Whenever you learn about a new product or trend, there seems to be a lot of terminology surrounding it. The cannabidiol (CBD) boom is no exception. This can often be confusing and even frustrating. So, to help save you from that frustration and confusion, we are going to go over the definition of a CBD term, so that you can buy your CBD more confidently. We are going to talk about CBD isolate.
A definition of CBD
Before we can define CBD isolate, we need to define CBD. After all, how else could you know what it is an isolate of?
In the cannabis plants, like hemp and marijuana, there is a group of chemical compounds that are called cannabinoids. There are some different cannabinoids out there, with over 113 that researchers have identified so far, with more maybe to come in the future. CBD is one of these cannabinoids, but it is not the most famous. The most well-known cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC’s claim to fame is a result of its effect on people. It is psychoactive. That means that it creates the inebriation or “high” that is so commonly associated with cannabis. Because of their relation to each other, many assume that CBD is psychoactive in the same way that THC is. However, CBD is not psychoactive at all. It doesn’t create any sort of high or inebriation.
Despite its lack of psychoactive effects, some are still concerned about CBD’s legal status. This is understandable, as it is a component of cannabis, but it does not actually need to be a concern. In 2018, the newest version of the Farm Bill was passed. This bill concerns all things to do with farming in the country. It, among other things, states what farmers can and cannot grow. That year’s version officially legalized the hemp variation of the cannabis plant. This made it so hemp could be grown and sold in most states (there are a handful that still list hemp as an illegal substance). Most CBD manufacturers use hemp rather than marijuana to make their products. This reason for this is that hemp has high levels of CBD, where marijuana’s levels are inconsistent. So, the legalization of hemp officially legalized most CBD products as well (as long as they come from hemp and have less than 0.3% THC).
In recent years, the research on CBD and its potential effects has increased in number by a lot. As a result, we now have a way better idea of what CBD may be able to help with. For example, it may help people manage their anxiety. It may also help support joint health and keep down inflammation. Other studies have shown CBD to be a potential aid in fighting acne. These are just a few examples of the many reasons why people have started taking CBD on a daily basis. As more studies come to light and more time passes, it is more than likely that we will learn even more about what the cannabinoid has to offer and what other benefits it may hold for us.
Different kinds of CBD extract
So, now we are getting down to the big question of this article, what is CBD isolate? One thing to know about CBD is that not all extracts are the same. In fact, there are three main kinds of extract out there right now. They are CBD full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate.
Full spectrum
The differences between these three extracts is based on what other cannabinoids and compounds are found in the extract with the CBD. As a result, full spectrum is the most basic form of CBD extract. It has all of the compounds and cannabinoids that come out of the hemp plant with the CBD. This does include the THC, but since it is less than 0.3%, it is very unlikely to cause any sort of high.
Broad spectrum
This form of CBD extract is pretty similar to full spectrum. But it has one very stark difference. It has no THC. It has every other cannabinoid and compound that the full spectrum has, but absolutely no THC. The appeal of this is similar to the appeal of full spectrum. When compounds work together and build on each other it tends to create a stronger effect known as the “entourage effect.” Both full and broad spectrums offer this, but broad spectrum offers it without any THC, which may be a bonus for many.
CBD isolate
So, now onto the main focus, CBD isolate. This is CBD extract that has nothing in it, but CBD. There are no other cannabinoids or compounds to be found in it. As a result, products made with CBD isolate may not be as strong as others, but the effect is also likely to be much clearer, without the presence of other cannabinoids.
How much CBD to take
This is a question that gets asked often. Unfortunately, it is not one with a set answer. There are ways to figure out the right amount of CBD for you, but they do take time.
Before we can go over those methods, we need to discuss what to expect if you take too much CBD. Overall, CBD is considered to be safe, with no recorded deaths connected to it. However, there are some negative side effects if you take too much of it. Some of these side effects are nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. While these are nothing serious, you are still going to want to avoid them as they are not fun.
So, how do you avoid these side effects and find your dosage of CBD? You do it very carefully. Start with a small amount and then wait to see how it makes you feel. Bear in mind that some products take longer to start working than others. It is also good to remember that some extracts (like full spectrum) are stronger than others (like CBD isolate). If you are not feeling any adverse effects, but are not experiencing your desired effect either, then you can try taking a little more. Keep adding on slowly and carefully until you reach your desired effect.
It should also be noted that not all medications work well with CBD. Some stop working entirely when taken with the cannabinoid. So, be sure to talk to your doctor before you start using CBD, especially if you are taking any medications.