CBD Isolate

What is CBD Isolate? How it Works, Uses and Benefits Explained

Table of Contents

• Summary
• Introduction
• What is CBD Isolate?
• Types of CBD Isolate
• How to Use CBD Isolate
• Safety and Side Effects
• How to Shop for CBD
• Final Thoughts
• FAQs

Summary

Introduction

It’s only natural that you’re curious about all things CBD - it truly has become a popular natural supplement! There are so many options now, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s CBD oils, vapes, edibles, lotions and more. When it comes to choosing the best product for you, there are some facts that you need to familiarise yourself with. So, make sure to keep reading to discover everything that you need to know about CBD isolate.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating chemical compound in a hemp plant called Cannabis sativa. More than 100 known plant-produced cannabinoids are found in the hemp plant, which are extracted and selectively used in CBD products. These cannabinoids are similar to those produced by the body, called endocannabinoids, and are believed to influence our endocannabinoid system (ECS).

As well as cannabinoids, other naturally-occurring compounds in the hemp plant include terpenes, flavonoids and phytocannabinoids. These chemical compounds can be extracted and isolated to produce CBD isolate products for 99.9% purity.

What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana and hemp plants that makes users feel "high."

In order to be legal in the UK and most of Europe, CBD products are required to contain no more than 0.2% THC and 1 mg of THC per container. For this reason, CBD products have no intoxicating qualities, allowing users to incorporate the food supplement into their daily routine to support their overall well-being.

Although full-spectrum CBD contains extremely low THC levels, those with a low tolerance or who live in areas of the world where THC is disallowed should opt for CBD isolate.

What is CBD Isolate?

CBD isolate is a solid crystalline powder that contains up to 99.9% pure CBD and is extracted from the hemp plant's buds, where the highest concentration of CBD resides. Depending on the process, the resulting product is either fine white powder that resembles confectionery sugar or large CBD crystals. While some may have a slight residual flavour, neither form of CBD isolate product should contain a distinct odour or taste.

What’s the Difference Between CBD Isolate and CBD Distillate?

CBD isolate is an isolated form of CBD. The end product typically contains 99% CBD. On the other hand, CBD distillate contains roughly 75% of CBD, in addition to other cannabinoids and compounds. It will still contain trace amounts of THC, but this won’t cause you to feel ‘high’ due to the refinement process used to remove it. Therefore, this is a popular option for people who wish to access the entourage effect. This is the theory that when compounds from the hemp plant are left in their natural state, they can work together in synergy. Both CBD isolate and CBD distillate can be consumed in the form of oils, edibles, balms, creams, vapes and more.

How To Make CBD Isolate: CBD Isolate Manufacturing

A traditional CBD extraction process removes all the active compounds from the hemp plant, followed by a refinement process. During which, all plant matter including other phytocannabinoids (such as THC), terpenes, flavonoids, chlorophyll, oils and wax are filtered out, leaving nothing but the CBD in its purest form.

The supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is one of the most popular extraction methods for CBD isolate. It’s one of the most expensive extraction methods, but also one of the safest ways of extracting CBD and it doesn’t leave behind toxic residues. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t attempt this method yourself, as it requires specialist knowledge and equipment. The extract is ‘winterised’ (frozen and soaked in alcohol) to remove any remaining materials.

How Does CBD Work?

CBD works by interacting with our body through the ECS (endocannabinoid system). The ECS is one of the most important physiological systems within the body, which controls many essential bodily functions, including our mood, appetite, metabolism, sleep and overall well-being. By balancing and modulating these fundamental daily functions, the ECS’ ultimate purpose is to maintain homeostasis (the body’s internal state of equilibrium) critical for human health.

The ECS operates via the largest network of neurotransmitters in the body and is understood to operate in the brain, glands, organs, connective tissues and immune cells. CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors are found in the brain and nervous system.

Within the ECS, the body naturally produces cannabinoids without the need for the hemp plant, called endocannabinoids. Like endocannabinoids, CBD communicates cell-to-cell via the ECS' neurotransmitters to help maintain homeostasis by binding to receptors located on our cell's surface, initiating a physiological response.

CBD is also believed to complement the ECS in other ways. For example, when the body is deficient in the production of its natural cannabinoids, CBD has been found to help promote the production of both the body's endocannabinoids and receptors.

The Legality of CBD

When it comes to the legality of CBD, it varies from country to country. CBD is legal in European countries (with the exception of Slovakia and Lithuania), and it’s also legal in the UK. This is providing that it adheres to the laws and regulations, including only containing trace amounts of THC that can’t be separated from the final product. Of course, CBD isolate products should contain no THC, even trace amounts. Also, CBD brands should make no medical claims regarding the use of their products.

Types of CBD Isolate

There are four main types of CBD Isolate. Let’s take a look at them in more detail.

CBD Isolate Powder

This is arguably the most recognised form of CBD isolate. It’s a powdered form of the cannabinoid and it offers you plenty of versatility when it comes to choosing your method of consumption. Make sure you stay tuned as there’s more on this later. This is the best option for those of you who want to consume a concentrated product free of THC.

