CBD Oil Buyers Guide: Buy Cannabidiol with Confidence

Cannabidiol (CBD) hemp oil is taking the health and wellness community by storm.

Between news coverage and personal testimonies, it is a highly talked about wellness supplement. After reading the positive response to CBD, you may have interest in trying it for yourself. You may be researching online sources that offer CBD hemp oil for sale or may be thinking, “I want to buy near me.” Either way, this comprehensive guide is designed to help you find the CBD product which best suits you.

What is CBD

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a chemical compound that is highly prevalent in the cannabis plant.

It is a non-psychoactive compound that can be extracted in the form of an oil. This oil can be consumed as is or can be infused into a variety of products. Currently, CBD is being studied thoroughly for a range of therapeutic effects.

 

Summary of CBD Product Terms

Hemp:

A variety of the cannabis plant species that is grown specifically for industrial uses. Hemp has low levels of THC and high levels of CBD and thus does not have psychoactive properties.

 

Cannabis:

A genus (group) of flowering plants that include three different species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa species.

 

Cannabinoid:

A class of chemical compounds that react with our cannabinoid receptors.

 

Phytocannabinoid:

A cannabinoid that is derived from a plant, namely, cannabis.

 

Cannabidiol:

A non-psychotropic cannabinoid of the cannabis plant. Also referred to as CBD.

 

Tetrahydrocannabinol:

A main psychoactive cannabinoid of the cannabis plant. Also referred to as THC.

 

Psychoactive substance:

A chemical substance that changes the function of the brain and creates an alteration in perception, mood, or consciousness.

 

Extraction:

The action of removing the cannabinoids and flavors of hemp from the plant parts.

 

Decarboxylation:

A chemical reaction that requires heat to remove a carboxyl group and release carbon dioxide. The decarboxylation of CBDa (the precursor of CBD) to CBD “activates” the CBD. This allows us to experience the full benefits of CBD.


Hemp Oil:

Oil extracted from high-CBD, low-THC hemp. Hemp oil contains trace amounts of THC and is therefore non-psychoactive.

 

Infusion:

The introduction hemp into another substance, such as food or skincare.

 

Potency:

The strength of a solution. Strength refers to how much CBD is in a product.

 

Concentration:

The amount of a substance contained within a solution or in a particular volume of space.

 

Capsule:

A small container that surrounds a supplement.

 

Concentrate:

A concentrated form of hemp oil. Concentrates are oils extracted right from the hemp plant without additives.

 

Tincture:

Liquid extracts that are taken sublingually.

 

Edbiles:

Food infused with CBD, such as chocolate or gum.

 

Topical:

Products applied directly to the body, such as lotion or salve.

 

Vape:

Vaporizing the active ingredients of plant material for inhalation.

 

Sublingual:

A solution applied underneath the tongue.

 

How to Find a Reputable Source

Before purchasing CBD oil, it is of the utmost importance to confirm that the source you are purchasing from is reputable. As the market for CBD grows, as does the number of illegitimate sources. You can avoid these sources by looking for the following features:

Sourcing 

Where hemp comes from can be an indicator of its quality. Hemp must be grown in the right conditions and with the proper care. Hemp is a bioaccumulator, meaning it pulls from the soil. While this has benefits, it also means that the plant pulls up any chemicals that are used in the growing process. Look for hemp oil sourced from hemp that is grown free of any chemical fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides.

The experience of the hemp farmers should also be considered. Many reputable brands source from Europe, where farmers have had years of experience growing hemp in their climate. While European countries have different standards for growing hemp, the overall standard is high, which often leads to a more quality product. As the number of hemp farms grows in the United States, we predict to see more domestic sourcing of hemp; however, as of now, Europe has set the standard for hemp quality.

 

Extraction Method 

Hemp oil can be extracted a number of ways, but not all are equal. The highest standard of extraction is the CO2 method, where hemp is put under high pressure and low temperatures. This process eliminates the need for using harsh chemicals. While this is a complex method, it is the cleanest and safest method of extraction and ensures a pure CBD product.

 

Testing 

Proper testing of hemp oil must be performed periodically in order to confirm potency and check for impurities. These tests ensure that the amount of CBD on the label is what is in the product. They also confirm that the legal level of THC (0.3%) is not exceeded. Proper testing shows the company’s transparency in their practice.

The results of these tests can be found in the form of a COA, or a certificate of analysis. A reputable source will test consistently and should have a recent COA available to anyone who asks.

 

Ways to Take CBD

Once you’ve determined that a source is reputable, the next step is to decide the best method for taking CBD.

CBD oil is a versatile ingredient and can be taken as is or can be infused into a variety of products. The method that you choose is determined by a number of preferences including the route of delivery, the speed of delivery, and the CBD base.

The base of a CBD product will be either a whole plant hemp extract or a CBD isolate. A whole plant hemp extract contains the full spectrum of the plant’s cannabinoids while a CBD isolate contains only CBD. Your choice of CBD base will be determined by which cannabinoids you find most important for consumption. This can be discovered through the research of cannabinoids.

