You’ve probably come across terms like CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD when shopping for CBD products. An isolate is a perfect option for people who love to enjoy CBD but want to avoid THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is also one of the compounds present in hemp.
Full-spectrum CBD products contain a trace amount of THC, whereas isolates don’t. Read on to find out if isolate products are a good choice. We’ll answer the most common questions in this guide and tell you everything you need to know about this form of CBD.
What is CBD Isolate?
You’ve heard about isolate products, but what is CBD isolate? CBD isolates refer to a crystalline or powdered form of pure CBD. It’s different from full-spectrum products, which can contain up to 0.3 percent THC. At this amount, THC is non-intoxicating.
CBD isolates do not have any distinctive smell or taste. After extraction, manufacturers grind the crystalline CBD into powder for easy consumption.
How is CBD Isolate Made?
So, how do you make CBD isolate? The manufacturer uses different techniques to extract CBD from the plant. Some common extraction methods include:
CO2 Extraction
Carbon dioxide extraction is the safest and most efficient way of pulling CBD from the hemp plant. It leaves clean extracts that contain no harmful residual solvents. CO2 extraction is the industry’s preferred method.
Ethanol Extraction
This method involves using alcohol to extract CBD and other cannabinoids from hemp. The manufacturer suspends the plant material in the solvent to release CBD, cannabinoids, and other compounds.
Winterization
The manufacturer separates CBD from other compounds after extracting cannabinoids using ethanol or CO2 extraction. This process of separation is called winterization. From here, they use the resulting CBD isolate powder to create beneficial oils, edibles, and topicals or keep it in its raw form.
Benefits of CBD Isolate
CBD works by interacting with cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS regulates different bodily processes to maintain balance in the body’s internal environment. Cannabinoid receptors of the ECS exist because the body also produces its cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids.
The ECS regulates several functions, such as mood, pain perception, appetite, reproduction, memory, and sleep. Scientists believe that although CBD doesn’t bind to cannabinoid receptors directly, it somehow influences the system. Due to the interaction between CBD and the ECS, it’s used in different conditions, such as:
- Anxiety
- Pain Relief
- Epilepsy
- Cancer Treatment
In 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug. It helps treat seizures associated with two rare forms of epilepsy. Asides from Epidiolex, there are no other FDA-approved products for treating ailments.
How to Use CBD Isolate
Wondering how to use CBD isolate? You can use isolates in different ways, from oils to topical. Generally, you should read the supplier’s instructions on how to use the product. Below is a quick breakdown of different types of products:
CBD Isolate Oil
CBD isolate oils and tinctures are versatile CBD products. You can place a few drops of the oil under your tongue, hold for a few seconds, and swallow. Asides from sublingual ingestion, you can also put a couple of drops in your food or drink.
CBD Edibles
Edibles such as CBD isolate gummies are a fun way to take CBD. They come already pre-dosed, so you don’t have to worry about measuring the dose. All you need to do is pop them into your mouth and swallow.
CBD Isolate Capsules
Pills and capsules have pre-determined doses and are easy to use. Just take with water as directed, and you’re good to go.
CBD Topicals
You use a CBD topical by applying directly to the affected area. Keep in mind that you can’t ingest these products.
CBD Vaporizers
Vaporizing CBD is one of the ways to get quick relief. You use it by inhaling the vaporized CBD. It’s best to start with small puffs. Also, avoid vaporizers if you have respiratory health issues. Although it’s healthier than smoking, its health implications are unclear.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
CBD isolate is particularly low risk since it doesn’t have any THC. Although CBD is a generally safe substance, side effects can also occur. Some of the possible side effects include the following:
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite
- Diarrhea
- Weight changes
- Irritability
In addition, CBD can interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications you’re taking. You want to speak with your doctor first before adding CBD to your daily wellness routine.
How to Choose the Best CBD Isolate
Choosing the best CBD isolate for your need and preference can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips that can help you select the right product:
Independent Lab Testing
Third-party lab result is a must when choosing CBD products. It’s a red flag when a company doesn’t conduct these tests or provide customers with the results. Also, ensure the lab report or certificate of analysis (COA) is recent and not more than a year old.
