CBD Distillate vs Oil: Essential Differences You Must Know!

In the evolving world of cannabis products, two terms that frequently arise are CBD distillate and CBD oil. While both of these products offer the beneficial properties of CBD, there are distinct differences between the two that can influence a consumer’s choice. In this article, we delve into an enlightening comparison of “CBD Distillate vs CBD Oil.” We will explore their definitions, key differences, similarities, advantages, drawbacks, and specific situations where one might be chosen over the other.

What is CBD Distillate and What is CBD Oil?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant, specifically in hemp. CBD is known for its potential therapeutic effects without the psychoactive properties of THC, another compound found in cannabis. There are different types of CBD products available, including CBD distillate and CBD oil.

CBD Distillate is a highly refined cannabis extract often derived from high CBD hemp flower and hemp biomass. The distillation process for CBD is similar to that of distilling alcoholic spirits. It involves heating the plant material to create a vapor that is then cooled and condensed into a liquid form. The result is a highly concentrated, pure distillate. The process of distillation allows for the removal of all impurities, including waxes, chlorophyll, and other plant matter, leaving behind only the desired compounds like CBD and minor cannabinoids. However, it’s worth noting that this process may strip away terpenes and other beneficial compounds as well.

CBD Oil, on the other hand, typically refers to a product made by infusing a carrier oil (like coconut oil or olive oil) with CBD extract. The extract can come from hemp plants and may be a full-spectrum extract (containing other cannabinoids and terpenes), broad-spectrum (all compounds but THC), or CBD isolate (pure CBD). CBD oil is generally less processed than CBD distillate, which allows it to retain more of the natural compounds found in the hemp plant.

Key Differences Between CBD Distillate and CBD Oil

1. Level of Refinement: CBD distillate is highly refined and pure, whereas CBD oil is less refined and can contain a variety of other compounds from the hemp plant.
2. Production Process: CBD distillate undergoes a distillation process that involves heating and condensing the plant material, while CBD oil is made by infusing a carrier oil with CBD extract.
3. Purity: CBD distillate is almost pure CBD, often with a concentration above 80%. In contrast, the CBD content in CBD oil can vary significantly depending on the exact formulation.
4. Terpenes and other compounds: The distillation process used for CBD distillate often removes most terpenes and minor cannabinoids, whereas these can be present in CBD oil, particularly if it’s a full or broad-spectrum product.
5. Taste: Due to the removal of terpenes and other compounds, CBD distillate typically has a mild, neutral taste. In contrast, CBD oil can have a more distinct, often earthy taste due to the presence of these compounds.
6. Carrier Oil: CBD oil is typically mixed with a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to aid in absorption when consumed. CBD distillate, being a concentrated extract, doesn’t require a carrier oil.
7. Usage: CBD distillate is often used in the manufacturing of CBD products like gummies, tinctures, and topicals, whereas CBD oil is usually consumed directly or added to foods or drinks.
8. Price: Due to the extensive processing and high concentration of CBD, CBD distillate is usually more expensive than CBD oil.

Key Similarities Between CBD Distillate and CBD Oil

1. Source Material: Both CBD distillate and CBD oil are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, typically from hemp due to its high CBD and low THC content.
2. Non-Psychoactive: Both CBD oil and CBD distillate are non-psychoactive, meaning they will not cause the “high” associated with THC.
3. Potential Therapeutic Benefits: Both CBD oil and CBD distillate can offer the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD, including relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, and more.
4. Variety of Use: Both CBD oil and CBD distillate can be used in various forms, such as topicals, edibles, tinctures, and more.
5. Legal Status: Both CBD distillate and CBD oil derived from hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) are legal under U.S. federal law, but laws can vary by state and internationally.
6. Absorption: Both CBD distillate and CBD oil can be absorbed through the skin or digestive system, depending on how they’re used.

