What is CBD isolate and what is it used for?
The popularity of products containing cannabidiol (CBD) is on the rise, and with it has come an interesting option for those who want to reap the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD without the slightest trace of THC.It may not garner as much attention as CBD itself, CBD-containing edibles or other CBD products, but CBD isolate is actually one of the most interesting and versatile forms of CBD on the market.
While it is true that CBD derived from hemp does not have the psychoactive effects of THC, this does not mean that it is completely THC-free. Under current laws, hemp plants and products can legally contain up to 0.3% THC (up to 1% in the Czech Republic from the beginning of next year).
If someone wants to try CBD oil or another CBD product, they may be alarmed by reports of THC in hemp products. However, However, CBD isolate provides a way to enjoy the benefits of this cannabinoid without the additional unwanted components of the plant.
What is CBD isolate?
CBD isolate is a crystalline solid or powder that contains 99% pure CBD. The traditional extraction process extracts all the active ingredients from the cannabis plant. This is followed by a refining process that strips the material of all other phytocannabinoids, including THC, and all plant matter. What remains is the chemical compound CBD in its purest form.
Depending on the process, the final product is either large CBD crystals or a fine white powder that resembles powdered sugar. Although you may notice a slight residual cherry flavor to the product, neither form of CBD isolate should have a distinct smell or taste. However, don't be fooled by its plain appearance. In fact, there are a number of reasons to pay attention to CBD isolate.
Benefits of using CBD isolate
It may not look as appealing as a well-packaged CBD oil, ointment or CBD candy, but when it comes to consumption, crystalline CBD is surprisingly versatile. Plus, using this pure powder has a number of advantages over other common forms of CBD.
Zero THC content
For starters, real CBD isolates are made up of nothing but pure CBD, so you don't have to worry about THC getting into your system and subsequently showing up in a possible drug test. Although highly unlikely, the trace amounts of THC found in CBD hemp oil could theoretically trigger a positive drug test.
Variety of consumption methods
As we discuss in detail below in "How to use CBD isolates", another clear advantage is the many inventive ways CBD isolate can be prepared for use. This crystalline powder product works well in a variety of consumption methods, whether it is administered sublingually or mixed with food and beverages.
Easy dosing
The dosing of CBD isolate is quite simple as there is no need to take anything other than pure CBD into account. With other CBD-based products, such as broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD oil, the cannabinoid is mixed with other cannabinoids, making it sometimes more difficult to determine the exact amount of CBD consumed.
Endocannabinoid receptor
Measuring doses of CBD isolate is incredibly easy, as there is nothing else to consider apart from pure CBD crystals.
Arguments against CBD isolate
While consuming CBD isolate may sound like a great option, keep in mind that isolating CBD from the other compounds found in cannabis also has one major drawback. Research has shown that the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes creates what is known as the entourage effect, a synergistic interaction that enhances the individual effects of the compounds involved. Removing all other cannabinoids prevents you from reaping the potential benefits of the entourage effect.
How CBD isolate is produced
Various processes are used to produce CBD isolate from extracts of industrial hemp, such as supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction or ethanol-based extraction. The production of the isolate removes a number of components from the plant, including other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, as well as fats, lipids and other compounds. The CBD compound is then separated from the rest of the material by a series of chemical purification and separation processes.
After removing all impurities and solvents, 99% pure crystalline CBD remains.
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How to take CBD isolates
While you probably won't know what to do with a bunch of odorless CBD isolate powder at first, there are a number of different ways to use it. Below are a few of the most common methods of administration:
Sublingual administration
Apply the CBD powder directly under your tongue and hold it there for about 60 seconds. With this method, the CBD is absorbed through the mucous membranes and goes directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and giving you faster and more effective relief.
External administration
For external use, mix CBD isolate with a moisturizing oil or lotion and apply it to the area of skin you want to treat. You can also buy external application products that already contain CBD isolate.
Inhalation
CBD isolate can be mixed with terpenes to create a homemade CBD concentrate that can be vaped or dabbed.
Oral
The crystalline CBD can be measured and put into capsules or tablets, allowing you to take an exact dose. CBD isolate can also be mixed with various ingredients to create CBD-infused foods and beverages. However, because CBD is poorly absorbed in the digestive tract, it has low oral bioavailability. To increase bioavailability, CBD isolate can be added to carrier oils such as MCT oil to increase its chances of passing through the digestive tract and into the bloodstream.
Buying CBD isolate
When purchasing CBD isolate, it is important to look for products from reputable companies whose products are laboratory tested by an independent third party. This should ensure that the isolate does not contain any THC, other plant materials, or other impurities.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the difference between CBD and CBD isolate?
CBD is cannabidiol, a phytocannabinoid found in cannabis plants. CBD isolate is CBD that has been isolated from all other plant materials using a process of extraction and refinement. CBD isolate is available in crystal or powder form.
Which is better, CBD isolate or full spectrum CBD?
It depends on who you ask and why the interviewee uses CBD. An isolate is best for avoiding any possible traces of THC, while a full-spectrum product can also benefit from other cannabinoids and terpenes through the entourage effect.
Can you test positive after taking CBD isolate?
If someone is testing directly for CBD isolate, yes. However, conventional drug tests are focused on THC and its metabolites. And part of the nature of CBD isolate is that it contains no THC, unlike full-spectrum CBD products, which can currently contain up to 0.3% THC by law (as mentioned, starting in early 2022, it will be 1% THC in the country). In general, concerns about CBD oil use and subsequent drug testing are unfounded, but with CBD isolate this is even less of an issue.
What is the best way to take CBD isolate?
The decision is up to you. The section above on how to take CBD isolate includes several options, including oral use and external administration.
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