The growing popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) has led to a surge in products available on the market.
Bu just because there’s a lot of products doesn’t mean they’re all safe.
The truth is, because there’s very little FDA regulation, CBD products range drastically in quality and therefore safety.
That’s why it’s so important to educate yourself, and for us to educate our patients and readers accordingly.
How Do You Know CBD Oil is Safe?
To ensure that you are using a safe and high-quality CBD oil, consider the following factors:
1.Third-Party Lab Testing
Reputable CBD companies invest in third-party lab testing to verify the potency, purity, and safety of their products.
These tests can confirm the levels of CBD and other cannabinoids present in the product, as well as screen for harmful contaminants, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents.
Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from a reliable laboratory, which should be readily available on the company’s website or upon request.
A good company should always have their COA readily accessibility.
If they hesitate or beat around the bush, think twice before purchasing from them.
2.Source of Hemp
The quality and safety of CBD oil depend significantly on the source of the hemp used for extraction.
High-quality CBD oil is derived from organically grown hemp, cultivated without the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals.
Hemp is known to be a bioaccumulator, meaning it can absorb both the good AND bad substances from the soil, air, and water.
Therefore, it is essential to choose CBD oil sourced from hemp grown in areas with strict agricultural regulations, such as the United States or Europe.
3.Extraction Method:
The method used for extracting CBD from the hemp plant can impact the quality and safety of the final product.
The safest and most effective extraction method is the supercritical CO2 process.
This process utilizes pressurized carbon dioxide to extract CBD and other beneficial compounds from the plant material.
This method ensures that the final product is free from harmful solvents and retains the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Or, if you are just looking for CBD isolate, it’ll make sure you get just that.
What does that mean?
Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, or Isolate:
CBD oil can be classified into three categories based on the range of cannabinoids and other compounds present:
- Full-spectrum CBD oil contains the complete range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
- Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids but has been processed to remove all traces of THC.
- CBD isolate contains only pure CBD, with all other compounds removed.
While each type has its benefits and drawbacks, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils are generally considered to be more effective due to the entourage effect.
That just means that the various compounds work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
CBD isolate is still a great option that many of our patients choose for good reasons.
4.Transparent Labeling
A safe and reputable CBD oil will have clear and accurate labeling that provides CLEAR and essential information:
- the amount of CBD per serving
- the total amount of CBD in the bottle
- a list of ingredients
- and suggested usage instructions.
- Additionally, the label should indicate whether the product is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or an isolate.
What is an Unsafe Amount of CBD?
While there is no established lethal dose of CBD, consuming excessive amounts CAN lead to uncomfortable side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, and fatigue.
The optimal dosage of CBD varies depending on factors such as body weight, metabolism, the severity of symptoms, and the type of CBD product being used.
It is generally recommended to start with a low dose (5-10 mg per day) and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved.
We always say (Yes, always, because it’s true), “Start low and go slow.”
If you experience any adverse side effects, reduce the dosage or discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
Which CBD Products Are Safe?
To review, safe CBD products include those that are:
- sourced from high-quality hemp
- extracted using a safe method (preferably supercritical CO2)
- and have undergone third-party lab testing to verify their safety, potency, and purity.
Additionally, transparent labeling and a reputable brand are essential factors to consider when choosing a safe CBD product.
What about our products?
At Bradford Wellness Co., we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality CBD products that you can trust.
We understand the importance of transparency and safety, which is why all of our CBD products undergo rigorous third-party lab testing.
Each product comes with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify its potency, purity, and safety.
Furthermore, our labels clearly indicate essential information about the spectrum type (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate) and the amount of CBD in each product.
By choosing BWC products, you can be SURE you are getting something that may help, not hurt you.
We want your best for you.
In conclusion, navigating the CBD market can be challenging, but by understanding the difference between safe and unsafe CBD, you can make informed choices about the products you incorporate into your wellness routine.
Always take the time to research the brand and the product you are thinking about buying.
After all, it is YOUR body, and it is up to you what you put into it.
We recommend the best.
You’re amazing and worth it.
