Understanding the difference between isolate, full, and broad spectrum CBD
Another piece of the CBD label puzzle is knowing the difference between the different types of hemp-distillation processes. CBD comes from the hemp flower, and like any flower, it has a range of chemicals and fragrances within it. CBD is one of many chemicals in hemp that can trigger a response within your ECS. There are three ways to distill the CBD extracted from the hemp flower and then use it in a product: isolate, broad spectrum, and full spectrum. The easiest way to think about this is Vitamin C. A Vitamin C supplement will contain only that single chemical: Vitamin C. An orange not only contains Vitamin C, but a host of other minerals and fragrances that can impact its nutritional value. A CBD isolate is just like Vitamin C; it’s an isolated compound. Most clinical studies you see use CBD isolate, as scientists need consistency. Broad spectrum is everything in the hemp plant including its terpenes (fragrance) and potentially minor cannabinoids except for the THC, which is taken out. Full spectrum has everything in the plant in addition to a small amount of THC — under 0.3%. You can’t get “high” from full spectrum, but if drug testing is a concern, it’s not worth the risk.
In terms of taste, due to the flavors being maintained in the distillation process, full spectrum and broad spectrum will have an earthy flavor. When it comes to wanting a true “full spectrum” effect with minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and CBC in addition to THC, the amount you have in a “full spectrum” completely depends on the quality of the hemp strain. While full spectrum and broad spectrum in theory means the product has a range of compounds, you always need to check a Certificate of Analysis to be sure.
Look for COAs
Finally, when buying CBD products, do your homework and check brands for their documentation. Certificate of Analysis (COAs) should be industry standard, but many brands do not share batch-level analysis. COAs include potency testing, ensuring the dosage is correctly represented on packaging; microbial testing; and any other ingredients in the product. For example, many brands will claim “full spectrum” while only containing CBD. Where does one find a COA? Typically on the company’s website and according to New York’s latest hemp bill, soon every product will have a QR code for consumers to scan and see where their products are traced. Mike Schmitt, Regulatory Manager at SōRSE Technology, notes, “CBD products like Mad Tasty publish their COA so the consumer can rest assured that they’re getting what they paid for.” Schmitt also explained that in sharing COAs and third-party testing, public trust can be established in this emerging market. If a brand won’t share a COA, find a brand that’s transparent.
Until more regulation or self-imposed transparency becomes industry standard, you’ll need to do a little research if you want to make sure your CBD product works. For things like beverages, where much is based on how the CBD is made, processed and formulated, not everything on shelves will provide the same experience. Hopefully, after following these steps, you’ll never have to ask yourself, “Did I get the CBD I paid for?”