CBD Hemp Oil: Are You Deficient in it?
Are you experiencing anxiety attacks and sleep issues? I know how you feel – I’ve been there! Read my expert review of the CBD industry to find out which CBD hemp oil helped me overcome these health issues. This blog post is the fruit of an in-depth and time-consuming investigation of numerous CBD tincture brands. Following my 5-step approach to research, I have looked into the CBD companies mentioned on Instagram by my followers. As a result, I present to you what are, in my opinion, the “worst-bad-better-best” hemp extract products on the market today.
When I said, “I know how you feel,” I wasn’t exaggerating. Indeed, I come from a cancer-affected family (my dad died of it when he was just 57), and I have been diagnosed with two autoimmune diseases. By now, I have recovered from Hashimoto’s and am on the way to recovery from Addison’s. But I vividly remember the time in my life when I was almost disabled by anxiety! I kept noticing “CBD” mentioned in the online forums for non-medicinal cures and in my interviews with people impacted by cancer. Yet, I never really looked into it until recently, when I encountered severe sleep problems. I lost my ability to fall asleep; if I somehow managed to fall asleep, I could not stay asleep! What rescued me was a CBD hemp oil. Namely, a full spectrum hemp extract, that restored my sleep and brought me much-desired rest.
CBD Hemp Oil: Are You Deficient in it?
What Does CBD Stand For?
To begin with, CBD stands for cannabidiol, one of several major cannabinoids found in cannabis sativa plants. Both marijuana and hemp are cannabis sativa plants, and both are rich in cannabidiol (CBD). However, marijuana also contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is psychoactive and intoxicating and responsible for the “high.” To emphasize, we are not talking about marijuana in this blog post.
The good news is that the hemp plant is naturally low in delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). That is why a ready-made CBD tincture passes Federal regulation and can be sold online.
Before we discuss hemp extract benefits and some side effects of cannabis, let’s talk about the legal side of CBD hemp extract. Additionally, you will learn not only the difference between broad spectrum and full spectrum hemp extract, but also what the CBD hemp oil “entourage effect” means and how it is related to endocannabinoid deficiency.
Legal CBD Oil
At the United States Federal level, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. 115-334 (the 2018 Farm Bill), was signed into law in 2018. Among other things, the law allowed hemp products to be sold legally in stores and online. The law defined hemp products as:
the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.
(source)
In other words, cannabis plants and derivatives, such as CBD tinctures, that contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis are no longer controlled substances under Federal law and are legal to consume and distribute.
Additionally, it is important to note that CBD manufacturers are not supposed to claim any health benefits. Therefore, if you do not see them on the CBD website, do not be swayed by their absence.
What Does “Broad Spectrum” Mean?
For starters, let us clear up the terminology. Is CBD oil an actual oil or an extract? And is “CBD hemp oil” the same as “hemp oil”?
To answer these questions, we need to look at the derivation processes of hemp oil and hemp extract.
First off, hemp oil is normally made from hemp seeds that contain neither delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) nor cannabidiol (CBD). That’s why they call it “hemp seed oil.”
Alternatively, hemp extract is made from hemp plants (flowers are the best) that contain cannabidiol (CBD) and a small amount of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Technically, the product that comes out of hemp plant extraction is a CBD hemp extract. However, because they add oil to the extract (normally, MCT oil), it can be called “CBD hemp oil.”
Therefore, in this review, I refer to CBD oil products as CBD hemp oil, CBD hemp extract, and CBD tincture interchangeably.
Further, there are three types of CBD (cannabidiol):
- CBD isolate
- broad spectrum hemp extract, and
- full spectrum hemp extract.
First, as its name suggests, CBD isolate contains only cannabidiol (CBD). Second, broad spectrum hemp extracts include many other compounds found in the hemp plant, excluding THC. Third, a full spectrum hemp extract contains all compounds, including THC.
At first, seeking help with sleep, I tried a product with cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) isolates, and it helped me somewhat. But complete relief only came when I started taking a full spectrum CBD hemp oil. The secret lay in its “entourage effect.”
The Cannabinoid Entourage Effect
To start with, the idea of the “entourage effect” suggests that when different compounds in cannabis work together, they create uniquely beneficial effects. On the one hand, this study suggests that the “entourage effect” of terpenes added to cannabinoids can be especially effective for the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. On the other hand, even small amounts of THC can show up on urine tests and many people avoid it altogether.
