There’s a new trend in town: CBD isolates. CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabis compound that does not cause a psychotropic “high.” Instead, the compound provides a calming energy, sort of like a stronger ginkgo biloba tea. Recently, the cannabinoid has been found to be successful in clinical trials of epilepsy. Now, however, consumers in canna-friendly regions have access to purified CBD crystals. But, what are they exactly and how do you use them? Here are the details.

CBD crystals are isolated and purified extractions of the cannabis compound. Normally, hemp and other cannabis-based extracts contain at least trace amounts of other plant molecules.

This includes other cannabinoids related to CBD as well as aroma molecules called terpenes. Terpenes are responsible for the distinct aromas cannabis and hemp plants provide.

As an isolate, CBD crystals are created after the cannabinoid has been separated from these other compounds. This is CBD in its purest form.

Typically, CBD crystals contain between 98 and 99 percent isolated CBD. Similar products have been created using the primary psychoactive in the cannabis plant, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

There are several benefits to using CBD crystals. Since these crystals contain only CBD and virtually nothing else, they are very easy to dose. In fact, you can dose this purified form of CBD simply by weight.

For example, using a kitchen scale, you can measure out 10 milligrams of CBD crystals. This ensures that you are getting exactly 10 milligrams of the compound with no added fillers or impurities that may change the effects of the product.

Curious about CBD crystals? There are a few easy ways to use CBD isolates in the home. Five common uses of CBD crystals include:

One of the easiest ways to use CBD crystals is in baked goods and foods. They can be dissolved into fatty foods like butter, coconut milk, and other cooking oils. Then, these fats can be used to make your favorite dessert or dish. Using CBD crystals is much faster than trying to infuse CBD still attached to cannabis flower.

If you do want to infuse, try using the LEVO Oil Infuser.

Seeking a fast dose of CBD? Dab it!

CBD crystals can be dabbed using an oil rig or wax vaporizer just like any other cannabis concentrate. The major difference is that these crystals won’t cause a high. Instead, expect a fast sense of calm and possibly a slight but comfortable energetic uplift.

Dabbing is recommended only for consumers who have experience with this activity and are accept the risks of this form of smoking.

As a potent antioxidant, CBD is thought to be great for the skin. CBD isolates can be melted into a carrier oil like coconut oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, olive oil, or another favorite skin care oil. These oils can then be applied topically as a lotion or serum.

Another way to use CBD crystals is to dissolve them into an oil for an oil tincture. MCT oil and olive oil are two top choices for oil tinctures. These tinctures can then be placed in an amber or opaque glass dropper bottle and stored in a cool dark place for regular use.

CBD crystals can be used to make a DIY vapor pen. To do this, CBDOilSuk recommends dissolving up to 200 milligrams of CBD crystals into 10 milligrams of e-liquid. To dissolve, the liquid should be heated to 60 degrees Celsius (140 Fahrenheit).

Note: The information presented in this article is intended for helpful and informative purposes and should not be used in place of medical advice or treatment. Always listen to your body and work with a healthcare professional before experimenting with new treatments.