it is just pure, isolated CBD from hemp. CBD isolates do not contain any additives such as flavoring.
While a CBD isolate might seem like the simpler of the two, it is much more difficult to extract only CBD from hemp and no other cannabinoids. During the hemp extraction process, all cannabinoids are removed. When making full-spectrum CBD, multiple cannabinoids are combined which is much easier than extracting a single cannabinoid.
CBD isolate is mostly used in vape pens, or “dabs” or “dabbing”. Vaping or dabbing CBD isolate is when compounds are vaporized on a hot nail and inhaled. CBD isolate vaping is similar to an e-cigarette, but you don’t have to use an e-cigarette or a liquid. CBD isolate dabs are available in powders, crystals, wax, resin, or a glass-like material called “shatter”. Isolate contains 0.0% TCH while Full-Spectrum contains 0.3% THC.
CBD isolate is not as commonly purchased or used as Full-Spectrum CBD products. Isolate is starting to show up more in CBD edibles as well as in oils. Like other forms of CBD, isolate may help with common health issues.
