Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs Isolate: What’s the Difference?

I first started developing Kyoto Botanicals because I wanted (for myself) CBD products as close to nature as possible. That’s why I started with full spectrum — whole-plant extract, minimal processing, everything working together like it does in the hemp plant. Like many people, I’d heard for years that a little THC “unlocks” the benefits.

Then I had a very real, and very unpleasant, experience in my own kitchen. After hours of mixing and tasting and mixing and tasting, I started to feel anxious, weird, hot, and sweaty… just off. In my strange daze It hit me: I was high and it sucked. Even though full spectrum products are below 0.3% THC, if you take enough, your total THC intake adds up. I’ve never liked the feeling of being high — even back in college in Boulder when everyone was high — and I don’t want anyone who buys from us to feel that way either.

That was when i knew it was time to start looking into broad spectrum CBD for Kyoto Botanicals. For me and for most people looking for just a little daily wellness help, it delivers the benefits they’re looking for without the THC. It aligns with our two core product principles: effect and simplicity. No confusion, no gimmicks, and never isolate “spiking.”

Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Spectrum — What These Terms Really Mean
2. My Product Development Journey — Why I Chose Broad Spectrum
3. Why Broad Spectrum Is the Sweet Spot
4. Why We’ll Never Use Isolate
5. Choosing What’s Right for You
6. Quick Comparison Table
7. FAQs

Understanding the Spectrum — What These Terms Really Mean

CBD products generally fall into three categories:

• Full Spectrum — Whole-plant extract that includes CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and naturally occurring trace THC (<0.3%). Many people like it for its robust “entourage” effect, but THC is present.
• Broad Spectrum — Starts like full spectrum, then undergoes an additional step to remove THC. You still get the wider range of plant compounds without the THC.
• Isolate — Pure CBD molecule with no other plant compounds. While it allows for precise dosing on paper, it lacks the synergy of the full plant, so many folks find it less effective unless used at higher amounts.

My Product Development Journey — Why I Chose Broad Spectrum

I started with full spectrum because it felt honest — minimal processing, nature-forward. I also knew I would never use isolate after seeing how some companies quietly used it to “spike” full-spectrum products when harvests or yields were low to hit on label CBD numbers rather than just making fewer bottles. That didn’t sit right with me. If I couldn’t make it with integrity in a way I wanted to use it, I wouldn’t make it at all.

“I never wanted anyone using our products to feel the way I felt that day in my kitchen — anxious and uncomfortable. That moment is why Kyoto Botanicals is built around broad spectrum.”

From there, our philosophy locked in: effect (the product has to work) and simplicity (the lineup should be easy to understand). CBD shouldn’t be confusing or intimidating — it is meant to help with daily stress after all, not add another complicated decision into your life.

Why Broad Spectrum Is the Sweet Spot

• Effect you can feel — You still get the wider range of plant compounds working together.
• THC removed — Aligns with people (like me) who don’t want THC effects.
• Simpler choice — For most everyday goals — winding down after a long day, easing normal post-activity soreness, or supporting a calmer bedtime routine — broad spectrum is a clear, approachable starting point.

Want help finding a routine that actually works for your body? Read: Finding Your Sweet Spot: Building a CBD Routine That Works for You.

Explore our most popular formats:

• Broad-spectrum CBD tinctures (made with USDA-certified organic carrier oils)
• THC-free CBD gummies
• Sports Cream

Why We’ll Never Use Isolate

Isolate strips CBD away from the rest of the plant. In my experience, that means you lose the natural synergy that helps most people feel real results without chasing bigger serving sizes. It also opens the door for the kind of label games I’ve seen firsthand — “spiking” to hit a target number. I never like to see that and think it is damaging to CBD's reputation, so you will never see that from us.

For a deeper dive into quality and transparency, see: The Key to High-Quality CBD Products.

Choosing What’s Right for You

Some people prefer full spectrum; others — like me — feel better with broad spectrum. Choose based on how you want to feel and what aligns with your comfort level. Whatever you pick, always check third-party lab results (COAs) and understand how the product is made. At Kyoto Botanicals, every batch is independently tested, and our tinctures are USDA-certified organic. Our broader lineup prioritizes clean, trustworthy ingredients and a simple path to a good experience.

Important: If you are subject to drug testing, the most conservative and responsible approach is to avoid CBD entirely. Even products formulated without THC can carry unpredictable risk depending on individual circumstances. I am generally conservative when it comes to this, so every time I talk with people, I always recommend if drug testing is a possibility it is best to avoid CBD all together.

Curious how we keep things straightforward? Read: Transparent CBD Pricing: Why Simplicity Matters.

Quick Comparison Table

Founder’s Takeaway

I started Kyoto Botanicals because I watched the industry cut corners — especially with isolate. I wanted to do the opposite: fewer products, cleaner inputs, honest people, and formulas that actually help people feel better without worrying about THC effects. If that means growing slower, I don't care. I would rather truly help one person change their life than sell a million bottles.

FAQs

Does broad spectrum CBD contain THC?

No. Broad spectrum starts like full spectrum but goes through an extra step to remove THC while keeping other plant compounds.

Why do some people prefer full spectrum?

They like the whole-plant profile, including trace THC. Others (like me) prefer to avoid THC and still get strong benefits from broad spectrum.

Is CBD isolate weaker?

Many people find isolate less noticeable because it lacks other plant compounds that work together. It can also require higher amounts to feel the same effect.

Which type is best for beginners?

For most people, broad spectrum is a clear, comfortable starting point. It’s effective and doesn’t include THC.

How can I verify what type a product is?

Check the product page and the third-party lab report (COA). If it’s not easy to find, that’s a red flag.