Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of several chemicals found in marijuana plants. When suppliers extract CBD from cannabis and add it to a carrier oil, it becomes a useful product that offers many of the benefits of recreational and medicinal marijuana. Since the oil does not contain the psychoactive element THC, CBD-infused products do not give users a “high. Dozens of suppliers sell CBD products, but not all are created equal. For example, off-the-shelf products may not be the same quality as those derived from plants grown at Veritas Farms. Informed shoppers should ask themselves three critical questions before deciding on a brand.

1) How Will CBD Be Used?

With marijuana legal in 47 states, dozens of CBD producers are publicizing its health benefits. Studies indicate that CBD shows promise as a pain reliever and could offer relief for symptoms of MS, cancer, and opioid addiction. It has been proven to treat two severe forms of epilepsy. A Consumer Reports survey of 1,003 adults revealed that 13% had used CBD for a health condition, and 90% said it helped.

Ideally, CBD shoppers should consult a doctor to determine the best type of product for their needs. However, most buy products because they heard about benefits through word-of-mouth and have little experience with them. Suppliers and industry guidelines can help consumers determine the best products for their needs.

For instance, inhaling CBD through vaping helps relieve muscle cramps. Placing oil drops under the tongue offers speedy relief from symptoms. Many customers rub topical lotions into their skin, although this is not the fastest-acting method.

2) How Much THC Do Products Contain?

Customers who opt for CBD oil generally want to avoid a marijuana high caused by THC. The THC content can also determine where products can be sold and their effectiveness. That means shoppers need to read product labels carefully. Some people are sensitive to psychoactive chemicals, and even a small amount could cause side effects.

With that in mind, many customers stick with CBD oil that is derived from hemp and contains no more than .03% THC. Products made from hemp that have more than .03% THC can only be sold in areas where marijuana is legal. However, some users believe that .03% is enough to give CBD oil a therapeutic boost.

3) Where Are Hemp Products Grown?

The source of CBD-infused products is critical, and it is best to buy from growers who consistently provide high-quality merchandise. Many industry professionals recommend exceptionally robust Colorado-grown hemp. State regulations ensure that plants are spot-tested for THC levels while they are still growing. Testers also check for illegal pesticide use. Product labels identify where plants were grown.

Trusted suppliers will also show clients’ certificates proving that products have been tested for THC levels and contaminants. No U.S. state requires that finished products be tested – that is a step that only high-quality growers take. If suppliers cannot provide proof of testing, buyers should avoid them.

CBD oil extracted from cannabis plants is in demand because it has been linked to numerous health benefits. Because there are dozens of suppliers providing a wide range of merchandise, buyers need to learn which CBD-infused products work best for their needs. They should also buy from suppliers who are clear about THC content and who can provide certificates proving plants and products have been tested for contaminants and THC.