The Essential Guide to Buying CBD Oil Online
With CBD oil becoming increasingly popular for its reported health benefits, more consumers are looking to buy CBD oil products. However, the plethora of CBD brands and products can make it overwhelming to find the best CBD oil online. This guide provides tips for finding quality CBD oil products from reputable brands.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 compounds called cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant. Unlike the more well-known cannabinoid THC, CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce a euphoric or “high” feeling.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions like sleep, pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Early research indicates CBD may help with certain health issues, such as chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and arthritis. However, more research is still needed to fully understand CBD’s effects.
CBD is typically extracted from hemp, a variety of cannabis containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Hemp-derived CBD products are legal at the federal level, per the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some state laws still restrict CBD sales, so check your state laws.
Is CBD Legal? Understanding CBD Laws
While hemp-derived CBD is legal on the federal level, some state laws are more restrictive. Four states still ban CBD sales entirely: Idaho, Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa.
Other states with certain restrictions include Kansas, Wyoming, and North Carolina. For example, North Carolina allows CBD with less than 0.3% THC only for intractable epilepsy patients.
Check your specific state laws before purchasing CBD products locally or online. Also research laws on traveling with CBD, as regulations vary.
Dosage Considerations for CBD Oil
Since CBD affects everyone differently, there is no universal dosage. The optimal dosage for you depends on factors like your physiology, CBD potency, and reason for taking CBD.
Some general dosage guidelines are:
– 3-30 mg for mild effects
– 40-160 mg for moderate effects
– 160-600 mg for strong effects
Start low at around 5-10 mg per day and increase slowly until you find the dosage that works for you. Work with a doctor experienced in CBD to determine your ideal dosage, especially if taking other medications.
Signs of High-Quality CBD Oil
With the rise in CBD’s popularity, new brands are popping up daily. But how can you discern high-quality CBD oil from inferior products? Here are some key signs to look for:
Sourced from U.S.-Grown Hemp
The best CBD oils use hemp grown in the United States, where farmers must adhere to stricter standards. Domestically-sourced hemp is subject to regulations that monitor THC levels and harmful contaminants.
Third-Party Lab Tested
Reputable companies submit their CBD products for independent testing to validate cannabinoid levels, purity, and safety. Verify lab reports match the product batch number.
Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum Extract
These contain a range of cannabinoids like CBD, terpenes and other beneficial hemp compounds. They may produce enhanced effects compared to CBD isolate.
CO2 Extraction Method
CO2 extraction yields high-purity CBD and preserves hemp’s beneficial terpenes. Avoid CBD extracted using heat or solvents like propane or butane.
Organic and Natural Ingredients
High-quality CBD brands use organic hemp as well as natural carrier oils, extracts and flavors in their tinctures. Avoid artificial additives.
Top-Rated CBD Oils Online
After vetting numerous brands for quality, here are 5 reputable CBD companies to consider buying from:
NuLeaf Naturals – This Colorado-based brand sells full-spectrum CBD oil in potencies up to 6,000mg. Their hemp is grown organically on licensed farms in Colorado.
Fab CBD – Located in Tampa, Florida, Fab CBD makes organic, non-GMO CBD oils with a range of flavors. Their full-spectrum extract comes in strengths up to 2,400mg.
CBDistillery – Based in Colorado, CBDistillery sources American hemp for its CBD products, including oils, gummies and topicals. The company is certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority.
Lazarus Naturals – With its hemp grown in Oregon, Lazarus Naturals offers CBD isolate and full-spectrum tinctures at affordable prices. Their website details rigorous quality control practices.
Joy Organics – This family-founded brand sells broad-spectrum CBD oils, gummies, topicals and more. Their THC-free CBD is sourced from organic hemp grown in Colorado.
When comparing CBD brands, evaluate third-party lab reports, hemp sourcing, extraction methods, and overall transparency. Purchasing directly from a brand’s website can help avoid diluted or mislabeled products. With reputable brands, CBD oil can be a safe way to supplement your wellness routine.
What Does Full Spectrum Mean? Understanding Full Spectrum CBD
The term “full spectrum” is frequently used to describe CBD oil products. But what does full spectrum mean, exactly, and what makes full spectrum CBD different than broad spectrum or isolate products? This guide will explain the key things to know when evaluating full spectrum CBD.
Full spectrum CBD oil retains the full profile of the hemp plant’s bioactive compounds. Nothing is removed or filtered out. This allows the compounds to work together synergistically for enhanced effects, known as the “entourage effect.”
