During the early stages of my research and development for Ashlee’s Powers CBD protein bar, everyone was telling me why their hemp-derived CBD extract was the best: why I should use CBD Isolates, Full Spectrum, or Broad Spectrum over the other. To their credit, all three extracts are great in their own respect, however, they provide completely different benefits. Before I go into why I chose Broad Spectrum CBD powder for my protein bars, I will explain the differences between the three.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full Spectrum CBD hemp powder contains all the compounds found naturally in industrial hemp; including traces of THC. This allows for the “Entourage Effect” to take place, magnifying the therapeutic benefits of each compound. Studies have shown that Terpenes and other cannabinoids aid in the absorption of CBD, providing higher levels of relief than CBD alone. Full Spectrum, however, poses an issue to athletes and other professionals who are subject to drug testing.
 
CBD Isolate
CBD Isolates provide the purest form of CBD. All other compounds of the hemp plant are completely removed, or “isolated”. Isolates are great for individuals who require high doses of CBD, however, it does not deliver the benefits of the other cannabinoids. A CBD study published in 2015 compared CBD Isolates to Full Spectrum CBD and noticed a significant difference in the therapeutic impact of CBD alone versus CBD accompanied by terpenes and other cannabinoids. The results showed a bell-shaped dose-response curve in the CBD Isolate, showing at a certain point of dosage, the therapeutic impact declined dramatically. However, the alternative whole-plant CBD caused a direct, dose-dependent inhibition of pain, inflammation, and TNFa production. The whole-plant, “provided a clear correlation between the anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive responses and the dose, with increasing responses upon increasing doses, which makes this plant medicine ideal for clinical uses.” In other words, CBD isolates, no matter how much or little dosage administered has a threshold of absorption in the body alone.
 
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad Spectrum CBD is the whole hemp plant, without the THC compound. By removing the THC compound, Broad Spectrum CBD provides all the benefits of the whole plant, without the risk of THC. Because the THC is removed, there are no psychoactive effects. Users reap the benefits of the Entourage Effect, including those of the other cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC, and CBD-A) and terpenes.
When deciding on the best type of CBD for Ashlee’s Powers CBD protein bars, I wanted to create a product that would provide the most bioavailability. I wanted to ensure the consumer reaped all the benefits of CBD without the risk of THC because I understand many individuals, like myself, cannot risk testing positive for THC. I did not just choose any Broad Spectrum CBD product. I sought out the best and most reputable supplier regardless of the cost. Our Broad Spectrum CBD powder is phytocannabinoid-rich that has been designed for optimal bioavailability.