With the legalization of marijuana spreading throughout the world, more and more companies are producing popular products such as CBD oil.
However, no two products are made the same, meaning that you need to be mindful when choosing the best CBD oil to purchase.
While many areas do not have strict regulations as to how this product is produced, it is up to the consumer to do their research in order to find CBD oils that are made of high-quality ingredients.
Also, you need to take into consideration what results you wish to achieve when choosing a CBD product.
Here are the top 5 factors you should consider when shopping for CBD oil:
1. Where is the Hemp Grown?
Just like any product you buy, knowing where the hemp is sourced is an important aspect of choosing the right CBD product.
Before you consider where the hemp is grown, first check to see if the manufacturer provides this information.
This is important information to have, since hemp will absorb the components found in the air, water and soil it is grown in.
Soils rich in nutrients are going to produce stronger and higher-quality products.
Overall, look for countries that have strict environmental regulations, such as the United States or Canada.
Tests do exist to determine whether the CBD oil contains contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. The elimination of these substances helps to prevent adverse side effects.
2. How are the Oils Extracted?
There are numerous methods used to extract the CBD oil from the hemp plant and which one is used will determine the purity of the product.
The cheapest way to extract CBD is by using a liquid solvent, such as ethanol, hexane, isopropyl alcohol and butanal. These carrier liquids will evaporate throughout the process but some traces can remain in the oil.
Vapor distillation and CO2 extraction, however, are cleaner and safer ways to extract CBD oil. Both processes involve no chemicals.
When it comes to knowing the extraction process for a CBD oil product, you can make a better decision about the quality of oil you choose to use.
3. Look for the Right Concentration
Not all CBD oils contain the same concentration of ingredients, so it’s important to make sure you get the potency you are looking for.
This information should be listed on the product label in milligrams. CBD oil products typically have a concentration range between 250mg and 1000mg.
If you are purchasing CBD oil for pain relief, anything above 250mg will be effective.
For those who are just beginning to use CBD oil, start with a low dose and gradually increase it to determine what concentration is effective for you.
Different conditions require different strengths of CBD.
4. Don’t Shop Based on Price
There are many companies producing many versions of CBD oils, so you may be tempted to purchase the cheapest product in order to save money.
Because “cheaper” usually equates with “low quality”, it can be risky using less expensive CBD oils.
This doesn’t mean you should necessarily opt for the most expensive products – just do some smart comparison shopping keeping the above considerations in mind before settling on a product.
Pay attention to third-parties that test and review CBD products to learn which ones are of high-quality and offered at a good value.
5. Isolated or Full-Spectrum
CBD oil is offered in two varities: isolated or full-spectrum.
Isolated CBD oils contain only a single compound of cannabis and work well for those seeking pain relief.
It is also a great option for those who are hesitant about ingesting THC.
Full-spectrum CBD oils, on the other hand, contain multiple cannabinoids such as flavonoids and terpenes as well as small amounts of THC.
These have been shown to offer numerous benefits when it comes to anxiety, pain, inflammation and seizures.
When it comes to choosing between the two, CBD isolate may be a good choice if you are looking to take large doses and want something flavorless and odorless.
Otherwise, if you are looking for a variety of flavors and a product that contains THC, you should try full-spectrum CBD oil.
Exercising Caution
With numerous CBD product options flooding the market, you need to be cautious when choosing a product.
Like anything you put on or in your body, you want to be sure the product you are using is a high-quality one that will help you achieve the desired effect as well as eliminate the risk of adverse side effects.
Keeping these five factors in mind when shopping for CBD oil will ensure you receive the best product for your needs.