What’s in Your CBD Oil? Here’s What to Watch Out For

CBD oil has burst onto the health scene, gaining fame for its **remarkable ability to ease stress** and **calm persistent aches**.

But not all CBD oils are equal, and it’s important to be aware of what goes into them so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you. 

In this article, we will discuss what exactly is in your CBD oil, how to discern between high-quality versus low-quality products, and what to look out for when shopping for a CBD product. Our goal is to help you feel confident choosing the right product for your needs.

CBD Oil and Cannabis Oil – What to Avoid

When considering taking CBD oil or cannabis oil, it’s important to know what to avoid. Some unscrupulous companies may add additives to their products that can be harmful, so it’s crucial to do your research before purchasing any CBD or cannabis product.

Some common additives that you should look out for include:

• Synthetic cannabinoids – These man-made chemicals can be much more potent than natural cannabinoids and can cause serious side effects.
• Pesticides – Pesticides can be harmful if ingested and may also contaminate the CBD oil or cannabis product.
• Herbicides – Like pesticides, herbicides can also be harmful if ingested and may contaminate the product.
• Heavy metals – Some CBD products have been found to contain high levels of heavy metals like lead and mercury, which can be toxic if ingested.
• Adulterants – Some unscrupulous companies may add other drugs or chemicals to their CBD products in order to increase their potency or effect. This is extremely dangerous and could lead to serious health consequences.

1. “Hemp Oil” or “Hemp Extract”

“Hemp oil” and “hemp extract” are both common terms used to describe CBD oil. Hemp extract is the oil that is extracted from the hemp plant, while hemp oil is a term used to describe a variety of different oils that may or may not be derived from the hemp plant.

When shopping for CBD oil, it is important to know which type of oil you are looking for. Hemp oil is typically made from hemp seeds, while hemp extract is made from the whole plant. Hemp seed oil does not contain any cannabinoids, while hemp extract typically contains high levels of CBD.

If you are looking for a product that contains CBD, be sure to check the label to see if it specifies that the product contains hemp extract or hemp oil.

2. Solvent Residues

CBD oil is typically extracted from hemp plants using either CO2 or ethanol. These are both safe and effective methods of extraction, but they can leave behind solvent residues in the final product.

Ethanol is the most common solvent used in CBD extraction, and it is also used in food and beverage processing. However, it can be difficult to completely remove all traces of ethanol from the final product. 

This is not necessarily a bad thing, as ethanol is a relatively safe solvent. However, it is important to be aware that there may be trace amounts of ethanol present in your CBD oil.

CO2 is another common solvent used in CBD extraction, and it is also used in many other industries such as food and beverage processing, cosmetics manufacturing, and more. 

CO2 is a very effective solvent, but it can also be difficult to remove all traces of it from the final product. This is not necessarily a bad thing either, as CO2 is also a relatively safe solvent. 

However, like with ethanol, it is important to be aware that there may be trace amounts of CO2 present in your CBD oil.

3. Heavy Metal Residue

The cannabis plant contains over 100 different chemical compounds, known as cannabinoids. CBD (cannabidiol) is one of these cannabinoids, and it has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits.

CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil.

CBD oil has been claimed to offer a wide range of health benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and relieving pain. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims

• One potential concern with CBD oil is its purity. CBD products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so there is no guarantee that they contain what they claim to. In addition, some CBD oils may contain harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals 
• Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that can be found in soil and water. They can also enter the environment through human activities, such as industrial processes and mining 
• Exposure to high levels of heavy metals can cause serious health problems, including kidney damage, neurological disorders, and cancer 
• To avoid these risks, it’s important to choose a pure and reputable CBD oil product. Look for products that have been tested by an independent third party and that list their ingredients clearly on the label. Avoid products that make claims that are too good to be true 

CBD and Cannabis Vaping Liquids – What to Avoid

When it comes to CBD and cannabis vaping liquids, there are a few things you should avoid. First, make sure the liquid is free of contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals. 

Second, avoid vape liquids that contain vegetable glycerin (VG) or propylene glycol (PG), as these can produce harmful byproducts when heated. Finally, steer clear of any vape liquid that contains artificial flavors, colorings, or sweeteners.

1. Thickeners (e.g. Vitamin E Acetate)

Vitamin E Acetate is a common thickener used in CBD oil. It is a synthetic form of vitamin E that is not found naturally in the body. Vitamin E is an important nutrient that helps to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. 

However, Vitamin E Acetate can be harmful when inhaled, and has been linked to lung injury and death in some cases. It is important to check the label of your CBD oil to make sure it does not contain Vitamin E Acetate, and to only purchase products from reputable brands that use safe ingredients.

