In recent years, the cannabidiol or CBD market has grown considerably in popularity, primarily because of all the interest and research regarding its potential benefits to health and wellness. However, even with all the studies about their impacts, it has yet to be fully explored. And with the sheer number of products available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially if you’ve never bought or used them before.
Fortunately, the buying process isn’t rocket science, and it’s much simpler than you might think. In this guide, we’ll talk about what you need to consider when shopping for these kinds of products, including CBD flower, oil, topical solutions, edibles, and more.
1. Determine what you need it for
Of course, before you start shopping for CBD products, you need to determine what you need them for. While it’s been touted for its many potential health benefits, some preliminary studies suggest that it may be helpful with everything, be it pain, stress and anxiety relief or opioid addiction. But, unfortunately, there’s also very little that’s known about the ideal or more appropriate method of consumption.
Still, some experts have recommendations. For example, those looking for the most effective method to get some relief for anxiety or muscle cramps may benefit from taking cannabidiol through smoking. Some may try a couple of drops under their tongues for immediate results. On the other hand, food-based CBD products generally take longer to take effect but are a more discreet method of ingestion.
2. Check third-party analysis reports
It’s never a good idea to take the word of the supplier or manufacturer as gospel when it comes to cannabidiol products. Instead, always request a third-party analysis or report before making any financial commitments. These documents will give an insight into how a specific product performs with regard to testing for levels of THC and CBD, contamination presence, and many more.
If a retail store or online manufacturer lacks the information or outright refuses to show it, then it’s best to walk away and find another. Otherwise, you could potentially get in trouble. This is especially true for those who live in areas where only medical use is legalised.
3. Avoid those that make unreasonable health claims
Any health claim, even something that treats minor issues like a headache, is only legal for over-the-counter or prescription medication that has undergone extensive testing. And you must always be sceptical when it comes to wellness products like CBD that make dramatic claims. After all, it’s unlikely that they’ll work as intended.
4. Read up on reviews
Apart from securing an analysis report from a third-party lab, it’s also a rule of thumb to check what customers have to say. You’ll be able to gain more objective information from them than you will from the manufacturer, after all. It might appear like a lot of extra work, but reading customer reviews could save you from a lot of hassle later on.
Conclusion
Much like any other wellness product, there are a few things you need to do before you buy CBD products. By following the tips mentioned above, you’ll get the right product that will best fit your needs without having to spend more than you need to in the process.
