WHY FULL-SPECTRUM CBD WORKS BETTER THAN CBD ISOLATE

CBD full-spectrum contain all derivatives of cannabis, including traces of THC that work in synergy to provide an entourage effect. In contrast, CBD compounds found in the isolate have reduced therapeutic and medicinal effects.

Full-spectrum CBD is made of all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including THC, terpenes, fatty acids, flavonoids, and other minor cannabinoids. In contrast, CBD isolate is exclusively made from CBD; lacks all the other cannabis derivatives. The nexus among the CBD products in full-spectrum provide an entourage effect. Studies have shown that diversified cannabis derivatives have a more effective impact on the body. This article discusses the two CBD spectrums to understand how they impact the body.

What is CBD?

CBD is a chemical compound occurring naturally in the cannabis plant. The cannabis derivative does not cause euphoric effects to the users (Marinotti & Sarill, 2020). While some spectrums of CBD contain the psychoactive THC, they are in trace amounts that do not cause psychoactive effects. It is used for health functions like relieving pain, treating cancer-related symptoms, epilepsy, inflammation, anxiety, and depression (Evans,2020).CBD is believed to interact with the body receptors (CB1 and CB2) responsible for regulating body functions. These receptors bind to different body systems, sending signals around the body. The interaction between CBD and the CB1 and CB2 receptors provides different therapeutic effects.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Voelkel et al. (2019) stated that products with full-spectrum CBD are infused with all chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, such as terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, a small amount of THC, and minor cannabinoids. The spectrum has an entourage effect due to the interaction of the constituent compounds

What is CBD isolate?

According to Marinotti & Sarill (2020), CBD isolates is a cannabis spectrum extracted by separating all the other plant components leaving behind the pure crystalline solid of CBD. CBD isolate, does not contain any other cannabis compounds, but contain 99% of CBD. The components like flavonoids and terpenes are removed from the isolate, making them less scented and without fragrance.

Why Full-Spectrum CBD Works Better Than CBD Isolate

Full-spectrum CBD is made of all the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. The many cannabinoids in the cannabis plant play different roles in enhancing the benefits of CBD. Notably, CBD and THC are the major compounds found in cannabis plants. CBD and THC interact with the body's endocannabinoid system through two core receptors, CB1 and CB2 (Voelkel et al., 2019). These receptors are prevalent in the nervous and digestive systems to

regulate body functions. Once it interacts with the endocannabinoid system, CBD calms the body by reducing the rate at which the nervous system sends stress signals to the brain. Although THC has psychoactive effects, it improves the benefits of CBD when used together. Komarnytsky et al. (2021) stated that the minor compounds found in Full-spectrum CBD include CBG, CBN, and CBC, which also interact with the body to provide the desired effects. In addition, Marinotti & Sarill (2020) noted that full-spectrum CBD contains different terpenes, which are responsible for the plant's distinct smell. Learn more about cbd isolate vs full spectrum what is the difference

Types flowing types of terpenes are found in the cannabis plant: 

Limonene

Limonene has a powerful citrus aroma commonly found in citrus fruits. In Sativa-dominant plants, it is domiciled in the flowers. It also lowers the oxidative stress on a person's body, decreasing cancer risk.

Linalool

Linalool has a lavender smell and is believed to have sleep-prompting effects. It also has antioxidant and mood-balancing effects.

Myrcene

It is found in high quantities in all strains of cannabis plant.  Myrcene has a musky, earthy aroma. In addition is has anti-inflammatory, sedative, and pain-relieving effects. These terpenes increase the rate of CBD products in the body.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene is the most common terpenes found in hemp plants. It is also found in black peppery plants with a spicy and peppery taste. Studies show that it interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors to suppress multiple imbalances within the body systems.  Learn more about what is cbd isolate from hemp?

Which is the Best Cannabinoid Extract for You? 

Choosing the best cannabinoid extract may be challenging for CBD beginners. Hence, seek professional guidelines to recommend the best extract that works for your body. Factors determining the best CBD extract include but are not limited to body weight (Marinotti & Sarill, 2020). First-time users are advised to take small dosages of CBD to assess the body’s reactions before adjusting the dose upwards. Similarly, choose a method of consumption that works for you. There are many consumption methods, such as CBD edibles, topical, and tinctures. Some methods allow the absorption of CBD in the bloodstream faster than others. In addition, methods like tinctures and gummies can be used to mask the earthy tastes of CBD.

Conclusion

Full-spectrum CBD is made of all cannabinoids available in the cannabis plant. The compounds work synergistically to provide a better treatment outcome. A compound like terpenes improves the scent and fragrance to boost the therapeutic effects of CBD. In contrast, CBD isolate provides limited effects. While the absence of THC and other components makes the isolates pure, they are less effective for various therapeutic purposes. First-time CBD users should utilize CBD isolates to accustom their bodies to cannabis before adjusting to other cannabis derivatives.

References

Evans, J. (2020). The Ultimate Guide to CBD: Explore the World of Cannabidiol. Fair Winds             Press.

Komarnytsky, S., Rathinasabapathy, T., Wagner, C., Metzger, B., Carlisle, C., Panda, C., Le Brun-Blashka, S., Troup, J. P., & Varadharaj, S. (2021). Endocannabinoid System and Its Regulation by Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Full Spectrum Hemp Oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(11), 5479. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22115479

Marinotti, O., & Sarill, M. (2020). Differentiating Full-Spectrum Hemp Extracts from CBD Isolates: Implications for Policy, Safety and Science. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 17(5), 517–526. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2020.1776806

Voelkel, H., LeCroy, C. W., Williams, L. R., & Holschuh, J. (2019). The Full Spectrum. Best Practices in Mental Health, 9(1), 31–46. https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/follmer/bpmh/2013/00000009/00000001/art00004.