How Do I Choose a CBD?

Since CBD hit the global market, people from different social circles ditched their inorganic, chemical-infused products for CBD, thanks to its myriad benefits. However, one question always lingers; how does one pick the right CBD product? This article outlines some factors to consider while purchasing cannabidiol products.

Hemp-sourced products have taken the market by storm since hemp is extremely versatile and is acknowledged as one of the highly beneficial plants in the medical field. However, the increasing number of cannabidiol products makes it more challenging for first-time purchasers to make the right choice. Before buying any CBD product, an individual must consider several factors to avoid making the wrong purchase. Additionally, with the propaganda surrounding CBD and the retailers and wholesalers who manufacture and sell fake CBD products, having a buying guide is paramount.

Defining CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the active compounds sourced from the cannabis plant. Cannabidiol is one of the most dynamic and distinctive compounds, followed closely by THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. CBD enters the bloodstream through the endocannabinoid system, which houses the CB1 and CB2 endocannabinoid receptors. The endocannabinoid system oversees primary body functions such as mood, sleep, pain control, immune response, and emotional response. Research studies conducted on CBD show that it has various therapeutic properties;

• Sedative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antipsychotic
• Anxiolytic (reducing anxiety)
• Analgesic (pain relieving)
• Anti-convulsive

Criteria for Choosing CBD

Determine the Purpose and Form of the CBD

Before buying CBD, keep in mind the reason for taking it. Even though CBD has a string of documented health benefits, such as easing muscle pain and reducing anxiety levels, there is still more to be uncovered concerning CBD. Lattanzi et al. (2021) stated that current research on CBD shows that it is approved for treating two rare types of epilepsy that affect children aged slightly above two years; Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Furthermore, experts advise inhaling CBD using vape pens for conditions such as anxiety, muscle cramps, or faster relief from any inflammatory situation. For more immediate effects, sublingual intake is recommended since the millions of capillaries under the tongue will enable the CBD to reach the bloodstream in minutes.

Consider the THC Levels

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the key psychoactive ingredient in cannabis and is most abundant in marijuana strains. Identifying the THC levels in any CBD product is vital, mainly since it is classified as a Schedule 1 drug under Federal law. Ongoing research on CBD shows that it has astounding effects on the body, especially when infused with THC, also known as the entourage effect, which is the belief that CBD works better in conjunction with other cannabinoids. Individuals looking for CBD products with traces of THC ought to purchase those sourced from hemp. Most cannabidiol products infused with hemp are available online and in local retail stores. However, marijuana-derived CBD is illegal in most states. One will require a recommendation from a certified physician to purchase any marijuana-derived CBD.

Find Out the Hemp Source

According to Khaleghi et al. (2020), most retail and online shops sell CBD products obtained from hemp. Furthermore, most cannabidiol products sold and purchased in the United States are from Oregon, Kentucky, and Colorado since their hemp is grown in line with the FDA rules on CBD. Products processed from hemp produced in overseas states may not be in line with federal laws since they are not subjected to FDA testing rules. Therefore, one should read the packaging and label for hemp-derived CBD products to confirm the hemp source. However, some cannabidiol products omit this piece of information. In this case, one should contact Customer support for further clarification.

Ask for the COA

Before purchasing CBD, carefully read and understand the Certificate of Analysis since it outlines the product's CBD and THC levels and the existence of any contaminants such as fertilizers, heavy metals, and pesticides. If an online retailer fails to show its COA, chances are that its products contain contaminants, and it is best to avoid purchasing from such. Individuals who prefer solid proof of the quality of a CBD product are advised to check if it is in line with the ISO 17025 standard. This is considered the 'marking scheme' of every lab that tests the proficiency of a CBD product. However, marijuana-derived CBD products are subject to intensive independent third-party testing before they are permitted for recreational or medicinal use.

Buy Products That List the Amount of CBD

A CBD product needs to show the amount of CBD in each packaging. According to Greydanus et al. (2013), CBD is packed in milligrams, but the dosages can fluctuate depending on the form and type of the product. Individuals are advised against purchasing CBD products that do not concisely list the amount of CBD since there is a higher chance that they may contain THC and other cannabinoids. Most companies fail to list the amount of CBD in their product label as full spectrum or whole plants. Furthermore, other brands vaguely mention other cannabinoids and ingredients that may be present in the product. Although there might be chances that the compounds have astounding health benefits, one should refrain from purchasing from such companies.

Avoid Products with Exceptional Health Claims

Only legal drugs are allowed to make health claims since the claims can be backed by conclusive research on the drug's effectiveness and safety. If a cannabidiol product makes extraordinary health claims, the company wants to make huge profits without any credible research to back up its claims. Learn more about how to boost our immune system?

Avoid Vaping Products with Propylene Glycol

Vape pens have been around for a while, and more people are embracing this recent technological advancement. Vape pens contain concentrated oils, which in most cases may include propylene glycol, a solvent that disintegrates to formaldehyde when subjected to higher temperatures. According to Kou et al. (2022), formaldehyde has been found to predispose individuals to cancer and asthma. Additionally, purchasers need to invest in vape pens that contain solvent-free oils. Learn more about is cbd good for your feet?

Conclusion

Due to CBD's numerous advantages, people from various social groups have abandoned inorganic, chemical-infused products. However, choosing the ideal CBD product remains a persistent concern. Since hemp is incredibly adaptable and recognized as one of the exceptionally beneficial plants in the medical area, hemp-obtained products have taken the market by storm. However, the growing selection of cannabidiol products makes it challenging for first-time buyers to pick the best outcome. Before purchasing any CBD products, one must keep a few things in mind to prevent incorrect choices. Following a buying guide is essential due to the misinformation around CBD, especially in shops that produce and sell fraudulent CBD products.

References

Greydanus, D. E., Hawver, E. K., Greydanus, M. M., & Merrick, J. (2013). Marijuana: current concepts. Frontiers in public health, 1, 42.

Khaleghi, M. (2020). New arthritis foundation guidelines on CBD use could be the first of many more. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 26, 8-11.

Kou, Y., Zhao, H., Cui, D., Han, H., & Tong, Z. (2022). Formaldehyde toxicity in age-related neurological dementia. Ageing Research Reviews, 73, 101512.

Lattanzi, S., Trinka, E., Striano, P., Rocchi, C., Salvemini, S., Silvestrini, M., & Brigo, F. (2021). Highly Purified Cannabidiol for Epilepsy Treatment: A Systematic Review of Epileptic Conditions Beyond Dravet Syndrome and Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome. CNS drugs, 35(3), 265-281.