Natural CBD vs Synthetic CBD
Natural CBD has shown a swift rise in the popularity, with a growing array of CBD related products available for consumption.
Distinguishing the difference between natural & synthetic CBD can be confusing. In this article we will define the differences between natural & synthetic, with the proposed benefits associated.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound known as a cannabinoid, found within the cannabis plant. Cannabis holds over 100 different chemical compounds known as cannabinoids Some of these cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and lesser known cannabinoids, like CBD, CBN and CBG, CBD.
Each cannabinoid has its own unique set of distinguishable features including benefits, therapeutic properties, and chemical structure. CBD is noticeably popular in consumption & research for properties that can support pain management, sleep function, mood balance, inflammation and much more
Relaxed legal status’s surrounding CBD has led to manufacturing of products that contain CBD isolate. These products include oils, tinctures, topical creams and gels, and edibles.
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce therapeutic effects that are continually under review in modern research. This includes CBD. Research suggests that the Endocannabinoid System is a highly complex, cell signalling system that consists of endocannabinoids and receptors.
These receptors are found around the entire human body, most notably the brain & nervous system. Chemical interactions with the endocannabinoid system have been found to play a part in regulating human body processes through interactions with receptors.
What is Natural CBD?
CBD goes under a process of manufacturing and refinement before it is used within products. Natural CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, more specifically the Hemp plant.
It is then extracted, the method of extraction usually varies from ethanol extraction, cold pressing, or CO2 extraction. After the CBD has been successfully extracted, additional processing can be carried out.
The process of extraction can determine whether related cannabinoids are retained (this is known as Full Spectrum), selectively removed (this knows as Broad Spectrum) or completely removed (This is known as an isolate). Cannabinoid extraction is altered so suit requirements for different products.
CBD continues to be researched heavily, and has been shown to provide wide-ranging benefits that can influence both mental & physical wellbeing.
What is Synthetic CBD?
Whilst natural is produced from the Cannabis plant (or hemp plant to be specific), synthetic CBD is laboratory produced. This is carried out via chemical synthesis with the assistance of variable ingredients like limonene. It can also be carried out through Biological Synthesis, using bacteria or modified yeast.
Premium quality synthetic CBD is considered to have an almost identical chemical structure to natural. Synthetic CBD is an inviting alternative to natural, particularly for industries with strict regulatory guidelines. An example of this is the cosmetic industry.
Natural CBD is popular amongst users for its wide-ranging effects, the production of synthetic CBD is a valuable asset for a wide range of consumer applications requiring high yield and consistency.
Natural CBD vs Synthetic CBD
There are some notable differences between natural & synthetic CBD. There are also some striking similarities.
Synthetic CBD is generally manufactured to contain more specific cannabinoid volumes such as pure CBD molecules. On the other hand, natural extracts are often accompanied by a variety of other naturally occurring cannabinoids, flavonoids compounds, and terpenes.
There is a mixed chemical composition for naturally formed CBD, this can often include other cannabinoids & receptors. Some research suggests that naturally sourced CBD can be more receptive to the endocannabinoid system. As a result, the therapeutic effect of natural CBD can be considered more variable.
Synthetic CBD is often designed to have a high affinity for receptors, resulting in long-lasting effects. It also considered almost 5 times cheaper to produce than naturally sourced cannabidiol.
In comparison, natural is considered to have a moderate affinity for receptors. This usually means that the effects can be relatively short-term.
Natural is a popular option as the other naturally occurring compounds can work together to create an entourage effect. This is where the effects & benefits can be amplified by chemical reactions created by a mixture of individual compounds, creating increases in potency.
The Bottom Line
Depending on requirements, there are various reasons to choose natural or synthetic CBD, and it’s purely down to what end product is intended. Studies have shown similarity in chemical formation, with both providing therapeutic effects for the consumer.
Choosing high-quality CBD products from a reputable company is essential, and checking in with your health professional before starting use is recommended if you have any underlying health conditions.
For more information about CBD, please check out our FAQs or Blog
Looking to start your journey with CBD? Check out our Shop