Can CBD Isolate Make You High?

The capacity of a CBD product to make its users “high”, depends on the level of THC in the product. Usually, CBD contains multiple cannabis derivates, including THC, which is responsible for psychoactive effects. The question addressed herein is the amount of THC in CBD isolate, and whether this concentration is enough to cause psychoactive effects.

The lower concentration of THC in hemp products explains why such products are legal in many countries where Marijuana is prohibited. Most governments have banned Marijuana because of the psychoactive THC. Typically, Marijuana contains up to 90% THC concentration, making the plant extremely psychoactive. In contrast, CBD isolate, a derivative of the hemp plant (with 0.3% THC), has minimal to zero psychoactive effects, making the product effective for medicinal application among neuropathic patients.

What is CBD?

CBD is abbreviated from the word cannabidiol, a chemical component found in cannabis. It is commonly used for recreational and medicinal products. Teitelbaum (2019) acknowledged that CBD is a useful medicinal component of cannabis. It treats many illnesses because of its chemical components, including, but not limited to THC.

What is THC?

THC, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol, exists in cannabis derivatives alongside hundreds of other chemical useful components (Williams & Nutbrown, 2021). THC has a psychoactive property that makes its users euphoric.

The difference between Marijuana, hemp and their psychoactive properties

Marijuana and hemp differ in their THC levels. Usually, Marijuana has around 90% THC, compared to hemp’s 0.3% (Williams & Nutbrown, 2021). Users should therefore utilize the concentration of THC to distinguish hemp from marijuana.

What is CBD isolate?

CBD isolate is one among three CBD spectrums. Usually, CBD is grouped into three categories called spectrums; full spectrum, broad spectrum and CBD isolate. It is important to realize that CBD varies based on the composition of THC (Teitelbaum ,2019). Hence, the spectrums serve different medicinal, recreational and therapeutic purposes. The CBD isolate spectrum contains all the components of cannabis except the psychoactive THC; its level of THC is normally 0%. Therefore, it is the least effective spectrum because it has one component of cannabis called cannabinoid (Marinotti & Sarill, 2020). Hence its users do not experience any entourage effects enjoyed by users of full and broad-spectrum CBD. Notably, the lower concentration of THC in the isolate spectrum makes it ideal for first-time users or consumers with neuropathic conditions.

Full spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD has multiple chemical components of cannabis and THC. Marinotti & Sarill (2020) note that, full spectrum contains 0.3% of THC or less. Therefore, the full spectrum cannot make the user feel “high.” However, this spectrum is the most effective CBD component because it has most of the chemical components of cannabis. Its users experience the ‘entourage effect’, as they benefit more from its CBD components than users of other spectrums.

CBD broad spectrum

The broad-spectrum has a variety of CBD components, but lacks THC (Marinotti & Sarill, 2020). It is therefore, less effective than the full spectrum but provides a better experience than CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum users get a limited experience the entourage effect.

Is CBD oil isolates effective?

Moltke & Hindocha (2021) observed that the CBD spectrums are effective depending on the user’s need. CBD oil in the isolated spectrum is the most preferred among first-time users because it is the mildest among the spectrums. In contrast, CBD isolate is preferred for users who want to enjoy CBD without THC. For example, drug screening among athletes checks for THC but not CBD. Therefore, athletes who enjoy CBD can use the THC-free isolate to avoid penalties.

How to buy the best CBD isolate oil

Evans (2020) observed that the CBD markets are congested with CBD oils. Many products of low quality are also fighting for a spot in the same market. It is, therefore, challenging to identify the best quality isolate, especially for first-timers. Online stores provide the best avenue because users can compare the available products. Below are some of the methods users can employ to get the best quality CBD isolate oil:

The price

Comparing prices for the CBD oils of the same quantity, and in the same spectrum provides a hint for the best product. Generally, prices are commensurate to the product quality. If a brand is too cheap, it probably indicates poor quality and vice versa.

The certificate of analysis (COA)

The certificate of analysis is a detailed account of the contents and ingredients in the CBD isolate. The buyer can access the COA on the company’s website or by requesting from the company. Additionally, COA is a sign that the company is trustworthy. If the company is unwilling to avail of its COA, it may indicate dubious standards.

Confirm if a third-party laboratory has tested the product

The role of third-party testing is to win the buyers’ confidence in the product. Usually, third-party laboratories are unbiased. Buyers can rely on their affirmation of the company’s quality claim for the products. In most cases, safety regulations require companies to ensure transparency for their products through an objective assessment by third-parties.

The type of CBD oil

The spectrum of a CBD product is normally indicated on the package. Users should check out the details on the packages to confirm the spectrum before purchase. One can also check the THC percentage; THC content should be nil for a CBD isolate oil.

Side effects of using CBD isolate oil.

The side effects of CBD isolate only arise if misused. CBD isolate oil may be safe, but improper use will have repercussions like any other drug. The common side effects include dry mouth, diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. If a user notices some side effects, they should stop using the oil until the effects subside. If persistent, it’s advisable to seek medical advice.

Conclusion

CBD isolate is considered the purest among the three spectrums. However, it is the weakest because of its limited chemical components. It is the best spectrum for first-time CBD users compared to other spectrums. Equally, the oil undergoes an intensive process in production to eradicate the psychoactive THC. However, the user must ensure they buy pure CBD isolate by doing due diligence. The buyer should research to find the best CBD isolate in the market.