This independent testing checks if there are any contaminants in the product. It also helps confirm that it contains what the brand says it should. For instance, a CBD isolate should have zero THC. Also, if a company says it has 1000mg CBD, the COA should confirm it.
Brand Reputation
Buy CBD isolates from transparent brands. The company should have a recent COA from a trusted third-party lab. Also, they should be open about their processes, where they source their hemp and the type they use. Opting for brands that use organic, US-grown hemp plants is an excellent idea. The US has strict agricultural regulations. Lastly, don’t forget to read customer reviews to see what users think about the product you want to buy.
Type of Product
There’s a wide range of products to choose from, including CBD isolate tinctures, gummies, capsules, lotions, and more. If you like to experience the full-body effects of CBD, choose products like tinctures and gummies. However, if you want to target a specific area, topical products like a cream, or salve, might be more suitable.
FAQs
1. CBD isolate vs full-spectrum CBD: Which is Better?
The short answer is it depends. The difference between full-spectrum and CBD isolate is their cannabinoid profile. A person who wants to avoid any trace of THC is better off with isolate. On the other hand, if you want additional benefits from other cannabinoids, full-spectrum is a better option.
2. Can you test positive for CBD Isolate?
If the test is checking for CBD isolate, yes. But, drug tests look for THC and its metabolites. A CBD isolate product will not cause you to fail a drug test. There is no THC in this type of CBD, so you don’t have to bother about THC showing up on drug tests. Also, you should check the third-party lab report of any product you want to buy and ensure it’s certified THC-free.
3. How to measure and dose CBD isolate?
You can get a CBD isolate powder and mix it with carrier oils, liquids, or other products. Use a scale to measure the amount you need if it’s powdered. The amount you weigh out depends on the product’s concentration. A general rule when dosing CBD products is to start low and slowly work your way up to higher dosages.
4. Where to buy CBD isolate
Where to buy CBD isolate is not a problem. Many companies have CBD isolates for sale. You can buy from either a physical or online store. Some physical stores you can check out include pharmacies, dispensaries, and organic health shops.
When buying CBD online, it’s best to get it directly from the company’s website. Avoid online marketplaces like Amazon. Amazon prohibits the sales of CBD, so whatever product you find there may not be trustworthy.
5. How long does CBD isolate last?
Generally, the more CBD you consume, the longer it stays in your system. Another factor is how often you take the product. Your lifestyle and consumption method also affect how long the effects last.
6. Can you use too much CBD isolate?
It’s technically possible to use too much CBD isolate. However, that is less likely to happen. A high dose of CBD is in the 50,000 mg range. And that’s about 33 spoons of pure CBD. There’s no way you can take that amount of CBD – unless you set out to do that, which you shouldn’t.
7. Is CBD isolate right for you?
CBD isolate is a good option if you’re looking to avoid THC. It provides a way to enjoy the benefits of CBD without worrying about THC. Also, isolates are versatile and easy to use. You can take it alone or integrate it into your recipes, other CBD products, and skincare products.
8. Do CBD isolate products make you high?
The short answer is nope. CBD isolates do not contain THC, so you don’t have to worry about getting high. THC is an intoxicating compound.
Even full-spectrum CBD products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC are not intoxicating. The amount of THC is so little to make you high.
Closing Thoughts
A CBD isolate product contains pure CBD and no other cannabinoid or THC. It’s a perfect option for people who are just beginning to use cannabinoids and those who want to avoid THC.
Although CBD is generally safe, keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t regulate these products. Also, there’s a need for more research into the effects and safety of CBD.
When buying a CBD product, look for reputable brands and products with quality ingredients. You should also avoid any manufacturer that doesn’t conduct third-party lab tests or provide its result on their website.
Remember to talk with a health care professional before you use CBD. This advice is vital for anyone who is taking medications or other supplements.
