Isolate
As its name suggests, an isolate is a chemical or substance that has been isolated or removed from its natural source. In medical cannabis, isolates refer to specific compounds that have been extracted from the cannabis plant and are used for medicinal purposes.
Why would you take an isolate medical cannabis product?
There are several reasons why isolates might be prescribed instead of the whole plant extract. Some patients may be sensitive to the psychoactive effects of THC and can benefit from a product containing only CBD. Others may require higher doses of a specific compound for their medical condition, which is more easily achieved with an isolate.
How are isolates produced?
Almost all medical cannabis extracts are produced through a process known as CO₂ supercritical extraction, which involves using pressurized carbon dioxide to separate and extract the desired compounds.
The result is a highly concentrated form of the source plant's chemical profile, containing all the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. This extract is then further processed through HPLC: High Performance Liquid Chromatography to remove all other compounds, leaving behind only the isolated compound.
Are isolates better than whole plant extracts?
No, not necessarily.
Some patients will benefit from an isolate medical cannabis product, while others will find greater symptomatic relief when taking a full or broad-spectrum extract which offer the entourage effect. It ultimately depends on the patient's specific health needs and their body's reaction to different compounds.
Your Releaf prescribing specialist will help you find the best medical cannabis product for your needs, whether it be an isolate or a whole plant extract.
Do any medical cannabis flower options offer isolates?
No.
While there are many medical cannabis cultivars that have been selectively bred to offer high levels of certain cannabinoids or terpenes, the nature of the flower means that there will always be a range of compounds present.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.