CBD for Stress Relief: What a New Study Reveals About Broad Spectrum vs Isolate Oils

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone.
Whether it’s long workdays, uncertain news headlines, or simply too much on your plate, stress has become a near-constant presence for many of us. It shows up as tight shoulders, restless sleep, or that ever-familiar knot in your stomach. So it’s no surprise that more and more people are looking for natural ways to cope - and cannabidiol (CBD), a natural extract from hemp, is often at the top of that list.

But not all CBD is the same. A recent study explored whether two different types of CBD could affect how people manage stress. The results? Both options offered relief - but one came out ahead. Here’s what you should know.

What Was the CBD Oil Study About?

Researchers set out to explore how two types of CBD oil - isolate and broad spectrum - impacted stress relief. The study involved nearly 400 adults in the USA who were already experiencing high levels of stress (an average of 8.5 out of 10 at baseline).

Each participant followed either a 30-day or 60-day routine. For the first half of the study, they used a CBD isolate product, which contains pure CBD with no other cannabis plant compounds. For the second half, they switched to a broad spectrum oil - one that includes CBD alongside other natural compounds like terpenes and minor cannabinoids, but still contains no THC.

The aim? To see how users rated each oil in terms of how effective it was at reducing stress, how it tasted, and how it made them feel overall.

Broad Spectrum vs Isolate CBD: What's the Difference?

To understand the results, it helps to know what sets these two products apart.

• CBD Isolate: This is pure cannabidiol - no other compounds from the cannabis plant are included. It’s usually colourless, tasteless, and often seen as a “clean” option.

• Broad Spectrum CBD: In addition to CBD, this oil contains other natural elements from the plant - like cannabigerol (CBG) and terpenes (the aromatic compounds that give plants their scent). Importantly, broad spectrum CBD contains no detectable THC, still making it a non-intoxicating option.

The idea behind broad spectrum products is something known as the entourage effect - a theory suggesting that cannabinoids and terpenes may work better together than in isolation, potentially enhancing the product’s overall impact.

What Did the Study Find about Anxiety and Stress Relief?

Across both the 30-day and 60-day groups, participants reported that both CBD oils were effective in helping them manage stress. However, the broad spectrum product consistently scored higher when it came to perceived effectiveness.

Here’s a snapshot of what participants reported:

• Stress management: Users rated the broad spectrum oil significantly higher for helping them manage stress.

• Overall effectiveness: Again, broad spectrum came out on top, with participants saying it helped them feel better overall.

• Taste: The isolate oil was preferred in terms of flavour - many found it smoother and less earthy.

• Adverse effects: Very few participants reported side effects from either product. When they did, they were generally mild (such as tiredness or slight nausea), and no serious concerns were raised.

It’s important to note that the broad spectrum product included a small amount of CBG and a mix of terpenes - natural compounds thought to play a role in how the body responds to plant-based products.

Why Might Broad Spectrum Feel More Effective for Stress and Anxiety?

While the study didn’t investigate the exact mechanisms at play, the results support what many in the wellness space have suspected for some time: CBD may work best when paired with other plant compounds.

This is where the entourage effect comes in. The idea is that while CBD has its own properties, its effects might be amplified when combined with other non-psychoactive elements like terpenes and minor cannabinoids. Think of it like a band - CBD might be the lead singer, but the other compounds act like backing musicians, giving the performance more depth.

Of course, this doesn’t mean isolate CBD isn’t useful. In fact, some people prefer to use CBD isolate products for their simplicity, especially if they’re sensitive to smells or tastes, or if they’re looking for the purest option possible.

Choosing the Right CBD Product for Stress

So, what does this mean for you?

If you’re considering CBD as a natural support for stress, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Broad spectrum might offer more noticeable results

This study suggests that users felt more benefit from broad spectrum products - possibly due to the presence of additional plant compounds. If you’ve tried isolate CBD and felt underwhelmed, switching to broad spectrum could be worth exploring.

2. Taste and texture matter

While broad spectrum was seen as more effective, isolate products were more popular in terms of taste. If flavour is a deal-breaker for you, starting with an isolate might make the experience more pleasant.

3. Start low and go slow

Participants in the study generally took 15–70 mg per day. It’s always best to begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works for your body.

4. Look for quality and transparency

Not all CBD is created equal. Choose a product that’s third-party lab tested, clearly labelled, and made by a brand that values transparency. THC-free options like those in the study can be a good place to start if you want the benefits of CBD without the high. It doesn't have to be oil! CBD also comes in the form of capsules, gummies, vapes - and even skincare products!

A Word on Expectations of the Benefits of CBD

It’s worth remembering that CBD is not a cure-all, and it doesn’t work overnight for everyone. But for many people, it could be a helpful piece of the puzzle in managing everyday stress. Whether it’s winding down before bed, staying focused at work, or getting through a busy day with a little more calm, the right CBD product may offer gentle support.

This study adds weight to what many users already report anecdotally: broad spectrum CBD may feel more effective than isolate, especially when it comes to managing stress. And while more clinical research is needed, the results are promising.

CBD for Stress: Listening to Your Body

In the end, the best CBD product is the one that works for you. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, and what feels calming for one person might not have the same effect on another.

If you’re curious about CBD for stress relief, consider experimenting with both isolate and broad spectrum oils - while paying attention to how your body responds. And if you’re ever unsure, speak to a health professional, especially if you’re taking medications or have underlying conditions.

CBD might not take away life’s pressures, but for many people, it helps take the edge off - and that, in itself, can be a big step toward balance and wellbeing.

Curious to learn more? Reach out with any questions - our team is here to help!

Sources

[1] Faraj M, Dautrich T, Lundahl L, Marusak H. Effects of Two Cannabidiol Oil Products on Self-Reported Stress Relief: A Quasi-Experimental Study. Med Cannabis Cannabinoids. 2023 Nov 6;6(1):138-147.