CBD Concentrates: Types, Potency & How They’re Made

CBD concentrates are highly refined cannabis extracts designed to deliver concentrated levels of cannabidiol (CBD) with little to no psychoactive THC.

Unlike general cannabis concentrates, which often emphasize high-THC products like shatter or live resin, CBD concentrates are typically formulated for non-intoxicating use. They are commonly chosen by individuals seeking therapeutic applications without the euphoric effects associated with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Understanding how CBD concentrates are made, how potent they are, and how they differ from other cannabis extracts is essential for safe and informed consumption.

What Are CBD Concentrates?

CBD concentrates are highly refined cannabis extracts that contain concentrated levels of cannabidiol (CBD) with little to no psychoactive THC. Unlike general cannabis concentrates that often focus on THC potency and recreational use, CBD concentrates are formulated for users seeking therapeutic or non-intoxicating effects.

A CBD concentrate is produced by extracting cannabinoids from cannabis plant material and refining the extract to increase CBD purity. Depending on the refinement process, these concentrates may contain:

• Pure CBD only

• CBD plus minor cannabinoids

• Trace amounts of THC within legal limits

CBD concentrates are commonly used in:

• Oils and tinctures

• Vape cartridges

• Softgels

• Edibles

• CBD Topicals

Because they are concentrated, they typically contain far higher CBD percentages than dried flower products.

According to Health Canada, cannabis products legally sold in Canada must comply with the Cannabis Act, including potency disclosure and strict packaging requirements (Health Canada – Cannabis Laws and Regulations).

Types of CBD Concentrates Explained

1. CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is the purest form of cannabidiol. It typically contains 99 percent or higher CBD and no detectable THC.

It is produced by removing all other plant compounds, including:

• Terpenes

• Flavonoids

• Minor cannabinoids

• Plant lipids

CBD isolate is often preferred by individuals who want:

• Zero THC exposure

• No cannabis aroma

• Precise dosing control

The World Health Organization states that CBD exhibits no effects indicative of abuse or dependence potential in humans (WHO Critical Review Report on Cannabidiol).

Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD contains cannabidiol along with other non-intoxicating cannabinoids such as:

• CBG (cannabigerol)

• CBC (cannabichromene)

However, THC is removed during refinement.

Broad-spectrum products aim to preserve the “entourage effect,” a proposed mechanism in which cannabinoids may work synergistically. Research published in Frontiers in Neurology discusses potential cannabinoid synergy, though further studies are still ongoing.

Full-Spectrum CBD

Full-spectrum CBD retains:

• CBD

• Minor cannabinoids

• Terpenes

• Trace THC

In Canada, THC levels in cannabis products are regulated under federal law. Edible cannabis products are limited to a maximum of 10 mg THC per package (Health Canada – Edible Cannabis Regulations).

Full-spectrum products may contain trace THC but must remain within legal limits and labeling standards.

CBD Distillate

CBD distillate is a highly refined extract produced through short-path or fractional distillation. It typically contains high CBD potency with minimal impurities.

Distillation removes unwanted plant compounds while concentrating cannabinoids.

CBD distillate is commonly used in:

• Vape formulations

• Infused edibles

• Oral tinctures

How CBD Concentrates Are Made

The extraction process determines purity, potency, and safety.

CO2 Extraction

Supercritical CO2 extraction uses pressurized carbon dioxide to isolate cannabinoids from plant material.

Benefits:

• No residual solvent contamination

• Precise temperature control

• High purity output

CO2 extraction is widely considered one of the safest commercial methods for cannabinoid extraction.

Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol extraction uses food-grade alcohol to extract cannabinoids and terpenes.

Advantages:

• Efficient for large-scale production

• Capable of producing full-spectrum extracts

However, the extract must undergo additional refinement to remove chlorophyll and unwanted compounds.

Winterization

Winterization removes fats, waxes, and lipids from crude extract by dissolving it in ethanol and cooling the solution.

This improves clarity and stability of the final product.

Distillation

Distillation separates cannabinoids based on boiling points. This step increases CBD concentration and removes impurities.

The result is a purified, high-potency CBD extract suitable for formulation into retail products.

How Potent Are CBD Concentrates?

CBD concentrate potency varies depending on type:

• CBD isolate: 99 percent or higher

• Distillate: 70 to 90 percent CBD

• Full-spectrum: variable, depending on formulation

Potency is typically expressed as:

• Percentage (e.g., 85% CBD)

• Milligrams per gram (e.g., 850 mg per gram)

Consumers should verify potency through third-party lab testing.

Health Canada requires licensed producers to conduct laboratory testing for:

• Cannabinoid potency

• Microbial contamination

• Pesticide residues

• Heavy metals

(Health Canada – Licensed Cannabis Testing Requirements)

Are CBD Concentrates Legal in Nova Scotia?

Cannabis is federally legal in Canada under the Cannabis Act.

In Nova Scotia:

• Legal age is 19

• Public possession limit is 30 grams of dried cannabis or equivalent

• Cannabis must be purchased from licensed retailers

CBD products derived from cannabis are legal when sold through authorized sources.

Products must comply with:

• THC limits

• Child-resistant packaging

• Mandatory health warnings

• Plain packaging standards

Consumers should avoid unregulated online sellers, as non-licensed products may not undergo mandatory safety testing.

How to Use CBD Concentrates Safely

CBD concentrates are potent. Responsible dosing is important.

Start Low and Adjust Gradually

If new to CBD:

• Begin with 5 to 10 mg

• Monitor response

• Increase slowly if needed

Consider Bioavailability

Oral CBD undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver. Bioavailability may be lower compared to inhalation methods.

A review published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology notes that oral CBD bioavailability can vary due to metabolism and individual differences.

Drug Interactions

CBD may interact with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Individuals taking:

• Blood thinners

• Anti-seizure medications

• Certain antidepressants

should consult a healthcare professional before use.

CBD Concentrates vs THC Concentrates

This distinction reinforces that CBD concentrates serve a different user intent than high-THC extracts.

Final Thoughts

CBD concentrates represent one of the most refined forms of cannabidiol available. Their safety and effectiveness depend on:

• Extraction quality

• Lab testing

• Regulatory compliance

• Responsible dosing

When purchased from TheSmokeBomb, a licensed Cannabis dispensary in Nova Scotia, CBD concentrates must meet strict federal safety and labeling standards.

Understanding the science behind extraction and potency allows consumers to make informed, compliant decisions.

Scientific – Research Based Sources

The following citations provide high-authority, peer-reviewed research and international health reports to support claims regarding CBD concentrates, extraction purity, the “entourage effect,” and pharmacological safety.

References