Cannabidiol, or CBD, has exploded in popularity in recent years. It's a natural compound found in the cannabis plant that in preclinical studies has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and relieving pain.
However, with so many different forms of CBD available, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. In this blog, we'll explore the different types of CBD and help you determine which one suits your lifestyle and preferences.
CBD Oil
CBD oil is the most common form of CBD. It's made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and mixing it with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut or hemp seed oil. CBD oil is easy to use and can be added to food and drinks or taken sublingually. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any CBD product internally to make sure it’s right for you, as certain health conditions and medications are known to interact with it.
When choosing the best CBD oil for you, it's essential to look for a high-quality product. Look for CBD that is made from organic hemp, as this ensures that the plants were grown without the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides. Additionally, make sure the product has been lab-tested for potency, homogeneity, and purity.
CBD oil is available in different strengths, so it's crucial to choose the right dosage for you. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve your desired effect. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD can vary from person to person, so it may take some trial and error to find the right amount for you or even if it’s right for you at all. It could be most cost effective to purchase a high potency CBD product, like CBD Drops, and use very small amounts, making it last much longer. This results in less waste and a more sustainable solution to buying multiple containers of gummies in plastic containers.
CBD oil can be unflavored, meaning it will be tasteless if it’s made with CBD isolate, or taste like hay or cannabis if made with full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD. Some CBD Oil is flavored with artificial flavorings like chocolate or “tropical” flavors, and some are flavored with natural, organic ingredients, like mint.
Our CBD oil is flavored with organic mint extract, giving it a refreshing flavor.
Many brands refer to their CBD oil as “Drops.” You can determine a lot about how a product is made with the name of the product. For instance, if a company uses terms like “full spectrum” “broad spectrum,” unless a product is flavored, the CBD oil will have a hay-like or cannabis flavor to it. If the CBD oil is made with CBD “isolate,” it will be “flavorless.” Although a “flavorless” CBD product has that benefit, its efficacy will be limited. Studies have shown that in order for CBD products to remain effective, they must be made with full spectrum CBD oil.
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are another popular form of CBD. They're convenient and discreet, and they come in pre-dosed amounts, making it easier to keep track of how much CBD you're taking. Capsules are also tasteless, which can be a plus for those who don't like the taste of CBD oil.
When choosing CBD capsules, look for products that are made from high-quality hemp and have been lab-tested for potency, homogeneity, and purity. Additionally, make sure the capsules are vegan-friendly if that's important to you.
CBD capsules are available in different strengths, so it's essential to choose the right dosage for you. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD can take longer to kick in when taken in capsule form, as the CBD has to pass through the digestive system before it can enter the bloodstream.
CBD Topicals
When choosing a CBD topical, look for products that are made from high-quality organically grown hemp and have been lab-tested for potency, homogeneity, and purity. Additionally, make sure the product contains other beneficial ingredients such as essential oils, Vitamin E oil, and extracts like Green Tea Extract for best results. Ingredients like organic Jojoba Oil can also help increase absorption and have extra therapeutic effects.
CBD topicals are available in different strengths, so it's essential to choose the right product for your needs. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD topicals are localized to the area in which you apply them. Depending on what your goals are, different types of CBD topicals can be best for your situation. Those who are looking to specifically target a localized area may want to choose a roll-on style CBD Oil. Those who want to give a little extra to love to their hands or feet may opt for a CBD lotion or cream.
Also keep in mind that applying a small amount, multiple times per day, and rubbing the product all the way into the skin is important, especially when first using CBD topicals. We call this process "front-loading," and after 8 years of Research and Development and over ten years in business in addition, we have heard that this process is vital for some people looking for more dramatic results.
CBD Edibles
CBD edibles are a fun and tasty way to consume CBD. They come in a variety of forms, including gummies, chocolates, and baked goods. CBD edibles can be a great option for those who don't like the taste of CBD oil or capsules.
When choosing CBD edibles, it's important to look for products that are made from high-quality hemp and have been lab-tested for potency, homogeneity, and purity. Additionally, be mindful of the sugar content in some CBD edibles, as excessive sugar consumption can have negative health effects.
CBD edibles are available in different strengths, so it's essential to choose the right dosage for you. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD edibles can take longer to kick in, as they have to pass through the digestive system before they can enter the bloodstream. You should also always speak with your healthcare provider before eating CBD edibles.
CBD Vapes
CBD vaporizers or "vapes" are another popular form of CBD. They involve attaching a CBD cartridge or "cart" to a small battery or "pen" and heating the CBD oil in the cartridge to create a vapor that you inhale. Cartridges are disposable and the batteries or "pens" last for many uses and recharges. CBD vapes can be a quick and effective way to consume CBD, as the effects are felt almost immediately.
When choosing a CBD vape, it's important to look for products that are sold in licensed, recreational cannabis retail stores. There are regulations in each state regulating what additives can be in the product and mandatory batch testing, thus ensuring a safer or "more regulated" product. While trusting companies that make CBD topicals and ingestible products, as long as each batch of product is tested and the Certificate of Analysis or "testing" are readily available on the company website, is prudent with a little research on the company, it is a bigger risk to purchase hemp-derived CBD vapes from online retailers. Always go to a trusted dispensary/licensed cannabis retailer for inhalable products.
If you don't have a trusted, licensed cannabis retailer in your area and since CBD is currently unregulated, it’s vital to evaluate the lab tests (Certificates of Analysis) for each batch of CBD vapes offered by a company and not use CBD vapes that contain Vitamin E Oil or Vitamin E Acetate in them. It’s important to make sure that the expiration date hasn’t been reached and that the batch number on the vape matches the batch number on the product’s Certificate of Analysis.
CBD vapes are available in different strengths, so it's essential to choose the right dosage for you. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD vapes do not last as long as when using other forms of CBD.
Choosing the Right Form of CBD
So, which form of CBD is right for you? It ultimately depends on your preferences and lifestyle.
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use option, CBD oil may be the way to go. If you prefer a pre-dosed and tasteless option, CBD capsules may be a better fit. If you're looking for localized relief, CBD topicals may be the answer. If you want something tasty and fun, CBD edibles may be a good choice.
And if you're looking for a quick way to consume CBD, CBD vapes from a reputable company that lab-tests every batch of product, maybe the way to go.
No matter which form of CBD you choose, it's essential to look for high-quality products that have been tested by a third party lab. Additionally, start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effect. And as always, check with your healthcare provider prior to using CBD to make sure it’s right for you.
The Right Form of CBD Is Up To You
CBD is available in many different forms, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. By understanding the different options and choosing the right one for your needs, you can experience the potential benefits of this natural compound. But no matter which way you choose to go, always make sure that you speak with your health care provider before using any new product or supplement. Also, make sure the Certificate of Analysis or "testing" is complete, shows the product contains no contaminants and has at least the amount of CBD shown on the front panel of the product, and that the batch number on the test results show that the product has the same batch number.