CBD is pretty much everywhere nowadays – in malls, grocery stores, wellness shops, and even boutiques. National grocery store chains are starting to carry CBD topicals, and beauty companies are starting to infuse CBD into their formulas. There are also CBD boosters or add-ins for your post-workout smoothie or morning coffee. It seems like everyone from your co-worker to your grandma is looking to get their hands on some CBD.
And though CBD is pretty much penetrating every corner of the wellness world (can you say hello vegan gummies?), people still find it a bit confusing. With CBD being so new, people have questions that need answering: What products to buy? How to make sure that what you’re buying is legitimate? How to use CBD? And even how much of it to use?
Okay, first things first. What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is one of the most naturally abundant compounds found in the hemp plant. For reference, THC is also another naturally occurring compound, and it is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. Getting “high” is not what we are talking about here, though. This is a CBD-ONLY space.
How do I know where my CBD comes from?
With CBD gaining so much popularity over the last few years, and the lack of FDA regulation and oversight, the amount of pop-up CBD companies looking to maximize profits with poor CBD has gotten out of control. It seems like every month a new company is getting shut down for not being able to meet label claims.
It is crucial to know who manufactured your CBD and how it was extracted. The most reputable CBD companies are transparent about the source of their CBD and provide this information publicly on their website through a 3rd Party Lab test. Having access to this 3rd Party lab results for your CBD product will reveal any known harmful chemicals or the presence of THC.
What are some side effects of CBD?
Whether you’re a first-time user fo CBD or experienced, CBD does not have the same psychoactive effects that THC does. CBD has its own unique set of properties that affect each individual differently based on inherent factors like age, weight, metabolism, and medical conditions. Other external factors that may play a role in how CBD affects an individual include the potency and purity of the CBD, as well as the frequency at which it is consumed.
Some of the common effects include:
Calming effects
Drowsiness
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Paranoia
Diarrhea
If you plan on using CBD, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor first, as CBD may interact with other medications.
What have people used CBD for?
There is still so much to learn about CBD, including its different uses, safety, and effectiveness. And it is important to note that science has not yet proved the effectiveness of CBD for a variety of ailments.
How can I know that CBD will work?
The only way to know if CBD will work for you is to try it out and see for yourself. However, if you do insist on trying out CBD, it is highly advised that you speak to your doctor before you start using CBD. CBD may interact with other medications; check with your doctor to see if CBD is right for you.
Types of CBD products you can find in a CBD store:
We aren’t living in the early days of CBD anymore. The range of products that now have CBD infused in them is countless. Having a variety of CBD products is great because it allows users to consume CBD in a manner that best serves them and their preferences. If you’re looking to target a specific area, there is likely a great CBD product that will help you target it.
We have compiled a list of different CBD infused products. Let’s take a look below.
CBD Oil
CBD oil tinctures with different carrier oils are abundant. With the variety of options available, you are sure to find a CBD oil tincture that will suit your needs. In case you’ve never used a CBD oil tincture before, they’re simple to use. Simply place a measured dose under your tongue and hold it there for up to a minute before swallowing it.
CBD with MCT oil is one of the most popular combinations because of the added benefits of MCT oil. Its bioavailability is one of the highest.
CBD with hemp oil is also common. One of the common advantages of hemp seed oil is its abundance of essential fatty acids.
CBD with olive oil is another common option because of its added health benefits. Olive oil contains large amounts of antioxidants; it’s rich in monosaturated fats.
CBD Capsules and Pills
CBD Capsules and Pills are one of the most common forms of taking CBD oil because of its pre-measured dose and its simplicity. If you can’t bear the earthy taste of CBD oil, this may be your preferred.
CBD oil capsules and pills are available in a variety of potencies, including 10mg, 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. The higher potency capsules and pills are generally for more severe circumstances. These CBD capsules and pills are typically available in Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and CBD isolate as well.
Full Spectrum CBD capsules contain a variety of beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes and contain up to 0.3% percent THC, the federal legal limit.
