It’s no question that there are a lot of CBD and hemp products on the market, and it may be difficult to keep up with all the different terms. Two of the most popular product types are CBD oil and CBD isolate. Today we will discuss how they are similar, how they are different, and how to use each. So what are the differences between CBD oil and CBD isolate? Let’s find out. 

What is CBD Oil? 

If you are not familiar with CBD oil, you have probably heard of it at some point or another. But to best understand what CBD oil is, you should have an idea of how it is made. CBD is a compound that is found in the hemp plant. To make CBD oil, a processor extracts the CBD from the hemp plant and mixes it with a carrier oil, such as MCT coconut oil. CBD oil comes in liquid form, usually with a dropper, and can come in a variety of strengths and flavors. CBD oil can be full-spectrum where it contains all of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, or broad-spectrum where the trace amounts of THC found in the hemp plant are removed. It is recommended that you use CBD oil orally or sublingually (under the tongue). 

What is CBD Isolate? 

CBD isolates are products you may be less familiar with, but they are becoming increasingly popular. CBD isolate is CBD in its purest form. All other cannabinoids, including CBG, CBN, and THC are removed in processing, as well as all other ingredients and plant matter. What you have left, is a CBD crystalline powder that is up to 99% pure. This powder can be very versatile, as it can be added to capsules, drinks, food, and more. It is often used by CBD purists or do-it-yourselfers who want to make their own CBD body products or consumables. To see CBD isolate for yourself, out 502 Hemp’s locally sourced CBD isolate

CBD Oil and CBD Isolate: What are the Key Differences? 

Now that you are familiar with the two products, let’s summarize and take a look at the differences between CBD oil and isolate: 

  1. Texture – CBD Oil is simply an oil that is in liquid form. CBD isolate is a solid crystalline powder.
  2. Strength – CBD isolate is stronger, containing up to 99% CBD by weight. The strength of CBD oil varies with potency measured by ML or liquid volume. 
  3. Taste – CBD oil can come in a variety of flavors. CBD isolate is unflavored until you add it to something. 
  4. Uses – CBD oil is ready to be used as-is. CBD isolate can be used as is, but it is more commonly used as an ingredient for other CBD concoctions.  
  5. Variety – CBD oil has more varieties. There are flavored, unflavored, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils. CBD isolate has only one form, but it is THC-free and can be used in many different ways.

A few things we want to point out: for most, CBD products are not a test of strength. Quality is everything, and CBD users can benefit from a relatively small dosage of CBD. For more information on finding your correct dosage, see our blog How Much CBD Oil should you take. Another point we would like to make is about THC. While CBD isolates are naturally THC-free, there are CBD oils that are THC-free as well. At 502 Hemp, we always work with you to find you the best product for your needs. You can find a variety of CBD oils and CBD isolate in our online store!