CBD Isolate vs Full-Spectrum CBD: Which is Best?

 

Precision Team

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    With the many types of CBD that are currently available, which is the better choice, CBD isolate or full-spectrum CBD?

    For many consumers, CBD (cannabidiol) has become a valuable tool for healthier living. Many describe CBD oils, extracts, and tinctures as helpful for a range of symptoms, including anxiety and pain. Whether isolates or full-spectrum products are best for you really depends on your unique preferences, priorities and lifestyle.

    3 Types of CBD

    Three Main CBD types are sold commercially:

    • CBD Isolate – The purest form of CBD
    • Full-Spectrum – A CBD extract that contains added compounds from the cannabis plant, like terpenes and cannabinoids. It typically contains THC, though quantities less than .03%
    • Broad-Spectrum – A CBD extract that contains additional plant compounds, but no THC

    For this article, we’ll focus on CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD.

    CBD Isolate

    CBD isolate is considered the purest form of CBD since it contains no additional plant compounds. Most CBD isolate is derived from hemp, which only has meager THC amounts. Isolate comes in a crystal form and can be ground up and sold in powder form or integrated into a drink, food or other end product.

    This form of CBD has been refined to the point where it has no discernable odor or taste. First-time users may appreciate CBD isolate for its purity, possible health benefits, and lack of other effects from a full-spectrum CBD product.

    CBD isolate technically has no THC. However, some products may be labeled as “THC-free,” even though they contain very small trace amounts. We recommend consumers be cautious when purchasing and consuming any CBD products if abstaining from THC is a priority in your purchase decision.

    Full-Spectrum CBD

    When considering CBD isolate vs. full-spectrum CBD, a full-spectrum product contains several cannabis extracts in addition to pure CBD, like oils, terpenes, and cannabinols. Full-spectrum CBD may also contain up to 0.3% THC, the particular cannabinoid that produces the euphoric feeling referred to as a “high.” It doesn’t, however, have enough THC in it to create any noticeable psychoactive symptoms.

    Full-spectrum CBD provides similar health benefits to isolate. However, the effects might be less impactful for a CBD isolate over a full-spectrum CBD product due to the well-documented “entourage effect” theory. The theory is that when more cannabinoids and compounds from the plant are taken together they yield a better effect than taken separately on their own.

    CBD Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum – The Benefits

    CBD Isolate Benefits

    Research has shown that pure CBD has medicinal benefits for conditions like epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, neuropathic pain and inflammation. Studies have also demonstrated several beneficial effects related to the treatment of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, as well as helping to address cognitive deficits that can come from a traumatic brain injury.

    CBD Isolate is odorless, tasteless, and THC-free. This is a solid advantage for those who want to avoid any kind of taste and a THC high.

    Full-Spectrum CBD Benefits

    Some consumers appreciate that full-spectrum CBD is less processed than isolate, considering it more “natural.” Science has also demonstrated that full-spectrum CBD may have a more potent effect, since it contains all of the cannabis plant compounds. One study found that it’s a better pain reliever, due to the combination of multiple cannabinoids and THC compounds.

    *PLEASE NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please see a medical professional for any diagnosis and medical treatment.


    CBD Extraction Equipment & Lab Solutions

    Precision manufacturers and sell some of the best CBD extraction equipment for making CBD isolate or full-spectrum extract. From primary extraction to distillation to lab design, we can provide an end-to-end solution for those processors looking into making CBD concentrates.

    View Equipment

    View Lab Solutions

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