When it comes to cannabidiol (CBD), there’s much to discover. You might already know that CBD is one of the active components in the cannabis plant. But are you aware that CBD is available in various forms?
A Brief Look at the Leading 3 Pure CBD Products
- Best Unflavored Pure CBD Oil: Bluebird Botanicals THC-Free CBD Oil
- Best High Potency Pure CBD Oil: Extract Labs Daily Support Hemp Tincture
- Best Pure CBD Capsules: Medterra Isolate CBD Gel Capsules
Continue reading to understand more about pure CBD, its potential health advantages, and possible side effects. We’ll also recommend some of the finest pure CBD products.
What Is the Purest Form of CBD?
The purest manifestation of CBD is CBD isolate. To produce CBD isolate, hemp undergoes meticulous purification procedures to remove other cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes, leaving solely CBD behind.
Other categories of CBD include full-spectrum CBD and broad-spectrum CBD.
Full-spectrum CBD products contain slight amounts of other cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabigerol (CBG), alongside flavonoids and terpenes.
Broad-spectrum CBD products are quite similar to full-spectrum CBD, with one key distinction: They exclude THC.
Since full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD items encompass additional cannabis compounds, they do not qualify as pure CBD.
How We Picked the Top Pure CBD Products
Our selection of these products was guided by criteria that highlight safety, quality, and transparency. Each product featured in this article:
- Is crafted by a company that furnishes evidence of third-party testing from an ISO 17025-compliant lab.
- Is created by a company that openly discloses the origin of their hemp.
Contains no more than 0.3% THC, as confirmed by the certificate of analysis (COA). - Successfully passes assessments for molds, heavy metals, and pesticides, as verified by the COA.
Throughout our selection process, we also took into account:
- Company certifications and production methods.
- Product potency.
- Overall ingredients.
- Indicators of user confidence and brand reputation, including:
- Customer reviews.
- Whether the company has received a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Whether the company makes unverified health claims.
Pricing Guide
$ = Under $50
$$ = $50–$80
$$$ = Over $80
Our Top Choices for the Best Pure CBD Products
Best Unflavored Pure CBD Oil: Bluebird Botanicals THC-Free CBD Oil
- Price: $
- CBD Type: Isolate
- CBD Potency: 1,500 milligrams (mg) per 1-ounce (oz) bottle
- Certificate of Analysis (COA): Accessible online
If you’re considering adding CBD oil to your food or beverage, you might prefer an unflavored option. This oil employs pure CBD extract and organic MCT oil, excluding artificial flavors and sweeteners. Each serving provides 25 mg of CBD isolate.
Bluebird Botanicals, a Colorado-based company, boasts a positive reputation. While their 30-day return policy is shorter than some brands’ 90-day offerings, they also provide assistance programs for eligible customers.
Best High Potency Pure CBD Oil: Extract Labs Daily Support Hemp Tincture
Price: $$
CBD Type: Isolate
CBD Potency: 2,000 mg per 1-oz bottle
COA: Accessible on the product page
This vegan oil contains only two ingredients: organic coconut oil and pure CBD isolate. Extract Labs emphasizes that their formula is non-GMO and devoid of fillers, preservatives, and artificial colors. Reviews for this oil are generally positive, highlighting its effectiveness and mild flavor.
As a high potency option with over 66 mg of CBD per dose, this product may be suitable for individuals familiar with CBD.
Best Pure CBD Capsules
Medterra Isolate CBD Gel Capsules
- Price: $
- CBD Type: Isolate
- CBD Potency: 25, 50, or 100 mg per capsule
- Count: 30 capsules per bottle
- COA: Accessible online
Crafted in the United States, these non-GMO CBD capsules consist of organic coconut oil and gelatin blended with pure CBD. Designed for day or night use, they come in three potencies. The higher the potency, the higher the price (the 25 mg per capsule option falls within the lower end of our price guide).
The convenience of these capsules is a notable advantage, allowing you to take them on the go without measuring drops. While most reviewers report positive results, including a calming effect and assistance with pain relief and sleep improvement, some indicate they didn’t experience any effects.
Medterra extends assistance programs to veterans, active military personnel, and individuals on long-term disability.
What’s the Optimal Way to Use Pure CBD?
There are various methods for using CBD:
You can take CBD through:
- Oils
- Tinctures
- Gummies
- Capsules
Topically, you can apply CBD using:
- Lotions
- Ointments and salves
- Creams
You can also mix CBD isolate powder into food or beverages.
Although some people vape CBD, this method is not recommended due to safety concerns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cautions against vaping.
