CBD Crystals: What Are They and How to Use Them
In the West, a new trend has emerged in the cannabis market: pure CBD extracts that contain no other cannabinoids. Unlike the psychoactive THC, this substance does not produce the intoxicating effects typically associated with marijuana. On the contrary, CBD is known for its noticeable pain-relieving and calming properties, somewhat reminiscent of a potent ginkgo extract. Currently, CBD extracts are widely used to treat chronic illnesses and to relieve pain in terminally ill patients. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the latest innovation in this segment of the cannabis market: crystals that contain pure, concentrated CBD. What exactly is this product, and how should it be consumed? Let’s explore the answers to these questions.
Properties of CBD Crystals
Essentially, cannabinoid crystals are the purest form of a specific cannabis extract. Any cannabis plant or extract made using other methods contains a mixture of various substances, some of which are present in the plant in only trace amounts.
The plant also contains many terpenes—aromatic compounds responsible for the characteristic smell and taste of cannabis.
With crystals, you’re dealing with CBD without any impurities: they contain no THC, no other cannabinoids, and no terpenes, offering the highest possible concentration of therapeutic CBD.
In fact, individual crystals have a 98–99% concentration of CBD. Extraction experts also produce isolated THC crystals, which are currently the most effective (in terms of psychoactive effects) known form of marijuana consumption.
For medical users, crystals are a very convenient form of medication: the product does not cause side effects like intoxication and is very easy to dose. A single crystal may be enough to provide a strong and long-lasting therapeutic effect for the average user. Since the product contains no THC, unlike some other extracts, it cannot physically cause marijuana overdose symptoms such as panic or paranoia.
Because crystals are pure CBD, their weight essentially equals the amount of CBD they contain. For example, a handful of crystals weighing 100 milligrams will contain about the same amount of active ingredient.
Ways to Consume CBD Crystals
CBD crystals can be consumed in several ways. Here are five of the most popular methods in the United States:
1. Consuming with Food
The easiest way to use crystals is to add them to heated food or drinks. Like other cannabinoids, CBD crystals dissolve in fatty substances such as butter, coconut oil, or any other edible oil. Simply dissolve the crystals in oil and add them to your favorite dish. In this form, CBD dissolves much faster than when making extracts from fresh buds.
2. Dabbing
Pure cannabinoid crystals can be consumed using a device designed for smoking plant resins or concentrates, commonly known as “dabbing” in the West. This method is popular because of the rapid onset of effects. However, instead of a sudden wave of intoxication, users typically experience a feeling of complete relaxation and mild euphoria just seconds after inhaling the vapor.
It’s important to note that the vapor produced when smoking crystals and cannabinoid resins is always very dense and harsh. If you need medical marijuana but are not an experienced smoker, this technique may cause more discomfort than relief.
3. Topical Oil
As a powerful antioxidant, CBD is extremely beneficial for the skin and can be used to treat dermatological conditions. In this case, the crystals should be mixed with a fatty base, such as butter, coconut oil, or your favorite massage oil. Once the crystals have dissolved, the oil can be applied to affected areas of the skin. This form can also be used to relieve joint pain.
4. Oil-Based Tincture
Crystals can also be dissolved in a prepared tincture based on olive oil or MCT oil. The finished tincture is stored in an opaque bottle with a dropper, allowing you to take the medicine orally by placing a few drops under the tongue. The product should be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve its therapeutic properties.
5. E-Liquid for Vaporizers
Finally, it’s quite easy to make your own e-liquid for electronic vaporizers from crystals. The best way is to dissolve about 200 milligrams of crystals in 10 milliliters of your preferred vaping liquid. The substances will begin to vaporize when the liquid is heated to 60 degrees Celsius (140°F).