Pros of CBD Distillate Over CBD Oil

1. High Purity: CBD distillate is highly purified and can contain more than 80% CBD. This high concentration means that less product is needed to achieve the desired effects.
2. Taste: CBD distillate often has a more neutral taste than CBD oil due to the removal of other plant compounds during distillation. This can be advantageous for those who do not like the earthy taste of CBD oil.
3. Versatility: CBD distillate can be used in a variety of products, including edibles, tinctures, and topicals, providing a wide range of usage options.
4. No Carrier Oil: CBD distillate doesn’t need a carrier oil for consumption, which may be beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to certain oils used in CBD oil products.
5. Absence of Unwanted Compounds: The distillation process removes unwanted plant materials and potential contaminants, leaving only the desired cannabinoids.
6. Stronger Effects: Due to its high concentration, CBD distillate may offer stronger or more immediate effects compared to CBD oil.

Cons of CBD Distillate Compared to CBD Oil

1. Lack of Whole-Plant Benefits: CBD distillate does not offer the ‘entourage effect’ that you get with full-spectrum CBD oil. The entourage effect refers to the potential enhanced effects when CBD is taken along with other cannabinoids and terpenes present in the cannabis plant.
2. Price: CBD distillate tends to be more expensive than CBD oil due to the complex process required to create it.
3. Limited Minor Cannabinoids and Terpenes: The distillation process often removes minor cannabinoids and terpenes, which have potential therapeutic benefits of their own.
4. Potency: While high potency can be an advantage for some users, it could be a disadvantage for others. Higher concentrations of CBD can potentially lead to increased risk of side effects, particularly for those new to CBD.
5. Taste: The lack of terpenes and flavonoids in CBD distillate means it has a more neutral taste, which might be seen as a con for those who enjoy the natural flavors of hemp.
6. Risk of Unwanted Isolation: While the distillation process is designed to isolate CBD, it can sometimes inadvertently isolate unwanted compounds, such as residual solvents or pesticides, if present in the initial plant material.

Pros of CBD Oil Over CBD Distillate

1. Entourage Effect: CBD oil, especially full-spectrum CBD oil, can provide the entourage effect, where the combined effect of CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes can potentially enhance the overall therapeutic benefits.
2. Variety of Compounds: CBD oil often contains a wider variety of beneficial compounds, including minor cannabinoids and terpenes, that are lost in the distillation process used for CBD distillate.
3. Carrier Oils: The carrier oils used in CBD oil can offer additional benefits. For instance, coconut oil can provide additional fatty acids and antioxidants, while hemp seed oil contains essential amino acids and vitamins.
4. Taste: While some might find the earthy flavor of CBD oil to be a drawback, others enjoy the natural flavor and find it to add to the holistic experience of consuming CBD products.
5. Price: CBD oil tends to be less expensive than CBD distillate, making it more accessible for some users.
6. Ease of Dosing: CBD oil usually comes in a dropper bottle, which can make it easier to adjust your dose and find the right amount for your needs.

Cons of CBD Oil Compared to CBD Distillate

1. Lower Concentration: CBD oil typically has a lower concentration of CBD compared to CBD distillate. This might mean you need to consume more of the product to achieve the same effect.
2. Taste: The natural, earthy flavor of CBD oil can be strong and unpleasant for some users, particularly those who are new to CBD products.
3. Potential for More Impurities: While reputable manufacturers will ensure their CBD oil is clean and free from contaminants, CBD oil is generally less refined than CBD distillate and could potentially contain more impurities.
4. Carrier Oil Sensitivities: Some people may be sensitive or allergic to the carrier oils used in CBD oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil.
5. Variability: There can be significant variability in the CBD content of CBD oil products, depending on the exact formulation. This can make it more difficult to get a consistent dose.
6. Longer Onset Time: Because CBD oil is usually taken orally and absorbed through the digestive system, it may have a longer onset time compared to CBD distillate, which is often vaporized and absorbed quickly through the lungs.

