CBD Education

What Are The Differences Between Isolate, Full Spectrum, and Broad Spectrum CBD Oils?

Posted on by cathleen
10
Jan

As you’re purchasing CBD products, labeling and packaging can be confusing if you’re new to using hemp-derived CBD. How do you know which one will work best for you? First, you need to know the difference between them. There are isolate, broad spectrum, and full spectrum versions of CBD on the market. 

Research shows that full-plant extracts work best for helping certain conditions. This is known as the “entourage effect.” 

Extraction

In order to use CBD, it must first be extracted from the hemp plant. The CBD extraction process starts with using the right part of the plant: the flower, also called the bud. The flower is where the terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids live, while the rest of the plant is mostly used for its fiber and seeds. Supercritical CO2 extraction is the most widely-used method of hemp extraction, as it kills microbial bacteria, insect mites, and mold.  

Isolate

The extraction of hemp can go down to the single CBD molecule, which is typically around 99%+ CBD. Isolates contain no THC.  It looks like a white, crystal powder, and can be added to carrier oils for consumption. Typically, it’s used with MCT as a carrier oil. The extraction of CBD as an isolate also removes all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, so it isn’t always as effective as a full or broad spectrum product.

Broad Spectrum 

The broad-spectrum CBD extraction method uses a chromatography process to filter out THC while keeping other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. For those who fear having a drug test at work (and testing positive for THC in their systems) a CBD isolate or broad spectrum are your best choices..

Full Spectrum  

When doing a full spectrum CBD extraction, all of the cannabinoids (including trace amounts of THC under .3%), terpenes, and flavonoids will still be present to create the formulation of the product. Including all of these components ensures the best delivery of the entourage effectiveness. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Always ask for test results from a 3rd-party lab to ensure you are getting what you purchased.
  • Start slowly, with consistent low doses, until you can feel a difference. 
  • Do your own research from reputable, current sources.
  • Ask us! We’re always happy to help educate our customers on choosing hemp-derived CBD products based on your particular needs and preferences
cathleen