Broad Spectrum CBD capsules are similar to the full spectrum capsules, except they generally don’t contain any measurable levels of THC(traces are definitely still present). Broad Spectrum CBD is great for people who are sensitive to THC.
CBD Isolate capsules are just that, CBD isolated from all the other compounds in the hemp plant. Non-Detect THC (traces may still be present), no other cannabinoids, and no terpenes.
CBD Topicals
CBD Topicals refer to creams, lotions, salves or CBD balm, and gels infused with CBD. These specially formulated CBD topicals are designed for applying directly on the skin and generally contain essential oils, amino acids, and other compounds that help moisturize the skin. These products are great for targeting specific areas.
CBD Balms are thick ointments rich in consistency and texture with nutrient-rich oils that help hydrate and nourish the skin, with the most important ingredient being CBD. Most balms are heat activated, so as soon as you touch the ointment, the heat from your fingers will activate the ingredients. Simply scoop from the container and apply it to a thoroughly cleaned surface on the skin.
CBD Body Lotion is an excellent choice for normal to dry skin; its more readily absorbed by the skin and not as oily as a cream. CBD body lotion is ideal for use during the day and during the hot summer months. CBD body lotion will keep your skin looking and feeling hydrated throughout the day.
CBD Cream is usually thicker than body lotion, with a higher concentration of oil. CBD creams are thicker in consistency and provide a barrier that keeps the skin ultra-hydrated. CBD creams are great for preventing dry, cracked skin while keeping your skin moisturized and feeling supple. CBD creams are great for excessively dry skin and normal skin during the harsh winter months.
CBD Facial Moisturizer is an excellent addition to a daily beauty routine. These specially formulated moisturizers can help balance the complexion of your skin and reduce the chances of your skin drying out.
CBD Edibles
CBD Edibles are generally sweet treats or candies infused with cannabidiol and are available in different flavors, dosages, shapes, and sizes. Edibles have a tasty advantage over most other types of CBD products, and they tend to be easy to dose and discreet as well.
CBD Gummies are one of the most popular choices for taking your daily dose of CBD. They are delicious and come in different flavors, shapes, sizes, and doses. They can be easily added to a daily regimen and taken at any time of day.
CBD Chocolates You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy the relaxing properties of CBD infused chocolate, just give yourself time to indulge in these sweet treats.
CBD Mints are one of those quick, easy access options for when you’re on the go. They’re easy to carry around and are an excellent alternative to swallowing pills or tinctures. Each minty tablet is like a standard breath mint that dissolves in your mouth and can be used as a refresher whenever needed.
CBD Inhalables
CBD Inhalables has quickly become an essential tool for CBD users. Not only does it offer near-instantaneous effects, but it also provides one of the most effective ways of consuming CBD because of its greater bioavailability. When you inhale CBD, as opposed to other methods of consumption, more of the CBD compound is bioavailable to the cells. Inhaled CBD completely bypasses the digestive system, where some of the CBD breaks down into unusable molecules that your cells cannot use.
CBD Vape Juice, alternatively CBD vape oil, has quickly become one of the best ways to use CBD, and for a good reason. CBD vape juice offers an effective way to get CBD into the bloodstream.As an added benefit, you can usually find CBD vape juices in a variety of flavors to match your palate. Vape juice also tends to be a cost-effective method for regular CBD users and favored over other expensive methods. To use a CBD oil vape juice, all you need is a simple refillable pod system or vape mod with a rechargeable battery.
CBD Vape Additive are a fantastic way to add CBD to your already favorite vape juice. These CBD vape juice additives are typically flavorless and made with ingredients that blend universally well with vape juices made from different reputable brands.
Pre-filled CBD Pods are a great practical tool for CBD users that are looking for an easy plug-and-play solution for their CBD intake. These pre-filled CBD pods are usually proprietary and require a specific device so you can use them. The devices are usually rechargeable and easy to use. Some include a button that you press before you inhale, while others are activated once you start to inhale.