Situations When CBD Distillate is Better Than CBD Oil

1. High Potency Requirement: If you require a high concentration of CBD for therapeutic reasons, CBD distillate, with its high CBD content, might be a better choice.
2. Sensitivity to Taste: If you are sensitive to the earthy taste of CBD oil, CBD distillate, with its neutral taste, could be a more suitable option.
3. Sensitivity to Carrier Oils: If you have allergies or sensitivities to certain carrier oils used in CBD oil, you might prefer CBD distillate, which doesn’t require a carrier oil.
4. Product Manufacturing: If you’re making your own CBD-infused products, such as edibles or topicals, CBD distillate can be a better choice due to its high concentration and versatility.
5. Fast Absorption: If you’re looking for a CBD product that can be quickly absorbed, CBD distillate, when vaporized, may offer a faster onset of effects compared to CBD oil.
6. Avoiding Certain Compounds: If you want to avoid certain compounds present in the whole hemp plant, like certain terpenes or minor cannabinoids, CBD distillate might be the better choice due to its more refined nature.

Situations When CBD Oil is Better Than CBD Distillate

1. Desire for the Entourage Effect: If you want the potential added benefits of the ‘entourage effect,’ CBD oil, especially full-spectrum CBD oil, might be a better option as it contains other beneficial compounds.
2. Preference for Natural Flavor: If you enjoy the natural, earthy flavor of hemp, you might prefer CBD oil, which retains more of these flavor compounds compared to CBD distillate.
3. Budget Considerations: If you’re on a budget, CBD oil is generally less expensive than CBD distillate and might be a more affordable option.
4. Beginners: If you’re new to CBD, starting with CBD oil could be a good idea as it typically has a lower concentration of CBD, allowing you to start with smaller doses and adjust gradually.
5. Additional Benefits of Carrier Oils: If you’re looking for the added potential health benefits offered by carrier oils used in CBD oil, such as omega fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, CBD oil might be the better choice.
6. Ease of Dosing: CBD oil usually comes in a dropper bottle, which can make it easier to measure and adjust your dose. This can be particularly helpful for beginners or those needing precise dosing.

CBD Distillate vs CBD Oil Summary

In conclusion, the choice between CBD distillate and CBD oil depends largely on individual preferences, needs, and circumstances. Both products offer the therapeutic benefits of CBD, but their differences in concentration, composition, taste, cost, and ease of use can influence your decision. Whether you prefer the high potency and neutral taste of CBD distillate, or the full spectrum benefits and natural flavor of CBD oil, understanding these factors can guide you towards a more personalized and effective CBD experience. Remember, when starting any new wellness regimen, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it’s the best choice for your specific needs.

	CBD Distillate	CBD Oil
Definition	A highly purified form of CBD extracted from the hemp plant, often contains over 80% CBD, lacks many other plant compounds	An extract from the hemp plant that is often mixed with a carrier oil, contains a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes
Differences	High concentration of CBD, neutral taste, no carrier oil needed, highly purified, may offer stronger effects	Contains a wider range of plant compounds, offers the ‘entourage effect’, variable concentrations of CBD, earthy taste
Similarities	Both are derived from hemp, can be used to treat similar conditions, provide a source of CBD, legal under federal law in the U.S.
Pros	High CBD concentration, more neutral taste, versatile, doesn’t require a carrier oil, less unwanted plant material, potentially stronger effects	Provides the ‘entourage effect’, contains a wider variety of beneficial compounds, potentially more affordable, can offer the added benefits of carrier oils, easier to dose
Cons	Lacks ‘entourage effect’, potentially more expensive, fewer minor cannabinoids and terpenes, high concentration could increase risk of side effects, neutral taste could be a con for some, risk of unwanted compound isolation	Lower concentration of CBD, taste can be unpleasant for some, potentially more impurities, possible sensitivity to carrier oils, variability in CBD content, potentially longer onset time
Best In Situations	High potency requirement, sensitivity to taste or carrier oils, product manufacturing, need for quick absorption, when certain compounds need to be avoided	Desire for ‘entourage effect’, preference for natural flavor, budget considerations, for beginners, when seeking benefits of carrier oils, when precise dosing is needed

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