If you’ve been exploring CBD products, you’ve probably come across terms like full spectrum, broad spectrum and CBD isolate. While they may sound similar, each one refers to which type of CBD extract is in the product—and knowing the difference can help you choose the right product for your needs.
Remember: there’s no “best” type of CBD—just what works best for you. Each has its own characteristics. For example, full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD contain a variety of hemp compounds, which some people prefer. Others may opt for isolate-based CBD because it doesn’t have hemp’s natural flavors or trace levels of THC. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a breakdown of full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate-based CBD—so you can choose the option that fits seamlessly with your preferences and lifestyle.
What Is CBD?
Before diving into the different types of CBD, let’s start with the basics—what exactly is CBD, and how is it made? CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of over a hundred naturally occurring chemical compounds found in hemp. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate functions like mood, sleep, and stress responses to keep your body balanced. Unlike THC, the compound responsible for cannabis' intoxicating effects, CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it won’t get you high.
CBD is extracted from hemp and then refined into different forms, which can be used in a variety of different products—from tinctures and capsules to balms and pet products. Depending on how it’s processed, CBD can be full spectrum, broad spectrum, or isolate-based, each with its own benefits and characteristics, which we’re breaking down more in the following sections
Full Spectrum CBD
Full spectrum CBD extract is the closest you can get to CBD in its natural form. This type of extract preserves all the naturally occurring phytocannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes found in hemp—compounds that work together to create what’s known as the entourage effect. Some research suggests this synergy may make CBD work harder when it’s enjoyed with other cannabinoids, terpenes, and natural compounds in the mix.
At Lazarus Naturals, we use a food-grade ethanol alcohol extraction to pull cannabinoids from the whole hemp plant to make high-quality full spectrum CBD oils. Because this method retains hemp’s natural compounds, full spectrum CBD products have an earthy, hemp-forward flavor and a darker color. To balance the taste, we carefully select complementary flavors in our CBD oil tinctures—making them easier to enjoy on their own or mixed into food and drinks.However, since our full spectrum products are made with a whole plant extract, they do contain THC— but only in federally legal amounts under 0.3%, which is too low to cause a high. However, because THC can build up in the body over time, it could still result in a positive drug test, so if you don’t want to test positive for THC on a drug test, you’ll want to avoid full spectrum CBD..
Check out our wide range of full spectrum CBD products including: tinctures, capsules, CBD topical creams and CBD pet products.
Why Choose Full Spectrum CBD Products:
- Supports the entourage effect with a full range of hemp compounds
- Natural hemp flavor and aroma (which some people love, while others prefer alternatives)
- Contains less than 0.3% THC, which may still appear on drug tests
- May provide longer-lasting effects – Some people find that full spectrum CBD’s broader cannabinoid profile offers sustained support compared to isolates.
- Contains minor cannabinoids – Along with CBD, full spectrum extracts contain small amounts of CBG, CBN, CBC, and other compounds that may offer additional wellness benefits.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD—a highly refined extract that contains 99% (or more) CBD with no detectable THC. Typically appearing as a white, crystallized powder, it’s completely flavorless and odorless, making it a versatile option for anyone who wants the benefits of CBD without the taste of hemp or additional cannabinoids. Thanks to its lack of color or flavor, it can be used to make your own infusions, which is excellent if you’re sensitive to certain carrier oils and want to make your own skincare products, tinctures, capsules, or otherwise. To create CBD isolate, we start with a full spectrum hemp extract and refine it through extensive high-intensity filtration, distillation and winterization. These processes remove lipids, chlorophyll, terpenes, flavonoids, and any remaining plant matter, leaving behind pure CBD.
That said, CBD isolate does not provide the entourage effect but still delivers a highly concentrated form of cannabidiol that you can use in your own products or on its own.
If you’re looking to avoid THC for any reason, including concern about a positive drug test, this is an option. However, Isolate-based doesn't guarantee a drug test won’t still show positive for traces of THC. Since THC and other cannabinoids are metabolized in similar ways, some drug screenings may flag the metabolites of CBD as THC
While no CBD product can guarantee passing a drug test, isolate-based CBD reduces the likelihood of THC appearing in screenings. We offer a wide range of CBD Isolate tinctures, capsules, bulk isolate and pet products that are Isolate Based.
