Cannabidiol (CBD) has become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. CBD is one of over a hundred compounds found in the cannabis plant, but it is not psychoactive and will not produce a "high" like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) does. CBD can be extracted from the hemp plant in two main forms: full spectrum hemp extract and CBD isolate. While they are both forms of CBD, there are some significant differences between the two.
Full Spectrum Hemp Extract
Full spectrum hemp extract, also known as "whole plant" extract, contains all of the naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial plant compounds. This includes CBD, as well as small amounts of THC (less than 0.3%, which is the legal limit in the United States). The combination of these compounds creates what is known as the "entourage effect," meaning that they work together to enhance the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD. Full Spectrum extract is the least refined or processed hemp extract, but the most beneficial. Full spectrum hemp extract is usually extracted from the entire hemp plant using CO2 or ethanol extraction methods.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is a pure, crystalline powder that contains only CBD. All other plant compounds, including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, are stripped away during the refinement process, leaving behind a product that is 99% pure CBD. CBD isolate is typically extracted from the hemp plant using either CO2 or ethanol extraction methods, and then further processed using harsh chemicals like pentane or heptane to remove any remaining plant matter and compounds.
Key Differences
The primary difference between full spectrum hemp extract and CBD isolate is their cannabinoid, terpenes, and flavonoid content. Full spectrum hemp extract contains a wide range of cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, terpenes, and flavonoids, which all contribute to the entourage effect, while CBD isolate contains only pure CBD.
Another key difference is the potential therapeutic benefits of the two forms of CBD. While CBD isolate may offer some benefits, the entourage effect of full spectrum hemp extract is believed to enhance the therapeutic effects of CBD. This means that full spectrum hemp extract is more effective for certain conditions than CBD isolate. Full spectrum hemp extract is often used for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep. CBD isolate is commonly used for those who are concerned about having trace amounts of THC in their bodies.
Additionally, full spectrum hemp extract may cause a positive drug test result due to the small amount of THC present in the product. However, it is important to note that most drug tests are looking for high levels of THC, and the amount present in full spectrum hemp extract is not enough to produce a psychoactive effect.
During hemp extraction the more that the extract is refined or processed, the more benefits are lost. To sum it up, think about full spectrum hemp extract like stone ground homemade bread, that is rich in protein and other nutrients, compared to its processed counterpart- white wonder bread. They are both bread, but the nutrients and benefits of each are astoundingly different.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both full spectrum hemp extract and CBD isolate offer potential benefits and can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. However, the main difference lies in the cannabinoid, terpenes, and flavonoid content and potential therapeutic effects. Full spectrum hemp extract offers the benefits of the entourage effect, while CBD isolate is a pure, concentrated form of CBD. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the specific condition being treated.