The name "isolate" comes from the rigorous, multi-step process used to isolate a single cannabinoid.

Key Characteristics of Isolates

• Purity and Appearance: Isolates are typically 99% pure and appear as a translucent, white crystalline solid or fine powder. They are the most potent form of a specific cannabinoid available.

• Common Types: The most common isolates are:

  • CBD Isolate: Pure Cannabidiol. Since it contains no THC, it is completely non-psychoactive (it will not cause a "high"). It is often favored by those who are subject to drug testing or are sensitive to THC.

  • THC Isolate: Pure Tetrahydrocannabinol. This is highly psychoactive and extremely potent.

  • THCA Isolate: The non-activated, acidic precursor to THC. It usually appears as large "diamonds" or crystals.

• Odorless and Flavorless: Because all terpenes and flavonoids (which provide flavor and aroma) are removed during the purification process, isolates are neutral in taste and smell. This makes them highly versatile for use in edibles, tinctures, and cosmetics without altering the product's flavor.

• No Entourage Effect: Unlike full-spectrum extracts that contain a range of cannabinoids and terpenes working together (known as the entourage effect), isolates only provide the effects of the single, pure compound.

How Isolates Are Made

Isolates are created through an intensive, multi-step refinement process:

1. Initial Extraction: Raw cannabis oil is extracted from the plant using solvents like CO2 or ethanol.

2. Refinement: The crude oil undergoes several purification steps, including:

• Winterization: Cooling and filtration to remove unwanted fats and waxes.

• Distillation: Heating the extract to separate compounds based on their individual boiling points.

Crystallization: The final step involves subjecting the highly-refined oil to precise temperature and solvent conditions, which causes the single cannabinoid to crystallize out of the solution, forming the pure white solid.