Cannabis plant with a glowing CBD isolate crystal and green smoke, against a purple sunset sky with molecular structures.

CBD ISOLATE PROS AND CONS 

The cannabis industry is rapidly growing, with new and various cannabinoids being introduced daily. Despite this, Cannabidiol (CBD) maintains its prestigious reputation as one of the industry's most popular and beneficial cannabinoids. The demand for CBD by users is bound to increase as scientists unveil more about its potential uses.

CBD isolate is a popular type of CBD that's highly sought after in the market. It contains 99.9% CBD and is entirely free from other cannabinoids and chemical compounds such as terpenoids and flavonoids. CBD isolate doesn't cause users to get high as it doesn't contain the famous THC(Tetrahydrocannabinol) that's responsible for creating the feeling of highness. This makes it the perfect option for people who only wish to enjoy the health benefits of CBD without getting high.

There are other types of Cannabidiol apart from CBD Isolate; the other common ones are full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD. Full-spectrum CBD contains every form of phytochemicals naturally present in the cannabis plant, with a THC content of less than 0.3%. While broad-spectrum CBD is between CBD isolate and Full spectrum CBD, it contains CBD and many other cannabinoids except for THC.

Full and broad-spectrum CBD are known to give the users an entourage effect. This article will discuss what CBD Isolate is, how it's being made, the pros and cons of CBD, and its effects and usage.

Pure white CBD isolate powder on a glass surface with a hemp leaf, under soft natural light from a window.

WHAT IS CBD ISOLATE

CBD isolate is  pure and it contains 99.9% of CBD. Unlike full-spectrum CBD, it doesn't contain THC and other chemical compounds such as terpenes, cannabinol, etc. CBD isolate is produced in crystalline form, but it's grounded into a powder for easy consumption. It doesn't give a weird taste or smells like other types of CBD.

THE FORMATION PROCESS OF CBD ISOLATE

Cannabis flower bud on a wooden table with lab equipment, under warm laboratory lighting.

Various extraction processes can be used in extracting CBD Isolate; the two commonly used ones by manufacturers are CO2 and ethanol extraction because they are simple to implement. Regardless of the chosen process, producing a pure CBD isolate requires the manufacturer to be skilled and work in a laboratory containing the necessary equipment. Here's a detailed guide on how CBD isolate is manufactured

CO2 extraction

This is an extraction process preferred by most manufacturers because it produces a pure CBD with the least residual chemical residue, especially when done correctly. It involves using CO2 at a high pressure to remove the cannabinoids and terpenes from a raw hemp plant.

The CO2 is applied through a machine to a raw hemp flower placed on its path; this forms a liquid infused with several cannabinoids, which is then collected from the machine; the excess liquid is evaporated, leaving behind a pure cannabinoid extract. However, it's not yet a pure CBD isolate as it contains other cannabinoids. Thus we can refer to the liquid as full spectrum.

Ethanol extraction

This is another form of extraction involving the use of pure alcohol to separate CBD and other cannabinoids from the hemp flower. The plant material is immersed into the ethanol solvent, where it gives out the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other chemical compounds present in it. The plant material is further squeezed to leave a liquid infused with several cannabinoids.

The excess alcohol is then removed by evaporation. At this stage, it's still full spectrum and has not become CBD isolate yet.

Winterization

The next step after extracting CBD with other cannabinoids using CO2 or ethanol extraction is to separate CBD Isolate. This process is essential in the formation of CBD isolate. The cannabinoid infused oil obtained from the extraction is suspended in a solvent. Then the solvent is left to freeze and is kept in that state until CBD is completely separated from other cannabinoids.

The crystalline form of CBD can then be grounded into powder and taken through various forms of consumption which will be discussed later in this article.