CBD Isolate Oil

For those of you who would prefer to avoid powdered CBD isolate, oil can be a great option. CBD isolate oil is designed to be consumed sublingually and can be combined into your food and drink. However, it's not suitable for vaping. If you wish to vape CBD isolate then you can purchase CBD isolate vape products. Most importantly, this would involve purchasing CBD isolate vape oil or e-liquid.

Terpsolate

For those who wish to have the purity of CBD isolate, but miss the inclusion of terpenes, terpsolate is the ideal solution. Terpenes are purported to have many benefits, including the potential to help promote feelings of calmness. As terpenes are eliminated during CBD isolate’s purifying process, to produce terpsolate terpenes are combined with the CBD isolate. Terpsolate can be purchased in powder or oil form.

Slab

This type of CBD isolate is referred to as a slab. You see, when CBD is isolated from full spectrum hemp it takes on the form of a slab that needs to be broken down into smaller parts.

How to Use CBD Isolate

As CBD isolate comes in a crystal powder form, it is an extremely versatile substance that can be easily infused with any product. Therefore, there are many ways to incorporate CBD into your daily well-being routine, allowing you to choose the best product for you. Here are the main types of CBD isolate products. You can buy these ready-made or add your CBD isolate powder to them yourself.

Mixing CBD Isolate with a Carrier Oil

CBD isolate can be mixed with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil, coconut oil or olive oil. Combining with a carrier oil allows you to use CBD isolate for a variety of purposes, from oral and sublingual consumption to topical use as a face oil. To mix CBD isolate with a carrier oil, the two should be combined and heated at a low temperature for around 7-10 minutes and stir until fully blended.

Using CBD Isolate Sublingually

A straightforward and highly effective way of consuming CBD isolate is to do so sublingually. This means you can place CBD isolate in your mouth like any other regular CBD tinctures, where it is held for around one minute until it is absorbed through your mucous membranes. This method allows the CBD isolate to be delivered directly to the bloodstream, bypassing your digestive system and liver to provide more potent levels of CBD, which can interact with the ECS more quickly.

As CBD isolate has no distinct taste or odour, administering this form of CBD sublingually can often be more preferable to full-spectrum CBD, which is often considered bitter. As this method requires you to hold the CBD under your tongue to absorb gradually, it is best to choose a form of CBD that is most palatable for you to comfortably incorporate CBD isolate into your daily routine. There are also various flavoured CBD isolate oils that you can purchase, such as peppermint and orange.

CBD Isolate and Vaping

Vaping is the preferred method of delivery for many users, who find it an enjoyable way to receive the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD. Vaping is also a more effective method of CBD consumption compared to capsules or edibles when considering bioavailability. In fact, it has the highest bioavailability rates of all delivery methods.

CBD isolate is suitable for vaping, as it can be infused into vape liquids (also known as vape juices or e-liquids). CBD infused vape liquids can be purchased or made at home using CBD isolate and a PG/VG base.

To infuse a vape liquid with CBD isolate, the correct ratio will depend on your required dose. However, most users recommend a 5% CBD concentration. Once your desired amount of CBD isolate has been added, shake to dissolve the CBD into the liquid. Terpenes can also be added to vape liquids to give a taste and odour in line with your preferences. This method is suitable for use with an e-cigarette or vaporiser.

Adding CBD Isolate to Food

Adding CBD isolate to food is one of the easiest and most convenient methods of consumption, allowing you to consume CBD isolate in ways that suit your taste. For example, CBD isolate can be used in sauces, soup and dressings, sprinkled on salad or carefully baked into edibles such as cookies and brownies.

It is important not to exceed 175-180°C (350°F) when cooking or baking with CBD isolate to retain its potential therapeutic benefits, as high temperatures destroy CBD's properties.

Adding CBD Isolate to Beverages

Besides food, CBD isolate can also be infused with beverages such as smoothies, juices and  tea or coffee. If adding CBD isolate to hot drinks, it is important to combine the CBD isolate when the temperature has dropped from boiling point to protect the CBD properties.

CBD isolate is not suitable for mixing with water as CBD is fat-soluble. Therefore, you should infuse CBD isolate in beverages that include fats such as milk, butter and cream. You can also make use of water-soluble CBD products, which are ideal for making your own CBD drinks. You can also purchase a range of ready-made beverages infused with CBD isolate, such as smoothies, juices and water.

Consuming CBD Isolate in Capsules

CBD Isolate can be used to fill empty, digestible capsules that can be orally consumed to provide up to 99.9% purity effortlessly. Swallow these capsules whole with a glass of water to enjoy 99.9% purity. You can also purchase ready-made CBD capsules, which is perfect for consumers that want a fuss-free alternative.

How Long Does CBD Isolate Last?

This all depends on your method of consumption of CBD isolate. If you consume it sublingually or by vaping you can feel the effects fairly quickly, however edibles offer you long lasting effects. It’s also important to note that vaping the dose can be spread out over a period of time that you desire. For example, if you were consuming four puffs in one day, you may decide to spread this out over a couple of hours, particularly if you’re new to CBD.

