Not all CBD is the same. Now that CBD is federally legalized, consumers are seeing a variety of
products flood the market. But do all the products contain the purest and most effective
ingredients? While the FDA seems to be dragging their feet approving CBD, it can be difficult to
spot products that are one hundred percent pure.
CBD is cultivated from the cannabis plant. The chemical compound is non-psychoactive and
holds an abundance of holistic benefits. The cannabinoid works with the endocannabinoid
system to induce healing within the body.
Research has proven CBD can be a versatile treatment option for moderate to severe conditions,
reducing inflammation, chronic pain, stress, and insomnia. Furthermore, the cannabinoid has
also been used for moderate to severe forms of epilepsy. In 2018, Epidolex was the first CBD-
based drug to be passed by the FDA to lessen the severity and amount of seizures in those who
have epilepsy.
Additionally, consumers have seen CBD pop up on shelves in the form of oil, gummies, vapes,
and even facial treatments. Last year, Origins skincare line introduced the “Hello Calm”
facemask to Sephora and other beauty retailers. The CBD infused face mask is said to hydrate
and calm the skin with anti-inflammatory and anti-acne proprieties.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is nearly one hundred percent pure CBD. The concentration is attained when the
CBD endures further filtration and winterization. This process occurs when the compound is
cooled down and separated from other chemicals found in cannabis. The result forms a
crystalized substance that can be used alone or infused into other products. You can find CBD
isolate crushed into powders or in clear, hardened waxes.
In comparison to other forms of CBD, CBD isolate has more potency because it contains high
concentrations of pure cannabinoid. Therefore, it is fast-acting and much easier to measure-
especially in ensuring a proper dosage.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum CBD does not go through the extensive filtration process as CBD isolate. Other
substances and cannabinoids like terpenes and minuscule amounts THC can make their way into
the CBD extract. This does not take away the effectiveness of the product, in fact, this can reap
benefits in and of itself. However, it can be more difficult to precisely measure the exact dosage
of pure CBD within a product.
Full spectrum CBD has what is called “the entourage effect”. Pure CBD isolates will reap the
benefits of only CBD, while a full spectrum CBD product works with the other beneficial
substances in the hemp plant like CBG and THCV compounds. Full spectrum CBD can typically be
found in liquids, creams, and cannabidiol edibles.
Whatever form of CBD you may decide to try, it is important to note that there are two different
options with varying benefits. Because CBD has virtually no side effects outside of enhancing the
effectiveness of other medications taken with the cannabinoid, it is appropriate to experiment
with both the isolate and full spectrum forms to discover what CBD works best for you.