Broad spectrum CBD and CBD isolate strip away other plant compounds, leaving only CBD. Full spectrum products strive to maintain the integrity and purity of the entire hemp extract.
Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD
Research indicates that full spectrum CBD may have enhanced benefits compared to CBD isolate. By retaining a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes, full spectrum CBD may offer these advantages: Greater therapeutic effects. Studies show full spectrum CBD provides greater levels of pain relief compared to isolate. The combination of plant compounds may be more effective together through synergy.
Higher levels of minor cannabinoids. Full spectrum retains beneficial cannabinoids like CBN and CBG that are filtered out of isolate. These rare compounds may also have therapeutic effects.
The entourage effect. The compounds in full spectrum CBD work together to influence the body’s endocannabinoid system in a more well-rounded way compared to isolated CBD alone.
More effective for a variety of uses. The diverse plant compounds in full spectrum products may help relieve a broader range of symptoms.
However, more research is still needed to fully understand the potential mechanisms and advantages of full spectrum CBD over other forms.
THC in Full Spectrum CBD
A common concern about full spectrum CBD is that it contains THC. Hemp plants themselves contain little THC, no more than 0.3% by dry weight. Full spectrum CBD oil comes from these low THC hemp plants.
The trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%) in full spectrum CBD are not enough to produce intoxication. However, those who are drug tested or sensitive to THC may prefer broad spectrum CBD, which is THC-free.
It’s important to verify the THC content in potential full spectrum CBD products. Reputable brands test for THC levels and provide lab reports. Broad spectrum CBD contains undetectable levels of THC, for consumers wanting to completely avoid THC but still desiring some benefit from the entourage effect .
How to Identify High-Quality Full Spectrum CBD
Not all full spectrum CBD oils are created equal. Some products contain inconsistent cannabinoid levels or contaminants. Here are signs of a quality full spectrum CBD product:
Contains less than 0.3% THC by dry weight
Made from domestically grown hemp under USDA guidelines
Successfully completed independent third-party lab testing
– Provides lab reports confirming cannabinoid content
Uses safe, preferred extraction methods like supercritical CO2
Free of pesticides, heavy metals, microbials, and other contaminants
Derived from aerial plant parts like flower and leaf rather than seeds and stems
Does not contain any artificial ingredients or diluting carrier oils
Also research the brand’s reputation, farming and production practices, reviews, transparency and customer service when evaluating CBD manufacturers. Choosing a high-quality full spectrum product gives you the maximum benefits of the hemp plant.
Using Full Spectrum CBD Oil
If new to CBD, start slowly with a low dose of full spectrum oil and increase gradually. Full spectrum CBD may produce enhanced effects compared to isolate. Consider starting with products containing a small amount of THC, and monitor any side effects or drug interactions.
Talk to your doctor before combining full spectrum CBD with medications, especially blood thinners. While rare, the small THC content may show up on some drug tests. Find a quality brand that provides detailed lab reports so you can make informed decisions about using full spectrum CBD.
Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum CBD
With so many CBD products on the market, you may be wondering about the differences between full spectrum vs broad spectrum CBD. Here is an overview of how these two types of CBD extracts compare.
Full Spectrum CBD
As the name suggests, full spectrum CBD contains the full range of beneficial chemical compounds naturally found in the hemp plant. This includes CBD as well as other minor cannabinoids (CBC, CBG, CBN etc.), terpenes, flavonoids and amino acids.
Full spectrum CBD oil retains the whole profile of original plant compounds. It can provide the entourage effect, which theorizes that the sum of hemp’s compounds is greater than its parts.
However, full spectrum CBD also contains up to 0.3% THC. This trace amount generally won’t cause a high, but those sensitive to THC may prefer to avoid it.
Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum CBD goes through added filtration to remove THC entirely, while keeping the rest of the plant’s compounds. Like full spectrum, it contains CBD as well as terpenes, flavonoids and other hemp compounds.
The main advantage of broad spectrum over full spectrum is it’s 100% THC-free. This allows people concerned about THC to benefit from other hemp cannabinoids and compounds.
However, broad spectrum CBD may not produce the complete entourage effect, since it lacks THC and other minor cannabinoids removed during filtration. Yet it still provides some advantages over CBD isolate.
In summary
full and broad spectrum CBD offer more holistic benefits over plain CBD isolate, but broad spectrum avoids the risks of THC exposure. Check labels or lab reports to choose the ideal type of CBD extract for your needs.