CBD Isolate and Full Spectrum CBD: A Direct Comparison

So, how do CBD isolate and full spectrum CBD compare? Well, full spectrum CBD is the complete opposite of CBD isolate! All of the naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant remain in full spectrum CBD products. This includes terpenes, flavonoids and trace amounts of THC. This is one of the main reasons why some people prefer full spectrum CBD, as it brings the entourage effect into play. This is the theory that when the compounds are left in their natural state, they work together synergistically to create a more potent effect.

You can weigh up these factors when deciding what the right product is for you. After all, CBD isolate may be right for you if you wish to completely avoid THC, or prefer a flavourless and odourless form of the cannabinoid. This is unlike the natural ‘tang’ of unflavoured full spectrum products.

How Long Does CBD Stay in the Body?

Scientific studies have found evidence that CBD will not remain in the body for more than one week. Nevertheless, all bodies are different, and the average time (around 2-5 days) doesn't apply to every person. The time required for CBD to fade will differ from one person to another. The primary factors determining how long CBD will stay in your body include age, weight and metabolism.

Additionally, the duration for how long cannabidiol will stay in your body also depends on the following aspects:

1. The dose of CBD
2. Method of consumption
3. Serving size
4. Frequency of taking CBD
5. Whether you've eaten beforehand

Advantages of Using CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is surprisingly versatile when it comes to consumption, and there are several benefits to using this pure CBD over other conventional forms.

First of all, CBD isolates should consist of pure CBD and nothing more, so THC won't enter your body and show up on a potential drug test.

Another clear-cut advantage of CBD isolate is the many ways you can use it. This crystalline powdered CBD works excellent in all consumption methods, whether administered sublingually or mixed with your favourite food and drinks.

Disadvantages of Using CBD Isolate

The unique composition of cannabinoids and terpenes found in full-spectrum CBD has been found to work synergistically to provide a greater response than CBD isolate. Therefore, if the entourage effect is important to you, you may wish to avoid CBD isolate.

Safety and Side Effects

One commonly asked question pertains to the potential side effects that can accompany CBD products. The good news is that CBD has been established as a well-tolerated substance in humans. However, it can cause some side effects, such as fatigue, changes in weight, a dry mouth and diarrhoea. These side effects are more likely to occur if you miscalculate your CBD dosage and take too much. This is why it’s always better to begin with a low dose, no matter if you’re a CBD novice or expert. If you’re changing to a new product (CBD isolate, for example), then always begin with a low dose so that your body can become used to it. Additionally, if you’re taking prescribed medication (s) then it’s a good idea to make contact with your doctor - they can provide you with advice on whether CBD could interact with your medicine.

Recommended Dosage

As everybody is different, there is no universal CBD dosage. However, it is highly recommended starting with a low dose and then slowly increase whilst monitoring the effects on your body to find your optimal dose. Begin with 20 or 30mg of CBD and increase this by 5 mg every week if you feel the need to. Most importantly, always consult a trusted doctor before embarking on your CBD journey to discuss your dosage and suitability.

The recommended maximum daily amount of CBD by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) is 70mg. However, everyone will react to CBD differently, and you may require a higher dose.

How to Shop for CBD

It’s important that you do some research to look out for some key things before buying a product.

COA: Ensure that the product carries a Certificate of Analysis (COA), meaning that all tests were performed by a third-party lab. A COA will confirm the exact cannabinoid content present and the presence of any harmful contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. It will also list the potency of a product, and this is vital to know as it will allow you to discover your dosage.

Source: Knowing how the hemp has been grown is also important. Consider the method of cultivation and whether the hemp has been grown organically, safely and are non-GMO. It’s important that you choose a brand who sources their hemp extract from trusted manufacturers.

Ingredients: Always read the ingredient list, even if you have analysed the COA. Make sure that the product actually contains CBD and it’s the correct spectrum that you wish to purchase. For example, if you’re buying a product that’s been labelled CBD isolate and there’s trace amounts of THC, then you need to avoid making a purchase.

Pricing Guide for CBD Isolate Products

Our collection of CBD isolate products varies greatly, and therefore so does the price. Here is a guideline of what to expect:

£ = under £20

££ = £20 - £50

£££ = over £50

Alphagreen Selection

CBD Isolate Oil: £ - £££

CBD Isolate Capsules: £ - ££

CBD Isolate Gummies: £ - ££

CBD Isolate Vapes: £ - ££

CBD Isolate Topicals: £ - £££

Final Thoughts

We hope that you have enjoyed our guide to CBD isolate and that you now feel well-informed about this fantastic method of CBD consumption. Here at Alphagreen, we hand-select only the highest-quality CBD products the international market has to offer. Furthermore, all our products are lab-tested and carry a COA, providing transparency and trust, allowing you to shop with confidence. So, what are you waiting for? Try one of our many CBD isolate products today!