(CBD) is an active component in cannabis and, along with THC, takes prevalence over the 100+ cannabinoids in the plant. The importance placed on CBD is due in large part to the effects of consumption. Even with research in the beginning stages, the published benefits of CBD have been numerous.
Our hemp oil concentrates are raw hemp oil, meaning the oil is extracted directly from the plant and contains no additives. These best-selling concentrates are available in three versions: green, blue, and gold. Each version is a variation of hemp oil.
In this blog, we will explain each version in greater detail. By explaining each version, we will also clarify various topics surrounding hemp oil, including the difference between CBD and CBDa, the entourage effect, and the process of decarboxylation. Let’s use these concentrates as a guide to hemp oil.
Green Label: The Difference Between CBD and CBD
With the emphasis that is placed on CBD, it is surprising to find that CBD does not occur in high concentrations in cannabis. The raw form of CBD, called CBD, however, is predominant in the plant. CBD, or canna acid, is the acidic precursor to CBD. Put simply, CBD begins as CBD and, in the natural state, there is more CBD in cannabis than CBD. Like CBD, CBD is non-psychoactive and will not get you high.
With CBD in the research spotlight, information on CBD is lesser known. In the past, CBDa was seen as being inactive. Researchers are just now uncovering the possible benefits of CBD.
The green label, also known as the raw label, is CBD oil in the rawest form. The oil is extracted from the plant using the CO2 method and is then packaged; the oil is unaltered in any way. The green label contains all components of the hemp plant, including cannabinoids, trepans, and other phytonutrients. For this reason, the green label is called full-spectrum.
Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil and the Entourage Effect
Previously, it was thought that the sole benefit of hemp came from cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. However, researchers are now finding that components of the hemp plant work together to produce an effect greater than cannabinoids alone. This is known as the entourage effect.
The green label appeals to those who are interested in the benefits of whole plant consumption, such as the entourage effect. With the green label, you are consuming hemp oil as nature intended.
Blue Label: The Process of Decarboxylation
CBD turns to CBD through a process called decarboxylation. Decarboxylation is a chemical reaction activated by heat. (Time can also activate decarboxylation; however, heat is a preferred method.) In the process of decarboxylation, a carboxyl group (-COOH) is removed and carbon dioxide is released. In less scientific terms, heat turns CBD into CBD.
To create the blue label, raw hemp oil [green label] is heated to convert the CBD. This process converts much of the CBD to CBD while maintaining a level of phytonutrients. The blue label is ideal for those interested in the benefits of a whole plant extract but are less concerned with consuming CBD.
Gold Label: The Benefit of CBD
To create the gold label, decarboxylases hemp oil [blue label] is filtered to remove all plant parts. By removing all other plant components, the hemp oil has a higher concentration of CBD (about 25% rather than around 15%).
The gold label has the highest CBD concentration; however, this version does not benefit from the entourage effect. Without any plant components, the gold label is suited for those who are solely interested in the benefits of CBD.
By explaining the different versions of hemp oil, we begin to understand more about the components of hemp oil and how they interact. When choosing a hemp oil concentrate, it is helpful to first decide which part of the hemp plant you find to be the most beneficial. Each version has its advantage.
Do you have any additional questions about hemp oil concentrates? What is your experience with this product? Leave a comment below!
