In recent years, the mainstream acceptance of cannabis products, and CBD in particular, has caused an explosion in the potential uses and forms that CBD therapeutics can have. There is a solid option for those seeking some of the medicinal and therapeutic benefits of cannabis, without using any THC. Those that want to completely eliminate the THC from extractions are looking for what is known as an isolate.
They aren’t as popular as the facial creams, the gummies, or the bath bombs, but CBD isolate is not only one of the most versatile forms of CBD that is commercially available, but it is one of the most distinct.
CBD lacks all of the psychoactive properties of cannabinoids like THC. Despite CBD being non-psychoactive, there is often a trace amount of THC in many CBD products and extractions. This is due to the farm bill that permitted industrial hemp to be grown, limited the maximum THC content to 0.3%. While this makes CBD extracts non-psychoactive, this means that some people might be less apt to try the product since there is THC in it, in some measurable way.
This is where CBD isolate can be the saving grace for folks that have symptoms or conditions that can be managed with CBD, but don’t want any trace of THC to potentially give adverse or undesired effects. They let users experience cannabis-based health products, without the possibility of interacting with any psychoactive compound.
What Is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is a dry product, usually a crystalline or powdered product, that consists of nearly pure CBD, generally above 99%. The extraction process is designed to remove all parts of the cannabis plant, from plant materials to essential oils, and other cannabinoids. Stripping out all other components leaves only the concentrated CBD molecule in its purest, non-synthesized form.
The process used in the extraction and isolation is often the determining factor in the appearance of the end result CBD isolate. There is often reported to be a dull cherry-like flavor, but no matter what type of CBD isolate you get there should be no distinct taste or smell. Even though it sounds pretty boring, there are a number of reasons CBD isolate is better than gummies and even CBD lattes!
How Is Isolate Different From Other CBD Extractions?
Other CBD preparations, such as broad-spectrum and full-spectrum oils and tinctures, still contain a number of organic compounds from the original cannabis plant. CBD isolate has had all of the psychoactive compounds removed, as well as all of the flavonoids, terpenes, and synergistic cannabinoids.
How Is CBD Isolate Made?
There are a number of processes used to make CBD isolates in both small and large batches, some of these methods include supercritical CO2 extraction, oil extractions, and solvent extractions. Similar methods are used when making THC isolates, such as “diamonds”, although far different strains of cannabis are used for one and the other.
First, the plant material is washed with the CO2 or solvents, they separate the cannabinoids from the plant patter, which then is evaporated before the cannabinoids, including the prized CBD, can be refined further. These cannabinoids are often separated with a process called preparative chromatography. This involved chemical solvents again, which must be distilled and removed before the CBD can be consumed.
Benefits Of CBD Isolate
People might seem hesitant to try isolate because of the more marketing-friendly gummies, oils, and topicals, but it is incredibly versatile when being consumed.
Variety Of Consumption Methods
There are a number of ways to consume it. This is different from other preparations. Gummies are simple, you just eat them. Oils are a little more versatile. But you get the picture. The simple powder can be mixed in with just about anything.
Consumption Is Easier
This versatility means you can dose easier. No worrying about the calories or carbs of edibles. Just a small bit in your food, vape, under your tongue, or anywhere else, and you’re good.
Pure CBD
There is zero THC. None. Zilch. There is no more pure form of CBD that you can get, this is nothing but CBD.
Are There Drawbacks To CBD Isolate?
One of the frequently cited drawbacks to using a CBD isolate is that the user misses out on the potential benefits of the “entourage effect”, even when THC is completely removed. While this is true, it’s a factor that will have to be weighed in relation to the potential benefits of using the CBD isolate.
How Can I Take My CBD Isolate?
So you’ve gotten some high-quality CBD isolate, and you’re wondering what to do now. Grab your little slick of isolate, and pick one of the following ways to get your dose.
Ingestion
Measured out ahead of time and put into capsules or pills gives a super convenient way to dose no matter the situation or amount needed.
Inhalation
Mix with your favorite terpene blend to have homemade CBD concentrates that can be vaped or dabbed in either a pen or a traditional dab rig.
Sublingually
This is just using the powder in the same manner that you would a tincture. A small bit of powder directly underneath your tongue and then held for about a minute will help it absorb quickly.
Oils & Topicals
The least effective ways, but often the most customizable, oils and topicals need another carrier oil and tend to be more mess than that many people want to deal with.
Where To Get CBD Isolate
There are so many products on the market that it can be difficult to find a decent brand. You want to look for lab-tested products and respected brands with a history of satisfying their customers. If you are new to the CBD world, ask some friends, and perhaps use a great resource like BCBX to find the information you need to make an educated CBD isolate choice from the local dispensary or cannabis delivery services.