Almost everywhere you look, someone is trying to sell you CBD oil. But what exactly is CBD oil, and how do you use it?
CBD oil tinctures are among the most common CBD products because they are easy to measure, can be taken in different serving sizes, and are available in a variety of concentrations. Understanding how CBD tinctures are made, labeled, and used can help you compare products more confidently.
You will learn the key factors for choosing a CBD, including:
- What is CBD oil
- How to use CBD oil
- What to use CBD oil for
- What is the correct dosage for CBD oil
- Is CBD oil safe
- Which CBD oil is right for you
- How to store your CBD oil
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a phytocannabinoid (or plant chemical) found in certain plants, precisely the Cannabis variety of plants, including both industrial hemp and marijuana plants.
Unlike THC, CBD is not generally associated with the intoxicating “high” commonly connected with marijuana. However, CBD products may contain different amounts of THC depending on whether they are made with full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate CBD extract.
CBD oil typically comes in a glass bottle with a dropper to assist in administering the oil orally. The CBD oil is not pure CBD concentrate. CBD oil is usually mixed with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil, hemp oil, grape seed oil, olive oil, and others.
The amount of CBD in a tincture is usually listed in milligrams on the product label. For example, a bottle may contain 500 mg, 1,000 mg, or another total amount of CBD. Consumers should distinguish between the total CBD in the bottle and the amount of CBD in each individual serving.
The carrier oil helps dilute the natural taste of the CBD extract. Sometimes, CBD oil comes in different flavors, including spearmint and strawberry. This flavoring helps provide a sweet taste to the oil versus the natural bitter taste.
Carrier oils may also influence the texture, flavor, and consistency of a CBD tincture. Anyone with a food allergy or sensitivity should review the full ingredient list rather than focusing only on the CBD concentration.
How Is CBD Oil Made?
CBD oil is typically produced by extracting cannabinoids and other plant compounds from hemp or cannabis material. Manufacturers may use carbon dioxide extraction, ethanol extraction, or other processing methods. After extraction, the CBD concentrate is combined with a carrier oil to create the finished tincture.
The extraction method alone does not determine whether a product is high quality. Consumers should also consider the source of the hemp, manufacturing standards, ingredient transparency, and availability of recent third-party laboratory results.
How to Use CBD Oil Tinctures?
CBD oil is meant to be taken orally. The preferred method is to place the drops under your tongue and let it sit there for 60 seconds. This allows the CBD to be absorbed into your bloodstream. Then, swallow the remaining CBD oil.
This method is commonly called sublingual CBD use. Before taking a tincture, read the product’s instructions because recommended serving methods and concentrations can vary between brands.
Tinctures usually come with a dropper to measure the CBD oil tincture, so you don't have to count how many drops you take.
Check whether the dropper includes measurement markings. Knowing how many milliliters the dropper holds can make it easier to calculate the approximate amount of CBD in each serving.
Lately, people have also been using CBD oil as a topical. Sometimes, people rub a small amount (1 or 2 drops) into their face or wherever they have dry skin, such as elbows or knees, to help soften the skin.
An oral CBD tincture is not necessarily formulated in the same way as a CBD topical. Products intended for the skin may contain additional ingredients designed for topical application. Always follow the intended use shown on the product label and avoid applying a product to broken or irritated skin unless its directions indicate that it is appropriate to do so.
Can You Mix CBD Oil With Food or Drinks?
Some people add CBD oil to smoothies, coffee, tea, or other foods to make its natural flavor less noticeable. Mixing a tincture with food may be more convenient, but it is still important
What Do You Use CBD Oil For?
Potential applications of CBD are wide-ranging and may include promoting general well-being and supporting a balanced lifestyle. Some individuals have reported experiencing positive effects such as relaxation and mood. However, it's important to note that the specific impact of CBD can vary among individuals. While anecdotal evidence suggests diverse uses, it's crucial to approach CBD as part of a holistic approach to well-being. As with any supplement, individuals should consider consulting with a healthcare professional to determine its potential role in their wellness routine.
People commonly research CBD oil for relaxation, post-exercise recovery, sleep routines, everyday stress, and general wellness. These uses do not mean that every CBD product has been proven to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent a medical condition.
CBD Oil and Joint Pain
CBD oil joint pain is a frequently searched topic among people exploring nonprescription wellness products. Some consumers are interested in oral CBD tinctures, while others prefer CBD creams, balms, or roll-ons for targeted use.
Research into CBD oil for joint pain and discomfort is still developing, and individual experiences can differ. CBD should not replace an evaluation or treatment recommended by a qualified healthcare professional, particularly when joint discomfort is severe, persistent, associated with swelling, or caused by an injury.