Furthermore, Dr. Matthew Walker said that CBD without THC helps with insomnia, too. He was not sure how CBD helps because CBD in small doses (5-10 mg) makes you more awake and energized. He believes it happens indirectly through its well-known great effects – treating anxiety and dropping body temperature that help with sleep. I can attest to that, too. Broad-spectrum hemp extract has helped me to improve my sleep after the initial treatment with full spectrum extract.
Next, to understand better how CBD works, let’s talk about the 1988 discovery of the ECS or the endocannabinoid system.
The Endocannabinoid System
Amazingly, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is widely distributed throughout the body, including the brain. It regulates and controls many of our most critical bodily functions. Such as sleep, memory, emotions, temperature, and pain control, as well as inflammatory and immune responses.
According to Peter Grinspoon, MD, the ECS consists of a vast network of cellular receptors, chemical signals, and molecules. The CB1 receptors are found primarily in our brain and spine. And play a role in memory, behavior, appetite, motor control, and perception of pain. The CB2 receptors are located throughout the body, helping to control inflammation and immune response.
As for the ECS molecules produced by our bodies, they are called endocannabinoids and have a structural similarity to molecules in the cannabis plant. That is why, reportedly, ECS activity may be modified by exogenous cannabinoids (e.g., those in CBD oil).
For instance, Ethan B. Russo, MD looked specifically at how clinical endocannabinoid deficiency may be connected to such conditions as migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and others currently not treated by prescription drugs effectively. Hence, researchers are motivated to harness the healing powers of cannabidiol (CBD) and its products, such as CBD hemp oil and CBD tincture.
FDA-Approved CBD Cannabis Drug Products
To start with, keep in mind that just like with any vitamins and supplements you take, the FDA has not approved a marketing application for cannabis for the treatment of any disease or condition. However, the FDA has approved one cannabis-derived drug product and three synthetic cannabis-related drug products:
- Epidiolex (cannabidiol or CBD)
- Marinol (dronabinol)
- Syndros (dronabinol), and
- Cesamet (nabilone).
Additionally, in 2022, the FDA approved CBD as an add-on therapy by various regulatory agencies for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-associated seizures based on its short-term efficacy and safety in a pivotal randomized controlled trial (source). You can also learn more about that here and here.
Cannabis-Derived Drug Product
Approved on June 25, 2018, Epidiolex contains a purified form of the drug substance cannabidiol (CBD) for the treatment of seizure disorders associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome in patients 2 years of age and older. That means FDA has concluded that this particular drug product is safe and effective for its intended use.
There are several points I want to make about the FDA-approved Epidiolex drug:
- Epidiolex comes in sesame oil, which means that kids who are allergic to sesame oil can’t take it. To me, this is upsetting. Over and over, I see unnecessary additives such as petroleum dyes and potentially harmful inactive ingredients in FDA-approved drugs.
- Epidiolex comes at a hefty price, starting at $1,001.43, and insurance might not cover it (source).
- The FDA doesn’t recommend taking other CBD, “hemp,” or medical marijuana products instead because they may contain THC, and they are not regulated by the FDA. Keep this in mind, when we talk about specific CBD hemp oil or CBD tincture brands.
- The FDA stated that a child can’t become addicted to Epidiolex. This is important because I know some people are concerned that CBD can be addictive.
Cannabis-Related Drug Products
The other three drugs – Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet – are approved for nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy and for the treatment of anorexia associated with weight loss in AIDS patients.
Furthermore, it looks like in 2023, the FDA issued a statement indicating that the FDA understands the need to develop CBD therapies for patients with unmet medical needs, and does everything it can to facilitate this process.
On the one hand, this is good news. On the other hand, however, I believe there are downsides to the fact that the FDA has been approving more and more CBD drugs. First, they will be very expensive to buy. Secondly, many of the drugs will come with allergenic or potentially harmful additives.
Hemp Oil Health Benefits And Hemp Extract Benefits
There is a lot of evidence that CBD is beneficial for a wide range of conditions including:
- schizophrenia
- diabetes
- multiple sclerosis
- anxiety
- insomnia
- oxidative stress
- fibromyalgia
- migraines
- alcohol use disorder, and
- alcohol-related negative effects on the liver and the brain, to name a few.
As Ethan B. Russo, MD explains, the reason the same CBD helps with so many different conditions is that CBD acts on the level of the endocannabinoid system that our bodies contain.
This healing evidence comes from people’s sharing their healing stories, animal studies, studies on human cells, as well as clinical studies. Let’s go over some studies related to CBD hemp oil or CBD tinctures that I find to be significant.
