Defining the Difference: Synthetic vs. Natural CBD

As our understanding of cannabis evolves alongside advancements in technology, we are seeing new versions of CBD and other cannabinoids. One of these new product categories being synthetic CBD. Synthetic cannabinoids are created through various processes by chemists, rather than being produced naturally in the plant like traditional CBD. The discussion of synthetic vs. natural CBD is gaining traction, and it’s important to understand the pro’s and con’s of each.

In this article, we’ll breakdown the key differences between the two, as well as the therapeutic potentials and risks these novel compounds present.

The key difference between synthetic and natural CBD

These two compounds are not so different in their final form, but worlds apart in their processing. Natural CBD is sourced directly from the hemp plant’s flowers. Synthetic cannabinoids are created through chemical intervention in a laboratory setting, often using ingredients like yeast, bacteria, or even orange peels. Though both forms are chemically identical, their origins set them apart. CBD has also been used to produce Delta-8 and other cannabinoid isomers to mimic the effects of THC. However these compounds have proven to be dangerously potent and remain unregulated on the market. 

CBD, or cannabidiol, is just one of over 100 different cannabinoids found in cannabis. Interestingly, cannabinoids aren’t unique to cannabis plants—they also occur naturally in our bodies as endocannabinoids. This discovery has led scientists to explore synthesizing cannabinoids in labs to mirror the ones found in nature.

The synthesis of cannabinoids, including CBD, dates back to 1965 when THC, another well-known cannabinoid, was first fully synthesized. Since then, the industry has experimented with producing cannabinoids like CBD without needing to grow the hemp plant. One major advantage of synthetic CBD is its purity. CBD can be isolated without the presence of other cannabinoids or plant compounds, making it ideal for creating targeted medical treatments, and of course meeting compliance standards.

Why were synthetic cannabinoids created in the first place?

Synthetic cannabinoids were initially created for two main reasons: recreational and medical use. In the recreational world, synthetic cannabinoids are notorious for their role in producing legal highs, but sometimes at a cost. Products like Spice and Black Mamba skirting drug laws by altering the chemical structure of cannabinoids to avoid classification as illegal substances. 

These unregulated synthetic products often led to severe side effects. Medical professionals have reported seeing patients experience extreme agitation and cardiovascular issues, far beyond what is typically seen with natural cannabis.

In contrast, synthetic CBD was developed with therapeutic purposes in mind. It all started when sciences aimed to replicate the positive effects of natural CBD without the psychoactive properties of THC. Unlike synthetic recreational drugs, medical-grade synthetic CBD is produced under strict regulations and quality controls, similar to the synthetic THC used in FDA-approved medications like Nabilone, which has been used to treat nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients since 2006. Many of these synthetic cannabinoids were successful in the treatment of epilepsy and many other life-altering conditions. Some, even long before CBD was available direct to consumers.

Is CBD isolate synthetic?

A common misconception is that CBD isolate, a highly purified form of CBD, is synthetic. However, CBD isolate can come from both natural and synthetic sources. What makes synthetic CBD isolates unique is that they are chemically identical to naturally derived CBD, but are synthesized in a lab. In the end, while all synthetic CBD is considered an isolate, not all isolates are synthetic.

Synthetic CBD typically comes in a crystalline powder form, which is then combined with a carrier oil for easy consumption. This is the same process used for natural CBD isolates, making the two almost indistinguishable at the molecular level. 

If you are curious if a CBD brand utilizes natural or synthetic cannabinoids, it is important to read their product descriptions and confirm whether it is hemp derived or not. 

The risks when consuming synthetic cannabinoids

Though synthetic cannabinoids are designed to mimic natural ones, they can have different effects on the body. Particularly, in large quantities of CBD. Some synthetic cannabinoids like delta-9 THC bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC, but with greater potency. Unfortunately, this can lead to more intense and dangerous side effects.

A 2018 study from the National Institutes of Health warned that synthetic cannabinoid products are associated with more severe adverse effects compared to natural cannabis, including respiratory problems, hypertension, anxiety, and even psychotic episodes. In extreme cases, synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to serious conditions like acute renal failure, seizures, and long-term psychiatric issues.

This doesn’t mean synthetic CBD is inherently dangerous—on the contrary, when produced correctly and consumed responsibly, synthetic CBD can be just as safe as its natural counterpart. However, because synthetic cannabinoids are relatively new and under-researched, especially compared to natural CBD, there’s still much to learn about their long-term effects and therapeutic potential.

Is natural always better?

From a consumer perspective, natural CBD is often seen as the “better” option. This is due largely to how it’s marketed as a more wholesome, plant-based alternative. Natural CBD is typically extracted using safe methods like CO2 or hydrocarbon extraction, and, poses little risk of contamination. Still, if these processes are mishandled, contaminants like heavy metals or solvents can end up in the final product.

Synthetic CBD is generally cheaper to produce than natural CBD, which is why it’s gaining attention in the pharmaceutical world. The cost-effectiveness, combined with its purity and consistency, makes it a compelling option for medical research and drug development. 

However, the public’s preference for natural remedies means that even if synthetic CBD is proven to be as effective, many patients and consumers may still opt for the natural version.

For example, a German study found that nearly three-quarters of epilepsy patients preferred natural CBD over synthetic options. Many said it was due to the “lack of chemicals” and “better tolerance.” This demonstrates that even as science advances, patient and consumer perception plays a crucial role in the future of the CBD industry. Other factors like environmental impact, supporting small businesses and farms, and safe access to testing may reshape the common beliefs around synthetic vs. natural CBD, but only time (and some proper market research) will tell! 

The choice is yours, and with CBD both options are okay

The debate between synthetic vs. natural CBD is far from settled, with both options offering unique advantages and challenges. Synthetic CBD provides a cost-effective, pure alternative for medical research, but questions about its long-term safety and efficacy remain. 

Meanwhile, natural CBD is favoured by consumers for its plant-based origins and therapeutic potential. As research into both forms of CBD continues, the key will be to ensure transparency, regulation, and informed consumer choice in an ever-evolving market.