What are Hemp Terpenes?

Posted on by Healing Botanica

Have you ever noticed or enjoy the citrusy or peppery smell in hemp?

There is something unique about the aroma that comes from hemp. It relaxes you and soothes your body and mind. If you have ever had a whiff of hemp, you would realize that there is something in the flavorful bouquet.

If you’re curious, then it would interest you to know that it is the terpenes you smell in hemp. These are aromatic compounds that give hemp its scent and flavor profiles.

What are Hemp Terpenes

Hemp terpenes are the aromatic metabolites present in the oils of all plants, no matter what species or genus. These are responsible for giving plants their signature scent and flavors.

The fresh and invigorating aroma in a forest or garden is thanks to these terpenes. Up until now, approximately 20,000 different types of terpenes have been identified in overall plant life.

Hemp is often said to have a “skunky” scent. However, what most people don’t know is that Hemp offers a variety of scents and flavors. The terpenes are influenced by various environmental factors. These include soil conditions, climate, temperature, maturation of the plant, time of day, and fertilizers.Aroma oil

They differ from strain to strain, each having a unique aromatic profile. For example, the Blueberry hemp strain inherits a blueberry-like smell and taste.

In Hemp, the development of new strains began as an adaptive response. Some were formed to stray away predators and pests while others attracted pollinators. Up until now, over 100 different types of terpenes have been identified in Hemp.

This diverse range is quite impressive. What’s more interesting is the terpenes’ ability to interact with other compounds present in the Hemp plant; such as cannabinoids like THC and CBD.

Effects of Terpenes

Each Hemp terpene is quite unique in its own regard. They are associated with creating or triggering different effects. While some terpenes are efficient in promoting the relaxation and calming effects found in CBD Oil products, others promote acuity. For example, Alpha-Pinene encourages alertness while limonene is a stress-reliever.

As mentioned previously, the presence of other compounds may impact the terpene’s effect profile. The synergistic phenomenon is called the entourage effect.

Because Hemp offers a variety of terpenes and subtle differences in reaction to other compounds, they add depth to Hemp horticulture. Connoisseurs study these compounds to explore new strains.

Seven Most Common Types of Terpenes

Here are some of the most common types of terpenes, commonly found in CBD oil tinctures and CBD oil capsules, along with their main characteristics and other plants they are found in.

Alpha-Pinene

α-Pinene is one of the most common terpenes. It has a pine-like aroma and is considered to promote alertness and memory retention.

  • Vaporizes at 311 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Rosemary, Dill, Pine needles, Parsley, and Basil

Myrcene

β-Myrcene has a musky, earthy or herbal aroma with a hint of cardamom or clove. It is said to have relaxing or soothing effects.

  • Vaporizes at 332 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Lemongrass, Thyme, Hops, and Mangoes

Limonene

Limonene is known for its signature citrusy aroma. Its potential Effects include stress relief and mood elevation.

  • Vaporizes at 348 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Peppermint, Rosemary, Juniper, and Fruit rinds

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene has a woody, spicy or peppery aroma and is said to relieve stress.

  • Vaporizes at 266 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Cloves, Black Pepper, and Cinnamon

Linalool

With a floral or almost lavender-like aroma, Linalool encourages calmness and mood enhancement.

  • Vaporizes at 388 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: LavenderTerpenes from flowers

Humulene

As the name suggests, Humulene has a humus-like or woody/earthy aroma. It’s supposed to have anti-inflammatory effects, similar to the effects you might have with a turmeric powder.

  • Vaporizes at 222 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Hops, Coriander, Basil, Cloves

Terpinolene

Lastly, Terpinolene has a floral or herbal aroma with properties that potentially relaxes the body and mind.

  • Vaporizes at 366 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Also found in: Lilacs, Tea tree, Conifers, Apples, Cumin, Lilacs, and Nutmeg

Conclusion

Terpenes are very fascinating compounds. Modern scientists are investing time and resources to observe how they affect our mind and body. If you are intrigued of the potential benefits that can be found in CBD products, we would recommend starting with a CBD oil tincture as they are the most absorbable and fastest acting.

How is CBD Oil Made – The Extraction Process Explained

Posted on by Healing Botanica

The ubiquitous CBD oil has gained a fair share of popularity in recent times. From the common man to big-name celebrities, all have been found singing praises of the compound and how it helped them heal from some form of health condition.