Anxiety and Insomnia
First, this clinical study found that CBD had positive effects on human subjects who had generalized social anxiety disorder. Namely, pre-treatment with CBD
significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort in their speech performance, and significantly decreased alert in their anticipatory speech.
(source)
Second, this large case series showed improvement in sleep and/or anxiety due to CBD.
Third, this comprehensive review of numerous studies suggested that CBD may be a potential therapy for treating anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and related psychotic disorders. Overall, animal models showed that the administration of CBD minimizes anxiety, depression, and stress-related behaviors.
Alzheimer’s Disease
In this 2014 Australian study, CBD is shown to reverse cognitive deficits of Alzheimer’s in transgenic mice and to exert neuroprotective, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. Thus, their findings provide evidence that CBD may have potential as a preventative treatment for AD with a particular relevance for symptoms of social withdrawal and facial recognition.
Alcoholism and Other Addictions
First, European scientists reviewed studies pertaining to CBD and alcohol use disorder (AUD) and found that:
CBD reduces the overall level of alcohol drinking in animal models of AUD by reducing ethanol intake, motivation for ethanol, relapse, anxiety, and impulsivity. Moreover, CBD reduces alcohol-related steatosis and fibrosis in the liver by reducing lipid accumulation, stimulating autophagy, modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and by inducing death in activated hepatic stellate cells. Finally, CBD reduces alcohol-related brain damage, preventing neuronal loss by its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties.
(source)
Consistently, alcohol addiction recovery centers seem to catch on to the idea of administering CBD as part of their treatment modalities. For example, the Orlando Recovery Center promotes CBD gummies to treat alcoholism. On a personal note, I can add that ever since I started taking CBD, I’ve stopped wanting to have a glass of wine even on an occasional basis, even at parties.
Moreover, CBD is used to treat opioid use disorder (source).
Furthermore, there was a randomized double-blind one-week clinical study in London that demonstrated that CBD reduced the number of cigarettes smoked by 40% during that week.
Cancer
First, this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of 177 patients has shown that THC:CBD extract is efficacious for relief of pain in patients with advanced cancer pain not fully relieved by strong opioids.
Second, there is an ongoing double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized clinical trial into the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol (CBD) to relieve symptom burden in the palliative care of patients with advanced cancer.
Third, this randomized placebo-controlled study states that cannabis is known to limit or prevent nausea and vomiting from a variety of causes, including chemotherapy.
In addition, the American Cancer Society states that
THC and other cannabinoids such as CBD slow growth and/or cause death in certain types of cancer cells growing in lab dishes. Some animal studies also suggest certain cannabinoids may slow growth and reduce spread of some forms of cancer.
(source)
Oxidative Stress
A comprehensive review of medical studies concluded that CBD provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Fibromyalgia Syndrome
This recent systematic review of studies into fibromyalgia and cannabinoids concluded that cannabinoids can improve some common and debilitating symptoms associated with fibromyalgia and, thus, making them an adequate potential treatment option. However, the study added that more research is necessary.
In the meantime, numerous people take CBD for the relief of fibromyalgia symptoms. For example, a medical doctor-led survey of over 1300 people as to the efficacy of three regulatory body-approved pharmaceutical fibromyalgia treatments versus cannabis resulted in strong favor of cannabis over the poorly effective prescription medicines (source).
Diabetes
This animal study showed CBD to significantly reduce the incidence of diabetes in mice. In the medical literature, there is a reported case of a recovery from diabetes 2 after taking CBD. But yes, clinical studies are needed to see how CBD hemp oil or CBD tincture products work on people with diabetes.
Multiple Sclerosis
The UK Multiple Sclerosis Society reported that 1 in 5 people with multiple sclerosis (MS) used cannabis to help with their symptoms. Specifically, CBD helped them with muscle spasms or stiffness (spasticity) and pain.
Liver Health
European scientists found that CBD reduced alcohol-related steatosis and fibrosis in the liver by reducing lipid accumulation, stimulating autophagy, modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and by inducing the death of activated hepatic stellate cells.
Side Effects Of CBD Or CBD Hemp Oil
First of all, the United States FDA states a number of potential side effects. Overall, the FDA believes that it’s risky to take any CBD without the FDA oversight.
