The cannabidiol (CBD) market continues to grow thanks to its numerous therapeutic benefits, both in France and worldwide. But to choose the right CBD products for our needs, it’s essential to understand the differences between the various parts of the cannabis plant. In this article, we’ll highlight two often-confused elements: CBD buds and CBD trim. CBD buds: cannabinoid-rich flowers CBD buds, also called CBD buds or flowers, are the floral parts of the cannabis plant. These structures contain the highest number of trichome-producing glands, the tiny crystals that hold the valuable cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids responsible for CBD’s beneficial effects on our health. Thus, CBD buds have a high concentration of cannabidiol—a component without psychoactive effects, unlike THC, which is present in recreational cannabis. In France, CBD buds sold on the market generally comply with strict regulations, imposing very low THC levels—less than 0.2%. This threshold therefore corresponds to French and European legal standards. CBD Flowers: Different VarietiesCBD flowers are available in a wide range of forms and varieties depending on the plant’s botanical characteristics and consumer needs. Here are a few examples of varieties:
Sativa Hybrids:
These strains generally offer a higher concentration of CBD, with a therapeutic effect focused on mental stimulation.Indica:Indica varieties are prized for their physical relaxation and general calming effect, promoting sleep.
Ruderalis:
CBD flowers from Ruderalis plants are valued for their low THC levels and their tolerance to more challenging growing conditions.
CBD Trim: The Optimal Use of Plant Waste
- Not to be confused with CBD buds, trim refers to the small leaves
- found around the buds during cannabis harvesting and trimming. CBD trim also contains trichomes and other interesting components, although generally in smaller proportions than in CBD buds.
- However, it would be a shame to throw away this plant waste, as it can be used in various applications. CBD trim is thus used in the production of numerous cannabidiol-based products, such as oils, topical creams, e-liquids for electronic cigarettes, and even infusions.
Different Extraction Methods To get the most out of CBD trim and obtain a final product with a sufficient concentration of cannabinoids, several methods can be used: Vegetable Oil Method: This natural technique involves mixing the CBD trim with an oil (such as olive or coconut oil) to dissolve the cannabinoids and create a solid product.Gas Method:
Supercritical CO2 extraction is a more sophisticated method that yields higher purity of cannabinoids and other active components. However, it requires specific and expensive equipment.
Ethyl Alcohol Method:
Also called alcohol tincture, this method involves soaking the CBD trim in ethanol to extract the cannabinoids before the alcohol evaporates. The end result is a higher concentration of cannabidiol.
- CBD Flowers vs. CBD Trim: Choosing Based on Your Needs
- When it comes time to choose between CBD buds and CBD trim, it’s essential to consider your own needs and preferences. CBD flowers will likely be preferred for… Consumers seeking the highest cannabidiol levels and superior quality
- Indeed, they offer a wider variety of terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial substances for a more effective “entourage effect.”
On the other hand, CBD trim represents an interesting alternative for those who want to optimize the cost of their product or explore different methods of CBD consumption. Although the cannabinoid concentrations are lower in these plant residues, they are far from useless and can be used in various cannabidiol-based recipes. Ultimately, there is no single answer to this question, as
the choice between CBD buds and CBD trim will depend on each user’s individual expectations and needs .