 

CBD Hemp Oil Concentrates 

CBD hemp oil concentrates are potent CBD products. They are a thick oil extracted right from the hemp plant and contain no additives. Hemp oil concentrates are taken sublingually, meaning that they are held under the tongue and then swallowed. This product is rich in phytocannabinoids and typically comes in different versions to cater to your cannabinoid preferences. Hemp oil concentrates are available in a Green, Blue, and Gold version.

hemp oil concentrate 

Green: also called the Raw version, the Green hemp oil concentrate is extracted from the plant without the application of heat or filtering. The Green version is a full-spectrum, whole plant hemp oil with various cannabinoids and terpenes.

 

Blue: the Blue hemp oil concentrate is decarboxylated, which activates its phytocannabinoids. The Blue version is a non-filtered hemp oil that offers the full benefits of CBD.

 

Gold: the Gold hemp oil concentrate is filtered to remove any extra plant parts. The Gold version provides the highest concentration of CBD available without the other components of the hemp plant.

Hemp oil concentrates are fitting for those with serious wellness goals. For those that are most interested in gaining the benefits of phytocannabinoids, CBD hemp oil concentrates may be the right fit.

Additionally, since this product is held under the tongue, it has a rapid absorption rate.

 

CBD Capsules 

CBD capsules are taken orally and have a familiar method of consumption. They are a hassle-free option that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. Many take CBD capsules along with their other daily supplements.

cbd capsule

Since capsules travel through the digestive system, they have a longer release time than other methods. This is beneficial for those who wish to experience the benefits of CBD over an extended period of time. As they are swallowed, capsules do not have a hemp aftertaste. Since they are not a liquid, capsules are travel-friendly.

 

CBD Tincture Extracts 

CBD tinctures are a liquid hemp oil supplement. They have an oil base, such as grapeseed oil or coconut oil, to thin the consistency of the product. Similar to concentrates, tinctures are taken sublingually. They come in a bottle with a dropper top or spray top for easy administration.

CBD tincture

For those who have difficulty taking a traditional pill, tinctures are a great alternative as they are easy to swallow. Tinctures are available in a variety of flavors, making for an enjoyable experience. Due to the fact that they are taken sublingually, tinctures are absorbed into the bloodstream quickly. Tinctures are a great fit for those who are looking for a fast-acting supplement that masks the taste of hemp.

 

CBD Vape Oil Concentrates 

CBD vape oil concentrates are an e-liquid that can be vaporized using a compatible vape pen. Vape oil is available in a variety of products from pre-filled pens to standalone liquid. Vaping is a popular method as the act in itself is relaxing.

girl vape cbd

CBD Beauty Infusions 

CBD beauty infusions include CBD-infused products such as lotion, salve, and lip balm. Beauty infusions are applied topically and are ideal for addressing localized concerns. Through this method, CBD is absorbed into the skin and does not reach the bloodstream.

woman by fruit tree

CBD beauty infusions are an all-natural alternative to the chemical-heavy skin care on the market. Our CBD skin care such as the products are made with all-natural ingredients that replenish, restore, and protect the skin. CBD is a good source of antioxidants and is an anti-inflammatory. Additionally, hemp oil contains other essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids.

 

CBD Edibles 

CBD edibles are CBD infused treats such as chocolate, gum, and gummies. These products have a lower potency of CBD and are popular with those that are new to CBD. For this reason, CBD edibles make for a fun treat periodically. Due to their similarity with everyday treats, edibles are a discreet way to take CBD.

CBD chocolate

How Much CBD Should I Take?

Unfortunately, there is not a standard amount of CBD that one should take. Based on your body and wellness goals, the serving size will vary. Determining how much CBD oil to take will, at first, be a process of trial and error.

 

Potency 

First, you’ll need to consider the potency of CBD in the product you are taking. Potency refers to the concentration of CBD in a product. After choosing the way you want to take CBD, you’ll need to decide the milligrams of CBD you want to take. We are not doctors so we cannot prescribe what CBD potency would be best for you. However, this can be discovered with research and a talk with your physician.

If you are looking to begin with a low potency CBD product, edibles or low CBD capsules are a great place to start. These products will lightly introduce CBD into your system. For a medium potency, tinctures, vape, and capsules are a good fit. These products can be easily built up to create an ideal serving size. For the highest potency of CBD, CBD hemp oil concentrates are your go-to.

 

Serving Size 

Once you have chosen the potency you’d like to use, we suggest starting with the serving size that is recommended by the manufacturer. This will serve as a starting point for comparison. Take the recommended amount for a week and then reflect on how you feel. If after a week you are not achieving your desired results, increase the serving size and continue your new routine for another week. Repeat this process until you feel that your proper serving size has been identified.

 

Setting a Budget 

When deciding which product to take, it is helpful to set a budget. For many, CBD is a recurring purchase. Determining how much you can afford to spend on CBD will help guide you to the product you wish to take.

When setting a budget, it is helpful to compare the price versus the value of a product. A product at a higher price may be a higher value depending on the CBD content. Some questions to ask when determining value:

  • How much CBD do I want to take daily?
  • How many servings does this product provide?
  • How much will each serving cost me?

As you discover which type of product works best for you, it will become easier to determine which product is the best value.