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Full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate?

Author: dr. Borut Gosar, PhD in biotechnology · Updated 29 May 2026

The terms "full spectrum", "broad spectrum" and "isolate" describe exactly what is in your CBD product. The difference is significant – both in terms of naturalness and quality.

Full spectrum

The product contains the complete natural hemp extract: in addition to CBD, it contains other cannabinoids (CBG, CBC, CBN, THC …), terpenes and antioxidants. These ingredients work synergistically – a phenomenon often referred to as the "entourage effect". The THC content remains below the legal limit of 0.2%. All Dr. Gosar products are full spectrum.

Partially full spectrum (broad spectrum)

CBD isolate is added to the natural extract to achieve a higher CBD content (often above 10%). Because isolate does not contain THC, it can be added in almost any concentration – resulting in products with 50% or more CBD while keeping THC below 0.2%.

CBD isolate

Purified CBD (97–99.9%) of natural or synthetic origin, without other cannabinoids or terpenes. It is the least expensive form; according to some sources, synthetic isolates may be less effective and potentially more problematic than natural extracts.

Comparison at a glance

Type Cannabinoids Naturalness
Full spectrum CBD + naturally occurring accompanying cannabinoids and terpenes natural
Broad spectrum natural extract + added CBD isolate partially natural
Isolate CBD only (97–99.9%) purified / may be synthetic

How can you identify added isolate?

  • CBD content above 10% (this cannot be achieved through extraction).
  • The supplier is not involved in growing hemp.
  • Laboratory analysis shows almost exclusively CBD, with few or no other cannabinoids.

Frequently asked questions

Is full spectrum better than isolate?

Natural full-spectrum extract contains the entire range of hemp constituents that complement one another. At Dr. Gosar, we therefore produce mostly full-spectrum products. The only product that is not full spectrum is the 20% hemp resin, to which CBD isolate is added.

Does full spectrum contain THC?

Always below the legal limit of 0.2%.
 

Next: How to choose CBD oil · all hemp products