If you browse the Internet, you will find other organizations or individuals that echo the side effects of CBD that the FDA states. Before we look at the specific examples, I want to encourage you to pay attention to terminology. Whatever I read about potential side effects of CBD, it all comes down to THC. In other words, they talk about potential side effects of marijuana, or THC, even though it may seem like they are talking about CBD.
Let’s look at some specific examples.
Psychiatric Association
At first glance, it may seem that the Psychiatric Association warns against CBD because of its side effects. However, if you read carefully, you’ll see that they refer to the side effects of THC, a psychoactive and intoxicating component of cannabis. And they seem to use cannabis and marijuana interchangeably. I do want to emphasize that I do not advocate for marijuana use. In fact, I actually voted against legalization of marijuana in California.
Mayo Clinic
Next, the Mayo Clinic seems to identify some side effects of CBD. However, they do not cite any sources, and I believe that there are two inaccuracies in the article, which makes me suspect that they listed the side effects of marijuana.
First, they say that “CBD is a chemical found in marijuana” whereas medical CBD is derived from hemp, not marijuana, because marijuana is high in THC. Second, they believe that “state laws on the use of CBD vary.” This is not true about CBD but it is true about marijuana. In fact, the United States Federal government allows sales and use of CBD nationwide, as we’ve previously discussed above.
Australian Clinical Study
This clinical study out of Australia determined that THC can damage the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory but that the therapeutic properties of CBD and the extended abstinence from THC can restore the brain functions. Notice that in the study they use the words “cannabis” and “THC” interchangeably. So, again, if one doesn’t read the whole study, one might think that when the researchers refer to cannabis, they mean CBD, which is not true. Here is a quote from the study:
Ongoing cannabis use is associated with harms to brain health, underpinned by chronic exposure to THC.
(source)
European Medical Providers
Furthermore, after reviewing medical studies, several European medical providers said the following:
Although cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis, the cannabis constituent cannabidiol (CBD) may have antipsychotic properties.
(source)
Evidence from several research domains suggests that CBD shows potential for antipsychotic treatment.
(source)
Clinical Trials Review
This 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials to determine any adverse effects of CBD found that associations with abnormal liver function tests, somnolence, sedation, and pneumonia were limited to childhood epilepsy studies, where CBD may have interacted with other medications such as clobazam and/or sodium valproate. After excluding studies in childhood epilepsy, they found that the only adverse outcome associated with CBD treatment was diarrhea.
CBD and Drug Interactions
If you are on medication, be sure to visit this Medline Plus list for possible interactions. In addition, talk to your medical provider.
By the way, when I went through the list, I noticed that the common theme is that CBD makes drugs more potent. And, as a result, can increase the drugs’ side effects. So, you might need to take less or even get off it. But talk to your doctor about this and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
As an example, CBD might decrease how quickly the body breaks down caffeine. This might increase levels of caffeine in the body. In other words, you would need to drink less coffee. Personally, after I started taking CBD, I can only drink one cup of black tea early in the morning. And afterwards, I can’t tolerate any caffeine. Before I started taking CBD, I used to get a bit sleepy after lunch. And often needed a second cup with lunch. By now, I’ve completely forgotten what that feeling is, and I am full of energy without reliance on caffeine.
FAQ
Can You Use Dr. Bronner’s Soap With Hemp Oil When Pregnant?
Although Dr. Bronner’s soap contains hemp oil as one of its ingredients, in my opinion, there is no need to worry.
Normally, hemp seed oil found in soaps, cosmetics, and other personal care products, including Dr. Bronner’s soap, is not the same as CBD oil. The hemp seed oil used in personal care products comes primarily from seeds of the hemp plant. As we have discussed above, the seeds do not naturally contain THC or CBD.
Further, the hemp seed-derived ingredients that are the subject of the FDA GRAS notices may contain only trace amounts of THC and CBD. The seeds may pick up those during harvesting and processing when they are in contact with other parts of the plant. According to the FDA, consumption of these hemp seed-derived ingredients is not capable of making consumers “high.”
Even if hemp seed oil in Dr. Bronner’s soap contains trace amounts of THC, the product’s contact with the skin is too brief for the skin to absorb any meaningful amounts. However, by all means, discuss with your OBGYN whether personal care products with hemp oil are right for you and your baby. (You can read more about Dr. Bronner’s castile soap and what I think of it here.)
As for the FDA’s opinion on using cannabis-derived products during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the FDA seems to warn against it.
What Is The Right Hemp Oil Dosage?
To clarify, this question is about the right CBD hemp oil dosage. As discussed above, CBD hemp oil (aka CBD tincture) and hemp seed oil are not the same.