Despite the popularity, research solidifying claims CBD users make is lacking. But this does not invalidate claims that have found CBD oil promising for various applications. It has been found to help relieve anxiety, pain, and other ailments.

One of the main benefits CBD oil boasts is the lack of THC. As you might know, THC is the actual compound that creates psychoactive effects that make the users “high”. It is a derivative of the Hemp plant, from which THCs have been bred out.Hemp oil after extraction

In light of the fact that CBD oil tinctures and CBD oil capsules are now becoming popular items in many people’s healing rituals, its manufacturing process should be common knowledge. For anyone who wants to hop on board this wellness train, here is how CBD oil ends up bottled in a glass decanter.

Cultivation

Like any other plant-based product, CBD oil starts with the cultivation of the Hemp plant. Famers use a clone or a cutting from a mature plant to get the exact type of plant they want. In most cases, the mother plant is the one with a higher concentration of CBD and less THC.

The clones are then allowed to acclimate to the climate for a few days before being planted to their permanent location. There, they are watered and tended from May to October.

Harvest

Once the plants have reached satisfactory maturity, they are harvested out of the ground. They are then left to air dry and get cured for a few weeks. Once the curing time has passed, the flowers are stripped from the plant and ground to the consistency of coffee grounds.

Extraction

Gel capsules

The ground-up flower is then steeped in a solvent, which may be CO2 or ethanol.  This depends on the manufacturer. However, CO2 is preferred as it creates the purest form of CBD. There is no residue of any other cannabinoids left after extraction.

Winterization

The next step involves a process called winterization. This removes any unwanted compounds such as lipids, waxes, fats, etc. This process is done when the oil is extracted as high pressure and temperature.

Once the oil is extracted, it is mixed with 200 proof alcohol and mix vigorously, ready to be frozen overnight. The next day, the fatty bits etc., freeze and leave the oil very cloudy.

It is filtered through a fine filter paper and all unwanted particles are removed. Once the impurities are filtered out, the alcohol is removed by heating the mixture.

Distillation

The crude oil is still in need of further refinement at this stage. For that, it goes through a short-path distillation process. This isolates the CBD and makes the oil purer.

This process is similar to winterization. The mixture is turned in a warm bath once again. Any remaining impurities are removed as the oil is heated to gradually rising boiling points. While other contaminants are removed, the manufacturers leave the terpenes they want in the CBD oil products.

Testing and Bottling

At this stage, the oil is tested for purity, quality, and strength. This usually happens in a lab not affiliated with the manufacturer.

Once the oil passes the test, it is bottled with a carrier oil to make it palatable for oral consumption. Or, the oil is infused in other products such as lotions, balms, soaps, and even some cosmetics.

Final Thoughts

This sums up a very brief explanation of how CBD oil is made. There are various details and factors that need to be considered for extracting the purest oil. However, knowing the process is essential when you’re buying CBD oil. Besides that, the other important factor to consider is how the Hemp was grown. You want to make sure that you know where your product comes from, especially if you’re going to put in or on your body.

What’s the Difference Between Using a CBD Tincture and A CBD Capsule?

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What’s the Difference Between Using a CBD Tincture and A CBD Capsule?

The market is flooded with CBD products, and tinctures and capsules seem to be at the top of the list. Unfortunately, there is so much mixed information on the web that it’s hard to decide whether a CBD tincture or CBD capsule is the best product.

The truth is that one product isn’t necessarily better than the other. It’s more about the individual person and their distinct needs. As a result, this article covers everything about CBD tinctures and CBD capsules, including the pros and cons of both.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. There are many species of cannabis, but manufacturers most often isolate CBD from the hemp and cannabis plants. THC-free CBD has been refined to eliminate most of the flavonoids and cannabinoids, and 0.3% THC CBD has been extracted while preserving all the compounds of the cannabis plant. Both THC-free CBD and CBD with 0.03% THC are federally legal dietary supplements.

After scientists found the many cannabinoids in cannabis, they discovered the human body has a special system that interacts with cannabinoids. It’s called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and it is part of the central nervous system. It has cannabinoid receptors that bind with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. That’s why CBD and THC affect everything from cognitive functions to inflammation; they directly interact with nerves.

What are CBD Tinctures?

