How to Find the Best CBD Oil

Remember the days of reefer madness? Who would have imagined we now take cannabis for healing purposes and wellness? 

This is the result of more research. We now know that the cannabis plant has over 100 cannabinoids that cause different reactions. Some of them, such as CBD, offer potential health benefits.

Out of all of the CBD products, CBD oil has become the most mainstream. But with so many options on the market, choosing the best CBD oil can be challenging.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is a product CBD and possibly other cannabinoids are mixed with a carrier oil. You consume this product orally, whether by using the sublingual method or mixing CBD oil in with other foods or beverages.

What Science Is Saying

You’re likely hearing that CBD offers a lot of positive health benefits. But is this all true? What has been proven?

First, know that research is still ongoing. But what experts have found so far has been beneficial.

We all are likely familiar with CBD’s effectiveness on seizures. Studies such as this one conclude that CBD is a superior epilepsy treatment.

For example, this study concludes that CBD treatments have a beneficial impact on symptoms of anxiety, pain, and depression. For those who prefer using broad and Full spectrum cannabis, more studies are being done on terpenes. This one concludes that terpenes mimic the effects of cannabinoids. While the studies are limited, there is evidence that shows CBD may have therapeutic benefits for those struggling with addiction.

There are even studies on CBD’s effects on Fluffy and Fido. One study from 2018 states that CBD decreases pain in companion animals and the dog subjects had no noticeable side effects.

What about CBD safety? Studies show that as much as 250 mg/day is well-tolerated and only comes with mild side effects. However, only 30% of CBD products in a study had accurate CBD labeling, so be sure to always look at the COA of every product before purchasing it.

How Does CBD Work?

First, it’s important to discuss the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a neuromodulatory system that’s present in all mammals. It has several important roles in our central nervous system and other core bodily systems.

While we’re still unsure of CBD’s exact impact on our ECS, research shows that it has primary and secondary effects on our endocannabinoids. This is why people experience wellness on a wider scale when taking CBD.

Are There Any CBD Side Effects?

While the CBD side effects are mild, it’s beneficial to know what they are and possibly prepare for them. These side effects include:

Fatigue
Digestive discomfort
Changes in appetite
Diarrhea

The most serious side effect is possible drug interactions. CBD may increase the likelihood of certain prescription side effects, such as sedation. If you’re on several medications, ask your doctor if you should be taking CBD.

You may also hear some myths such as how CBD causes liver damage. Recent research proves this isn’t true.

Types of CBD Oil

When searching for CBD oil, you’ll likely come across terms such as Full spectrum. But what do they mean?

Broad Spectrum

As stated previously, the hemp plant contains more cannabinoids than just CBD. In addition, the terpenes in the plant can also improve your wellness in different ways. Broad spectrum contains these extra cannabinoids and terpenes but is THC free.

Full Spectrum

Full spectrum CBD oil contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds, including THC. However, to remain legal, the CBD still needs to come from hemp, and the product has to contain less than 0.3% THC. This shouldn’t cause any psychoactive effects.

Isolate

As the name suggests, this is an isolated form of CBD. This is the best option if you only want to use CBD – not any other cannabinoid. You should always look at a product’s lab results to ensure you’re getting a pure CBD product.

How to Shop for CBD

No two CBD brands are the same. That’s why you have to do your due diligence when shopping for CBD products. Here are some criteria to look for.

Lab Testing

The best CBD brands receive testing from a third-party lab to ensure their products are safe. 

These labs will check the specific cannabinoid percentages as well as the prevalence of any pesticides, heavy metals, and mold. 

This test is available to consumers and is called the Certificate of Analysis (COA). Most brands have this test available on their website or at least can provide it if requested.

Brand Reputation

There are many CBD companies out there and some are more renowned than others. Be sure to research individual companies to ensure that they have a good reputation. Be sure they’re devoted to the quality of their products and delivering safe CBD oil to users.

Keep in mind, most CBD companies are new because CBD is a relatively new market. However, the best companies impacted their audience in a short amount of time.