Is it an Oil or Tincture? Different Types of CBD Products
When shopping for CBD, you may see products labelled as CBD oil, CBD tincture, or even CBD hemp oil. So what sets these products apart? Here’s an overview of key differences between CBD oils and tinctures.
CBD Oil
CBD oil refers to concentrated cannabidiol extract blended with a carrier oil like hemp seed oil or coconut (MCT) oil. CBD oil can be taken under the tongue (sublingually) or incorporated into foods and drinks.
CBD oils come in a range of concentrations, anywhere from 250mg to 5000mg CBD per bottle. Higher potencies allow adjusting serving sizes to individual needs. CBD oil can be full, broad or isolate spectrum, depending on if it contains other cannabinoids.
CBD Tincture
CBD tinctures also contain cannabidiol extract and a carrier oil. However, they use alcohol as a solvent. CBD tinctures are made by soaking hemp in a high-proof grain alcohol, then applying low heat over time to extract the CBD and beneficial compounds.
The alcohol helps efficiently extract CBD, especially less soluble compounds like chlorophyll, waxes and terpenes. This allows preserving hemp’s full chemical profile. Tinctures may taste bitter compared to oils.
Usage and Dosage
Both CBD oils and tinctures can be taken sublingually or added to food. Oils tend to have milder flavor than tinctures. For tinctures, start with 0.5ml doses under the tongue. Adjust dosage gradually as needed. Compare concentration to find your optimal CBD serving size.
Overall, CBD oils and tinctures can both offer concentrated, potent CBD. Choose oil or tincture form based on factors like taste preference, convenience, concentration level, or desired benefits.
Can CBD Oil Be Applied Topically to Help With Pain?
With CBD growing in popularity for its therapeutic effects, many people are exploring using CBD oil topically for muscle and joint pain relief. Here’s an overview of how CBD oil can be used as a topical treatment.
Studies on Topical CBD for Pain
Early research shows promising results for CBD oil’s topical pain relief applications. One study on rats found transdermal CBD gel significantly reduced arthritis-related pain and inflammation. Another rat study found topical CBD reduced pain and inflammation from arthritis.
However, more clinical trials are still needed to fully confirm CBD’s topical pain relief effects in humans. Still, some evidence suggests CBD applied on the skin may help relieve localized pain.
How It Works
CBD is believed to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system involved in regulating pain, immune function, and inflammation. Topically applying CBD allows it to be directly absorbed into the affected site for targeted effects.
CBD is also thought to activate vanilloid and adenosine receptors that influence pain perception. The additional anti-inflammatory effects may also help soothe tender, inflamed muscles and joints.
Using CBD Oil Topically
Look for CBD oils meant for topical use, not oral consumption. THC-free broad spectrum or isolate CBD oils are common for topicals. Mix a small amount of CBD oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil before applying to the skin.
Start with a low CBD percentage around 200-500mg. Gently massage the oil onto sore areas. Repeat application as needed, being careful not to apply excess amounts. Monitor skin for potential irritation.
While more research is still pending, some findings indicate topical CBD application may offer localized pain relief benefits. Further studies are needed on optimal dosing as well.
What are the Benefits of CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants. CBD can be extracted from hemp or marijuana plants to make CBD oil products.
While research is still emerging, early studies indicate CBD may offer certain therapeutic benefits. Here are some of CBD’s touted effects:
Pain relief – Several studies found CBD can reduce chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. CBD may interact with pain receptors and the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Reduced anxiety and depression – Research shows CBD can improve mood disorders like anxiety and depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. CBD’s calming effects may benefit those with social anxiety and PTSD as well.
Neuroprotective properties – CBD is studied for its role in reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and preventing neuron damage in the brain. This may make CBD useful for neurological conditions like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
Improved sleep – Higher CBD doses taken before bed may help those struggling with insomnia and other sleep disorders get more restful sleep. CBD may provide overall relaxation.
However, more large-scale human research is still needed to confirm CBD’s preliminary benefits. Talk to a doctor before using CBD, especially with other medications.
What are the Side Effects of CBD?
CBD is generally well-tolerated by most people, especially at the over-counter doses used. However, some minor side effects can occur. Potential CBD side effects include:
Diarrhea – High doses of CBD may cause loose, watery stools in some people. Lower your dose if diarrhea occurs.