[caption id="attachment_14895" align="aligncenter" width="341"] Cannabis Flowers[/caption]

THE PROS AND CONS OF CBD ISOLATE

The pros of CBD Isolate include the following:

  • It's pure and contains only CBD
  • It doesn't cause users to fail a drug test.
  • It's suitable for consumption, especially by people who experience adverse reactions when taking other cannabinoids.
  • It has no unusual taste, unlike full and broad-spectrum CBD.
  • It's safe to use by any CBD user.
  • It doesn't make the user high.

The cons of CBD Isolate include the following:

  • It doesn't offer the entourage effect.
  • It might not be the best treatment for some conditions due to the lack of other cannabinoids that enhance it's effect.

What is CBD Isolate most suitable for?

  • Individuals who don't want to fail a drug test
  • Users who wish to take a high dosage of CBD.
  • New CBD users who are not accustomed to the effects of other cannabinoids
  • CBD users who dislike the unusual taste and smell associated with full and broad-spectrum CBD.
  • CBD users who live in states with stringent THC laws.

EFFECTS OF CBD ISOLATE

The human body naturally produces its cannabinoids; thus, there are cannabinoid receptors present in the body. CBD operates by acting on these cannabinoid receptors, which brings some changes to various bodily functions. When CBD Isolate is consumed, the CBD interacts with the CB1 receptor and CB2 receptor. Here are some potential effects this reaction could lead to in the body:

  • Control and Prevent Seizures
  • Causes Fatigue and Insomnia
  • Reduces pain
  • Works against Inflammation
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Prevents the growth of tumors.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CBD ISOLATE

Even though CBD is well known to be a safe cannabinoid, its effects are well tolerated by most people. However, it can cause specific adverse reactions in some people. Examples of these are:

  • Change in appetite
  • Loss of sleep
  • Increase and decrease in body weight.
  • Diarrhoea
  • A feeling of fatigue.
  • Dry mouth or cotton mouth
  • When in excess, it causes liver toxicity.

CBD also has the potential to interact with medication and dietary supplements. Therefore, consult your doctor if you're on medications before taking CBD. Also, you should avoid taking CBD with drugs that have grapefruit warnings.

[caption id="attachment_14894" align="aligncenter" width="512"] Cannabis Flower[/caption]

THE BENEFITS OF CBD

CBD is famous for its medicinal benefits, and it's being used in the following areas:

CBD helps relieve anxiety, stress, and depression

CBD has a desirable impact on our mind; it influences how the brain reacts to the happiness hormone, Serotonin. Numerous studies reveal that CBD is efficient in alleviating depression, anxiety, and stress and even works well in treating PTSD in certain people. When consumed, it gives the user a feeling of calmness and happiness.

CBD is a pain reliever

Cannabidol helps treat several pain conditions. The research carried out so far has proven that CBD relieves pain when taken orally and also relieves joint pains when used as topicals. CBD is a potent pain reliever, which means that CBD isolate would also make for a great pain reliever.

However, a study has found that CBD is at its' peak in relieving pains when used with other cannabinoids that enhance its analgesic effects, such as CBN and THC. This doesn't mean that CBD isolates a weak pain reliever, only that full and broad spectrum is more effective in relieving pain.

It's suitable for use against Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory effect of CBD is not to be tossed aside. When CBD is taken as a topical or ingested orally, it helps to relieve inflammation and pain. CBD could help treat arthritis, psoriasis, acne, and so on. Its anti-inflammatory effects make it more desirable to users.

CBD is a potential cancer treatment, and its side effects

Much research is still needed in this area. However, a previously carried out animal study reveals that CBD might potentially hinder the growth of cancer cells. Not only that, CBD helps to reduce some side effects associated with cancer, such as vomiting and nausea. Patients often use it to relieve the mentioned side effects, which has consistently yielded good results.

The National cancer institute also believes that CBD might be a potential solution to cancer and some of its side effects. However, the institute refused to accept it as a cure, the same way it didn't support any other form of cannabis for treatment due to limited research.