2. Essential Oils

As more and more people are turning to CBD for its potential health benefits, it’s important to know what’s in your CBD oil. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Make sure the CBD oil is derived from hemp, not marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD oil is legal in most states, while marijuana-derived CBD oil is not.
• Check to see if the CBD oil has been tested by an independent lab. This will ensure that it contains the amount of CBD that is listed on the label.
• Be aware of the different types of CBD oils available. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all of the plant’s cannabinoids, including THC, while broad-spectrum CBD oil contains most of them but without THC. Isolate CBD oil contains only pure CBD and no other cannabinoids.
• Choose an oil with a carrier oil that’s suitable for you. Common carrier oils include coconut oil, MCT oil, and olive oil.
• If you’re looking for additional benefits, look for an oil that’s infused with other ingredients such as essential oils or vitamins.

3. MCT Oil or Other Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. It’s also been shown to improve heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

MCT oil is a type of coconut oil that’s rich in medium chain fatty acids, which are metabolized differently than other types of fat. 

MCT oil has been shown to increase energy levels and improve mental clarity. It’s also been shown to boost weight loss by increasing metabolism and preventing cravings.

When choosing a CBD oil, look for one that contains MCT oil or other coconut oil as the carrier oil. This will ensure you’re getting the maximum benefits from the CBD.

4. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a synthetic compound that is commonly used as a food additive and in many cosmetics and personal care products. 

It is also used as a solvent and emulsifier in pharmaceuticals. PEG has been linked to health concerns, including liver damage, gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, and skin irritation.

CBD Topicals – What to Avoid

When it comes to CBD topicals, there are a few things you should avoid. 

• First, make sure the product is not made with synthetic cannabinoids. These are chemicals that are designed to mimic the effects of CBD, but can be dangerous. 
• Second, avoid products that contain fillers or added ingredients. These can often be cheaper, but they can also reduce the effectiveness of the CBD. 
• Finally, make sure to choose a product that is tested by an independent third party. This will ensure that it contains the amount of CBD listed on the label and that it is free from contaminants.

1. Artificial Colors

CBD oil can come in a variety of colors, depending on the manufacturing process. Some brands use artificial colors to make their products more appealing to consumers. However, these colors can be harmful to your health and may even cause adverse side effects.

Artificial colors are created in a lab and are not found in nature. They are commonly used in food and cosmetics to enhance the appearance of products. Unfortunately, they can also be toxic to your body.

Some studies have linked artificial colors to cancer, while others have found that they can cause behavioral problems in children. These chemicals can also trigger allergies and other health problems.

If you’re concerned about the safety of artificial colors, look for CBD oils that are made with natural ingredients and do not contain any added colors.

2. Perfumes/Fragrance

When it comes to CBD oil, there are a few things you should watch out for in terms of quality. One of those things is the presence of perfumes or fragrances. While they may make the oil smell nice, they can actually be quite harmful.

Perfumes and fragrances are made up of a variety of chemicals, many of which are known to be toxic. Some of these chemicals have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and other serious health problems. In addition, they can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

So, if you’re looking for a quality CBD oil, be sure to check the label for any mention of perfumes or fragrances. If you see them listed, it’s best to avoid that product altogether. There are plenty of great options out there that don’t use these potentially harmful ingredients.

3. Parabens

Parabens are a type of preservative that are commonly used in cosmetics and skincare products. They are known to be endocrine disruptors and have been linked to breast cancer. Because of this, many companies are now avoiding using parabens in their products. 

However, some CBD oils still contain trace amounts of parabens. If you’re concerned about the potential health risks of parabens, look for a CBD oil that is advertised as being free of them.

Good Buying Practices for Cannabis and CBD Products

When it comes to buying cannabis and CBD products, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to get the best possible product. Here are a few tips for good buying practices:

• Know what you want: Before you start shopping around, it is important to know what you want out of a cannabis or CBD product. What are your specific needs and goals? This will help you narrow down your options and find the right product for you.
• Do your research: Once you know what you want, it is time to do some research on the different products available. Read reviews, compare prices, and look into the different features of each product. This will help you make an informed decision about which product is right for you.
• Be wary of claims: Many cannabis and CBD products make claims that they can cure or treat certain conditions. However, these claims are often unsubstantiated and not backed by scientific evidence. When considering a product, be sure to look into these claims carefully before making a purchase.
• Consider quality: When it comes to cannabis and CBD products, quality is important. Be sure to buy from a reputable source that offers high-quality products. This will help ensure that you get a product that is effective and safe to use.

Reference:

• https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476
• https://www.tga.gov.au/medicinal-cannabis-products-active-ingredients