Tinctures, in general, are herbal supplements that have been infused with alcohol and sometimes other ingredients like flavors, different oils, and more. They often come in small bottles and have a high concentrate of CBD.

People enjoy CBD tinctures for several reasons, such as:

  • Versatility: Tinctures can be used by themselves, in drinks, and foods like dressings and baked goods. It allows the individual to have fun, and they can even make their own tinctures. Tons of recipes are available on the web that incorporate tinctures into everything from smoothies to ice-creams.
  • Dosage: Taking consistent, regular doses with tinctures is much easier than other CBD products, because the same amount of CBD is in each dropper. With other products, the user cannot guarantee they are taking enough CBD nor a consistent amount of CBD.

That said, there are some disadvantages of using tinctures which include:

  • Manufacturer honesty: The only way to ensure a tincture has precisely what a seller says it does it to review their spec sheet if they have one. If they do not offer a spec sheet that list all the ingredients in their tincture, then it is possible that very little CBD is in the product or other undesirable ingredients are in the product.
  • Taste: Some tinctures taste bad. Sellers try to mask the taste, but there can be a bitter after taste, and a thick oily texture in your mouth.
  • Digestion and Potency: Anytime CBD is consumed through a food product like tinctures, edibles like gummies, and so forth, some of the potency is lost during digestion. Some defenders of CBD tinctures state they’re effective because the oil is absorbed under the tongue, but the majority of the oil goes to your stomach. Your stomach is very absorbent but it doesn’t absorb oil well.

Although many publications and experts weigh in on the CBD oil vs CBD capsule debate, few offer a truly unbiased evaluation of both products. While CBD tinctures offer many advantages, CBD capsules have their place too.

What are CBD Capsules?

CBD capsules are dietary supplements in a pill type form that are most often gel capsules that release the CBD oil once the pill has been swallowed. Manufacturers of CBD capsules create the oil first, which is usually limited to just a few ingredients, then it’s injected into soft gel capsules.

The advantages of capsules include:

  • Versatility: Like tinctures, capsules are very versatile. They can be bought over the internet or made at home where ingredients can be limited. They’re easy to take on the go too.
  • Dosage: It’s easy to take the same dose consistently.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Most manufacturers use very little ingredients in their CBD capsules. This is great for those who have food sensitivities, or those who want don’t want to ingest some of the ingredients in other CBD products.

CBD capsules come with a few disadvantages too, such as:

  • Digestion and Potency: Like the tinctures, some of the CBD’s potency is lost during digestion.
  • Determining dosage: Although it’s easy to take a consistent dose, figuring out how much CBD is in each capsule is a little complex. It takes dividing the total number of milligrams in the bottle by the number of gels. Plus, users cannot customize their dosage according to their needs.
  • Manufacturer Honesty: As previously state, look for a spec sheet to ensure the seller is honest about all the ingredients in their product and the purity of their product.

Choosing the Right CBD Tincture or CBD Capsule

The key to deciding whether a CBD tincture vs CBD capsule product is best is considering lifestyle factors, preferences, and distinct needs. It may take trying both products to decide which one is best for the individual.

Another thing the user needs to consider is whether or not they want THC-free CBD or CBD with 0.3% THC. While THC has just as many benefits as CBD, there are state laws governing the use of low-grade THC. Furthermore, THC will show up in a drug test, which could interfere with employment. This needs to be considered before purchasing either a tincture or capsule.

In Conclusion

CBD tinctures and CBD capsules seem to have equal pros and cons. Both products can lose potency but allow the user to take consistent CBD doses regularly. Tinctures may taste bad depending on the product and determining the amount of CBD in each capsule is a bit tedious. That said, every person has to consider what will work for them. It’s quite possible both products can be used at the same time; tinctures enter the bloodstream faster and capsules can give a more extended release of CBD.

 

Will CBD Cause Me to Fail a Drug Test?

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This is probably the most common question asked by new or prospective CBD Oil users. The answer to this question in its most basic form is “No,” but it isn’t exactly that simple. The reason being is that there are three different varieties of CBD Oil products; and many manufacturer labels fail to clearly specify which type the product is. The three different types of CBD products are Isolate, Full Spectrum, and Broad Spectrum. Broad Spectrum and CBD Isolate products contain 0.0% THC; and will not cause a failed drug test. Full Spectrum CBD formulations may legally contain a maximum of 0.3% THC and can theoretically invoke a false positive drug screen, though it is unlikely.

