Full Spectrum or CBD Isolate: Which Is Better?

Introduction

While browsing through Canadian CBD stores, no doubt you’ve come across terms such as “Full Spectrum CBD” or “CBD Isolate”.

If you don’t regularly take CBD, products labeled as such might confuse some of you. That’s why we must explain what both terms mean and hopefully try and give you a definitive answer as to which is better.

So if you’re interested in learning the difference between Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate, this is the article for you. With all that said, let’s start.

Getting to Know CBD

Before we explain the two, it’s important that we talk a bit about CBD. Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a compound of the hemp plant. We extract the CBD from the hemp and turn it into oil. But the choice of CBD is very important in this matter.

As such, Canadians have access to three types of CBD; Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and CBD Isolate. While we won’t focus much on Broad Spectrum, what Canadians need to know is that it doesn’t contain THC but contains all remaining compounds, cannabinoids, and terpenes of the hemp plant.

Although CBD is a component of hemp, it is the major component of CBD oil. The majority of the oil content is cannabidiol, while other compounds are used in a supportive way. So with all that out of the way, let’s dive deeper into Full Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate.

What is Full Spectrum CBD?

Full Spectrum CBD is very similar to Broad Spectrum. Both types of oil contain the compounds, cannabinoids, and terpenes of the hemp plant, but the main difference is that Full Spectrum contains THC.

This shouldn’t scare you as the THC content cannot surpass 0.3% based on Canadian law. The THC content is also nowhere near potent enough to intoxicate you in any way. Instead, Full Spectrum contains THC so that Canadians can experience the entourage effect.

The entourage effect, for those who don’t know, simply refers to the synergetic relationship between all the compounds, cannabinoids, and terpenes of the hemp plant. This unique relationship makes the CBD oil much more efficient.

This is why so many Canadians are deciding to give full spectrum CBD a try and often sticking with it.

What is CBD Isolate?

We mentioned in a previous point that we extract CBD from the hemp plant. We do this through numerous methods, of which the best and safest one is the CO2 extraction method.

But when it comes to CBD Isolate, the hemp goes through multiple extractions and purification processes to return only cannabidiol. Whereas we use various carrier oils to help make Full Spectrum CBD, the final process returns CBD Isolate in crystalline or powdery form.

Unlike Full Spectrum CBD, there is no entourage effect with Isolate as we’re left with only cannabidiol. This is why you’ll frequently hear CBD Isolate under the term “Pure CBD”. If the purification process is up to standards, we are left with 99% pure CBD extract.

But is pure CBD better than Full Spectrum? To answer that question, you will have to continue reading.

Which Is Better?

Determining which type of CBD is better depends on each individual differently. You might prefer Full Spectrum or you might prefer CBD Isolate. Regardless of which, the easiest way to make the decision is to look at what suits your needs the most.

First of all, start by looking at your options. There are plenty of Full Spectrum and CBD Isolate products on the Canadian market. While you can find both in the form of oil, many other unique products cater to both types.

The Canadian CBD industry is so huge that there is a product for everyone’s needs. You can find CBD edibles made from both Full Spectrum and CBD Isolate. More so, you can find creams, vapes, and even drinks made from both types.

Another thing to look at is the consumption method. Edibles are meant to be eaten while oils are meant to be taken sublingually or under the tongue. Vapes are meant to be inhaled while creams, lotions, and salves are topically applied. Canadians should know that vapes and topicals are much more effective due to their unique consumption method. Inhaling CBD goes directly into your bloodstream and makes it more effective. The same applies to topicals since our skin excellently absorbs cannabidiol.

But the best way to determine which type of CBD is better for you is to look at the strengths of both. What makes Full Spectrum so great is the entourage effect. CBD Isolate, on the other hand, is excellent for those looking at taking CBD in its purest form. More so, the unique form of CBD isolate makes it possible to mix it with beverages and foods. Simply mix the powder with a beverage of your choice or add it with your favorite food.

Is CBD Safe?

Canadians need to know that CBD is fully safe. Both Full Spectrum and CBD Isolate are perfectly safe as CBD doesn’t get you high. Whenever trying something new, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the potential side effects. While side effects of using CBD do exist, they rarely appear. Potential side effects of taking Full Spectrum or CBD Isolate include vomiting, nausea, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea, and reduced appetite.

Finishing Thoughts

The entourage effect has been found to increase the effects of Full Spectrum CBD. But since this type contains THC, many Canadians avoid it. With that said, the THC is nowhere near potent enough to get you high.

CBD Isolate, on the other hand, is THC-free and the desired choice of many. Both Full Spectrum and CBD Isolate have plenty of strengths, but they also have their weaknesses.

Bottom line is to look at what suits your needs the most. There is no definitive answer as to which is best as it depends on each individual’s needs.