With numerous CBD consumption methods available, the right choice depends on personal preference and lifestyle needs.
For example, gummies are a convenient option for on-the-go usage, while topicals may be better for targeting localized pain.
Benefits of Pure CBD
CBD research is ongoing, but early findings suggest potential benefits:
Relief from Anxiety
Several studies highlight CBD’s anti-anxiety effects. A 2019 study examined whether CBD could improve sleep, reduce anxiety, or achieve both. Over the first month, 79% of participants experiencing anxiety or sleep issues reported reduced anxiety, and almost 67% noticed improved sleep. However, sleep quality varied over time. Another 2019 study indicated that CBD reduced anxiety among 37 young adults with social anxiety.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Animal research suggests CBD’s potential to reduce inflammation by affecting the body’s endocannabinoid receptors.
Seizure Reduction
The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a prescription CBD product, for seizure reduction. It’s effective for seizures caused by conditions such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex.
Downsides of Pure CBD
Lack of Entourage Effect
Research suggests that CBD’s therapeutic effects are enhanced when combined with other cannabis compounds like terpenes, flavonoids, and lesser-known cannabinoids. This concept is known as the entourage effect.
A 2015 study on mice proposed that while CBD isolate has some health benefits, they might be less potent compared to the benefits of using full-spectrum CBD products.
The study also indicated that CBD isolate can alleviate swelling and pain at a specific dose, whereas full-spectrum CBD products offer additional effects at higher doses.
Research from 2020 indicated that combining terpenes with terpenoids could potentially serve as a future treatment for individuals with mood and anxiety disorders.
Concerns About Drug Testing
Some individuals opt for CBD isolate to avoid THC found in full-spectrum products. However, it’s important to note that even CBD isolate products may contain trace amounts of THC.
If you undergo drug testing, it’s advisable to steer clear of CBD products altogether.
How to Select a Pure CBD Product
Currently, the FDA does not provide guarantees for the safety, effectiveness, or quality of over-the-counter CBD products.
To ensure you purchase legitimate CBD products, look for items with an up-to-date Certificate of Analysis (COA) from a reputable third-party laboratory.
Review the COA to verify that the CBD and THC levels match the advertised content.
Additionally, check the results of contaminant testing. While these vary by brand, aim for products with results indicating the absence of pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
It’s also wise to buy from companies transparent about their hemp sourcing and production methods. This information should be available on the brand’s website before making a purchase.
Common Mistakes When Purchasing CBD Products
Here are some common errors to avoid when shopping for CBD products online:
- Opting for the cheapest products available: Companies that emphasize low prices might not provide high-quality products. Crafting reliable CBD items requires dedication, often resulting in moderate to higher costs.
- Expecting instant outcomes: Finding the right CBD product, formulation, and dosage takes time. CBD isn’t a quick solution or a universal cure.
- Disregarding absent lab results: Transparency is crucial when researching CBD products. Verify that the company offers Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to confirm quality and purity. Also, consider factors like their cultivation practices and extraction techniques.
- Selecting the wrong product: Ensure you’re purchasing CBD, not hemp oil, which is distinct. Some products use hempseed oil and lack cannabinoids. To avoid these, buy from reputable companies to ensure quality. Note that Amazon typically offers hempseed or hemp oil products, not CBD.
Safety and Side Effects
While research indicates CBD is generally safe, individuals might experience side effects such as:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Weight fluctuations
Consult a doctor before trying CBD, especially if you’re on medications. CBD might interact with certain drugs, including those with a grapefruit warning.
If taking CBD orally, avoid consuming it with high-fat meals. A 2020 study revealed that doing so could increase side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Purest Forms of CBD?
CBD isolate is the purest CBD form. It undergoes rigorous purification processes to eliminate all other cannabis compounds.
Is Pure CBD Full-Spectrum?
No, full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabis plant cannabinoids, including minimal THC (less than 0.3%), along with flavonoids and terpenes.
CBD isolate, or pure CBD, excludes THC and other cannabis compounds.
Does Pure CBD Works Well?
While some research and anecdotes suggest CBD’s effectiveness, studies propose that CBD’s therapeutic effects are enhanced when combined with other cannabis compounds like terpenes and flavonoids—a phenomenon called the entourage effect.
In Conclusion
Pure CBD or CBD isolate is an option if you desire CBD benefits without other cannabis compounds, including THC.
CBD isolate offers potential relief for pain, inflammation, and anxiety.
However, studies indicate that some benefits may be more pronounced with full-spectrum CBD products.
When purchasing CBD, opt for reputable companies, carefully read labels and dosage instructions, and consult a healthcare professional before use.
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