The world of CBD products has exploded in size and fame all around the world in only the past couple of years. There is currently a plethora of CBD products all of which have various advantages and uses that consumers can take for a variety of reasons.
However, there are a number of different product formulations with varying effects that should be considered when choosing a CBD product and extraction method.
But what is it that makes these products different? Afterall, they all contain CBD, so they should mostly be the same, right?
While there are a number of factors that make one CBD product differ from another, there are two major product formulations that are widely different in their effect: CBD distillate, and CBD isolate.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is an extremely pure, crystalline form of nearly entirely CBD. Products made from isolate comprise more than 99 percent of CBD with the other remaining percentages being residual plant compounds and terpenes.
You will often find these products labeled “THC-Free” because any potential levels of that cannabinoid are negligible.
Although the Entourage Effect doesn’t play a role in isolate products, customers will still benefit from the CBD cannabinoid on its own.
Since products created out of CBD isolate comprise almost no additional cannabis compounds, they might be more beneficial for people who need to avoid different cannabinoids for legal or health factors.
Another benefit to isolate is its purity. As it is one cannabinoid that is intentionally processed and isolated to a crystalline form, these products will contain nearly 100% purity, which makes the individual CBD benefits very powerful for the end user.
What is CBD Distillate?
CBD distillate is a cannabis extract made from the distillation process using a wiped film evaporator equipment which could contain a number of plant terpenes and cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (Cannabinol) and even THC depending on particular jurisdictions.
These products are often called “broad spectrum” or “full spectrum.” The difference between broad and full spectrum products is simply that full spectrum will contain allowable amounts of THC whereas broad spectrum will contain all the other cannabinoids, terpenes and plant compounds without any THC.
So, if the focus of the product is CBD, why make a product with other cannabinoids – especially THC?
The reason for producing a CBD product which has multiple cannabinoids and terpenes is because of a newly studied interaction commonly referred to as the Entourage Effect.
Research has shown that the Entourage Effect provides more health benefits with multiple cannabis compounds working in conjunction when compared to isolated CBD on it’s own.
While more research has to be conducted, user testimony coupled with new studies have suggested some users benefit from full and broad spectrum distillate products much more so than with CBD isolate products.
Depending on the legality of all CBD goods in certain areas of the world, especially those containing any quantity of THC, distillate products may be either unavailable, or simply a risky option for a consumer.
However, where these products are lawful, the advantages of several cannabis compounds working together may be incredibly valuable in helping health issues like stress, depression, inflammation, pain and more.
So, Which Should You Choose?
Now that you know the key differences between distillate and isolate CBD products, which product would you choose?
Well, it may not be as simple as a snap decision. There are a few factors that have to be taken into consideration for your own personal well-being and lifestyle:
Health
If full, or broad spectrum distillate, or THC-free CBD isolate are both available to you, then you might benefit from trying both to find the one that works best for you.
You may realize that full-spectrum distillate products have undesired effects when you take it, or you may find that THC-free isolate products do not address the health issues you have on its own.
By trying both isolate and distillate, you may find the perfect CBD product for your needs.
Career
You might also have to consider your occupation when choosing between these products.
While full-spectrum distillate products won’t get you “high,” the small amount of THC has produced false positive test results in a number of cases.
If this might be a possible risk at where you work, but you still need the advantages of CBD, then it could be best to choose a THC non-detect, CBD isolate product.
Legality
Some countries have full legalization of all cannabis products. In others, not even CBD is lawful. Others still are in a grey area of legality.
Therefore, it is extremely important to review the laws in which you reside.
You might find that full-spectrum distillate products are perfectly legal where you live. Or, you might discover that THC in any form is illegal and would be safest taking CBD isolate products.
Either way, considering the legal ramifications of the products you take is a vital aspect in your choice.
Conclusion
Hopefully this information can help you to decide on the right CBD merchandise for your lifestyle.
Continued research and personal testimonies continue to support the benefits of CBD, however it is important to understand that not all products will be the same.
Do your research and ask your doctor to determine if either distillate or isolate CBD is the right selection for you.