Return Policy

A great CBD company will offer a generous return and exchange policy. Make sure the company offers a money-back guarantee. Keep in mind, many brands have restrictions on returns. Some may only accept returns after a certain time period whereas others will only accept unused products.

Reviews

Before buying CBD from a brand, check their reviews. You should not only look for positive reviews but also negative ones. See if the brand made any efforts to solve the customer’s problems. You should also read a combination of new and old reviews to ensure the company has been consistent.

Customer Service

On this note, let’s discuss the importance of customer service. The best brand offers 24/7 customer support and is devoted to responding to your questions and concerns. This is a big deal for me. I’ve had questions before about the CBD product I was using. I usually received responses either almost immediately or by the next business day.

Ingredients

You’ll get the most benefits from your CBD oil by choosing one made with organic ingredients. Certain carriers, such as MCT oil, because it’s absorbed into the bloodstream faster. I also prefer the mild flavor of MCT oil.

CBD Sourcing

It’s beneficial to know where a brand received its cannabinoids. The best growers will take as many safety measures as possible, growing the hemp without any pesticides. The best CBD comes from hemp grown in the USA, though I’ve also used brands that received their hemp from Europe and the products were still good-quality.

As mentioned previously, the way the cannabinoids are extracted from the plant also matters. CO2 extraction is one of the most trusted extraction methods in the industry. That’s because it effectively pulls out the cannabinoids without including impurities.

Most reliable brands should mention their source of CBD and hemp. If they don’t have this information readily available, contact them and ask.

Versatility

Everyone has different needs, so the CBD oil you use should be versatile. For some, that includes changing up the dose from what the manufacturer recommends. 

Usage versatility is also a good example; for example, you may prefer mixing CBD with food rather than taking it the sublingual method. Many CBD oil companies also make their products in a wide range of sizes and CBD strengths. 

Health Claims

While CBD comes with some potential benefits, there still needs to be more research to confirm any of this. 

In addition, the FDA only approved one CBD prescription for seizures. CBD is not a supplement nor does it come with amazing health benefits. Avoid companies that include this information in their marketing.

You’ll specifically want to avoid CBD companies that say their products can eliminate or reduce specific physical and psychological ailments. The exception is if the company can back this with a credible source, usually from a third-party study.

Is CBD Oil Expensive?

You can find CBD oil at all price points. However, there are some factors that might make CBD cost a bit more. The most potent the product, the more expensive it will be. If there are any additional ingredients in CBD oil, such as flavoring, the product may be a bit more expensive.

The way the CBD was produced may also impact the price. For example, CO2 CBD extraction is one of the safest extraction methods but is also one of the most expensive. In addition, broad and Full spectrum CBD are traditionally more expensive than CBD oil isolates.

Flavored vs. Flavorless CBD Oil

Should you choose flavored CBD oil? I personally prefer flavorless CBD oil, but everyone is different.

I suggest trying flavored CBD oil at least once, given the flavorings are safe and natural. Flavors add more variety and enjoyment to your CBD products. There are also a variety of fun flavors on the market, such as orange, chocolate, mint, and strawberry.

How to Use CBD Oil

The first thing you’ll need to do is dose the CBD oil. Every CBD oil comes with a syringe that has the amount printed, usually in milliliters. Just about every manufacturer will provide dosing instructions, but some don’t. 

If your product doesn’t include dosing instructions, I suggest taking 0.5 ml/day and increasing the dose when needed. CBD is usually safe when taking 1,500 mg/day. The mg per dose depends on the potency of the product you’re using. 

Once you know your dose, you have a few methods to take the product. The sublingual method is my favorite. With this method, you hold the CBD under your tongue for about a minute before swallowing. This helps the CBD quickly enter the bloodstream through the small blood vessels under our tongue.

You can also add CBD oil to different foods and drinks, but it will take longer to feel the effects. That’s because the CBD has to go through your digestive system, a process that can take an hour or two.

