When you shop for CBD you will see three terms on labels: isolate, broad spectrum and full spectrum. They describe how much of the hemp plant’s chemistry ends up in the final product. Here is how they compare.
CBD isolate
CBD isolate is purified cannabidiol, usually 99% pure or more, sold as a white crystalline powder before it is mixed into a product. The other compounds from the hemp plant are removed during refining. Products made with isolate contain CBD and their other listed ingredients, and nothing else from the plant.
Isolate has no hemp taste or smell, which makes it popular for gummies, drinks and skin care. It also makes dosing simple, since the CBD amount on the label is the only cannabinoid in the product.
Broad spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum extract keeps CBD along with other hemp compounds such as minor cannabinoids and terpenes, but has THC removed to non-detectable levels.
Full spectrum CBD
Full spectrum extract keeps most of the compounds found in the hemp plant, including the small amount of THC that legal hemp can contain. Some people prefer it for its more natural profile. Others avoid it because of the THC content, for example if they are subject to drug testing.
How each one looks on a lab report
On a Certificate of Analysis, a product made with isolate will show CBD and list other cannabinoids as “ND” (not detected). Broad spectrum products will show other cannabinoids but no THC. Full spectrum products will show several cannabinoids, including a small amount of THC. Our guide to reading a CBD lab report explains the format.
Which should you choose?
- Choose isolate if you want only CBD, no hemp flavor, and the simplest label.
- Choose broad spectrum if you want other hemp compounds without THC.
- Choose full spectrum if you want the whole-plant profile and THC is not a concern for you.
Our products
Every Discount Pharms CBD gummy and every Airlie CBD product is made with hemp CBD isolate. You can open each product’s lab report from its product page or our lab results page.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is general information, not medical or legal advice. Talk to your doctor before using CBD, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or take medication.