Full Spectrum CBD or CBD Isolate? What Is The Difference & Which Is Best?
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What Are They Used For, And Where do they Come From?
The CBD we create comes from the Hemp plant. The hemp plant is one of the fastest-growing plants and has been used by humans for over 50 000 years.
In this post, we’ll show you how we use it for making two types of CBD – Full Spectrum CBD and Isolate CBD. We’ll talk about the most significant differences, their use, and what you ought to know as you use CBD.
How Is CBD Made?
The CBD oil from the hemp plant is not always made in the same way. Many brands have unique processes. Like us, for instance. Our process is patent protected.
How to Make Full Spectrum CBD – A Step-By-Step Process.
- Step 1. The Harvest. First, you cut down the hemp plants and dry the leaves, flowers, and stalks.
- Step 2. The Extraction of CBD. This is where you remove the cannabinoids from the plant. The method of choice differs depending on what type of outcome you want. This includes, but is not limited to, CO2 extraction, Ethanol extraction, and steam distillation.
- Step 3. The Filtration. The extract is filtered to remove any remaining plant material and impurities.
- Step 4. The Freezing. Or, as it is technically called, Winterization. This is important to create a more pure oil. You dissolve the extract in alcohol and freeze it. This helps remove waxes, fats, lipids, and other unwanted materials.
- Step 5. The Conversion. Technically called Decarboxylation. This is where you heat it to a high temperature to convert the inactive components to active ones, like turning CBD-A to CBD.
- Step 6. The Formulation. The outcome you get at this point depends on the extraction method you chose in step 2 and how far you will refine the process. You can end up with crude oil, distillate, Broad Spectrum, water-soluble, Isolate, and more. Or, you can create various Full Spectrum CBD products, such as tinctures, capsules, and topicals.
Now that you understand How to make CBD and where it comes from – let’s look at Full Spectrum CBD VS CBD Isolate.
And to put it simply, the difference is that Isolate is Pure CBD with no other compounds, and Full Spectrum has all other compounds and cannabinoids from the hemp plant.
But that needs to be more specific! Right?
Let’s dive in.
Full Spectrum CBD
What is Full Spectrum CBD Oil?
Full Spectrum CBD comes from hemp plants, which is a type of cannabis plant. Hemp plants differ from marijuana plants because they contain low levels of THC (the psychoactive compound that gets you high).
Full spectrum CBD contains all the compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids such as CBG.
The mix of cannabinoids present depends on the hemp plant it comes from and the extraction method used.
You usually find a wide range of cannabinoids in Full Spectrum CBD, such as:
The Cannabinoids in Full Spectrum CBD
- CBD (cannabidiol): The prominent cannabinoid is responsible for many potential health benefits associated with the compound.
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): is another cannabinoid found in Full Spectrum CBD. The psychoactive compound is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. Full Spectrum CBD products commonly contain only trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%), so they are not intoxicating.
- CBN (cannabinol): is a cannabinoid formed when THC breaks down. Its potential therapeutic properties are not as well documented as CBD and THC. Still, it is commonly used as a sleeping aid.
- CBC (cannabichromene): is thought to have potential benefits as an antimicrobial, analgesic, and more, but additional research is needed to fully understand its effects.
- CBG (cannabigerol): This cannabinoid is by many considered a cannabinoid stem cell because it’s the first cannabinoid to be created by the hemp plant. It is believed to have potential therapeutic benefits, including antibacterial, anti-swelling, and ache-relieving effects.
- CBDV (cannabidivarin): is similar to CBD and its early studies indicate potential benefits such as anticonvulsant and anti-swelling effects.
- THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin): is similar to THC and its potential benefits vary from appetite suppression to blood sugar control.
- CBL (cannabicyclol): is thought to have potential benefits similar to CBD, but its chemical structure is more similar to CBN. To know for sure, more research is needed, and we may have to wait a couple of years for that to start.
- CBDL (cannabidiolic acid): is a precursor to CBD and is believed to have potential benefits like anti-swelling and ache-relieving effects.
- CBT (cannabicitran): is a rare cannabinoid thought to be synthesized from CBDa. So far, researchers have found nine types of CBT, but we have yet to learn that much about them.
Some say there are about 100 minor cannabinoids in the hemp plant, so there is still a long way to go before we fully comprehend them all. But something to remember as we wait for further results is that an absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.
Full Spectrum CBD With Terpenes
Terpenes are organic compounds found in plants, including hemp and cannabis.
They produce the many different aromas and flavors of different plants.
Which Terpenes Can Be Found in Full Spectrum CBD:
- Alpha-pinene is a monoterpene with a piney aroma. It has the potential to be a bronchodilator and anti-swelling agent.
- Beta-pinene also has a piney smell and may work as a bronchodilator, anti-swelling, and memory aid.
