What is CBD Isolate?
If you are familiar with the world of legal cannabis, it is likely you have encountered the term CBD isolate. This is cannabidiol (or CBD) in its purest form, immediately after extraction from the Cannabis sativa plant. This piece will explain exactly what CBD isolate is, how it’s made and its associated benefits.
How is CBD isolate made?
CBD is a natural compound most commonly found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Just one of over a hundred similar chemicals, CBD is a non-psychotropic substance, unlike THC, which is the compound associated with getting ‘high’.
The CBD extraction process varies depending on the manufacturer, but ethanol is the purest and most effective form of pharma-grade extraction. That’s why we use it in our own facility. By harnessing an advanced chromatography technique (a process for separating components of a mixture), such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), extractors are able to isolate the CBD compound from the plant. Following this, the compound crystallises and forms a pure CBD powder: CBD isolate.
What is the difference between CBD isolate and CBD oil?
CBD isolate is cannabidiol in its purest form, a powder that is 98-99% CBD. This could be taken as is — ingested alongside food and drinks. Alternatively, it’s combined with a carrier oil (we use hemp seed oil) to form consumable CBD oil. It can also be curated into cream, moisturiser or balm to create a skincare product.
What is the difference between full spectrum, broad spectrum and CBD isolate?
As explained in the above section, CBD is isolated from all the other cannabinoids in the Cannabis sativa plant, leaving a pure powder of CBD.
Conversely, full-spectrum uses a slightly different extraction process which retains much of the plant matter and other cannabinoids. This is done because the variety of compounds together can induce something called the ‘entourage effect’.
However, you should always make sure you buy broad-spectrum CBD oil rather than full-spectrum. This is because full-spectrum contains THC, technically making it illegal to consume in the UK. Broad-spectrum has all the benefits of full-spectrum (including the entourage effect), but it does not contain THC.
What are the benefits of CBD isolate?
The benefits of CBD in general are well documented, including reducing anxiety and improving sleep. With its powerful antioxidant effects, it has cosmetic advantages too. But CBD isolate has its own specific benefits in addition, some of which are listed below.
Guaranteed 0% THC
Although our oils are also 0% THC, an isolate-derived product is a great choice if you want to ensure you get THC-free CBD.
It’s easier to dose
Dosing CBD isolate is easy as there’s nothing to account for apart from the pure crystals. In contrast, other CBD products, including the broad and narrow spectrum oils, have alternative ingredients combined with the cannabinoid. As a result, it’s more difficult to quantify exactly how much CBD is being taken in each dose.
There’s no taste
Many have noted that the taste of CBD oil is unusual or distinct. Indeed, cannabis is quite a herby, earthy tasting plant, so a broad-spectrum CBD oil will taste very strong to a new user. But CBD isolate is flavourless and odourless, meaning it can be applied to foods and drink without you even noticing it.
However, if you are someone who does want a specific taste, we have a selection of flavoured oils to suit your needs.
There are more methods of consumption
Another advantage is the many innovative ways CBD isolates can be consumed. Whether it’s ingested in food and drinks, or taken under the tongue (sublingually) the pure powder is easier and more convenient to consume.