The growing popularity of CBD products has brought a lot of attention to this question. The short answer is yes, some CBD oil does contain THC — legally it can contain up to 0.3% THC — but it’s important to understand what that means so you can make an informed buying decision.
CBD won’t get you high
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of many compounds found in the resin secreted by glands of cannabis plants. THC causes the feelings of euphoria or intoxication commonly associated with marijuana use.
CBD (cannabidiol) also comes from the cannabis plant and is similar to THC in structure, but interacts with the human body very differently. While THC stimulates the brain to release dopamine, CBD interacts with receptors in your brain to regulate cognition and promote balance.
Full-Spectrum CBD vs. Isolate
The two most common types of CBD oil on the market are full-spectrum and isolate. Because full-spectrum products use all of the compounds found in hemp plants, they contain THC in the legal amount of 0.3% or less.
On the other hand, CBD Isolate products are made by separating (or “isolating”) the CBD molecule from the rest of the hemp plant’s compounds, so CBD Isolates do not contain THC.
Why choose Full-Spectrum CBD?
“Full-spectrum” simply means whole plant medicine, referring to the synergistic relationship of the medicinal benefits of the hemp plant. Hemp is made up of a lot of compounds (over 400), which includes the powerful cannabinoid CBD, along with secondary phytocannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids.
Full-spectrum CBD products (like Minny Grown tinctures) contain all of these powerful compounds, including the secondary phytocannabinoid THC. The 2018 Farm Bill legally allows full-spectrum CBD to contain up to 0.3% THC.
The research behind full-spectrum CBD is vast and promising, suggesting that the naturally occurring hemp terpenes and cannabinoids work together with the CBD to boost its effectiveness and improve the therapeutic effects it can provide.
Why choose CBD Isolate?
In contrast to full-spectrum, CBD isolate products do not contain THC. As its name implies, CBD isolate is made by isolating the CBD molecule from the rest of the compounds found in hemp. This is done through a special extraction process.
CBD isolate is an option for consumers looking to avoid THC entirely. Isolates are shown to promote Endocannabinoid optimization and homeostasis. However, isolates will not deliver the combined benefit of secondary phytocannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, known as the entourage effect.
The simple answer
So now you know: The next time a friend or family member asks you if CBD contains THC, you can explain that full-spectrum CBD products contain THC in legal amounts; but CBD isolate products are THC-free.
