Last month in this space, I illustrated how things are not always as they seem regarding the different types of CBDs on the market.
This month, I want to expand on that same topic—because understanding CBD on a deeper level is important. It can save you time and money, and you can make sure you’re getting the product you need.
As I noted last month: CBD isolate may be pure CBD, but that does not mean it will work for you. When you isolate CBDs, plant elements such as terpenes, fatty acids, oils and lipids are removed—and those things help CBDs work in the body.
The same thing goes for distillate CBDs: These products are often distilled three different times, and each time, critical synergistic ingredients are taken out.
The same thing does not go for CBDs made using whole plant technology. The CBD is extracted using alcohol or ethanol, and the process is done only once, leaving in those needed terpenes, fatty acids, etc. The resulting oil may not be as pretty—it’s usually darker—but your body is not looking for prettiness; it’s more concerned about the synergistic effectiveness.
A new trend in CBD involves using technology to isolate CBD, and then putting whole-plant oil back in. This backward process is unnecessary and a waste of time, because whole plant technology works just fine—and the multiple steps mean there’s more of a possibility of introducing toxins into the mix.
Many CBD manufacturers use less-than-ideal cultivars (strains). Using the right cultivar is key to producing a product that tastes good, smells good and has all the effective properties the body needs. Another problem involves the use of THC-dominant cultivars over hemp. Yes, THC-dominant cannabis has CBD in it, but the THC is dominant and can counteract the CBD. Yeah, you can remove the THC, usually by using heat or burning—during which the CBD molecules can be compromised. On the other hand, CBDs derived from the proper hemp plants (usually female) don’t need this type of processing.
To sum this all up … CBDs produced from female hemp plants using whole-plant technology are the best way to go, in all likelihood.
When researching a CBD product, remember to look on the manufacturer’s website and/or ask for certifications for organic growth, production and extraction. If the manufacturer can provide you with those three things, it should also have no problem providing a Certificate of Analysis (COA). The COA will tell you the percentage of the CBDs, heavy metals, pesticides, products used in the growing process, THC levels, molds, mildews, chemicals and preservatives. Any reputable company will be proud to provide the certifications, because they are proud of their products. If you find a certificate that mentions isolates or another process, beware; the manufacturer may not be properly informed. Those who are using research produced out of Israel and Colorado are best informed. Ask the questions, and make sure you are getting the right answers.
One great way to find out about CBDs, treatments and current research is to visit www.projectcbd.org. Consumers can find a beginner’s guide and research specific conditions; the site will explain in detail the current research on those conditions and the current treatments using CBD.
This is a budding industry (pun intended), and there are many snake-oil salesmen out there peddling their wares, with some of these products winding up in large chains and retail establishments. Taking a moment to ask the right questions will ensure you do not get duped and that you get the best results from the CBD product you purchase.
Robin Goins is a business consultant for DR.G Consulting and works extensively in the cannabis industry in the Coachella Valley. For more information, visit www.drrobingoins.com.