Hemp CBD oil is a liquid extract made from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of hemp plants. Hemp is a type of cannabis plant with high levels of CBD and no more than 0.3% THC. THC is the compound that causes a high. Hemp CBD oil is used by many people for wellness purposes.
best hemp cbd oil on the market
Hemp CBD oil basics
CBD stands for Cannabidiol. It is one of many natural compounds in cannabis. Hemp CBD oil is typically made by extracting CBD and combining it with a carrier oil. It can be taken under the tongue, vaped, applied to skin, or added to foods and drinks.
Hemp CBD oil vs cannabis CBD oil
Both hemp CBD oil and cannabis CBD oil come from cannabis plant varieties. The main difference is the amount of THC.
Hemp CBD Oil for Pain: A Cannabis Store Buying Guide
- Hemp CBD oil: from hemp, under 0.3% THC, legal federally. Sold in many retail stores including hemp and wellness shops.
- Cannabis CBD oil: from marijuana, may contain more THC. Available at licensed cannabis stores or medical dispensaries in states with legalization.
Potential benefits and limitations
The FDA approved a purified CBD drug called Epidiolex for specific seizure disorders. There is not enough strong evidence to support CBD oil for other conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, or depression. Some people still report improvements, but you should discuss with a healthcare provider before treating a medical problem.
What to check when buying hemp CBD oil at a cannabis store
Look for a Certificate of Analysis, or COA, from a third-party lab. This document verifies the product contains what the label says. Check that the label lists the total CBD milligrams per container and the serving size. Ask the staff if the product is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate. Full-spectrum contains additional plant compounds, including traces of THC. Broad-spectrum has them minus THC. Isolate is pure CBD.
Be aware of overpromises. FDA rules prohibit selling CBD as a dietary supplement or in food. Products cannot claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If a store employee makes health claims, be suspicious.
Legal and labeling notes
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products with 0.3% THC or less. Still, states can regulate sales. In states with recreational cannabis, you may find a cannabis store that sells both types of CBD oil. In conservative states, only hemp derived products may be sold.