Have you heard the terms “isolate” and “full-spectrum” while shopping for CBD products? These two labels tell you the kind of cannabinoid content that you can expect in your product. Cannabidiol (CBD) is just one of the many cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant. While CBD and THC are found in high quantities and are easily the most well-known, there are also several other cannabinoids worth knowing about. 

Each cannabinoid has different effects on the body, and some people even think that combining various cannabinoids can lead to a variety of benefits. Let’s discuss CBD isolate vs. full-spectrum CBD oil to determine exactly what they mean and when and why you should use them.

Your Ultimate Guide To CBD Isolate Vs. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Whether you’re just dabbling in CBD for the first time or trying to learn more because you’re starting your own CBD business, we’ve got the info you need for defining CBD isolate vs. full-spectrum CBD oil.

What Is CBD Isolate?

The most basic form of CBD is an isolate, which contains nothing except pure, isolated CBD. This means there are no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or flavonoids present. Though we used the term “basic,” it is a complicated process to get an isolate from hemp. The extraction process removes all of the plant’s compounds to isolate the CBD and free it from any other compounds. There are a lot of steps that go into isolate CBD, which makes it challenging to make.

CBD isolate comes in many different forms, the most common being dabs. Dabbing is the act of vaporizing compounds on a hot nail and inhaling the vapor. It is similar to vaping, except without the e-cigarette or an e-liquid. CBD isolate dabs come in the form of crystals, wax, resin, powder, or shatter (which looks similar to glass).

However, this method is not for everyone, and it is becoming much more common to see CBD isolate oils, capsules, edibles, and others.

What Is Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?

Unlike isolates, full-spectrum CBD products contain a full range of cannabinoids. When cannabinoids are extracted from hemp, the extract is made into a consumable product, which means you get a dose of all the cannabinoids that were in the place. 

The concern that comes with using full-spectrum CBD oil is the THC content. If you live in a state where cannabis is still illegal, then you’ll likely be wary of THC content. Due to federal laws, all CBD products must be extracted from hemp and not marijuana. Hemp contains less than .3% THC, which means that the extract will also only have negligible amounts of THC. These amounts will not get you high or produce any intoxicating effects.

By now, you’re wondering if there are specific benefits of using full-spectrum CBD oil? It all comes down to the “entourage effect.” This experience refers to how all the cannabinoids work together to become more effective in the body. Many studies suggest that those using full-spectrum experienced heightened relief compared to those who received a CBD isolate. Generally, users prefer to use full-spectrum CBD products when it comes to improving their overall well-being.

Bonus: What Is Broad Spectrum CBD?

In addition to full-spectrum, you’ve likely seen the term “broad-spectrum.” Broad-spectrum CBD refers to CBD that contains a range of other cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant but no THC. It gives way for most of the benefits of the entourage effect without any risk of consuming THC. 

If you are entirely against THC or are often drug tested, then broad-spectrum products are your ideal choice. As we mentioned above, a CBD isolate is also an excellent alternative to THC products, but isolates don’t give you the entourage effect.

What Should I Use? CBD Isolate Vs. Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Now that you have a better understanding of what each term means, you’ll likely be trying to decide which one is a better fit for you. The only way to really know which one is best for you is to weigh the pros and cons, try them both, and decide for yourself. 

CBD isolate usually has the upper hand as it is the purest and most potent form of CBD, and there is no risk of psychoactive effects and very minimal risk of flagging a false positive on a drug test. Additionally, it is both tasteless and odorless, making it perfect for those wanting to cook with it without altering the flavor of the food. The real drawback  to CBD isolates is that there is no “entourage effect.”

In contrast, the entourage effect is a significant advantage for full-spectrum CBD. If you want powerful and efficient CBD, then full-spectrum CBD oil is the way to go. It’s considered closest to the original plant and is the most authentically natural, and undergoes less processing when compared to isolates. The cons of using full-spectrum CBD are that it may flag a positive result on a drug test due to the legal amount of up to .3% THC content. Though a follow-up test will likely dismiss you, a positive could cause unnecessary stress.

Lastly, the terpenes and flavonoids found in cannabis create a strong taste and aroma that many find unpleasant. Though there are ways around it, many CBD users find it easier to use an isolated product instead.

Key Takeaways

Here’s a simple breakdown for you. CBD isolate is best for people who are sensitive to THC and other cannabinoids. Isolate is great for states with strict THC laws or those who are subject to regular drug testing at their work. It’s also a good alternative for those who want to cook with CBD and don’t enjoy a strong cannabis flavor.

Full-spectrum CBD oil is best for those looking for targeted uses and want to get the most of their CBD experience. CBD oil is best for those living in states where all cannabis is fully legal and don’t fear getting in trouble if trace amounts of THC show up on a drug test.

We do want to stress that no CBD type is better than any other. It comes down to what works for you. At BulKanna, we have a variety of cannabinoids and CBD products so that you can get exactly what you’re looking for. Try our isolates and concentrates or any of our finished products and decide for yourself. 

We also have a variety of white and private label options so that you can get customized products that promote your brand and look great on your shelves.