As a cannabis expert, I am often asked about the differences between natural and synthetic CBD. With the growing popularity of CBD products, it's important to understand the distinctions between these two forms of the compound. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in marijuana. However, it can also be derived from hemp or from plants that are not classified as marijuana. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is defined as any part of the cannabis sativa plant that contains no more than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the mind-altering substance in marijuana.
This means that hemp-derived CBD contains very low levels of THC and does not produce psychoactive effects. Synthetic CBD, on the other hand, is an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) that is chemically identical to naturally produced hemp-derived CBD. The form it takes, as with most isolates, is a crystalline powder that is then normally mixed with a carrier oil. The natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, called cannabinoids, are responsible for the drug's psychological and physiological symptoms. Among the best-known cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While natural CBD is produced from hemp or cannabis plants, synthetic varieties of CBD are produced through chemical synthesis with ingredients such as limonene or through biological synthesis with modified yeasts or other bacteria. However, synthetic CBD is easier and cheaper to produce, making it an attractive solution for many manufacturers.
This has led to an increase in the availability of synthetic CBD products on the market.
The Importance of Choosing High-Quality CBD Products
When it comes to CBD, quality is key. It's essential to choose high-quality CBD products from a reputable company, and it's recommended to consult with your healthcare professional before starting to use them. This is especially important when it comes to synthetic CBD. Clinical trials on synthetic CBD have only started recently, and it's too early to know if the human body reacts the same way to both natural and synthetic CBD. In addition, when synthetic CBD was legally produced with very little regulation, most synthetic CBD production is produced in accordance with health and safety practices.However, there is still a lack of long-term studies on the effects of synthetic CBD on the body. Some pharmaceutical companies may even create synthetic CBD with a chemical structure identical to that of natural CBD. This can make it difficult for consumers to distinguish between natural and synthetic CBD products.
The Bottom Line
So, is CBD natural or synthetic? The answer is both. While natural CBD is derived from hemp or cannabis plants, synthetic CBD is produced through chemical or biological synthesis. While both forms of CBD have their own benefits and drawbacks, it's important for consumers to be aware of the differences between them. As an expert in the cannabis industry, I always recommend choosing high-quality, natural CBD products from reputable companies.And as always, consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
