
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most commonly occurring compounds in cannabis, second only to THC. Although it has been shown to offer many health benefits when consumed through supplementation, CBD also presents an effective method for extracting and isolating cannabidiol molecules purely.
CBD isolate powder is CBD in its purest form. It has no THC (the molecule responsible for causing the high associated with marijuana), and it’s cut down to 99%+ purity. This makes it more potent than your traditional “full-spectrum” hemp oil or even cannabidiol products that are mixed into topical applications, foods, etc.
When buying CBD in this form, consider the following factors to identify the best product:
1. Bioavailability
Since CBD absorbs through the body via fat cells, it’s vital to find a supplier first by evaluating their methods for extraction and purification. This will confirm that it is CBD, not some other-psychoactive compound with similar properties.
Bioavailability is the degree to which a substance enters circulation once introduced into the body and is consequently available to the target site. In simpler terms, how much of this product is being absorbed? The greater the bioavailability, the better.
As a consumer, paying close attention to this detail will make or break your experience with CBD isolate powder. For example, oil extracts (oils/tinctures) typically boast 100% bioavailability; however, products made from isolates only offer up to 33%. The difference in efficacy may be negligible (especially with oil-based products), but it’s worth noting.
2. Potency and Purity
This end product is 99+% CBD–the purest form of cannabidiol your money can buy. While the threshold for “impurities” in hemp products varies by country, this cannabinoid should be up to 3 parts per million, with a focus on cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC).
3. Third-Party Analysis
Based on the previous two factors alone, it’s difficult to determine the purity of a product without third-party analysis. Different laboratories have different standards for what is considered “purity,” which is why it’s important to investigate who is behind the product you’re looking at.
A reputable supplier will gladly provide third-party analysis of their end product, including cannabinoid and terpenoid profiles (such as CBG, cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC)).
4. Taste
CBD isolates are clean with a bitter taste, making them ideal for mixing into foods and beverages. It doesn’t have the solid hemp-like taste you may be accustomed to from certain brands using full-spectrum CBD oil or whole plant extractions.
5. Use it Directly
If you’re looking for a super-concentrated form of cannabidiol, this powder is ideal for adding to your favorite drink or food. Ingesting cannabinoids orally has been shown to be the most effective method when treating various medical conditions.
Remember that CBD isolate powder should be ingested orally to receive its full benefits. Applying it topically won’t do much because cannabidiol is a fat-soluble molecule.
6. Price
The market price for CBD powder typically falls between $20 and $100 for a 100g bag. Cost can vary depending on the organization’s methods for extraction/purification, whether they’re testing their product before it goes to market and other factors.
You must review all of these factors before buying isolate powder. Doing so will help you identify the best product for your needs and ensure you don’t waste your money.