CBD (cannabidiol) is a molecule found in cannabis that has been extensively studied for its numerous health benefits. Today, CBD is available in various forms: oils, e-liquids, crystals, capsules, balms, and creams. Given the growth of this market, it is essential to know how to recognize a quality product in order to fully benefit from CBD’s effects. In this article, we will review several criteria to consider when choosing the right CBD.
The Origin and Extraction Method of CBD
The origin of the hemp plant used to extract the CBD is a key element to consider when buying a reliable product. Hemp cultivation is legally regulated in several countries, particularly in Europe, where standards are strict. It is therefore recommended to check the geographical origin of your CBD: prioritize products from European farms.
The CBD extraction method also influences the quality of the final product. Two main methods are currently used:
- Solvent extraction: often performed with ethanol or butane, this method presents risks of contamination by solvent residues.
- Supercritical CO2 extraction: this more expensive technique guarantees a pure final product, free of residues and contaminants.
It is therefore preferable to choose products obtained by supercritical CO2 extraction to ensure better quality and the absence of undesirable substances.
Laboratory analysis of CBD
A good CBD product should be analyzed in a laboratory to determine its exact composition and check for the possible presence of contaminants. An analysis performed by an independent laboratory is a guarantee of impartiality and reliability. The results of this analysis will allow you to know:
- The percentage of CBD and other cannabinoids present in the product (CBDA, CBG, CBN, etc.),
- The proportion of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which must be less than 0.2% in accordance with European legislation,
- The possible presence of heavy metals, pesticides, or other contaminants.
Don’t hesitate to ask the manufacturer or seller for these analysis results before buying a CBD product.
The CBD Spectrum
There are two main types of CBD: broad-spectrum and full-spectrum products.
Broad-Spectrum Products
These products contain CBD combined with other cannabinoids and molecules derived from hemp, such as terpenes and flavonoids. They offer an entourage effect,that is, a synergy between these different molecules that enhances the effectiveness of CBD.
Full-Spectrum Products
These products also include all the molecules present in hemp, including traces of THC, in compliance with current legislation. The entourage effect is therefore more pronounced than in broad-spectrum products.
Depending on your needs, you can choose between a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum product to best benefit from the effects of CBD combined with the other active components of hemp.
CBD resin: color, texture, and smell CBD can be sold in resin form, which is obtained by extracting the trichomes (resin glands) from hemp flowers. The color
- of this resin varies:
- A light resin, tending towards amber or gold, is generally synonymous with quality because it results from careful extraction and optimal aging.
A dark resin, tending towards green or black, is often less pure because it contains more plant matter and may have degraded upon contact with air and light. The
- texture
- The texture of CBD resin also varies depending on the extraction and purification methods used:
A soft, clay-like texture is typical of resin obtained by cold-pressing hemp flowers.A harder, brittle texture generally indicates that the resin was obtained by solvent or CO2 extraction.
The
smell
- of CBD resin reflects the presence of terpenes, the molecules responsible for plant aromas. A pleasant and pronounced scent is a sign of good terpene preservation, which is beneficial for the entourage effect. CBD derivative products: oils, e-liquids, capsules, etc.
- Besides resin, CBD can be found in various derivative products, each with its own specific characteristics. The following criteria should be considered:For
- CBD oils, be sure to choose a high-quality carrier oil (olive, coconut, hemp, etc.) and check the CBD concentration;
- Regarding CBD e-liquids,