CBD Neuroprotective ability

CBD exhibits antiseizure effects. This is because of how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body and some cannabinoid receptors that trigger specific reactions in the brain. The neuroprotective ability of CBD is being studied and utilized in treating epilepsy and multiple sclerosis patients.

The American epilepsy society also indicates that the research on the neuroprotective ability of CBD might provide hope for those suffering from epilepsy. However, CBD is not yet seen as a treatment for epilepsy symptoms as research is still in the early stages. People that have epilepsy should consult their doctor for treatment options.

VARIOUS FORMS OF CONSUMING CBD ISOLATE

Countertop with CBD oils, hemp seeds, and a vape pen, with a cannabis leaf, under warm morning sunlight.

There is a wide range of options available for you to choose from when you want to consume CBD, and these options are briefly explained below:

CBD Isolate oil

The right way to consume CBD oil is to use a dropper to apply drops of it under your tongue and keep it there for about a minute before swallowing. It's an efficient method that allows you control over your dosage as you are free to determine the number of drops you want. You can also apply CBD oil to your food and drinks.

CBD capsule

CBD capsule is an effective method of consumption for people who want to measure the dosage level of CBD they take. It comes in pre-measured doses and is more accurate than CBD oil. Though its effects last longer in the body, it usually takes a great while, like 30 mins, before its effects are noticed.

CBD edibles

CBD edibles are present in various forms. They are mostly food and candy products that contain CBD Isolate. Examples are gummies, lollipops, cookies, and so on. CBD edibles are perfect for you if you want to consume CBD isolate orally but dislike the taste of CBD oil.

CBD Topicals

From creams to lotions to roll-ons, CBD topical is available in different forms. It helps relieve pain and inflammation associated with the skin. It significantly treats skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, or eczema. Its ability to cure inflammation and skin diseases is more potent when taken with an orally consumed CBD isolate.

CBD vaporizers

A vape pen loaded with CBD offers a high bioavailability rate, and it's easy to consume. The inhaled CBD goes straight to the lungs and quickly moves to the bloodstream. Thus, its effects are easily felt. Even though vaping CBD is healthy, it's not advisable to take it if you suffer from respiratory diseases like asthma.

Kitchen with CBD-infused tea, gummies, and topical cream, glowing softly under natural light.

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST USE OF DIFFERENT FORMS OF CBD DELIVERY

The various methods available for consuming CBD allow you to be more creative and innovative in your consumption. For example, you can mix CBD oil with your morning tea, afternoon sandwich, and evening food. If you dislike taking CBD capsules because of it's resemblance to clinical drugs, you can choose other exciting methods of consumption, such as lollipops, gummies, or cookies.

There are endless ways of making the best use of the different methods of consuming CBD. You can also create your topicals by using CBD oil. You can do this by adding the desired amount of CBD oil to the everyday moisturizing lotion, balms, creams, and so on.

DOES CBD ISOLATE OFFER MORE ADVANTAGE THAN BROAD AND FULL-SPECTRUM CBD?

From the results we have witnessed so far, it's safe to say that the full and broad spectrum CBD offers more benefits when treating many health conditions than CBD Isolate. This is because the combination of various cannabinoids works more effectively than one. However, this does not mean that CBD isolate is weak in treating health conditions, as it's widely used in that aspect. CBD Isolate also has many health potentials that are yet to be fully discovered.

CONCLUSION

CBD isolate is a pure form of CBD, offering a wide range of health benefits to users, such as pain relief and better seizure control. CBD isolate produces desirable effects on the body, such as strengthening the immune system and preventing the growth of tumors. It can also cause some undesirable side effects, especially when taken in high quantities. Example of such is fatigue and dry mouth.

CBD Isolate is the best for users who has specific adverse reactions to other cannabinoids or new users who are not accustomed to the effects of other cannabinoids. Different consumption methods, such as edibles and capsules, allow users to choose from a wide range of options. If you're looking to enjoy the full benefits of CBD solely without getting high, then CBD Isolate is your best choice.

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