Disposable CBD Vape Pens are another great practical tool for new CBD users that are looking to experience the benefits of CBD vape. This option tends to be a little more costly but can offer one of the most practical ways to vape CBD. These devices are pre-filled with CBD vape juice and aren’t rechargeable. Once they’ve been used up, simply discard and replace it with a new one.
CBD Hemp Flower
CBD Flower refers to the buds of the hemp plant. These buds are typically Full Spectrum and contain the legal limit of THC. These CBD hemp buds are virtually indistinguishable from marijuana buds, with the main difference is that hemp has lower amounts of THC and is federally mandated to be no higher than 0.3 percent. Hemp flower with high concentrations of CBD offers the same benefits as other forms of CBD and works much more rapidly than most. Check Hemp vs Marijuana article here.
CBD Pre-rolls are pre-rolled CBD “joints” made with the hemp flower. These pre-rolls are great for relaxing at home after a long day.
CBD Flower in 3.5 and 7 grams is for users who prefer to use flower on their own terms. This option is usually cheaper on a per gram basis than CBD pre-rolls..
9 Common Questions About CBD
Does CBD get you high? CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, so you won’t experience the same “high” effects as with THC. If you’re looking for a buzz, you won’t get that with CBD.
Does CBD show up on a drug test? If you are concerned about testing positive for cannabinoids such as CBD or THC, we don’t recommend you use CBD products as they may contain traces of THC. Depending on the laboratory or drug test, sometimes they test for cannabinoids in general and not specifically for THC; this can potentially lead to a false positive.
Does CBD contain THC? The answer to “Does CBD contain THC?” really depends on the type of CBD – Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and CBD Isolate. Generally, Full Spectrum products contain THC (up to the federal legal limit of 0.3 percent). Broad Spectrum products and CBD isolate generally have traces of THC that may not be detectable by labs.
Is CBD oil legal? Federally, CBD was made legal with the passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka the 2018 Farm Bill). Although this is a blanket law for the United States, individual states may have contradictory legislation that may prohibit products with THC, such as Full Spectrum CBD oil. Learn more about differences between hemp oil and CBD oil.
Can I buy CBD legally? If you live in the United States, it is generally safe for you to purchase CBD products online or in stores. However, it is a great idea to check your local laws to see if you can purchase Full Spectrum CBD products as some states do have restrictions on products with THC.
Do you need a prescription for CBD? Currently, CBD products can be purchased without a prescription. However, you should check with your doctor before you start using CBD products as it has been known to interact with some medications.
Can you buy CBD over the counter? Yes, CBD can be purchased over the counter. CBD products can be found online as well as grocery stores, wellness shops, and other mom and pop shops.
Can you take too much CBD? Like with most things in life, if taken excessively, they may do more harm than good. Practice common sense and reach out to your doctor before using CBD products.
How much CBD should I take? According to the FDA, there are currently no standard doses available for CBD. It is generally recommended that you start low and slow and monitor the effects that CBD has on you. If you decide to increase your doses, do so with caution and with small increments until you reach your desired effect.
I’m going to buy CBD products for the first time, where should I start and how do I know which CBD is right for me?
If you’re ready to buy your first CBD product, consider using the criteria below to narrow down the best CBD oil products for you.
CBD Type: CBD Isolate, CBD Broad Spectrum, or CBD Full Spectrum
There is quite a bit more to CBD products than just CBD, and this is usually the most confusing part, but once you’ve decided which route to take, it only gets easier.
CBD Isolate is just that; the CBD molecule that has been isolated from all the other cannabinoids and terpenes.
CBD Broad Spectrum generally contains other cannabinoids aside from CBD, as well as terpenes that are naturally occurring in the hemp plant. In addition, what sets broad spectrum apart from Full Spectrum is its lack of the THC compound.
CBD Full Spectrum essentially contains all the cannabinoids present in the hemp plant and terpenes as well. A Full Spectrum product does contain THC, up to the federal legal limit of 0.3 percent. Although Full Spectrum products do contain THC, there is not enough of it to get you high. The presence of THC, along with the other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavanoids of the plant work best together in what is called “the entourage effect.”
