Although it seems as if the CBD oil market is completely saturated, it is worth noting that there are only three specific types:
- Full-Spectrum: If you see a 1000mg CBD oil classified as full-spectrum, the product contains dozens of compounds from the hemp plant. They include cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Crucially, full-spectrum means a maximum of 0.3% THC in the product.
- Broad-Spectrum: CBD oil carrying this designation is almost the same as full-spectrum but contains no THC.
- CBD Isolate: Isolate products consist of no other compounds barring CBD and generally contain over 99% of the cannabinoid. Some brands add terpenes to enhance the flavor.
There is intense debate over which product is ‘best,’ with advocates of full-spectrum pointing towards the “entourage effect” as evidence of greater efficacy. This article investigates the effects of full-spectrum CBD tinctures compared to CBD isolates and determines whether one product is “better” than the other.
What Are the Effects of Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?
According to individuals who use full-spectrum CBD oil, they feel grounded, centered, and generally more relaxed. CBD is associated with calming properties and also has anti-inflammatory benefits.
So, if cannabidiol has so many plus points, why do we need to add other cannabinoids to the mix? According to some researchers, a phenomenon known as the entourage effect could increase the effectiveness of CBD products.
The entourage effect theory states that the compounds in the Cannabis sativa L. plant work better together than in isolation. Simply put, it posits that full-spectrum CBD oil is likely more effective than CBD isolate. Indeed, there’s a suggestion that the terpenes in hemp have their own benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
However, although the entourage effect is a theory well supported in the medical community, some studies have cast doubt on whether it is real.
What Are the Effects of CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate products usually come in powder form, although there is CBD oil containing over 99% of the cannabinoid. You’ll find that isolate products are significantly cheaper than their full-spectrum counterparts. Their versatility is also a big asset. For instance, you can melt powder down and add it to food and drink by including a “carrier” such as MCT oil.
There is also a growing trend toward vaping CBD. With an isolate product, you can use relatively large amounts. Some users consume over 100mg of the cannabinoid in a single sitting. Such individuals report feeling noticeably calmer and less anxious than before they used the product. CBD isolate may also prove useful as a sleep aid, although more research is needed.
Could I Fail Drug Test Using Full-Spectrum CBD Oil?
Employers in many states can fire staff who test positive for THC metabolites. As full-spectrum CBD tinctures contain a certain amount of the intoxicating cannabinoid, it is only natural that users may feel trepidation regarding the potential of a failed drug test.
Legally, a full-spectrum CBD product can contain up to 0.3% THC. Therefore, a bottle of CBD oil containing 30ml of liquid can theoretically have 90mg of THC. The large CBD concentration ensures you won’t get high, but could it impact a drug screening?
The answer is: “It depends.” If you use 2-3ml of CBD daily, you’re potentially ingesting 6-9mg of THC. The cannabinoid could feasibly build up in your system to the point where a drug screening detects it. However, most reputable brands ensure there is far less than 0.3% THC in their products.
Also, buying products with a high concentration of CBD is best to ensure you don’t need to consume much oil. For instance, if a CBD oil has 100mg of the cannabinoid per ml, most users won’t consume more than 0.5ml as this is the equivalent of 50mg of CBD.
However, please ensure you check the product’s lab reports to discover the THC content. If you can’t find this report, don’t buy the CBD oil!
Final Thoughts on the Effects of Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Versus CBD Isolate
Most people who have used both products suggest little difference in how they feel. According to anecdotal reports, both help users feel relaxed, calm, and less anxious. However, believers in the entourage effect claim that full-spectrum CBD oil is more effective. It is a fascinating theory, but the jury is still out.
