In 2019, 14% of Americans turned to CBD oil as an alternative form of medication. Another 40% of Americans want to try CBD to manage pain and improve their quality of life.

It helps people relax and boosts mood without any of the side effects of marijuana or prescription drugs.

As you shop around for CBD, you will find there are several different types of CBD, such as broad spectrum CBD and CBD isolates.

People often ask what is broad spectrum CBD? How is it different from CBD isolates? Is one better than the other?

All types of CBD oils start from the same plant. It’s during extraction and processing that the differences come in. CBD producers can leave the CBD extract as is or process it further to create an isolate.

Both options result in different types of CBD that can offer you additional benefits depending on your needs. Do you want to find out if one is better for you?

Read on to learn about the differences between broad spectrum CBD and CBD isolates.

About CBD

CBD stands for cannabidiol, 1 of the many cannabinoids found in hemp and marijuana plants. Legal CBD products contain less than 0.3% of THC, the psychoactive chemical found in marijuana plants. CBD isn’t psychoactive and doesn’t have the side effects of marijuana.

The main benefit of CBD oil is its therapeutic effects. While research is ongoing, many people find CBD to have a positive and calming effect that helps with anxiety, illness, depression, and pain management.

There are also several ways you can enjoy CBD. You can consume it mixed in food, as a tincture, or an oil. CBD also comes in lotions and body oils for you to apply directly onto your skin.

Depending on your ailment, either consuming CBD or applying topically may be a better choice. The same is true for the type of broad spectrum CBD or CBD isolate you choose.

Understanding Full Spectrum CBD

What is broad spectrum CBD and how does it relate to full spectrum CBD? Before we can answer the first question, you need to learn a little about full spectrum CBD.

There are 2 main options CBD processors have when extracting CBD from a hemp or marijuana plant. The first is to leave the CBD as is after extraction or continue processing the oil.

To get full spectrum CBD, the extract consists of all compounds naturally found in the plant. Compounds include essential oils, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. All of these compounds work together to enhance the therapeutic benefits of the CBD, known as an “entourage effect.”

The naturally occurring cannabinoids and terpenes can offer higher levels of relief. This form of CBD isn’t legal in all 50 states due to its THC content and is often more expensive.

What are CBD Isolates?

If you’ve taken a chemistry class at some point in your life, you already know that the purest form of a complaint is an isolate. CBD isolates are exactly as they sound, the purest form of CBD.

During the extraction process, the CBD manufacturer will remove extra cannabinoids, terpenes, oils, and flavonoids from the CBD. This leaves only the purest form of CBD.

Most CBD manufacturers will process CBD isolates from hemp. Hemp contains little to no THC making the extraction process easier. It also ensures the CBD isolate is as pure as possible and contains absolutely no traces of THC.

CBD isolates are 99% pure and have the highest concentration of CBD. For example, 1 gram of powdered CBD isolates will contain around 990mg of pure CBD.

Despite this high concentration, CBD isolates don’t have the enhanced “entourage effect” of full spectrum CBD. You will, however, still feel the benefits of CBD but not as enhanced as the full spectrum option. The benefits of CBD isolates include more ways to consume and accurate dosing.

What is Broad Spectrum CBD? 

In the simplest of terms, broad spectrum CBD is the same as full spectrum CBD minus all traces of THC. Most broad spectrum CBD products contain most natural cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and oils. 

You can think of it as a middle option between CBD isolates and full spectrum CBD. Since broad spectrum CBD consists of most naturally occurring compounds, you can still enjoy the “entourage effect.” You don’t need to worry about experiencing any psychoactive effects due to the removal of THC.

Broad spectrum CBD can also contain reduced amounts of natural compounds. Benefits of ultra broad spectrum CBD distillate include high-quality pure CBD and fewer minor cannabinoids.

Broad spectrum CBD is a great choice for those who are sensitive to THC. Individuals who undergo regular drug screenings or are new to CBD may prefer the benefits of broad spectrum CBD.

Which One is Best For You?

Are you trying to decide between broad spectrum CBD and CBD isolates? Both types offer different benefits but neither is inherently better than the other. How you react to CBD, your CBD needs, and your lifestyle will help you decide which type of is best for you.

You may prefer broad spectrum CBD if you:

  • want to enjoy the enhanced benefits of the cannabis plant
  • don’t want any psychoactive side effects
  • don’t want traces of THC
  • have a sensitivity to THC
  • are trying CBD for the first time

You should note that broad spectrum CBD may have a stronger odor and natural flavor. Most people don’t have a problem with the smell but it’s worth considering.

CBD isolates are the purest form of CBD. The benefits of CBD isolates include:

  • safe to use
  • zero risks of psychoactive side effects
  • there’s absolutely no THC
  • tasteless and odorless
  • a good choice for those who need high doses of pure CBD
  • safe for first-time users
  • A good option for those who undergo regular drug screenings

The only downside to CBD isolates is there’s no enhanced “entourage effect.” If you’re unsure where to start, CBD isolates are the safest for beginners. If you’re looking for something stronger, then broad spectrum CBD will be the right choice for you.

Try CBD Today!

This is a brief guide on what is broad spectrum CBD and how it differs from CBD isolates. Both offer the therapeutic benefits of CBD with no traces of THC. Beginners may prefer CBD isolates while those needing something stronger will benefit from broad spectrum CBD.

Want to learn more great health tips? Check out our latest Health and Wellness articles to learn more ways to improve more physical, emotional, and mental health.

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