CBD stores are getting popular as the demand for CBD products continues to flourish. Among the varying CBD products, one important difference exists, natural versus synthetic CBD. It’s somehow interesting that nowadays most cannabinoids including CBD can be synthesized in a lab. But how does synthetic CBD compare with natural CBD? This article sheds light on natural or synthetic CBD, and how to identify fake CBD.
What is Synthetic CBD?
Natural CBD is an extract from hemp plants, but synthetic CBD is a result of chemical synthesis in a laboratory setting. However, synthetic CBD and natural CBD have similar molecular structures. Synthetic CBD is usually made for scientific research studies that investigate its effects on the body and other useful purposes. Furthermore, synthetic CBD is a great alternative for industries under strict legal regulations and requirements such as the cosmetic industry.
Is CBD Natural or Synthetic?
CBD is generally a natural plant, which means all its compounds act naturally when consumed. Furthermore, CBD undergoes a natural process of growing, making it a natural plant. Natural CBD products undergo a meticulous extraction and purification process, ensuring their quality and purity. However, synthetic CBD follows the pattern of natural CBD, and it serves as a backup. Synthetic CBD won’t replace natural CBD but only act as an alternative to CBD.
What is CBD Made of?
CBD contains numerous ingredients like flavonoids, terpenes, fatty acids, and more. Cannabidiol is the primary compound in CBD oils. However, manufacturers may mix cannabidiol with other ingredients to craft a good CBD oil. Also note that CBD oils come from the whole hemp plant, which means the stems and leaves of the cannabis plant play a role in the making of your CBD oil. The hemp plant also contains numerous cannabinoids including low-level THC.
How is Cannabidiol Made?
There are a few different ways of extracting CBD from hemp. First, growers must cultivate hemp plants under strict agricultural guidelines to ensure their quality and potency. Once the hemp plants are ready for harvest, they undergo extraction. This process involves the use of solvents like carbon dioxide (CO2) or ethanol to isolate CBD from the plant material. The extracted CBD goes through purification resulting in a concentrated CBD oil.
How To Know Synthetic CBD
Synthetic CBD looks like natural CBD, but real CBD comes from the hemp plant. The smell is another way to distinguish real CBD from fake CBD. The smell from CBD is unique and pungent and goes long distances. However, since synthetic CBD comes from the laboratory, it does not have the same smell as real CBD. You can also detect synthetic CBD from its effects as it may lead to side effects such as drowsiness and paranoia.
The Bottom Line
CBD enthusiasts must know how to identify synthetic CBD and natural CBD. Most reputable stores know how to identify natural CBD. They also stock high-quality CBD tincture and other essential CBD products.
Michael Levin is a CBD enthusiast, a researcher, writer and editor in the cannabis space, experienced CBD user and educator. He believes CBD can help improve our overall health and wellbeing.