How to Read CBD Labels

How To Read CBD Labels

Cannabidiol (CBD) products are one of the fastest-growing segments in the legal cannabis industry.

Walk into any dispensary and you can now find CBD in numerous forms: capsules, tinctures, vapes, and much more. Pretty soon, we can expect to see them on the shelves of pharmacies, thanks to the increasing awareness of this cannabinoid in treating a wide range of conditions from cancer prevention to general well-being.

But to a newbie consumer, navigating the world of CBD products can be overwhelming. Cannabis companies use a great variety of marketing tactics to sell their products, so it’s up to you to decipher those that are worth your money and your health. There are so many things to consider, but learning how to read labels is your best bet to making a smart purchase in the same way you would read nutritional labels from food and beverage products.

Here is a useful guide to deciphering CBD labels to eliminate the guesswork involved in finding a product that works best for you.

CBD Content

Of course, the first thing you’ll want to look out for is the CBD content available in every product serving. If it contains some tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the labels will include this information too, so that you’ll have an idea of its potency and/or if it can get you high. CBD and THC information is usually measured in milligrams. For example, a 0.5 gram serving of CBD may have 50mg of CBD. Finding out the ideal daily intake of CBD required for the purpose you’re using it may be best determined by you and your doctor, because varying levels of CBD will have its own assigned health benefits depending on your condition. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about overdosing because it’s virtually impossible. Having said that, getting the right dose is still key so that you know how much product to consume.

Hemp Oil Content

Most CBD products in the market are derived from hemp, and such products will usually include information on the quantity of hemp oil available in each serving. For example, if a 0.5 gram serving of a product also has 0.5 grams of hemp oil, this means that it hasn’t been diluted or mixed with other ingredients. On the other hand, some CBD product manufacturers mix them with other ingredients which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Just read up on these ingredients before making a purchase.

Manufacturer

No matter what kind of product you’re buying, the labels of CBD products will always include information on the distributor or manufacturer of the product. If you’re wary, this is a good way to start your research on the companies that make them. Find out if they have a good reputation, and if they’re trustworthy. A quick Google search on them will generally provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. It also helps to take a look into the company’s laboratory testing standards because this will give you peace of mind knowing that you or your loved ones are consuming products that have been tested and are free from potential contaminants.

Serving Size

Just like other food, beverage, or medications, serving size information on CBD products are provided so that customers have an idea of how many servings are available in each package or overall volume. This is a good gauge for understanding how long the product will last you. However, keep in mind that serving size is only a recommendation – if you aren’t sure, it’s always best to ask your doctor.

Sugars and Sweeteners

There are some CBD products in the market that have been made with sweeteners which are used to improve flavor. Depending on the reason you’re consuming CBD, you may or may not want to ingest products that have sugar or any other form of sweeteners. This is particularly important if you have diabetes, or are trying to lose weight. In this case you’re better off using a pure CBD product even if it doesn’t taste as good.

Storage Information

Like other medications, CBD products should include information on how to best store the product to ensure its quality and potency. Some manufacturers have made their products in such a way that it requires being kept in the refrigerator once opened, while others need to be kept away from light and heat. Check the product’s expiration date as well to make sure you’re always consuming fresh, potent CBD product.

Other Ingredients

CBD products derived from hemp oils generally contain other compounds found in the cannabis plant. The exception would be if you are consuming an isolated CBD product. Keep in mind that the hemp plant has hundreds of other compounds, such as terpenes, which also have their own health benefits.