In order to understand the difference between a full spectrum or CBD isolate product, you need to know what CBD is and where it comes from. Lazarus Naturals extracts CBD from hemp, which allows us to sell and ship CBD products to all 50 states.
When extracting CBD for use in products such as tinctures, lotions, and edibles, we have the choice to extract all of the compounds found in hemp or isolate only the CBD. When all of the compounds are extracted together, this is known as a full plant extraction and the resulting product would be considered a full spectrum product. On the other hand, if only the CBD is extracted and then infused into a product, the resulting product would be made from isolate. Lazarus Naturals makes both types of products.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD Isolate is exactly what it sounds like. It's the isolated CBD cannabinoid from a cannabis plant. At room temperature, isolate is a white powder. It can be taken by itself, used to make other products or infuse lotions and edibles. This latter group of products is where most of the debates around full spectrum CBD vs. CBD isolate preside.
Why Choose Full Spectrum CBD Products?
Some CBD consumers believe that all of the compounds found in cannabis, not just CBD, play an important role in the body. These people often cite a theory known as the entourage effect. It suggests that all the compounds found in hemp work synergistically to create an effect that could not be achieved by any one compound on its own.
The entourage effect is a staple argument of those who believe in whole plant medicines over treatments which isolate the active ingredient. However, at this point in time, there isn’t enough scientific research to determine what impact, if any, the entourage effect has as it relates to CBD products. For now, CBD users only have testimonial evidence to go on.
Why Choose CBD Isolate Products?
Although including all of the terpenes and cannabinoids found in hemp may bring added potential benefits, it also brings its own challenges. The primary setback is in the flavor department. When including all the extra compounds found in hemp, you end up getting the taste of hemp as well. Although many enjoy or don’t mind the flavor of full spectrum products, it can be a deterrent for others. This is most noticeable in CBD tinctures which are generally held underneath the tongue for extended periods of time (90 seconds).
For those who are primarily interested in CBD and wouldn't mind avoiding the other compounds and flavors found in hemp, isolate based products offer more flavor options. It allows companies such as ours to create tinctures with little taste or added flavors that wouldn't mix well with hemp. Another benefit of isolate based products is that by focusing on CBD alone, they can achieve higher concentrations of CBD. However, for those who want to preserve the natural balance of compounds found in hemp, this can be a downside.
The Best of Both Worlds
For those caught in between and want the benefits of a whole plant extract without the taste, we recommend CBD capsules. It allows for all of the potential benefits of full spectrum product and avoids any potential issue around flavor.
The Final Verdict: Full Spectrum CBD vs. CBD Isolate
Until there is more evidence to show how full spectrum CBD affects a person differently than isolates, there is no clear winner. Either way, there will still be a market for CBD isolate because of its unique uses and ability to infuse just about anything with CBD without affecting the flavor. Until scientists can confirm what benefits come along with the added compounds of full spectrum products, the debate is mostly a matter of taste.
What's Your Opinion?
Do you swear by full spectrum products or are you only interested in isolates? Are you somewhere in between. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Lazarus Naturals shall not be held liable for any direct or indirect damages caused in any way through the use of information, services, or products provided or sold by Etz Hayim Holdings DBA Lazarus Naturals. This disclaimer of liability applies to any damages or injury which may be perceived to be caused by the information or products sold or provided by Etz Hayim Holdings.