CBD Isolate vs. Full Spectrum CBD: What is the difference?

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. We

recommend all of our patients receive a biofeedback scan to know the

proper strain and dosage for your body and disease state. At Handy

Wellness we only use CBD from one local formulator. All CBD and

Tinctures are custom formulated, and hand delivered to make sure the

highest quality of product is given to our patients.

As the CBD business continues to grow and more products hit the

shelves, you may notice some confusing terms that come with plenty

of questions. And one of the most common questions out there: What

is the difference between full spectrum CBD oil and CBD isolate?

CBD isolates are touted as the purest, most concentrated form of the

cannabinoid, allowing for the greatest benefits. And some people are

concerned about using a product that contains any amount of THC, so

manufacturers choose to take the THC out of their solutions. But how

do CBD isolates compare to full spectrum CBD products?

It’s true that THC, the most psychoactive agent in the cannabis plant

species, has been stigmatized for its intoxicating effects. But this

explains only half the story. When you look at THC vs CBD, it’s clear

that both compounds are powerful cannabinoids that can work well

when used in combination.

So should hemp-derived CBD products be called “full spectrum CBD”

or “whole hemp extract” when the THC is intentionally removed? The

short answer is NO. But knowing why is even more important.

What Is CBD Isolate?

CBD isolate means that the product contains only CBD (cannabidiol)

and no other cannabis compounds. For isolates, purified CBD is

extracted from the hemp plant and isolated from other naturally

occurring cannabinoids.

During the extraction process, CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes and

flavonoids that are found within the plant are initially extracted. Then

to create a CBD isolate, the solution is refined further, taking out other

cannabinoids and plant parts, leaving only CBD.

You may also come across the term “broad spectrum,” which means

that during the extraction process, CBD and other compounds found

within the plant are preserved, but the THC is completely removed.

Some scientists previously believed that because CBD isolates were

more potent and concentrated, and that they had greater potential.

However, some studies have called that into question. (Of course,

more research needs to be conducted on this topic and more.)

What Is Full Spectrum CBD Oil?

Full spectrum or whole plant CBD means that the product contains

CBD and other cannabinoids that are found in the hemp or

“marijuana” (a historically racist term often used in place of “cannabis”)

plants. A full spectrum product also includes other parts of the plant,

including terpenes (which influence the smell and flavor of the extract)

and essential oils.

Along with CBD, a hemp-derived full spectrum CBD product will

contain trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and other

cannabinoids, each with its unique properties. The “cannabis

spectrum” refers to this balance of cannabinoid concentrations, which

influence the cannabis product’s profile. When specific cannabinoids

are isolated from hemp or cannabis, this is said to alter the

“symphony” of the components that work together.

A full spectrum CBD product can only contain up to 0.3 percent THC.

But do keep in mind that hemp farmers and manufacturers need to

follow specific guidelines, so always look for CBD from a reputable

company with a certificate of analysis (COA).

CBD Isolate vs. Full Spectrum CBD: Similarities and

Differences

When it comes to CBD isolate and full spectrum oil similarities, there’s

one simple example — both contain cannabidiol. There are also a

number of ways that CBD can be extracted to make both CBD isolates

and full spectrum products, with CO2 extraction being one of the best

options.

Here’s a breakdown of the differences between CBD isolates and

full spectrum CBD products:

CBD Isolates:

• Pure CBD

• No THC or other cannabinoids

• Typically, doesn’t include plant compounds, such as terpenes

• Processed further than full spectrum CBD

• Delivers straight CBD

Full Spectrum CBD:

• Contains CBD and other naturally occurring plant compounds

• Contains less than 0.3 percent THC (when derived from hemp)

• Undergoes fewer processes than CBD isolate

• Works synergistically with THC and other plant compounds

Although CBD isolate is a more concentrated form of cannabidiol, this

doesn’t mean that it has greater effects. In fact, while more research

needs to be done, some research indicates that full spectrum CBD,

which is a combination of cannabinoids, plant compounds and

sometimes other herbs, has a complementary effect, known as “the

entourage effect.”

CBD has the most documented benefits among other non-intoxicating

cannabis compounds, but these other components can combine with

CBD for a dynamic combination. Take THC, for example — it mimics

the actions of anandamide, a naturally occurring endocannabinoid,

and has been shown to have some positive benefits.

Some researchers indicate that there are strong benefits to the whole

plant extract. Although full spectrum CBD typically includes other cannabis

compounds, the THC levels are still very low (less than 0.3 percent)

when the product is derived from hemp.

In fact, some research indicates that when CBD and THC are used in

combination, that’s where there can be favorable benefits.

CBD and Handy Wellness

How does Handy Wellness work with our patients and CBD?

At Handy Wellness each patient is assessed individually using Quantum Biofeedback. This assessment allows the clinician and patient to see the need for CBD, the best strain of CBD for the patient’s needs, and the exact dosage. From this scan we can also determine the percentage of CBD vs THC that would be helpful for each individual. At Handy

Wellness we only use CBD from a local formulator. All CBD and Tinctures are

custom formulated, and hand delivered to make sure the highest quality of

product is given to our patients.

Final Thoughts on CBD Isolate vs. Full-Spectrum

• With so many CBD oil products on the market today, you’ve probably seen different terms used to describe the type of solution that’s being used. The two most common terms are “CBD isolate” and “full spectrum CBD.”

• CBD isolate refers to a pure, concentrated form of CBD, with no other cannabinoids present.

• Full spectrum CBD refers to a solution that includes all of the naturally occurring plant compounds, including other cannabinoids (like THC), terpenes and essential oils.

• Although CBD isolates have been touted for their purity, some new research is showing that when CBD is used in combination with other plant compounds, including THC, they can have complementary effects.