Why Choose Isolate CBD products:
- While no product can be 100% guaranteed to be THC-free due to trace amounts that may be below testing limits, isolate-based CBD contains no detectable THC.
- Minor risk of a positive drug test result
- Free of any hemp scents or flavors making it easy to add to food, drinks, or even custom formulations without affecting efficacy, taste, or aroma.
- Typically contains 99% or more CBD, making it a great choice for those who want a consistent and potent product.
- Since isolate is pure CBD, it allows for higher doses without additional cannabinoids.
- Ideal for those sensitive to other hemp compounds or carrier oils in other products
- A great starting point for CBD newcomers
Broad Spectrum CBD
At Lazarus Naturals we don’t make broad spectrum CBD products, but we know it’s important to understand all your options when choosing CBD.
Broad spectrum CBD is similar to full spectrum CBD with one key difference: the THC is removed while keeping the other beneficial cannabinoids and plant compounds intact. The goal is to offer the benefits of multiple hemp compounds so you can still enjoy the entourage effect, just without the THC. That said, a broad spectrum oil is ideal for anyone sensitive to THC or those who want to ensure compliance with a drug test.
To make broad spectrum CBD, there are two common methods.
- THC Removal from Full Spectrum Extract – This method starts with full spectrum CBD and undergoes additional processing to remove THC while preserving other cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Reintroducing Cannabinoids and Terpenes to CBD Isolate – This method starts with CBD isolate, then adds back specific terpenes and minor cannabinoids to create a THC-free formula.
Since processing methods can vary, some broad spectrum products may still contain trace amounts of THC, though typically at undetectable levels. If you’re considering broad spectrum CBD, it's always best to check third-party lab results to verify its composition.
Why Choose Broad Spectrum CBD Products:
- Offers whole plant benefits known as the entourage effect without the THC.
- May include CBG, CBN, and naturally occurring terpenes for added wellness support.
- Has distinct hempy flavors and scents, though some say it’s less strong than a full-spectrum oil.
- Even small amounts of THC, less than .3% by law, can trigger a positive drug test, so if you get drug tested, you’ll want to avoid broad spectrum oils.
- Since it can be extracted in multiple ways, always check the lab reports to ensure there is no detectable THC in broad spectrum extracts.
- Ideal for people who want to steer clear of THC but still benefit from other hemp compounds.
Which type of CBD is right for you?
Now that you know the differences between full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate-based CBD, how do you decide which one is best for you? It really comes down to your needs, preferences, and any sensitivities you may have. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:
If you get drug tested: Unfortunately, any CBD product comes with a risk of showing up on a drug test due to how our bodies metabolize cannabinoids. If you absolutely cannot risk THC in your system, you may want to avoid CBD altogether.
If you’re sensitive to THC or allergic to it: Broad spectrum CBD is your best bet. It offers many of the benefits of full spectrum CBD without detectable THC. Some people are extremely sensitive to even trace amounts of THC, so it’s crucial to check lab results before purchasing to ensure there’s truly no THC present.
If you want CBD without hemp flavors, extra cannabinoids, or traditional carrier oils: Isolate-based CBD is a great option. It contains no detectable THC and is the purest form of CBD, making it ideal for those sensitive to other hemp compounds. We use MCT oil and coconut oil as carrier oils in many of our products, so if you have an allergy, our isolate powder lets you make your own CBD products with ingredients you trust.
If you want the most potent and well-rounded effects: Full spectrum CBD is the way to go. It contains the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, offering the strongest entourage effect. If you need something robust and effective, this is your best choice—but keep in mind that it does contain THC (under the legal limit of 0.3%). While you won’t feel intoxicated, it can cause a positive drug test.
Whatever you choose, always check lab test results to make sure your CBD matches what you’re looking for. At Lazarus Naturals, we’re committed to transparency and quality, so you can feel confident in your decision.
Whether you’re looking for a CBD topical cream or a new CBD tincture, our selection of products offers something for every kind of person. Shop our CBD products today if you’re ready to take your health and wellness to the next level!