All the cannabinoids found in cannabis are called phytocannabinoids. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive component of cannabis. THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, causing euphoria, increased appetite, and pain relief. CBD is not psychoactive outside and has no adverse effects on mental or physical health.
The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD, which have been studied extensively for their therapeutic potential. However, there are over 100 other cannabinoids that have been discovered since 1998 when THC was first isolated from cannabis resin by researchers at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. Some cannabinoids have shown promise in preclinical studies as anti-inflammatory agents, anticonvulsants, anticancer agents, neuroprotectants, and more.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recently released a report on cannabis’s potential as an effective treatment for chronic pain and other medical conditions. The report stated that “the active ingredients in cannabis — tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) — may hold promise for the treatment of chronic pain.” The study also noted that “there is limited evidence suggesting that some formulations of cannabinoids may be more effective than others at treating chronic pain, including formulations containing THC.”
What do they have in common?
Full spectrum distillate is a plant-based product with all of the cannabinoids and terpenes present in the original plant. Isolate products are isolated from the whole plant and contain only one or a few cannabinoids and terpenes.
The extraction method used to make both isolate and full spectrum distillate is called supercritical CO2 extraction (SCO2). This process uses extreme heat and pressure to extract the chemicals needed to make cannabinoids, including THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. The supercritical temperature is between 450 degrees Celsius (842 degrees Fahrenheit) and 650 degrees Celsius (1290 degrees Fahrenheit). The pressure is between 50 bar (721 psi) and 700 bar (1040 psi).
The benefit of using SCO2 is that it allows for greater control over how much THC or CBD is produced in each batch. Also, by keeping certain chemical compounds out of the extract, you can ensure that you are producing a consistent product every time.
How do they contrast?
When it comes to Full Spectrum Distillate vs Isolate, it’s important to remember that Full Spectrum Distillate is the gold standard. It’s the most natural and potent form of cannabinoids, and it contains all the beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant.
Isolate, on the other hand, is a purified form of cannabidiol that has been stripped of all the other components of the hemp plant. Because they’re isolated from the whole plant, they lack many phytochemicals like flavonoids and terpenes. Isolate products appear similar to full-spectrum distillates but are more concentrated (often containing over 90% cannabinoid).A product such as GVB Biopharma full-spectrum compliant distillate is highly effective for any medical conditions you may be experiencing, from chronic pain or anxiety to insomnia or migraines. However, it’s important to note that full-spectrum distillates can have higher levels of THC than other products, so they’re not recommended for people who are new to cannabis use or don’t want to get dizzy.
