What is CBD isolate?
The term CBD isolate is exactly what it sounds like – an isolation of one of the 100+ discovered cannabinoids, CBD.
When high-cannabidiol cannabis plants mature and are harvested, they go through an extraction process—typically CO2, ethanol or butane.
This process leaves you with the full concentrates of the plant; everything from the cannabinoids, terpenes, trichomes, flavonoids, etc. (view our glossary of terms here). To create CBD isolates, there is an additional step in the process called winterization.
There is much debate on whether or not CBD isolates are as effective as full-plant spectrum. Many argue that the other components that get removed in the winterization process are actually beneficial when taken all together.
What is CBD isolate used for?
These products are sought out because of the studied benefits of the cannabis plant.
The benefits include (but not limited to):
- Reduces inflammation
- Regulates seizures
- Reduces nausea and vomiting
- Aids in the fight against tumors/cancer cells
- Counteracts anxiety and depression
- Counteracts alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders
CBD isolate is tasteless and odorless (terpenes are stripped in winterization), and often comes in a powder format. You can ingest it quickly and directly whether its directly in your mouth or mixed in with other oils, creams, food and/or drinks.
Does it get you high?
The most common cannabinoids you’ll hear being discussed today is CBD and THC. Cannabidiol is non-psychoactive while THC is known for its psychoactive properties (the ‘high’ feeling).
When CBD isolate goes through the winterization process, different cannabinoids separate and only the CBD component is extracted from it. Which means, zero THC.
So no, it will not get you ‘high’.
Who should consider CBD isolate?
Full-spectrum or isolate debate aside one major difference between isolates and full-spectrum CBD products out in the market is the guarantee of no THC.
That means that not only will you not feel high, but you won’t test positive on a drug test.
CBD isolate is best for two types of people:
- Individuals highly sensitive to THC — even though CBD products have a limit of containing less than 0.3% THC, sensitive individuals may seek out these products to avoid the possibility of any sort of high.
- Individuals who fear to fail a drug test — while it is unlikely to test positive with CBD products, some users will stick specifically to CBD isolate to be safe.
Check out our CBD company directory for a list of brands and what they stock. Alternatively, read our in-depth reviews and learn more about these companies and products.