- Delta-3-carene gives a pungent, earthy smell. It is believed to have anti-swelling, anti-anxiousness, and analgesic effects.
- D-Limonene is a monoterpene with a fresh citrusy smell. It may have anti-anxiousness, anti-swelling, and cell-repairing properties.
There are other Terpenes found as well but in a relatively low quantity. Camphene, Myrcene, β-phellandrene, Sabinene, α-terpinene, Ocimene α-Thujene, Terpinolene, and Terpinene are some of those.
Terpenes, like the cannabinoids found in Full Spectrum CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and have been found to have therapeutic potential.
For example, alpha-pinene and beta-pinene are believed to have the potential to open up airways and make it easier to breathe.
How Does Full Spectrum CBD work?
CBD binds itself to the receptors in the Endocannabinoid System of your body. Depending on where in your body the receptor is, you get a different kind of effect, thus different kinds of benefits.
But to fully understand how it works, you first need to understand what the Endocannabinoid System is.
What is The Endocannabinoid System?
The Endocannabinoid System is a system that plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in the body.
We won’t discuss this in detail today, so let’s make it brief.
The Endocannabinoid System is made of three main components:
- Endocannabinoids
- Receptors
- Enzymes
Endocannabinoids are compounds produced naturally in the body. They have a similar structure to cannabinoids found in the hemp plant.
Their primary function is to help regulate and maintain balance in the body.
Endocannabinoids bind to your CB1 and CB2 receptors and trigger a response based on the location of the receptors and the type of endocannabinoids that bind to them.
Once the endocannabinoids have completed their function, the Enzymes are responsible for breaking them down.
With these three components, the Endocannabinoid System regulates various physiological processes such as pain, inflammation, appetite, sleep, mood, memory, and reproduction.
Suppose the balance in the body gets disrupted due to some outside force, like harm or fever. In that case, the Endocannabinoid System initiates a response to assist the body in returning to balance.
How Does CBD Interact With The Endocannabinoid System?
Full Spectrum CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System by binding to its receptors.
THC, for instance, binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which is why it may provide effects such as reducing aches.
Contrariwise, CBD binds to the CB2 receptor and slightly alters how CB1 receptors bind with THC. CBD’s effect on the CB1 receptor causes THC to have less impact, reducing possible adverse effects.
As CBD binds to the CB2 receptor, it may stimulate various effects in the body. One of the most well-studied impacts is the ability to reduce inflammation.
The CB2 receptor is primarily found on immune cells, which play a crucial role in regulating inflammation.
When CBD binds to the CB2 receptor, it may interfere with specific inflammatory molecules, which potentially help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
In addition to anti-inflammatory effects, CBD may also interact with the CB2 receptor to influence other physiological processes, such as bodily discomfort, immune function, and neuroprotection. CBD may interact with the CB2 receptor to reduce aches by modulating the release of neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and GABA, which are involved in pain signaling.
And this is all just pure CBD. When adding the other cannabinoids to this mix, the Full Spectrum CBD benefits could be massive. Terpenes and Flavonoids also have their own potential benefits.
All these compounds mentioned above work together in harmony to create the “entourage effect,” which can enhance the possible benefits of CBD.
What is The Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect is a phenomenon that happens when multiple cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, combine their powers to produce a more significant effect because they enhance or modulate the effects of each other.
For example, CBD and THC have different benefits, as mentioned above. But as they work together, they can balance each other.
CBD can help to reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, and THC can help to enhance the potential impact of CBD.
Plus, terpenes and flavonoids have their own effects on the body, which also can enhance the overall results of CBD.
This is why Full Spectrum CBD products are thought to be more effective than isolates or products.
The entourage effect is one of the main reasons some prefer to use Full Spectrum CBD products instead of isolate products.
But that doesn’t mean it’s a better option for you personally.
Here’s why…
As the CB1 and CB2 receptors help balance so many vital functions in the body, the effects of CBD are being heavily studied, and scientists have yet to determine precisely how it all works. For this reason, we can only talk about potential benefits instead of factual proof. Even though millions of people report their improvements across the board, the FDA has yet to acknowledge CBD’s potential.
And what does that mean for you?
Is Full Spectrum CBD Legal in All States?
The legal status of Full Spectrum CBD varies depending on the state and the source of the CBD.
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal at a federal level and, therefore, could be legal in all 50 states.
However, individual states may have regulations regarding CBD’s sale, possession, and use.
To be sure, you should check your state laws regarding CBD and exclusively seek out products tested for purity and potency by a third-party laboratory.
It’s important to mention that CBD derived from marijuana is illegal at the federal level, even if it is legal at the state level.
Will Full Spectrum CBD Make You Test Positive For THC?
