CBD Isolate is often marketed as the purest form of CBD, with up to 99% cannabidiol content. But is "pure" always better? The answer isn't as straightforward as it seems. While the high purity of CBD Isolate might seem appealing, there are some important things to consider, especially how it's made.
What is CBD Isolate?
CBD Isolate is a crystalline form of CBD, often found as a white powder or crystal. It's created by isolating cannabidiol from all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds. This results in a product that is truly isolated, containing no THC, terpenes, or other cannabinoids.
It is essentially like what processed sugar cubes are compared to sugar inside of a fresh fruit. It is completely isolated and super processed in order to make it.
The Chemical Extraction Process for CBD Isolate
The production of CBD Isolate typically involves a chemical extraction process.
Step 1: Crude Oil Extraction from Biomass
The initial extraction of CBD from the hemp plant can be done using various methods, such as carbon dioxide extraction, ethanol extraction, or hydrocarbon extraction. It includes these steps.
Step 2: Winterization & Filtration
This process involves dissolving the extracted oil in ethanol and freezing it to remove unwanted compounds like fats, waxes, and lipids.
Step 3: Solvent Recovery
This is to recover the ethanol to be used again for later uses.
Step 4: Decarboxylation
This is to heat up the CBDA to turn it into CBD
Step 5: Distillation
The CBD is further refined through distillation, where it is heated and cooled to separate it from other cannabinoids and terpenes. Further degrading the original material.
Step 6: Crystallization
Adding a solvent like pentane to the extract and introducing the solution to heat and stirring. As this process is done, the CBD will solidify and turn into a powder or crystalline structure.
Step 7: Drying & Final Solvent Purge
The crystals are usually filtered out from the ethanol or alcohol. In the sweep gas purge, an inert gas (like nitrogen) is passed over the isolate while it's under vacuum.
I mean how many steps and chemicals do we need here to create CBD?
While these processes are effective at isolating CBD, they often involve the use of harsh chemicals and solvents, which can raise concerns about the purity and safety of the final product.
Why CBD Isolate Might Be Less Desirable
- Loss of the Entourage Effect: One of the main benefits of Whole Flower CBD ( Full Spectrum CBD) is the "entourage effect," where multiple cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance therapeutic benefits. CBD Isolate lacks this effect because it contains only CBD.
- Chemical Residues: The chemical extraction process used to produce CBD Isolate can leave behind solvent residues if not done correctly. While reputable manufacturers take steps to remove these residues, the risk remains, especially with lower-quality products.
- Lack of Natural Compounds: In isolating CBD, many beneficial compounds present in the hemp plant, such as terpenes and minor cannabinoids, are removed. These compounds can contribute to the therapeutic effects of the product, making CBD Isolate less comprehensive in its benefits.
- Higher Processing Requirements: The extensive processing required to create CBD Isolate can impact the overall quality and naturalness of the product. Some consumers prefer products that are closer to their natural state, with minimal processing.
Choosing the Right CBD Product
If you're considering using CBD, it's essential to understand the differences between Isolate, Broad Spectrum, and Full Spectrum products which are essentially just buzz words.
While CBD Isolate might appeal to those looking for a THC-free option or those who need high doses of CBD, it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks related to the extraction process and the lack of other beneficial compounds. It is essentially like eating processed sugar packets instead of fresh fruit.
Look for CBD products made with quality trichomes
Trichomes are tiny glandular structures that are found on the surface of the CBD Flower. The trichomes are responsible for the CBD primary production. Storing the cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids. They are essentially the most crucial component of the plant for CBD production.
Trichomes are the most important factor when it comes to a quality CBD product. They directly influence the potency, consistency, and overall effectiveness of the CBD. Better trichomes mean a more effective product.
CBD products made from Strain Specific, Trimmed CBD Flower that is naturally infused is how you can know you are getting the best quality product. That is why we only do Whole Flower CBD Oil, so you are getting the best quality trichomes. Check it out here.
Why choose Vermont Whole Flower?
At Vermont Whole Flower, we prioritize natural infusion methods that preserve the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp flower. We believe in offering products that provide comprehensive wellness benefits without the need for harsh chemical processes.
We only have a 2 Step process. We simply heat the flower decarboxylation it and then mix it with our carrier Oil heating at low temperature for hours. This infuses the CBD flower directly into our Coconut MCT Oil.
Way less steps than a CBD isolate, or Whole Plant Product.
At Vermont Whole Flower, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality Whole Flower CBD products that stay true to the natural cannabinoid and terpene profile found in the CBD Flower. Whole Flower, Strain Specific, CBD Oil is Is a new alternative for effective and potent CBD that is a groundbreaking innovation in the CBD industry. It is small-batch, handcrafted, and organically made. We are able to infuse the CBD from the best quality trichomes off the whole flower into our organic coconut MCT oil. We do this with trimmed flower material sourced only from our organic farm.
