What Are Cannabis Extracts?
Published: 24 November 2025
Last Updated: 24 July 2026
Last Reviewed: 24 July 2026
Author: Weed Supermarket Editorial Team
A Guide to CBD and CBG Isolates in the UK
As interest in cannabinoids continues to grow, extracts and isolates have become some of the most widely discussed hemp-derived products in the UK. Unlike raw plant material, these highly refined ingredients can be incorporated into oils, capsules, foods and other formulations.
This guide explains what cannabis extracts and isolates are, how they differ, their legal status in the UK and what current scientific research says about cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG.
What Are Cannabis Extracts?
Cannabis extracts are concentrated products produced by separating cannabinoids and other naturally occurring compounds from the Cannabis sativa plant.
Depending on the manufacturing process, extracts may contain:
- CBD (Cannabidiol).
- CBG (Cannabigerol).
- CBN (Cannabinol).
- Other naturally occurring cannabinoids.
- Terpenes.
Extracts are commonly used in oils, capsules, topical products and other cannabinoid formulations.
What Is a Cannabis Isolate?
An isolate is a highly purified cannabinoid containing one individual cannabinoid, such as CBD or CBG, while other naturally occurring plant compounds have been removed.
CBD isolate and CBG isolate typically appear as fine white crystalline powders and are valued for their high purity.
Because isolates contain only a single cannabinoid, they are often used in research and formulated products where precise cannabinoid composition is required.
CBD Isolate vs CBG Isolate
| CBD Isolate | CBG Isolate |
|---|---|
| Contains purified cannabidiol. | Contains purified cannabigerol. |
| One of the most extensively researched cannabinoids. | An emerging area of cannabinoid research. |
| Widely used in consumer products. | Increasingly available in specialist formulations. |
| Non-intoxicating. | Non-intoxicating. |
Both cannabinoids continue to be studied for their biological activity, although research into CBG remains at an earlier stage.
How Are Isolates Used?
Cannabinoid isolates are versatile ingredients used by manufacturers in a variety of formulations.
Examples include:
- Capsules.
- Oils.
- Beverages.
- Food products.
- Cosmetics.
- Research applications.
The suitability of any particular formulation depends on its intended purpose and applicable regulations.
The Endocannabinoid System
Researchers believe cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex signalling network involved in maintaining normal physiological function.
Although scientific understanding continues to develop, the precise mechanisms of many cannabinoids remain the subject of ongoing research.
Learn more in our guide explaining the CBD Entourage Effect.
What Does Current Research Say?
Scientists continue to investigate cannabinoids across numerous areas of medicine and biology.
Current research has explored their potential role in areas including:
- Pain.
- Inflammation.
- Sleep.
- Anxiety.
- Neurological conditions.
- Immune system function.
While findings are encouraging in some areas, further high-quality clinical trials are required before firm conclusions can be drawn.
CBD and CBG Research
CBD has been studied more extensively than most other cannabinoids and has an established role within certain licensed prescription medicines.
CBG has attracted increasing research interest, with early studies investigating its pharmacological properties and potential biological activity.
The evidence base for CBG remains considerably smaller than that for CBD, and additional clinical research is needed.
Is It Legal in the UK?
Hemp-derived cannabinoid products are subject to specific UK legislation.
Among other requirements, businesses should ensure products comply with applicable regulations relating to:
- Novel Foods.
- THC limits.
- Product safety.
- Labelling.
- Laboratory testing.
Read more in our UK Compliance & Laboratory Testing guide.
Choosing Quality Products
Consumers should look for products supported by transparent quality assurance.
Useful indicators include:
- Independent laboratory testing.
- Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
- Batch numbers.
- Clear ingredient information.
- Transparent company information.
These measures improve transparency regarding product composition.
What About Pets?
Interest in cannabinoids for companion animals has increased in recent years.
However, research in veterinary medicine remains limited, and there are currently no widely licensed veterinary CBD products for routine use in the UK.
Pet owners should always seek advice from a qualified veterinary professional before administering cannabinoid products to animals.
Related Guides
- Understanding the CBD Entourage Effect
- What Is CBG?
- What Is CBN?
- CBD & CBG Isolates & Extracts
- UK Compliance & Laboratory Testing
- Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cannabis isolate?
A cannabis isolate is a highly purified form of a single cannabinoid, such as CBD or CBG, with other naturally occurring compounds removed.
What is the difference between an extract and an isolate?
Extracts may contain multiple cannabinoids and other naturally occurring plant compounds, whereas isolates contain only one purified cannabinoid.
Are CBD and CBG intoxicating?
CBD and CBG are generally regarded as non-intoxicating cannabinoids and do not produce the characteristic psychoactive effects associated with THC.
Are cannabis extracts legal in the UK?
Hemp-derived cannabinoid products may be legal when they comply with applicable UK legislation and regulatory requirements.
Why are laboratory certificates important?
Independent laboratory testing helps verify cannabinoid composition and screen for contaminants, providing greater product transparency.
Can cannabinoids be used for medical conditions?
Some cannabinoids are being investigated in clinical research, and certain cannabis-based medicines are available on prescription in limited circumstances. Consumer CBD products should not be regarded as medicines unless specifically licensed.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis extracts and isolates represent an important area of cannabinoid research and product development.
As scientific understanding and regulation continue to evolve, consumers should prioritise transparency, independent laboratory testing and evidence-based information when learning about cannabinoid products.
Further Reading
Compliance Statement
This article is intended for educational purposes only. It discusses hemp-derived cannabinoid extracts, current scientific research and UK regulations. It does not provide medical advice or claim that consumer cannabinoid products diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. Always consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding medical concerns.