How I Chose the Best CBD Oil

Here, we’re recommending some of our favorite CBD oils. These are all ones I personally used, so I speak from experience that these are all great. Some qualities I always look for in a CBD product include:

Readily available COA
Made in the USA
Natural and safe ingredients

All of these oils are available at different potencies and prices. Vegan CBD oil is also what I try to look for, but I’m also flexible in this manner. I personally prefer Full spectrum CBD that’s flavorless and made with MCT oil, but I tried to be as diverse as possible.

My Favorite CBD Oil

The Outside Way Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

The Outside Way is a small business that makes a variety of CBD products. This is one of the best CBD oils I’ve ever used. The Outside Way makes potent CBD oil with MCT oil. They have two different size bottle options and they’re both reasonably priced for the quality.

Pros

Two different sizes
Affordable for the quality
Great customer service

Cons

 

No additional flavor options

SunMed Organic Full Spectrum Tinctures

This is one of my favorite and most reliable CBD tinctures. First and foremost, it’s completely USDA-certified organic. This product is perfect for Full spectrum enthusiasts (like me) since you’re getting a full cannabinoid and terpene profile.

I also like how this tincture is available in all different potencies (I usually choose the 1,000 mg one). It’s also available in different flavors, though I choose the natural one.

Pros

Also offers Broad spectrum and CBD isolate
USDA-certified organic at every step of the process
Several CBD strength options

Cons

Expensive
The product states “hemp supplement.” Can be mistaken for hemp oil (COA confirms this product contains CBD) and CBD brands can’t legally state their product is a “supplement”

Source CBD Summer Lemon CBD Oil Tincture

If you prefer flavored CBD products, I recommend this one. I typically don’t like flavored CBD oil, but the lemon flavoring is very light. What I really loved about this CBD oil is actually the company. I received my CBD oil quickly and customer service was very prompt about answering my questions.

My biggest complaint is how this product is only Broad spectrum and not Full spectrum, but I can get over that.

Pros

Contains USDA-certified 100% organic hemp
Wide variety of flavors
Source CBD Oil offers free shipping on orders over $99 and has a 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

Don’t like how they use lemon essential oil as the flavoring. That freaked me out when I first got this product. The company said it’s a food-grade essential oil that’s safe for consumption, but I wish that made that clearer on the label and/or the website.

PlusCBD CBD Oil Drops

I randomly picked up this CBD at an organic/healthy grocery store. I was pretty impressed by the quality of the product. Thanks to the monk fruit, this full spectrum oil is well-made and tastes great. 

It says “extra strength” but I think it’s still ideal for a beginner since the 10 mg/serving is not terribly potent. It’s also perfect for daily use. And at about $40 for the 750 mg oil, it’s not that expensive at all.

Pros

Potent CBD product
Made with high-quality ingredients
Hemp was extracted using safe CO2 extraction

Cons

The flavor might be a little too sweet for some
Not a dropper but a spray. It’s a little weird to use
While the ingredients are safe effective, the long list of ingredients freaked me out at first. I’m used to seeing only CBD and the carrier oil on the ingredients list.

FabCBD CBD Oil

FabCBD is an award-winning brand made with CBD organically grown in Colorado. 

This Full spectrum CBD oil comes with four CBD strengths and five flavors, offering many options to its users. The flavors they sell include mint, citrus, berry, and vanilla. They also have a flavorless option.

Pros

Available in a variety of flavors
Full spectrum
Gluten-free, vegan, and organic
Excellent customer service

Cons

FAQs

Question: Is CBD Oil Safe?

Answer: Even though the FDA hasn’t approved any over-the-counter CBD product, research does show it’s well-tolerated. But you should still discuss taking CBD with your doctor, especially if you have specific medical conditions or if you’re taking prescription medication. Even though side effects are mild, you should be aware of them.

Question: Is CBD Oil Legal?

