Full spectrum vs. CBD isolate: What’s the difference?

As the increasingly popular CBD market continues to expand, more variety in products are becoming available for consumers. With so many different options to choose from, it can be overwhelming and confusing for consumers to determine which type of products best suits their needs, especially when not all CBD products are made the same. Two of the most common terms to describe CBD products are full spectrum and CBD isolate. While both of these terms sound similar, they can have very different effects. So, what exactly is the difference between full spectrum CBD and CBD isolate?

Full spectrum CBD is sometimes referred to as “whole plant CBD”. It’s minimally refined, containing all other cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant which tends to include concentrations of THC. CBD isolate is purified CBD; it’s been extracted from the marijuana plant and all of its other cannabinoids, eliminating any traces of THC.

The use of full spectrum CBD compared to isolate CBD should be used based on personal preference. From mental health to chronic pain, full spectrum CBD can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments. However, if you wish to avoid or are legally unable to use THC, CBD isolate may be the better choice. The non-psychoactive healing properties of CBD isolate will provide all of the same benefits as full spectrum CBD, without the possible negative effects of the other cannabinoids.

Because cannabinoid research is still in early development, consumers should conduct their own research about the CBD products they wish to use. By gaining a better understanding of the terminology associated with CBD products and their effects on the body, consumers will be able to formulate a more comprehensive assessment about the products that align with their needs.