How do you know if CBD is good quality?
You must be wondering, what should I look for in a CBD product? How do I know if CBD is of good quality?
For starters, you should avoid products with unsubstantiated therapeutic claims. Many legitimate CBD companies who know and understand FDA policies know there are NO approved health claims for CBD. Anecdotal evidence is shared as they are experiences from customers, but again, they are not approved health claims.
Below are five key things you should look for in a product label when you buy CBD products:
Another good thing to see in a CBD label is the USDA Organic label. The USDA Organic certification is difficult to obtain, and only a few brands have received the ‘A’ label and offer a full line of certified organic products with this label.
A lot of factors go into the certification, but there are two critical things usually mentioned by many brands:
- CO2 extraction method
- Using only USDA Certified Organic ingredients (e.g. carrier oils)
Other supporting factors that ensure the quality of a CBD product are the COA or the certificate of analysis. The COA shows what cannabinoids are in that particular product and their specific quantity. COAs are released only by accredited laboratories.
Many brands include the laboratory report of batch-tested products by having scannable QR codes in their packaging to make it convenient for their customers. At Calmr, we do this practice as well.
Each of our labels includes a QR code that links to both internal and third-party lab reports of each completed product. Our third-party lab reports include the following tests: microbial, pesticide, heavy metals, residual solvents, and potency.
What kind of CBD product should I buy?
Each type of CBD product has a certain level of bioavailability or the rate and extent to which a specific substance or drug is absorbed in the body. In addition, the mode of delivery of the product affects its bioavailability.
Below are the common types of mode of delivery for CBD:
- Sublingual - Taking CBD under the tongue. The mode of delivery for CBD oils, tinctures, and gummies.
- Topical/ Transdermal - This is for topical applications such as creams, lotions, and serums.
- Oral - This is for edibles like CBD capsules, gel caps, cookies, water, and the like.
- Pulmonary/Vaping - Commonly used by recreational users, vaping is the fastest and most efficient mode of delivery that allows you to experience the effect of CBD quickly.
- Anal/Suppositories - Often used by those that are unable to take CBD through other means. Also one of the fastest ways to get CBD into your system.
So, which CBD product should you buy? It all depends on your preference. Many new users often choose to try flavored CBD tinctures because of their taste, bioavailability, and efficiency.
CBD has an earthy taste that many might find too strong on their first try. The taste needs a little getting used to, especially if it’s your first time.
Understand your CBD: Different types of CBD content
One of the most common things misunderstood by many first-timers is the different forms of CBD products. There are three main categories, and they are:
- Broad Spectrum
- Full-Spectrum
- Isolate
Full-Spectrum CBD
Full-Spectrum CBD means you get CBD and all the cannabinoids found in hemp, including its psychoactive property, THC. They call it the ‘entourage effect’ or the synergy of all cannabinoids working together to give you the maximum effect.
Many believe that CBD works better or more efficiently if it’s taken with other cannabinoids, especially THC.
If you decide to buy Full-spectrum CBD, always check the COA and the amount of THC in the product. It should not contain more than 0.03% THC as allowed by law.
One of the most well-known brands that offer Full-Spectrum CBD products is Joy Organics, which is also rated A USDA Organic Certified.
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad Spectrum CBD also contains all the cannabinoids in hemp except for THC. Some argue that the ‘entourage effect’ is no longer possible with Broad Spectrum CBD, but it ensures absolutely zero psychoactive effects since it doesn’t contain THC.
Many CBD products are mislabeled, and the THC content in some labels might not be accurate. And that is why at Calmr, all our products are guaranteed Broad Spectrum CBD and have no detectable THC content.
The fact that all the other beneficial cannabinoids remain intact, we know for sure that you are still able to take advantage of their synergistic effects without the risk of getting high.
CBD Isolate
CBD Isolate contains only CBD. Usually, in the form of crystals, CBD isolates are the purest form of CBD. This type doesn’t have any other cannabinoid in them, so you will not experience any ‘entourage effect.' However, if you are not comfortable with THC or trying CBD together with other types of cannabinoids and terpenes, CBD Isolates is the best way to go.
Moreover, CBD isolates are tasteless and odorless. That makes it easier to take compared to Full-spectrum or Broad Spectrum.
Since there is no THC or any other cannabinoid, CBD Isolates don’t show up in any drug tests. An important thing to consider if you’re undergoing one and want to try CBD products for the first time.
What are reputable CBD products?
The brands that we recommend are those that have the best manufacturing process and are best-reviewed online:
- Joy Organics
- NuLeaf Naturals
- Spruce CBD
- Medterra
- Cbdmd
- Verma Farms
- Calmr
- Charlotte’s Web
Takeaway
We hope this article will help you in your search for the CBD product of your choice. When buying CBD or anything for your health, it’s always important to research the brand and the product you’re trying to buy from them.
When you do begin with your first-ever CBD, always start low and slow. We wish you the best on your CBD journey!