CBD Isolate

CBD Isolate products contain CBD in its most pure form. Consuming CBD Isolate products will not cause a false positive on a drug screen. Isolate products contain 99.9% CBD and no additional compounds from the Hemp Plant. CBD isolate in its purest form is a crystalline white powder. It is usually dissolved into a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or mct oil, to make it into an easily consumable tincture or other form.

Full Spectrum CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over a hundred different molecules, known as cannabinoids, which are naturally occurring compounds in the hemp plant. Thus far CBD has been found to have the most significant healing properties. Studies have found numerous other cannabinoids also have beneficial effects on the human body and Endocannabinoid System as well. Full Spectrum CBD products contain a high concentration of CBD; but are also comprised of other cannabinoids such as CBG, CBN, CBDA, and THC. Most people find Full Spectrum CBD to be the most effective form due to the synergistic healing of all included cannabinoids. THC is one of these cannabinoids, but the maximum concentration of THC that can legally be contained in CBD Oil 0.3%. Therefore, consuming Full Spectrum CBD products pose a very small chance of producing a false positive for marijuana on a drug screen. This usually only happens if consumed on a daily basis in high doses.

Broad Spectrum CBD

Broad spectrum CBD products are one of the newest, scientifically engineered, and most popular forms of CBD products. Broad Spectrum CBD consists of high quality CBD Oil Isolate combined with the additional benefits of other cannabinoids, except THC. This complex extraction method yields an extremely high quality of CBD oil capable of producing the “Entourage Effect” associated with the additional cannabinoids; and 0.0% THC. Therefore, Broad Spectrum products with not cause a failed drug test.

Pros and Cons of CBD Formulations Part 2 (Tinctures)

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Tinctures

Tinctures are by far the most versatile form of CBD available.  Tinctures can be administered sublingually, or ingested by simply swallowing the liquid solution.  Tinctures are taken sublingually to induce a more rapid onset of action (15-30 minutes) and to enhance its bioavailability (8%-22%).  When administered sublingually CBD is absorbed by capillaries under the tongue, which then transfer the molecules into the bloodstream.  The downside to sublingual administration is that the duration of effects are about half that of ingestion (2-4 hours). When liquid tinctures are ingested by swallowing their onset of action, duration, and bioavailability rates are identical to those of capsules and softgels.  Another added convenience of CBD tinctures is that you can just add the liquid solution to your favorite beverage.

 

Another very helpful advantage of CBD tinctures is the ability to adjust your dosage.  Tincture strengths are rated in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml).  Generally, the volume one full dropper is equal to 1 milliliter.  Many companies have their tincture droppers marked in graduated increments of 0.25ml.  This allows the user to adjust their dosage according to his or her personal tolerance or adjust for desired effect.

 

Tinctures are a very pure form of CBD.  They typically consist of CBD Isolate dissolved in a carrier oil (usually mct or coconut oil).  Full spectrum tinctures also contain hemp oil.  This is where the other cannabinoids and terpenes are found, which combine with CBD to help create the “Entourage Effect.”

Pros and Cons of CBD Formulations Part 1 (Capsules and Softgels)

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If you are new consumer to the booming CBD industry, choosing the right type of product for your needs can be quite overwhelming.  This article will discuss the some of the pros and cons of CBD Capsules and Softgels.

 

Capsules, Softgels, and Edibles

Each of these forms of CBD are consumed by ingestion, just as any other vitamin or supplement.  Since pretty much everyone is familiar with swallowing a pill, it makes this form of CBD the most commonly purchased.  With that being said, it doesn’t mean that capsules or softgels are necessarily the best option for you.  Some benefits capsules have over other formulations are the fact that they are the most convenient to administer; and they also have the longest duration of action.  The effects usually last from 4-6 hours.  Capsules come in a wide variety of strengths, varying  anywhere from 5 mg to 200 mg per capsule. Another positive of CBD capsules is that many manufacturers have began producing formulas which combine CBD with other natural herbs and amino acids to help enhance the product’s effects.   The drawbacks of capsules are due to the fact that they have to be processed by the GI tract and the liver.  This results in a delayed onset of action (30-90 minutes) before effects are felt and also a lower bioavailability percentage (6%-15%).