Purchasing CBD oil for the first time can be intimidating. The labels on CBD products use terms outside the realm of most people who are not familiar with the cannabis industry. In this post, we will show you how to read CBD oil labels to help you build confidence and make the best purchasing decision possible.
When you are buying CBD oil or edibles, it is imperative to check the labels to ensure the brand is reputable, following FDA guidelines, and contains the amount of CBD advertised. You also want to be aware of the other ingredients, especially if you purchase CBD vape or gummies. Many companies use harmful additives and fillers that can lead to adverse side effects.
Table of Contents
What is on CBD Oil Labels?
All CBD tincture labels contain several important metrics that are essential in understanding the contents of the product.
First, determine what type of CBD you are looking at. The three varieties are full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate. Full-spectrum contains an array of other cannabinoids and terpenes, including THC. Broad-spectrum products also are ‘full plant’ extracts but are absent of THC in detectable amounts. Isolate is pure CBD.
CBD bottle labels should clearly identify the type of CBD. This is a fundamental metric, especially if you do not want to consume THC, even in small amounts.
The next aspect of the CBD label you need to find is the CBD potency. The amount of CBD you take is significant; it should be identified in milligrams. You also want to look at the serving size to determine how much CBD is recommended per dose.
These are the two most important factors of a CBD label. If possible, you should validate the CBD potency and amount of other cannabinoids through a third party lab test. Many brands have recognized consumers want to know what is in their products and have included a QR code on the label that sends them to the online lab test for the product.
Third party lab tests are the only way consumers can ensure they are taking high-quality CBD. Unfortunately, many CBD products do not contain the QR code on their label; we highly recommend finding its website and looking at lab tests before purchasing. Check potency tests as well as testing for pesticides and residual solvents.
How to Read CBD Labels – Find the Carrier Oil
Another critical aspect of a CBD label is the carrier oil. Most brands use either MCT oil or hemp seed oil to add to their tincture, making the product consumable. Both types of carrier oils have benefits, but they are slightly different.
You want to understand the type of carrier oil before purchasing, especially if you are allergic to hemp seeds or coconut oil.
Products like CBD gummies or pills do not use a carrier oil, but you want to check for additional ingredients to deliver the CBD.
CBD Label Requirements
Every CBD oil label must contain a company address, the manufacturer, and the FDA warning saying the product has not been evaluated and is not intended to treat any health condition. While these factors may not directly affect the CBD in the product, you do not want to do business with a company not following FDA guidelines or providing complete transparency in where they are making their products.
Once you understand the contents of a CBD label, you can choose which product is suitable for your specific needs. Nutrition labels can be confusing; just remember to find the type of CBD, potency levels, carrier oil, other ingredients, and if the company is following FDA guidelines.