Drowsiness – CBD can cause feelings of sleepiness, especially when taken in the morning. Adjust timing of doses to avoid tiredness.
Dizziness – Rarely, some experience lightheadedness after taking CBD, likely from a drop in blood pressure. Stay hydrated and consult your doctor if dizzy.
Nausea – High doses may lead to upset stomach in sensitive people. Reduce dosage or take CBD with food to minimize nausea.
Irritability – There are infrequent reports of increased irritability or other mood changes from CBD. This may be dose-dependent.
Dry mouth – CBD interacts with salivary glands, causing mouth dryness. Drink fluids to offset.
In clinical trials, CBD is generally tolerated even at high doses. Most side effects are mild and dissipate quickly. Talk to your doctor about adjusting dosage or timing if any unwanted side effects occur with CBD. Monitoring side effects can help find the optimal dosage for you.
What Makes Irwin Naturals CBD Oils Stand Out?
Irwin Naturals is a popular supplement brand that now offers a line of CBD hemp oils. But what sets Irwin Naturals CBD oils apart from other options on the market? Here are some of the standout features of this CBD product line.
Irwin Naturals CBD oils are full spectrum, meaning they contain all the naturally occurring compounds in hemp including cannabinoids, terpenes and nutrients. This provides the “entourage effect” for enhanced effects compared to CBD isolate.
The hemp is organically grown on specially licensed farms in Oregon, Colorado and Kentucky. The hemp is guaranteed to be non-GMO and pesticide-free.
Irwin Naturals uses clean, safe CO2 extraction technology to obtain its CBD oil. This method yields pure, high-potency CBD oil retaining hemp’s valuable terpenes and minor cannabinoids.
An important distinction is that Irwin Naturals CBD oils are water-soluble formulas. The nanoemulsion process creates microscopic CBD particles to optimize absorption compared to oil-based formulas.
Finally, Irwin Naturals CBD is rigorously third-party tested for potency, purity and quality assurance. The certificates of analysis confirm the products are THC-free as well.
With its full spectrum CBD, organic hemp sourcing, water-soluble formula and extensive testing, Irwin Naturals offers exceptional quality with its CBD oils.
Is CBD Oil the Same as Hemp Oil?
With the rising popularity of CBD, an increasing number of hemp products are hitting the market. This can cause confusion between CBD oil and hemp oil. While related, these two oils have distinct differences.
CBD oil is an extract specifically high in the cannabinoid CBD, or cannabidiol. CBD oil is produced by extracting CBD along with other cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plants. This extract is then suspended in a carrier oil like MCT oil.
CBD oil can be derived from both hemp and marijuana, but is typically sourced from hemp for legal reasons. Quality CBD oil should clearly state its CBD content and extraction method.
Hemp oil, or hemp seed oil, is extracted by cold pressing hemp seeds. Hemp oil contains little to no CBD. Instead, it is high in healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 and vitamins. Hemp oil is used in cooking, beauty products and as a supplement.
While hemp oil has benefits, it does not directly provide the CBD concentrations that CBD oil does. Hemp oils lack cannabinoids including CBD. Check labels closely to ensure you select CBD oil, not plain hemp oil, for access to cannabinoids. Look for quality, reputable brands to find effective CBD oil products.
Benefits of Using Irwin Naturals CBD Oils
Irwin Naturals offers a line of CBD hemp oil products boasting exceptional quality. What are some of the key benefits CBD oil from Irwin Naturals can provide?
Full Spectrum Formula
Irwin Naturals CBD oils utilize a full spectrum hemp extract. This provides a diverse array of cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, CBG along with terpenes, flavonoids and other compounds from whole plant hemp. Research shows full spectrum CBD may produce enhanced effects and benefits compared to CBD isolate alone.
Organic and Non-GMO
The hemp used in Irwin Naturals CBD oils is organically grown without GMOs or pesticides. This clean hemp ensures potency and safety.
Water-Soluble for Maximum Absorption
Irwin Naturals unique nanoemulsion process makes their CBD oils water-compatible for faster absorption compared to traditional CBD oils. This can lead to quicker onset and longer lasting effects.
Rigorously Tested
Each batch of Irwin Naturals CBD undergoes independent third-party lab testing. Reports are available online for transparency. Testing ensures optimal CBD levels, purity and a THC-free formula.
By providing a potent, full spectrum formula using high-quality organic hemp and a water-compatible nanoemulsion delivery system, Irwin Naturals CBD oils offer exceptional quality consumers can trust.