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Cannabidiol (CBD) products are becoming increasingly popular. As researchers understand more about the potential benefits, more manufacturers are infusing their products with CBD. However, it is important to ensure that people only use safe and high quality CBD products.
In this article, we will explore CBD benefits, risks, and some of the best CBD products currently on the market.
Confused about CBD? Read our complete buyer’s guide here.
Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal federally but still illegal under some state laws. Cannabis-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws. Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not approved nonprescription CBD products, which may be inaccurately labeled.
CBD is a popular natural remedy that people may use for a host of different health conditions. There is growing evidence that CBD may be useful for:
Pain relief
People may use CBD to help manage different types of chronic pain. A 2017 study on rat models found that CBD injections reduced pain response to a surgical incision.
A 2020 study suggests that topical CBD may provide pain relief for those with peripheral neuropathy. Researchers found that CBD can significantly reduce intense pain, sharp pain, itchy sensations, and cold.
Anxiety relief
A 2015 study suggests that CBD is a potential treatment for multiple anxiety disorders, such as:
A 2020 study also suggests that CBD may possess anxiolytic benefits, which means that it may be useful for mental health conditions, such as anxiety.
Cancer-related side effects
CBD may help reduce cancer-related side effects, such as nausea and vomiting. A 2016study indicates that taking Sativex, a drug that contains CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may provide relief from nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy.
Epilepsy
In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex, a purified form of CBD. A doctor may use Epidiolex to treat two rare forms of epilepsy in children:
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Dravet syndrome
Researchers are beginning to understand how CBD may help manage seizures.
Neurodegenerative diseases
A 2019 study suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also help manage neurodegenerative diseases, including:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Huntington’s disease
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Acne
CBD has also shown promise in treating acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to reduce sebum production. A 2014 study suggests that CBD may prevent acne by inhibiting the sebaceous glands from secreting excess sebum.
CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated by many people. However, anyone looking to use CBD should first consult a healthcare professional, as it is possible for CBD to interact with some prescriptions or supplements.
Some common side effects of CBD, which may be dose-dependent, may include:
It is important to choose CBD products on criteria that are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency. Each product in this article:
- is from a company providing proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab
- is made with hemp grown in the United States
- contains no more than 0.3% THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
- passes for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA
It is also important to consider:
- company certifications and manufacturing processes
- product potency
- overall ingredients
- indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
- customer reviews
- whether the company has been subject to an FDA warning letter
- whether the company makes any unsupported health claims
There are many CBD products available on the market. Below, we list six products that people may wish to try.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All product information is purely research-based.
Charlotte’s Web CBD oil
Charlotte’s Web CBD oils are a formulation of full-spectrum hemp extract. As it is full spectrum, this means it contains all the other cannabinoids (including up to 0.3% THC), terpenes, and oils in the cannabis plant.
The company say they designed their CBD oil to help maintain calm, focus, and healthful sleep. They also state that it is effective for recovery from exercise-induced inflammation.
The oils are available in a variety of strengths, ranging from 210 milligrams (mg) to 1,800 mg per 30-milliliter bottle. The CBD oil comes in four flavors: lemon twist, mint chocolate, orange blossom, and olive oil.
Charlotte’s Web CBD oil is available for purchase here.
Sunday Scaries CBD gummies
Sunday Scaries CBD gummies contain broad-spectrum CBD. This means it contains all the compounds in the cannabis plant except THC. However, some products may contain trace quantities of THC.
The gummies also contain vitamins B12 and D3. Additionally, people can choose either gelatin-based or vegan gummies. Each gummy contains 10 mg of CBD. The company recommend taking two or three gummies, as necessary.
Sunday Scaries CBD gummies are available for purchase here.
Joy Organics CBD Softgels with Curcumin
These softgels contain 25 mg of CBD per serving, with 30 softgels in each bottle.
The manufacturer state that the softgels are designed to support joint health. As both CBD and curcumin possess anti-inflammatory properties, these softgels may be useful for people with inflammatory pain.
The capsules are made from bovine gelatin, which means that they are not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Joy Organics CBD Softgels with Curcumin are available for purchase here.
CBDistillery CBDol Topical Salve
This product is a combination of 500 mg of full-spectrum CBD, essential oils, and botanical extracts. The manufacturers of this hemp-derived CBD salve suggest that it may be beneficial for relieving localized muscle pain.
According to their website, CBDistillery source their products from non-GMO hemp through natural farming practices.
CBDistillery CBDol Topical Salve is available for purchase here.
Social Rest CBD Body Lotion
This body lotion contains 300 mg of CBD, along with essential oils, such as chamomile and bergamot, to offer a calming sensation. The manufacturer also claim that the lotion is non-greasy, non-sticky, and fast absorbing.
The CBD body lotion also contains:
Social Rest CBD Body Lotion is available for purchase here.
Moon Mother Hemp Company Massage Oil
This product combines 500 mg full-spectrum CBD with only two other ingredients: jojoba oil and lavender essential oil. The manufacturer suggest that the ingredients work together to soothe the skin and muscles and to provide overall body balance.
The company state that they use 100% organic ingredients and that their products are not only 100% organic but also cruelty and gluten free. The company also commit to sustainable farming practices and use their own hemp to produce the oils.
Moon Mother Hemp Company Massage Oil is available for purchase here.
Since the CBD industry is currently unregulated, there is a chance of unethical CBD manufacturers being dishonest about cannabinoid content in their products. This is where third-party testing comes in. It is important because:
- CBD products are not FDA regulated
- it verifies the quality of CBD products
- it provides a neutral, unbiased source of information
There are various ways of administering CBD. Depending on the goal, the condition treated, and necessary dosage, people can choose which delivery method is most suitable. Some common forms of taking CBD include:
- Oils and tinctures: People can apply the oil directly in their mouth or choose to add it to food or drink.
- Gummies: CBD gummies can provide a convenient and discrete way of taking CBD.
- Capsules: These are another convenient form of CBD. They usually come in the form of pills or softgels infused with CBD.
- Topicals: People typically use these products for localized pain and skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.
Many CBD or CBD-infused products are currently available for people to try. CBD may have many potential benefits, such as relieving pain and anxiety.
With many products available, it is important for people to choose safe and high quality products. Therefore, it is important to pick products that have undergone third-party testing. It is also advisable to talk to a doctor before using any CBD product.