Potency/Strength
The next step in deciding the best CBD product for yourself is choosing the strength. Typically if you are new to CBD, you’ll want to start slow and low. Using this method, you can document the effects of taking small amounts of CBD and slowly increase the amount you consume until you get the desired effects over a span of a few days to weeks. If you are unsure of what dose to start with, the best bet is to start with the lowest one available and increase from there.
Ingredients
When checking for ingredients in your CBD product, you generally want to make sure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients used. Some CBD oil products contain coconut oil or are made in facilities that handle nuts and other allergens. Things you may want to avoid in your CBD are high fructose corn syrup, additives, artificial ingredients, and preservatives.
Third-Party Testing
Currently (2023), there are no over-the-counter CBD products approved by the FDA. Having said this, the quality of CBD products can vary. It is better to err on the side of caution and look for a quality product. Most reputable manufactures that produce quality products lab test their products and provide their results publicly on their websites and or on their product labels.
How do I find the best CBD oil?
If you’re ready to join in on the CBD movement, look no further. Avida CBD is one of the leading providers in the CBD space. We started this company with one thing in mind: To help our family, children, and friends live a balanced-focused lifestyle.
What are people saying about Avida CBD oil products?
CBD Balm 500mg
The First Time I rated this product: Effectiveness- Excellent Fragrance-Appealing/Lighter aroma Product applicability-moderately difficult to apply Product Texture- Excellent/very moisturizing. – Steven A.
Manga Mango – CBD Vape Juice
Awesome product I tried the mango mango 500mg vape oil, and it works and tastes great. Excellent customer service also. Thank you! -Denny D.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture 500mg – Spearmint
Best! Best one yet and customer service is great!!! -Debi C.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture 500mg – Spearmint
Super Discount-Do Again Peppermint taste was very pleasant. The full spectrum relaxes me. Shipping was quick. Missed your valentine special. How about a Mothers Day special like that. -Linda C.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture 500mg – Spearmint
First time AVIDA user I’ve tried a number of CBD brands/products and I have to say the quality of this specific product are just great. I wish they had higher strengths but I’m told they are working on it. Can’t wait! Definitely worth trying. -Sarah C.
Relax CBD Gummies – Strawberry
Best CBD Gummies!! I have tried numerous CBD candies ect.. Avida hand down makes the yummiest gummies In the biz. Thanks Avida -Harry A.
Relax CBD Gummies – Strawberry
Amazing product! These gummies changed my life. They taste great, all while providing exactly what the package advertises: relaxation. Very good for calming nerves. -Emma W.
Relax CBD Gummies – Strawberry
OMG 😱😱😱 I’ve tried every CBD gummy on the planet. I either get a headache or the taste is terrible. You guys outdid yourself here. These are the most delicious gummies my tastebuds have ever tasted. And oh boy, do they work. 2 of these pink little squares got me feeling RELAXED (no pun intended). At this rate I’ll be buying a pack a day. Thank you so much for your fast shipping too. Didn’t think they would be here this fast. Looking forward to more flavors. -Tracy
Manga Mango – CBD Vape Juice
5 Stars I received my order last week of the 1000mg mango flavor. I am very pleased with the flavor. I switched from cbd vape oil cartridges and it’s the best decision I’ve made since I was blowing tons of money and not getting the results I was looking for. The quality is great. Will be buying again. -James P.
CBD Balm 500mg
Good It helped. It isn’t too strong a smell. It will last awhile unlike others I’ve tried. -Kae L.
Manga Mango – CBD Vape Juice
AWESOME AWESOME! The flavor is really good and the quality of the CBD seems to be very high, it’s been wonderful so far. Purchased about a week ago and about halfway through the bottle. -Marsha C.
Conclusion
You can find CBD pretty much everywhere, it can still be pretty confusing figuring out where to start. Thankfully, there is Avida CBD. With Avida CBD, you’re guaranteed a quality product that is third-party lab tested for purity, consistency, and potency. These products are not only crafted with you in mind. They’re made to be enjoyed! Enjoy a CBD experience like no other!
