Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the most prominent new products in the wellness industry, and it has all the valid reasons to be one. Extracted as an active ingredient from its parent plant hemp (and sometimes cannabis), CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has been shown to support a wide range of health-related needs.

With growing demand, manufacturers have managed to produce several varieties of CBD to satisfy discerning consumers. The two major types of CBD are isolate and full spectrum.

Both CBD isolate and full spectrum CBD contain cannabidiol. Both are non-psychoactive and provide immense benefits for their users. But variations in each product’s components and strength differentiate the two, and knowing about the products you consume is essential in getting the purest product, the right dosage, and the greatest benefit.

What should you know about CBD, and how do isolates differ from full spectrum?

Things to Know About CBD

CBD can be extracted from either hemp or cannabis plants. CBD used in recreational marijuana products—like edibles, concentrates and topicals—is typically derived from the cannabis plant. And due to state regulations, recreationally available CBD products include trace amounts of THC, though it isn’t enough for most consumers to feel any psychoactive effects.

Nationally available CBD products, on the other hand, are produced using cannabidiol extracted from the hemp plant. Hemp is naturally high in CBD and contains less than 0.3% THC.

CBD is packed with tremendous medicinal benefits. Researchers have found proven benefits of cannabidiol on major health ailments such as anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy and chronic pain. The beauty industry is also accepting its full-fledged usage perceiving its skincare privileges.

If you are looking for CBD, you can either purchase premade CBD products (like concentrates, edibles, and topicals) or buy fresh bud high in CBD.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is what it sounds like: CBD is isolated from all other cannabinoids and compounds, CBD isolate is a 99.9% pure form of cannabidiol. There are no traces of THC or any other impurities, making it the cleanest form of CBD available for use. No other cannabidiol infused products have such purity, which is why CBD isolate is the preferred product for many people who want or need a higher dose of CBD.

Full Spectrum CBD

Full spectrum CBD retains a larger number of cannabinoids than CBD isolate. It still contains a high ratio of CBD, but it doesn’t go through the same purification process. That leaves several different cannabinoids present in the finished product, such as CBG (Cannabigerol), THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) and CBN (Cannabinol). Some studies have suggested that CBD is actually more effective alongside certain other cannabinoids and terpenes, in what is known as the entourage effect. The THC level in full spectrum CBD products does not exceed more than 0.3%, so it’s unlikely most consumers will experience any psychoactive effects.

Major Differences Between CBD Isolate and Full Spectrum

CBD, in any of its mentioned types, has the potential to provide a variety of benefits to its users, though there are several diverging points that make different types of CBD unique. To find the best CBD product for your needs, you’ll need to know the differences between CBD isolate and full spectrum.

Cannabinoid Content

CBD isolate, in simple terms, contains concentrated CBD. The strength of CBD is comparatively more significant in the CBD isolate than in the full spectrum CBD, and many consumers look to CBD isolate to help with anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Full spectrum CBD, on the other hand, has fair levels of cannabidiol, though the presence of other cannabinoids may dilute or interfere with the overall effect of CBD, leading to a lower strength product when compared to CBD isolate.

Effect on Users

Both CBD products have the potential to provide significant health benefits, though researchers incline a little more towards the use of full spectrum CBD. Studies have shown how CBD isolate, despite being a concentrated form of CBD, has lesser medicinal effects than full spectrum CBD. Full spectrum CBD, as you know now, has different cannabinoids present. And these cannabinoids, alongside CBD, interact with the body in a way that differs from pure CBD alone. It is the presence of these cannabinoids in full spectrum CBD that are theorized to drive greater health benefits than CBD isolates.

CBD Products to Choose From

If you’re looking for CBD isolates or full spectrum CBD, there are several products on the market that can satisfy your demands, whether you’re visiting Karing Kind in North Boulder or the Canna Cabana in Toronto, Canada.

CBD oil is often the first choice for people starting their CBD journey. You can also try CBD salves, lotions, or edibles to experience the benefits of this magic ingredient yourself. CBD isolates and full spectrum CBD limit or eliminate THC, but that can be a positive for consumers who are looking for soothing relief without the psychoactive high that is often associated with THC.

At Karing Kind, we offer a range of recreational CBD products from trusted manufacturers, like our very own Karing Kind Labs. We never use additives, cutting agents, or harmful chemicals on our cannabis plants or concentrates (read more about our commitment to consumer safety).

If you are considering using CBD for health reasons, you should consult with your physician to learn more about how the product can benefit you. And if you just want to try a new CBD product recreationally, stop by Karing Kind in North Boulder and ask one of our award-winning budtenders.