When comparing CBD oil joint pain products, look at the form of CBD, the amount per serving, the complete ingredient list, and the product’s certificate of analysis. Avoid brands that promise guaranteed pain relief or claim that CBD can cure arthritis or another medical condition.
What is the Correct Dosage for CBD Oil?
Photo by Enecta Cannabis extracts on Unsplash
There are no valid dosage recommendations for CBD oil.
There is no single CBD serving size that is appropriate for everyone or every product. CBD tinctures are sold in different strengths, so the same volume of oil may contain very different amounts of CBD depending on the concentration.
Your specific dosage relates to genetics, height, weight, dosage form, and other medications you are taking. Therefore, doses can vary from person to person.
You may need to experiment with your dosage more than once to provide you with the desired effect.
A famous saying amongst CBD users is, “Start low and go slow.” This means starting with small doses and gradually increasing the dose until you reach the desired effect.
Keep track of the amount taken, the time it was taken, and any effects you notice. A simple record can make it easier to avoid accidentally increasing the serving too quickly or taking more because you forgot an earlier serving.
Finding the correct dose for you will involve trial and error. Keep going. Be patient and stick with it. Consistency is vital with CBD.
Do not assume that a higher-strength CBD oil is automatically more effective. Concentrated tinctures provide more CBD in a smaller volume, which can make careful measurement especially important.
What exactly is CBD oil, and how do you use it?
CBD oil is a liquid product that combines CBD extract with a carrier oil. It is commonly measured with a dropper and taken under the tongue according to the product’s instructions. Before using it, review the concentration, serving size, ingredients, laboratory report, and safety warnings.
Are CBD Oils Safe?
Yes, CBD oil tinctures are generally considered safe to use.
CBD can still cause side effects and interact with medications, and significant questions remain about the effects of frequent or long-term use. Safety may also depend on the amount consumed, the product’s quality, other substances being used, and the individual’s health circumstances
- CBD is not considered to have an addictive profile
- CBD does not provide a high like THC
- CBD does not have a lot of significant side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and drowsiness.
Because CBD may cause drowsiness or changes in alertness, use caution before driving, operating machinery, or combining it with alcohol or other substances that can cause sedation.
However, if you are taking prescription medication, there can be a risk of drug interactions. That said, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before taking CBD products.
This is especially important for people who take medications with narrow dosing requirements or medicines that include a grapefruit warning. A doctor or pharmacist can help assess whether CBD could affect how a medication is processed.
Lastly, always check the CBD oil ingredients and ensure you are not allergic or sensitive to any carrier oils in the product.
People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, preparing for surgery, managing liver concerns, or purchasing CBD for a child should speak with an appropriate healthcare professional before using a CBD product.
How Do I Know Which CBD Oil is Right for Me?
With so many CBD oils available and new brands popping up daily, it is easy to get overwhelmed when buying one. Finding a reputable brand takes some research.
Begin by deciding which CBD format, concentration, flavor, and extract type fit your preferences. Then compare products using objective information such as ingredient lists, serving sizes, batch numbers, manufacturing details, and independent laboratory reports.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when researching CBD oil:
- Has the product been lab-tested?
- What to look for in lab testing
-
How much CBD is provided per serving?
- How much CBD is provided per serving?
- Does the label identify the carrier oil and other ingredients?
- Is the certificate of analysis recent and connected to the product’s batch or lot number?
- Does the company provide clear contact information and realistic product descriptions?
CBD Oil Lab Testing
When researching CBD oil, ask to see the lab tests, also known as certificates of analysis or COAs. Usually, these should be done by a third-party lab, not the manufacturer.
A certificate of analysis allows you to compare the product’s advertised contents with the laboratory's reported results. Some brands place a QR code on the bottle or packaging that links directly to the relevant report.
What to look for in these lab results?
Lab results can be confusing, but there are only a few essential items to look out for.
- Confirm that the CBD content on the lab result matches the CBD content on the labeling. Small variations may occur during manufacturing, but a substantial difference between the label and laboratory report can be a warning sign.
- Check that the THC content is less than the federal limit of 0.3%. Usually, it will be a percentage or, say, ND (not detected). Review whether the report lists delta-9 THC, total THC, or additional cannabinoids. State and local rules can differ, so consumers should also check the requirements that apply where they live.
- Confirm there are no pesticides, heavy metals, or other harmful ingredients. Depending on the laboratory panel, a COA may also include results for residual solvents, microbial contaminants, mycotoxins, and other impurities. Make sure the report is current and identifies the same batch or lot number shown on the product.
How to Read a CBD Oil Label
A useful CBD label should clearly state the total amount of CBD in the bottle, the suggested serving size, the amount of CBD per serving, the extract type, the net volume, and the complete ingredient list.
