As more CBD products continue to hit the shelves, people are realizing the potential benefits of the versatile hemp plant. CBD oil is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to innovative goods crafted from cannabidiol. Consumers now have access to a wide range of CBD wares and can find the compound in everything from coffee to shampoo.
But some of these offerings are out of reach for the average consumer. CBD serums and anti-aging creams can get pretty pricey—we’ve seen at least two high-end night creams with price tags over $110 for a 1.7-ounce jar. CBD beverages are not cheap, either. Despite the rave reviews, most people just can’t (or won’t) spend upwards of $40 for a six-pack of CBD-infused seltzer, no matter how tasty it is.
If you love the idea of luxury products containing CBD but hate the price tag, CBD isolate could be an ideal compromise.
What Is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is CBD in pure crystal form. It’s made by extracting and then purifying the CBD from hemp.
Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the plant matter of the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, chlorophyll, liquids, and waxes. When these other compounds are removed via extraction, a fine white powder is what remains. This powder is 99 percent pure CBD.
CBD Isolate is THC-Free
It’s often assumed that CBD products do not contain THC, when, in fact, any CBD that has not been subject to additional refinement contains trace amounts of THC. This is because small amounts of these other cannabinoids are present in hemp in varying amounts (although the quantities present are far less than what is found in marijuana plants).
To be legally marketed as a CBD product, the amount of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can not exceed 0.3 percent in the U.S. While this is a trace amount that is not enough to cause inebriation (unless too much is consumed), it can still show up on a drug test.
Because CBD isolate does not contain any detectable THC levels or other cannabinoids beyond pure cannabidiol, it is a popular option for those concerned about workplace drug testing. It is also utilized by those who cannot tolerate THC in any amounts.
CBD isolate is used to make several of the THC-free tinctures available on the market. The powder itself can be purchased from many online CBD retailers.
Why Use CBD Isolate?
For DIY types who want to save a little cash on traditional CBD products, Isolate is an ideal choice. Because it is odorless and tasteless, it can be added to recipes and used to create your own topicals. It can even be taken on its own.
One of the primary benefits of utilizing CBD isolate is cost. Typically, isolate powder is far cheaper to purchase than premade products. Plus, a little bit goes a long way. It’s a versatile product with several uses:
Create Your Own Topicals
If you already know how to make lotions and salves, you can mix in CBD isolate powder as one of the ingredients. But if time is an issue, you can also add it to products you already have for an extra boost. Like all skincare products, discontinue use if you experience any unusual reactions.
Make CBD Oil
You can also make your own CBD oil by adding Isolate to a carrier oil such as olive, MCT, or grapeseed oil. Simply measure out the potency you desire and combine the oil and isolate. You can even add your own flavorings like vanilla, orange, or lemon extract.
One gram of Isolate contains just shy of 1000 mg of CBD, so if you use a gram of isolate powder and an ounce of oil, you will have a tincture with a potency of around 33 mg per one ml dropper.
Take It Straight
Ingesting CBD isolate sublingually is the easiest way to take it, since it has no taste or smell. Plus, it dissolves pretty fast. Just place the desired amount under the tongue and hold it there for around 60 to 90 seconds.
Add Isolate Powder To Foods or Beverages
If you want to create your own CBD recipes, isolate is the best product to use. You can add it to seltzer or a smoothie, or even put it in your morning tea or coffee. Many people like to make salad dressings and sauces infused with CBD.
Interestingly, you can actually cook and bake with CBD isolate, provided you never let the temperature get above 400 degrees. High heat will degrade the product and render it ineffective.
Final Thoughts
CBD isolate is a versatile and cost-effective way to experiment with CBD. Each milligram of powder is equal to a milligram of CBD, so precise measuring is super-easy with this product once you get the hang of it.
For those who aren’t intimidated by trying something new, CBD isolate might be just the thing to kick your CBD routine into high gear.
