If an employee walked up to you in a store and asked, “Can I interest you in this high-quality product? Or would you like an inferior version of the same thing?”, you’d most likely pick the former. So, why would you buy the first CBD product you see even though it may be subpar? If you want to ensure you have the best experience, check out our tips for choosing a high-quality CBD oil.
Know Your Lingo
The CBD world is full of jargon. If you don’t know the difference between a flavonoid and a cannabinoid, making an informed CBD decision may be a little challenging. It may be of value to review your CBD vocabulary. For example:
- Cannabinoids: Compounds in CBD with health benefits
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): Compound in hemp that produces a “high” (legal CBD should only have a THC conduct of 0.3%)
- Terpenes: Compounds that provide scents and flavors in a plant
- Full-spectrum CBD: CBD that contains trace amounts of THC and a full range of cannabinoids
- Broad-spectrum CBD: CBD that contains no THC
Check the Certificate of Analysis
A certificate of analysis is a document that states the contents of a CBD product. Since, as we mentioned, CBD is under-regulated, this certificate is the key to making sure a product matches up to the company’s boasts. It contains information on the contents of components such as:
- Cannabinoids
- THC
- Terpenes
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
When you look at a certificate of analysis, you’ll also want to make sure it was completed by an outside source rather than the company. Third-party testing adds to the test’s legitimacy.
Look into the Company
The combination of under-regulation and incredible popularity has made the number of CBD businesses explode. On one hand, that gives you a lot of options; on the other, it means there are a lot of subpar businesses out there. Before you buy from a company, ask the following questions:
- Where does it get its hemp?
- What do online reviews say about it?
- Does it provide a certificate of analysis?
- Does it use third-party testing?
- What processes does it use to extract its CBD?
Of course, this last question is only of value to people who know the difference between ethanol and CO2 extraction. Remember, know your jargon.
Consider Your Preferred Method of Consumption
Sometimes choosing a high-quality CBD oil isn’t about the quality of the oil itself but how you plan on using it. For example, say you have a top-of-the-line mango-flavored tincture. That’s the perfect product for you to add to your smoothie or take by mouth but not to rub directly on your skin. Make sure your product matches up with your intended purpose for the best experience.