Before we get into what to look for when buying CBD, let’s clear up what it actually is. CBD is an acronym for cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is a cannabis compound with significant medical benefits such as relief from anxiety, pain, minus the psychoactive effects of THC. Unlike THC, which still carries its own benefits, CBD will not get you high or lethargic. In fact, CBD has been known to reverse the psychoactive effect of THC, and a lot of people use it for this specific reason.With all the miracle stories surrounding CBD, the market has grown considerably. With hundreds of different brands to choose from, it can be quite difficult to find quality products if you don’t know what to look for. A CBD buying guide is essential for potential consumers, to relieve apprehension and concern. Here are some key things to look for:

Extraction

The first thing you want to look for is extraction method. Many companies use toxic solvents when extracting CBD oil from the cannabis plant, and these are the first companies to avoid. The CO2 extraction is the preferred method. Through CO2 extraction, cold carbon liquid gas is used to extract trichome, terpene oils, and waxes from the cannabis. The best part about this method is that there are no petroleum based solvents involved, ensuring a pure and clean taste. Not to mention safe.

Potency

The next thing you want to look for is CBD content level. Not all CBD products come at the same potency level. Anything above 4% is considered high potency. Strains that are above 18%, will be hard to find but not impossible. A decent 8%-12% is common and easily obtained.

Sourcing

Read your labeling carefully, this is where you will find the CBD to THC ratio, as well as the date and batch number. You want to be able to track you CBD oil back to the source. Plant source is one of the most important facts of CBD oil because the plants are able to grow in high concentration metals, these metals are then absorbed into the plant. To avoid falling victim to these dangerous non-food grade conditions, look for certified organic brands. Look for reputable growers in the United States, which is a reliable jurisdiction.

Lab Tests

Finally, lab testing. When you purchase CBD products, be sure you have access to their latest lab results. In recent years the FDA issued a number of warning letters to companies that claimed to be selling CBD but were selling products that didn’t contain any CBD. More than that, they were selling results of cures, treatments, and prevention of diseases, that they couldn’t deliver on. This is dangerous, and consumers fall victim to it every day. There are companies out there whose concern for making a profit outweighs their concern for consumer health. If you stay educated on this ever-changing market and look for the things that we discussed here, you should be able to enjoy CBD and all its benefits.