What are the differences between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD? As the sale of CBD continues to rise, its formulas are changing to fit the needs of wellness lovers who need different requirements. You might have seen products like, CBD isolate and full-spectrum on your CBD product packaging and thought what does this even mean?
In this post we’re tackling the differences between isolate and full-spectrum products, so you can tell the difference and choose the best product for you.
Cannabinoids
It is important to know that CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of many cannabinoid compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. This compound can be extracted and used to make CBD products.
The two most popular of all cannabinoids are cannabidiol or CBD and Tetrahydrocannabinol better known as THC. However, there are many other cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, and CBDa, that have their own effects.
WHAT ARE CANNABINOIDS?
A cannabinoid is a molecule that is specific to the cannabis plant. A compound is just another way to say a molecule or chemical that makes up the plant’s chemical structure.
The cannabinoids in hemp are similar to some molecules that we also have in our bodies. These are called endocannabinoids. The cannabinoid from hemp products work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
When the endocannabinoid system is stimulated, the system is responsible for regulating a number of very important bodily functions that help you stay healthy. This includes sleeping more soundly, a decrease in pain response and aids with immunity, wellness, and mood.
The cannabinoids’ main job is to react with the endocannabinoid receptors found in your brain, gut, and central nervous system to help maintain a good balance in the body. When your body’s endocannabinoid system is not working properly it can cause imbalances that can affect the way your entire body functions.
HOW DO CANNABINOIDS WORK?
When external cannabinoids like CBD are introduced into the body they have the ability to interact with your endocannabinoid system and help promote the production of more endocannabinoids and return the body to a harmonious balance.
Different CBD products and formulations contain a varied spectrum of cannabinoids, which have been developed to accommodate certain customers’ needs.
This is where product terms such as CBD isolate and full-spectrum come into play.
WHAT IS CBD ISOLATE?
CBD isolate is known as the purest form of CBD. It only contains an isolated CBD compound. All other cannabinoids are filtered and removed from hemp extracts through a process called chromatography. This leaves behind a white crystal powder that has had all the other plant properties and cannabinoids removed. Its final crystallized form also gives it the name CBD crystals.
IS CBD ISOLATE THC FREE?
One of the greatest benefits of isolate CBD is that it is 100% THC free. Certain customers that want to take CBD without THC, may take CBD Isolate because it only contains CBD and all the other cannabinoids have been removed, including THC.
THC is most commonly known for its psychoactive effects, which is what causes the high feeling from cannabis. Hemp extracts only contain trace amounts of THC at 0.2%, but this can still be detectable for those who need to take routine drug testing.
A THC-free way of taking CBD is most beneficial to those who work jobs that require routine drug testing.
While the risk of testing positive for cannabis is low if CBD extracts are made from hemp, there is still a chance trace amounts could be detected and show a positive result.
Isolate CBD Benefits
Benefits for the mind
CBD has excellent benefits for the mind. Several studies have shown that CBD isolate products may help ease anxious thoughts. Many consumers also reported a sense of calm and an uplifted feeling after consuming CBD isolates.
Anti-inflammatory
Studies show that CBD isolate has many anti-inflammatory properties. Research has discovered that CBD can help relieve inflammation and discomfort in people with chronic inflammatory conditions when used in topical and ingested forms.
Anti-nausea
Many consumers of isolate CBD products report it is effective at relieving symptoms of nausea. This is possibly due to its positive interaction with serotonin receptors.
What is full-spectrum CBD?
Full-spectrum CBD, contains a wide range of cannabinoids, minor cannabinoids, and even small amounts of THC, less than .3%. Full-spectrum CBD oil maintains all the cannabinoids that are present in the natural plant.
This means it is a combined cannabinoid product that is as close to the natural plant as you can get. Multiple cannabinoids all work together in sync with one another. This is known as the ‘entourage effect.’ This enhancing effect makes the benefits of each cannabinoid stronger and more balanced.
WHAT DOES FULL-SPECTRUM MEAN?
Full-spectrum means the product contains full-plant compounds. Full-spectrum products contain the full cannabinoid profile of the cannabis plant including CBD, CBN, CBG, THC and more.
It also contains many of the plant properties such as plant waxes, terpenes, and flavonoids, which gives hemp its distinctive smell and taste. This is often why full-spectrum extracts have an earthy hemp smell because they still have the plant properties left in.
DOES FULL-SPECTRUM CBD HAVE THC?
As full-spectrum CBD oil is the closest to the original hemp plant, it does contain THC. Hemp is classified as cannabis plants that have less than 0.3% THC. Full-spectrum hemp extracts maintain this trace amount of THC. However, this incredibly small amount should not be enough to show up on a drug test.
Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD
Reduce Inflammation
When you use full-spectrum CBD, you are helping reduce the inflammation in your body, which then helps conditions that are inflammatory in turn, like sore bones, muscles, and joints.
Better Sleep
Full-spectrum CBD is known to be a profoundly relaxing product to use. This leads to a better night of sleep for those who use it.
Immune System Booster.
The aim is to reduce the bacteria in the gut when the body is providing the wrong environment for it to grow. Full-spectrum CBD oil is an excellent way to get rid of harmful bacteria and improve the environment for good bacteria, thus helping boost the immune system.
Relieving Discomforts
This is the most important reason that people use CBD oil. Full-spectrum CBD is an effective pain reliever. The fact it can relax the muscles quite significantly is just another advantage.
The Takeaway
Always do your research before you decide to take a CBD product. This will help make sure you are making the best choice for you, especially if you are subject to drug testing. Some products have less risk than others but all should be taken with caution even with trace amounts.
Always consult a physician before adding any CBD product to your daily regimen.
“These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”
