Cannabidiol (CBD) can be extracted from the hemp plant in various forms. Two common extractions are CBD isolate and full-spectrum hemp oil. While both extractions contain CBD, the differences between the two are significant enough that there is debate over the “best” extraction type. 

Hearing there is more than one type of CBD extraction may prompt you to wonder: should I be taking products with CBD isolate or full-spectrum hemp oil? Different sources will provide varying opinions. With a simple discussion, however, it is easy to determine which extraction is most fitting for your routine. In this blog, we’ll explain CBD isolate and full-spectrum hemp oil and the benefits (and drawbacks) of each. 

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is pure CBD and contains no other active compounds. To produce this extract, the CBD compound is isolated and then refined to remove any additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and additional plant components. The final product is a fine white powder and is typically listed at 95-99% CBD. Those who seek the sole benefits of CBD should consider a CBD isolate product. 

CBD isolate is isolated CBD, meaning all other cannabinoids are removed. Therefore, CBD isolate has zero levels of THC, a psychoactive compound. Without THC, consumers can use CBD isolate products without the concern of consuming THC or failing a drug test where THC is tested for. 

Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract 

Full-spectrum hemp oil contains all components of the hemp plant. After extraction, cannabinoids, terpenes, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, phytonutrients, and additional plant materials remain in the oil. 

Also known as whole plant extract, full-spectrum hemp oil provides the complete benefit of the hemp plant. Not only do each of these components provide their own benefit, but they often work together in what is known as the entourage effect. Researchers have found that the components of the hemp plant interact synergistically to create an effect greater than the component alone. This interaction improves the absorption and effect of CBD on the body. 

Since all the natural cannabinoids remain intact, full-spectrum hemp oil contains trace levels of THC. However, the amount is negligible (less than 0.3%) and will not get you high. 

Choosing CBD Isolate or Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil 

There is research that has determined certain ailments to benefit from either CBD isolate or full-spectrum hemp oil. If taking CBD for a specific condition, we encourage you to research the therapeutic benefits of CBD isolate versus full-spectrum hemp oil. Oftentimes, it is a matter of trying both and noting which you prefer.  Some find success with one while others prefer taking both. 

When deciding whether to take a product with CBD isolate or full-spectrum hemp oil, it is best to determine what features of the hemp plant are most important to you. Are you looking for the sole effect of CBD or does the synergy of the whole plant appeal to you? It is also helpful to determine if you want a product with or without THC (either way, there is no high). Asking yourself these questions will determine your decision to take a product with CBD isolate or full-spectrum hemp oil.