Do not confuse hemp seed oil with CBD oil. Hemp seed oil is made primarily from hemp seeds and may contain little or no naturally occurring CBD. A CBD tincture should clearly disclose its CBD or cannabinoid content rather than relying only on general terms such as “hemp oil.”
What are the different CBD oil tinctures available?
Photo by Chelsea Shapouri
What is Full Spectrum CBD Oil?
Full-spectrum CBD oil includes extracts of the whole plant, including terpenes, CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids such as CBG or CBN. Many people prefer a full spectrum oil due to the entourage effect, meaning both CBD and THC.
Full-spectrum CBD tinctures may appeal to consumers who want a wider range of naturally occurring hemp compounds. Because these products can contain THC, they may not be appropriate for someone who wants to avoid THC completely or who is subject to workplace drug testing.
What is Broad Spectrum CBD Oil?
Broad-spectrum CBD oil is also an extract of the whole plant but typically does not include THC. Broad-spectrum CBD oil is good for consumers who have a THC sensitivity or do not want THC in their products to avoid issues during a drug test.
Broad-spectrum formulas may still contain CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes. Consumers should verify any “THC-free” claim by reviewing the product’s laboratory report because trace amounts or testing limitations may still be relevant.
What is Isolate CBD Oil?
Isolate CBD oil is an extract that only contains CBD and not the other cannabinoids or THC. Isolate CBD oil tends to be cheaper than full-spectrum or broad-spectrum oil.
CBD isolate is often selected by consumers who want a simpler cannabinoid profile. However, no CBD product can guarantee that a person will pass a drug test, so anyone concerned about testing should carefully review the COA and consider avoiding cannabinoid products.
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum vs. CBD Isolate
The best type of CBD extract depends on your preferences and reasons for using the product. Full-spectrum CBD contains a wider variety of hemp compounds and may include THC. Broad-spectrum CBD is generally processed to remove THC while retaining other compounds. CBD isolate contains cannabidiol without the wider cannabinoid profile.
Regardless of extract type, laboratory testing and accurate labeling are more useful indicators of product transparency than marketing terms alone.
How Do I Store My CBD Oil Tinctures?
As with most medications and supplements, storing your CBD oil tinctures at room temperature is best.
Keep CBD oil in a cool, dry, and dark location away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture. A cabinet or drawer is generally more suitable than a windowsill, vehicle, or area next to a stove.
Close the bottle tightly after each use and avoid touching the dropper to your mouth or another surface. This can help reduce the possibility of introducing moisture or contaminants into the bottle.
Does CBD Oil Expire?
CBD oil has a limited shelf life. Check the bottle for an expiration or best-by date, and follow any storage instructions provided by the manufacturer. Changes in smell, color, texture, or flavor may indicate that the product is old or has not been stored properly.
What Else Do I Need to Know About CBD Oil?
One hot topic around CBD is regulation. Currently, there is no regulation of CBD products, meaning that it is the company’s responsibility to ensure that their products are safe and only contain what is represented on their labeling.
The CBD marketplace includes products that vary considerably in quality, concentration, ingredients, and label accuracy. Consumers should not assume that a product has been reviewed or approved simply because it is available online or in a retail store.
CBD laws and product requirements can also differ by state and may change over time. Review applicable local rules, particularly when traveling with CBD or purchasing products that contain detectable amounts of THC.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying CBD Oil
Avoid selecting a CBD tincture based solely on the lowest price, the highest milligram count, or an influencer's recommendation. A more informed comparison considers the amount per serving, ingredient quality, laboratory testing, brand transparency, and intended use.
Other common mistakes include failing to check for medication interactions, taking multiple servings too quickly, overlooking the carrier oil, using an expired product, and believing unsupported medical claims.
Final Thoughts on CBD Oil
With more CBD brands entering the market, it is essential to educate yourself before buying these products. As a reminder:
- Check that your product has been lab-tested
- Confirm with your doctor there are no interactions between CBD and your current medication
- Check out any customer reviews about the brand that you are contemplating
- Be wary of any medical claims, such as CBD oil can "cure" a specific ailment
- Read the complete ingredient list and verify how much CBD is provided in each serving.
- Choose a CBD extract type that matches your preferences regarding THC and other cannabinoids.
- Store the tincture correctly and follow the product’s measuring and usage instructions.
CBD oils have many potential benefits. That's why we hope this guide helps you find a reputable brand to ensure you can reap the benefits.
Author: Shereen Kassam
Date: October 01, 2019
Rating: 4.8 / 5
Category: CBD Oil TInctures, Koi CBD Oil, Usage of CBD Oil
