Cannabidiol, or CBD, has gained massive popularity over the past few years. CBD gummies are blowing up in an ever-growing market, and garner tons of favor for folks who don’t want the THC potency that comes with cannabis. And with the potential benefits that CBD may offer, there’s even more room for the market to grow, and that means more options for consumers like you.
But sometimes, options can be overwhelming, especially for those who are new to CBD. And we’re often asked: what’s the difference between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate?
Don’t worry, we’re going to break down the differences here, and how each of these products have their own benefits.
Key Differences Between CBD Isolate and Full-Spectrum CBD
Generally speaking, the differences between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD lie in the contents. CBD isolate is simply CBD and nothing else, which has been extracted and isolated from hemp to be added to gummies.
Meanwhile, full-spectrum CBD gummies contain not only CBD, but all other components found in hemp–that is to say, it presents the “full spectrum” of hemp’s cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
And this leads to another common question: Does this include THC?
Yes, but not very much.
In order for CBD products to be legal, they cannot possess more that .3% THC, which isn’t enough to create any kind of psychoactive effect on the average person.
That being said, there are plenty of individuals who avoid full-spectrum for this very reason, but there are benefits that many others enjoy, which we’ll discuss in greater detail below.
Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies
So what are the benefits behind full-spectrum CBD gummies?
Many consumers choose full-spectrum because of the entourage effect, which refers to the synergistic connection between all of the components found in hemp. And while the information gathered remains inconclusive, it’s believed that the entourage effect may hone the effects of CBD.
Some research also suggests that when CBD products contain multiple compounds, it may help ease a series of ailments. For instance, one 2018 study suggests that several specific compounds found in hemp may possess neuroprotective benefits, while a review published by the British Journal of Pharmacology in 2011 found that when terpenes are present, CBD products may be more effective for factors such as anxiety, inflammation, and seizures.
With that being said, there is still not enough evidence to officially recognize CBD as a treatment or medication for any such disease or ailment, and you should always consult a physician for the best course of action.
Why Choose CBD Isolate?
So, if CBD isolate doesn’t create the entourage effect, then why choose it?
First, it should be made clear that full-spectrum CBD has no guarantee of creating the entourage effect. On top of that, CBD isolate certainly has its own benefits, as well.
CBD isolate has a particular appeal for those who want zero THC. While full-spectrum CBD gummies should contain no more than .3% THC, there are some individuals with a high sensitivity to it. On top of that, there is a chance that the trace THC in full-spectrum CBD gummies may result in a positive drug test. But with CBD isolate gummies, there’s no THC, just CBD.
And because CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form, it can make a great introduction for those new to CBD. And what’s more, CBD isolate tends to be more affordable than full-spectrum CBD.
A Word on Broad-Spectrum CBD Gummies
On the subject of full-spectrum and CBD isolate gummies, it makes sense to wonder if there’s an in-between product.
And in fact, there is, and it’s called broad-spectrum CBD.
Similar to full-spectrum CBD gummies, broad spectrum gummies contain all of the components naturally found in hemp. However, broad spectrum CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, or none at all.
Broad-spectrum CBD gummies may present a happy medium for those who want the potential benefits of full-spectrum, without the THC, though there is no guarantee or strong evidence.
Full-Spectrum vs CBD Isolate Gummies: Which One is Best for You?
Still can’t decide which is best for you?
Let’s break them down:
Full-spectrum CBD gummies may be best for those who want the entourage effect, don’t have a sensitivity to THC, and enjoy a slightly earthy, herbaceous flavor profile.
CBD isolate gummies, however, may be best for those who want their gummies to taste like gummies, without the slight bitterness you get with full-spectrum. CBD isolate gummies are also ideal for those new to CBD, and for those who may be taking a more sensitive drug test.
Whatever type of CBD you choose, though, make sure you’re shopping from a reputable company that offers transparency and quality.