We often get the question, is Full Spectrum detectable? The answer is that it has been widely debated for several years. Still, our suggestion is that if you are worried about testing positive, go with Isolate. We’ve heard about people testing positive for THC when using Full Spectrum, but we’ve never experienced it ourselves.
Is Full Spectrum CBD Addictive?
No Full Spectrum CBD is not addictive. Doesn’t get you high, as THC does, and therefore doesn’t seem to affect the reward center in the brain, which is causing addiction.
Is Full Spectrum CBD Safe?
Full Spectrum CBD is considered safe, but if you are taking any other medications, we recommend checking with a healthcare professional before combining them.
But it’s worth emphasizing that it’s crucial to use reputable products from reputable sources who test and verify the batches in an FDA-registered third-party lab.
It’s also essential to ensure the source carries the GMP and PCQI seal. If they are located in Oregon, as we are. Ensure you find the Certified Organic Seal from Oregon Tilth.
Healthy Roots Hemp Products can proudly display all these seals and more!
Full Spectrum CBD For Pets
The use of CBD for pets is a somewhat new field, but preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence indicate that it may be safe and beneficial for pets.
The reason is that pets also have an Endocannabinoid System, which works similarly to humans. Thanks to this, Full Spectrum CBD and dogs work very well together. In fact, we have CBD products for Dogs, cats, horses, and more in our shop. But the most popular one is our CBD dog treats.
But before giving your pet CBD. Be aware that CBD for pets should be dosed differently from humans as pets have different metabolism and body weight. Also, it’s important to use CBD products specifically formulated for pets and consult a veterinarian before giving CBD to your pet.
Full Spectrum CBD Summary
We’ve now discovered how and what Full Spectrum CBD is and what types of benefits you could expect to receive.
Now we’ll compare that to how CBD Isolate is made and the benefits you could get from it.
CBD Isolate
What Is CBD Isolate & Where Does It Come From?
CBD isolate is a pure CBD isolated from all other compounds in the hemp plant.
CBD Isolate is made by extracting CBD from the hemp plant and then purifying it to remove any additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant components. That is the reason you’ll never see CBD Isolate with terpenes. CBD isolate is typically 99% pure CBD, making it the most potent form of CBD available.
Because of the lack of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, people often say that CBD Isolate Does Not Work. But that is not the case.
Even though many compounds are missing, CBD Isolate does have benefits.
As you read above on how CBD interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid System. Those things are still as true with or without the other compounds. The difference is that you won’t get the entourage effect or any other effect caused by the other cannabinoids, flavonoids, or terpenes.
As the Endocannabinoid System regulates mood and balance, CBD Isolate may help with anxiousness and give other calming effects. CBD isolate is good for many different uses, and the best way to determine how it works with what you need it for is to try it yourself.
What Does CBD Isolate Taste Like?
CBD Isolate tastes way better than Full Spectrum CBD, and that’s why it’s so prevalent in edible products. CBD Isolate Edibles, like gummies, are especially popular. Our CBD Isolate Gummies are our most sold product. Thanks to our patented formula, they taste better than any other brand.
That also includes our CBD Isolate Tincture. It’s highly loved for its flavor and potency.
IS CBD Isolate Stronger?
It depends on how you look at it.
A 500 MG Tincture of Isolate, compared to a 500 MG Tincture of Full Spectrum, has more CBD in it. That is because the Isolate only contains 500 MG CBD, while the Full Spectrum Contains 500 MG of all Cannabinoids.
Is CBD Isolate Legal?
Yes. Just like the Full Spectrum CBD, Isolate is legal too. So there’s no need to be worried about the CBD Isolate showing up on a drug test for THC.
Is CBD Isolate Safe For Dogs?
CBD Isolate for dogs is just as safe as the Full Spectrum. And even though none of our pet products are CBD Isolate, you can still find some that are.
CBD Isolate Summary
CBD Isolate is superior to the Full Spectrum in flavor and purity. It’s also the more safe route for those who are worried about THC being detectable.
Full Spectrum CBD VS Isolate – Which is Better?
Is Full Spectrum CBD the best at targeting multiple areas?
Yes, it most certainly is.
But is it better than Isolate CBD?
No, we can’t say that. They’re good at different things. Full Spectrum is far better when targeting a broad area, like well-being in general. But that is because there are so many active components that there aren’t in CBD Isolate.
It all comes down to your purpose for using CBD and, often, what job you have. Some jobs regularly test their staff for THC, and Full Spectrum CBD could be a problem.
Some just only need what CBD Isolate offers, and they are happy to use an Isolate over a Full Spectrum. We recommend experimenting with different products to see what fits you personally.
Our CBD Tinctures and CBD Isolate Gummies are two great products to start with. Testing those for a couple of weeks each will be more than enough time to determine which you like better.
And if you are looking for Topicals or pet products, we have that too.