Answer: Under the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD and any other product derived from hemp are legal on the federal level. However, your CBD product should contain less than 0.3% THC. Suppose you want to try CBD extracted from marijuana. In that case, you’ll have to look up your state’s medical and/or recreational marijuana laws.

Question: Does CBD Show up on a Drug Test?

Answer: Most drug tests don’t test for CBD since it’s not an intoxicating substance. However, if your CBD product contains THC, it may show up on a drug test.

Question: Should I Vape or Take Edibles Instead?

Answer: This answer varies based on preference. 

I prefer taking CBD oil because it’s convenient, found readily everywhere, and I don’t have to worry about extra sugar from gummies or the potential lung damage caused by vaping. When taken the sublingual method, CBD oil also takes effect quickly.

However, everyone prefers different CBD consumption methods for various reasons. CBD gummies taste good and many people like eating one or two a day as a tasty treat. Vapes take effect the quickest, and you can puff your vape throughout the day, if necessary.

Question: Will CBD Oil Make Me Gain Weight?

Answer: It depends on how you react to CBD. The oil itself likely won’t cause you to gain weight because it comes with very few calories. However, increased appetite is a common side effect of CBD. But in others, CBD suppresses appetite. Eat healthily,, and exercise when you use CBD.

Question: When Should I Take CBD Oil?

Answer: This varies. I personally take a 0.5 ml or less dose of CBD twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. If CBD doesn’t make you feel drowsy, I suggest taking it in the morning. But if CBD does make you feel drowsy, save your CBD dose for the evening.

Question: Can I Get Addicted to CBD Oil?

Answer: Yes and no. Current research shows that CBD isn’t addictive, but these findings are premature. I personally notice my anxiety comes back after I take CBD. Is it worse? No, but CBD helps me keep it at bay. 

I’m not saying CBD causes addiction and dependency, just saying everyone reacts to it differently. It’s still best you talk to your doctor before taking CBD and start with a limited dose.

Question: Can I Travel With CBD?

Answer: If you’re located in the U.S., you can travel with CBD products as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. 

Some general TSA rules do apply if you’re traveling via air travel. For example, all CBD products may be less than three ounces. Otherwise, you have to carry them in your checked bag. The exception is a vape pen – those have to be in your carry-on, NOT your checked bag.

Question: What’s Hemp Oil?

Answer: You may see some products that look similar to CBD oil but are labeled “hemp oil.” However, hemp oil contains no CBD. 

It’s made from extracting oil from hemp seeds. Hemp oil contains an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, so it’s still good for you. But if you’re looking for CBD, avoid products labeled as hemp oil unless you can find a COA that confirms the product contains CBD.

Question: How Quickly Does CBD Oil Work?

Answer: This depends on the administration method you choose. If you choose the sublingual method, you may start feeling effects in as little as 30 minutes. But if you choose the digestive method, it may take an hour or two to feel the effects.

Question: Does CBD Make Me High?

Answer: You shouldn’t feel high at all when taking CBD. Even if you use a Full spectrum product, the THC content is so small to where you shouldn’t feel any effects at all.

Question: Is CBD Good for Seniors?

Answer: CBD is well-tolerated by a wide variety of people, including seniors. Many seniors use CBD for stress, sadness, and even discomfort. Since CBD isn’t psychoactive and comes with few side effects, you don’t have to worry about recommending it to mom and dad.

Keep in mind, there isn’t enough research to truly show its effectiveness on seniors. Be aware of any potential risks.

Question: Should I Take CBD Every Day?

Answer: Yes, you can. I have been taking CBD every day and have experienced nothing but benefits. 

In addition, many manufacturers recommend taking CBD every day to maximize the benefits. The key is to still dose appropriately and only take how much your body can handle. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines if you’re unsure of the right dosage.

Bottomline

These days, cannabis healing is at the forefront with CBD leading the pack. One of the best ways to take this cannabinoid is by choosing CBD oil, which is cannabidiol mixed with a carrier oil. 

I hope this guide offered some advice on choosing the best CBD oil and you can look into some of my recommendations.