Nano CBD: The Next “Big” Thing in Cannabidiol

Posted on by TJ
A bottle of CBD oil. Text reads "Nano CBD: The Next 'Big' Thing"

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is all but a household name at this point. As the cannabinoid’s popularity grows so too does the technology used to create products. Enter nano CBD, an innovation in cannabis manufacturing with lots of fun potential.

In this post, we’ll explore what nano CBD is and,

  • How it’s made
  • What we can do with it
  • And its benefits, if any, over traditional CBD

What Is Nano CBD?

Nano CBD refers to cannabidiol molecules that we’ve broken down into tiny (<100 nanometers) in size. For reference, human hair is between 80,000 and 100,000 nanometers wide.

Is Smaller Better?

Sure, we can make CBD smaller, but does that really make it better?

Traditional CBD is fat-soluble and hydrophobic, meaning that it doesn’t dissolve in water. Since the human body is about 60% water, it is somewhat difficult for our bodies to absorb CBD efficiently.

Some studies have found that nano CBD has better bioavailability than traditional CBD.1 Bioavailability is a measure of how fast and effectively the compound is absorbed into the bloodstream. Nano CBD’s smaller size means that it can mix more readily with water, leading to better absorption.

How Is Nano CBD Made?

Step 1: Extraction

We can make nano CBD in a few ways. First things first, though, we start by extracting CBD from our hemp flower using either carbon dioxide or ethanol.

To read more about extracting CBD from hemp flower, please see our blog about extraction here.

Step 2: Nanoemulsification

Once we distill our extraction down and isolate our CBD molecules, the nano emulsification process can begin. We can use one of two methods:

  1. Ultrasonic Waves: We can use ultrasonic waves to vibrate and break down CBD into nanoparticles. This high-frequency sonication works by disrupting the bonds in the CBD molecules.
  2. High-Pressure Homogenization: We can also use high pressure to break down CBD. This technique involves forcing our CBD molecules through a narrow space, breaking the bonds between the particles.

Step 3: Encapsulation

We’re not done yet. To ensure that our nano emulsification remains shelf-stable, we need to trap the nano CBD in a carrier substance.

  1. Liposomes: These are tiny spherical vesicles that can encapsulate nano CBD particles, improving their stability and absorption. Liposomes mimic our body’s natural cell membranes, making the CBD’s absorption easier.
  2. Microemulsions: Another method involves creating microemulsions, where the nano CBD particles are suspended in a mixture of water and oil, stabilized by surfactants.

Step 4: Formulation

Once we have a stable encapsulation, we can use our nano CBD to create other products. Tinctures and edibles are always popular categories, but because nano CBD is water soluble, we can infuse it into beverages and water-based topical products.

Benefits of Nano CBD

  1. Enhanced Absorption: One of the primary advantages of using a nano CBD product over traditional CBD is its bioavailability. Because the particles are so small, they can reach your bloodstream more efficiently and be more easily absorbed than traditional CBD products.
  2. Faster Onset: Nano CBD’s better absorption rate also lends itself to a faster onset of effects. Whereas a traditional CBD edible may take up to an hour to start working, an edible or beverage infused with nano CBD can take as few as 10 minutes to start working. This is especially valuable for folks who use CBD to treat sudden pain or panic.
  3. Versatility: Nano CBD’s water solubility allows us to incorporate it into a much wider range of products. We can use it to make CBD tinctures, edibles, lozenges, beverages, and topicals.

Drawbacks

Unfortunately, nano CBD isn’t all upside. This form of CBD does have some drawbacks.

  1. Shelf Stability: We can store traditional hemp extracts for years at a time with no drop in potency or effectiveness. Unfortunately, nano emulsifications don’t last as long, meaning that when we make nano CBD, we need to infuse it into a product quickly.
  2. Shortened Efficacy: While nano CBD has a much faster onset, that means that it also works its way out of your system more quickly. If you’re looking for sustained effects from your CBD, nano might be a no-go.

FAQ’s

Is Nano CBD Better?

It’s impossible to flat-out say which form of CBD is better. They serve different purposes. If you prefer to drink CBD-infused beverages and have a faster onset of effects, then you should choose to consume nano CBD. If you prefer longer, sustained effects and more affordable products, then traditional CBD is the way to go.

Is Nano Hemp The Same As CBD?

Nano Hemp may or may not be CBD, depending on the product. Be wary of any product that advertises milligrams “mgs” of hemp. Be sure to look at the product’s certificate of analysis (COA) to determine whether or not it actually contains CBD. Many “hemp” products sold on online marketplaces like Amazon don’t actually contain any CBD at all.

Related: CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil: 3 Big Differences

Does Nano CBD Have Any Side Effects?

Nano CBD has the same side effects as other CBD products. Some of the most common include:

  • Change in appetite.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Nausea.
  • Dizziness.
  • Upset Stomach.

Is It Safe?

Preliminary research into nano CBD’s safety suggests that it’s just as safe and effective as traditional CBD. Before you buy anything online, be sure to:

  1. Consult your healthcare provider. This is especially true if you’ve never taken CBD or are taking any medications.
  2. Choose products from reputable companies that provide third-party testing documents.

Conclusion

Nano CBD represents a significant advancement in the world of cannabidiol, promising improved absorption, faster effects, and greater potency. While it may be more expensive now, be patient. As it gains popularity and becomes more widely available, expect the price to come down.

Sources

  1. Grifoni, Lucia et al. “Promising Nanocarriers to Enhance Solubility and Bioavailability of Cannabidiol for a Plethora of Therapeutic Opportunities.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 27,18 6070. 17 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3390/molecules27186070
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