What is CBD Shatter?

Written by Cathy Rozyczko — Edited by Jason Brett on September 27, 2021

CBD shatter is one of the purest forms of cannabidiol (CBD oil) that money can buy and it is completely free of THC. This makes CBD shatter an ideal product for anyone whose profession requires them to pass regular or random drug tests. (Some CBD oil products contain trace amounts of THC and have been known to trigger a positive result on a drug test.)

Sold in the form of small white rocks, this brittle compound is created using a rigorous filtration process. Once the process is complete, only CBD isolate remains, and terpenes are later added to create the shatter. Because CBD shatter is THC-free, it provides users with all the potential health benefits of CBD and some peace of mind, too.

If you’re investigating the range of CBD oil products available on the market, you may have found yourself wondering, “What is CBD shatter?” and, “Is it right for me?” Before making your next CBD oil purchase, we’ll fill you in on the details of CBD shatter so you can make an informed decision about whether or not you’d like to give it a try.

What Is CBD Isolate?

The primary ingredient in CBD shatter is CBD isolate; CBD isolate is CBD oil in its purest form. The CBD compound is extracted as usual from the hemp plant but then undergoes a more rigorous filtration process, removing any oils and remaining plant material from the final product. This filtration process removes any elements of THC that may have once been present in the CBD oil when it was in plant form, making it the best option for anyone who needs to avoid THC at all costs.

The end result is a fine, white, crystalline powder of 99% pure cannabidiol, possessing all of the anti-inflammation and pain relieving qualities that CBD oil is known for. In this state, the powder can be packaged and sold as it is and is often used for cooking because it’s totally devoid of flavor. Typically, however, the powder is further processed into a glass-like form known as CBD shatter.

What Is a Terpene?

Terpenes are aromatic metabolites which are found in the oils of fruit, herbs, and a number of other plants. There are over 20,000 types of terpenes that have been recorded, and the cannabis plant contains over 100 of these. Not only do terpenes provide flavor and aroma to the otherwise bland CBD shatter, but they also contribute their own potential health benefits, providing the user with the “entourage effect.”

The entourage effect refers to the way that terpenes work alongside CBD to create a more beneficial end result for the consumer. Each of the main terpenes found in cannabis has a unique profile, and because of this, their quantities can be tailored for a specific desired outcome. For example, humulene, the terpene dominant in hops, cloves, and coriander, suppresses appetite, making it useful for people trying to lose weight.

CBD Wax vs. CBD Shatter: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve heard of both CBD wax and CBD shatter, but aren’t sure what differentiates them, you’re not alone! Luckily, the answer to that question may be much simpler than you think.

Both CBD wax and CBD shatter go through the same extraction and filtration process, but CBD shatter is more high maintenance during the setting stage. CBD shatter needs to be protected from light and heat changes and cannot be physically disturbed while it sets. If any of these intrusions occur, crystals form on the once-transparent surface and it becomes opaque and the texture changes, turning the CBD shatter into CBD wax.

As far as purity and potency go, there isn’t too big of a difference between CBD wax and CBD shatter. However, because CBD shatter is the least disturbed during the setting process, you’re likely getting a slightly purer product than CBD wax. If you’re not sure which product is right for you, consult your doctor and test each to see which works best for your needs.

Choosing CBD Shatter

Due to the variety of terpenes that are added to CBD shatter, the flavor profile and effects will vary between products. While it can be tempting to choose the most delicious sounding flavor combination, do make sure that the terpenes that are included are going to provide the impact you’re looking for.

Here are just a few of the terpene profiles available in CBD shatter:

Caryophyllene:

• A spicy, peppery aromatic which can be found in black pepper and cloves.
• Ideal for anxiety and depression.

Limonene:

• The terpene found in citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges.
• Increases skin absorption—ideal for topical treatments.

Myrcene:

• An earthy, fruity aromatic found in thyme, basil, and mangoes.
• Found in large quantities in cannabis, produces a muscle relaxing and mild sedative effect, making it a great sleep aid.

How To Use CBD Shatter

CBD shatter is a product that can be used in a number of ways. Add it to foods or liquids, dab or vape it, or use it as a base to create your own CBD oil product.

Dabbing your shatter will require somewhat of a setup, but will produce fast and effective results. At the very least, you will need a rig, torch, nail, and dabber, but other CBD dabbing accessories will likely be helpful. Make sure to do your research, and perform this method carefully! It’s going to get hot.

When combining CBD shatter into food, consider the temperature before you add it, as the benefits of terpenes can decrease if they are heated above 100℃. When it comes to cooking with CBD shatter, timing is everything.

If you choose to dab or vape your CBD shatter, it’s recommended that you use a high-quality kitchen scale so you can break down your shatter into 10mg dosages. This will help you control and adjust your doses if you don’t initially get the results you’re after.  While 10mg is generally the recommended starting point, we suggest that you follow the dosage information supplied with your product and listen to your body. At the very least, consider contacting a cannabis doctor for more information on recommended doses and ingestion methods.

If you have further questions, consult your physician to discuss how CBD shatter may work for you.

For more information, check out:

• CBD Oil Dosage: General tips to assess how much CBD to take
• What is the Difference Between THC and CBD?
• What is the CBD Entourage Effect?

Learn More About CBD