First off, I am not a doctor and cannot give you any advice regarding dosage. So, please, consult a medical professional.
Alternatively, you can call Leaf411, a nonprofit operating a cannabis-trained nurse guidance line. They provide education and directional support about the safe use of legal cannabis. Well, I talked to them. And they suggested starting with a low dose and keeping a journal of a dose and its effect on my body.
Additionally, there is Realm of Caring, a non-profit organization known as the charity of choice for the cannabis industry. They do research and provide education about cannabinoid therapies “to benefit individuals and families. And serve healthcare providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries.”
How Much CBD Oil Should I Take?
Since I am not a doctor, I cannot give you any advice regarding dosage. So, please, consult a medical professional. Also, keep in mind that, while CBD hemp oil is getting more popular, clear dosage guidelines have not been set by the medical community yet.
As a point of reference, Dr. Robert Rountree, a CBD oil pioneer and expert, recommends 10 milligrams a day for treating anxiety and pain. Be aware, though, that your dosage will vary based on what you are treating. And how much you are deficient in CBD. Ideally, your doctor can help you determine which dosage and the types of CBD (e.g., CBD tincture) is best for you.
How To Choose The Best CBD
To begin with, I would like to emphasize that it is very important to buy CBD hemp oil or gummies from reputable and trusted companies because many products sold as a CBD supplement contain almost no CBD. The FDA tests CBD products and posts the results on their website.
Indeed, many CBD hemp oil products are mislabeled. Thus, a study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association discovered that 26% of the researched products contained less CBD than labeled. The problem with that is it could negate the desired outcome. Conversely, 18 of the 84 tested samples (21.4%) contained more than 0.3% of THC (0.3% is the limit set by the 2018 Federal law).
As I mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, a while ago, I started having trouble falling asleep. Going around without a good night’s sleep is hard on anyone, but those with an autoimmune condition called Addison’s (which I am recovering from) suffer from it immensely! Talk about anxiety and exhaustion!
Anyway, since I had to find a solution sooner than later, I tried two CBD tincture products. The first one helped me somewhat, and I was almost ready to say that CBD did not work for me. However, the second CBD hemp oil product I tried relieved me of my sleep issue completely!
It was then that the idea of doing a thorough research into the CBD industry occurred to me. So, I asked my Instagram followers to give me brand names of CBD oil products they were using or wanted to try. After numerous hours of research, this “worst-bad-better-best” CBD hemp extract list was born.
My Approach To Investigating The CBD Industry
Although I was already using a CBD tincture that worked well for me, I was interested in seeing whether it was really the best. So, my team and I devoted time to take the following steps (as we usually do with any kind of product):
- We surveyed the CBD industry.
- We studied the manufacturing processes.
- We researched the ingredients.
- We contacted manufacturers by email, phone, and Zoom.
- We tried some products.
Each of these steps required strict and detailed documentation. So, I hope you can appreciate the amount of time invested in this project. I Read Labels For You is always driven by the desire to provide you with as much knowledge as possible so that you could make informed decisions about products.
As a result of this thorough investigation, I have come up with four criteria for the best CBD hemp oil. In other words, if a CBD tincture company meets all four main standards, it falls in the “best” category. The rest of the researched brands fall in the “better,” “bad,” and “worst” categories depending on how many of those criteria they meet.
The “Best” CBD Oil Product Criteria
- The “best” CBD hemp extract should not be just organically grown, but should also carry the actual USDA Organic seal.
- The company should provide independent 3rd party test reports for heavy metals, pesticides, and composition, including the amount of THC.
- The “best” and high-quality CBD hemp oil should use hemp flower extract (not branches or leaves), CO2 extraction, and no solvents.
- The company that sells the CBD products should have an excellent level of control over production processes from seed to growing to extraction to packaging.
Based on the requests of my Instagram followers, we looked into 21 brands. But only 16 of them carried CBD tinctures. Using the described above four main criteria for the “best” CBD oil, we grouped the researched products in the following way. (Please, bear in mind that these are our opinions only, and you are welcome to do your own research.)
“Worst” CBD Hemp Extract
In my opinion, the following brands belong to the “worst” category.
Brand | Description |
Q Sciences | – Not organic – Previously, their test reports had no information about pesticides and heavy metals. As of October 9, 2023, I don’t see any test reports on the website. – Uses preservatives (sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate). – Uses limonene, natural flavors (undisclosed ingredients), and other ingredients that are not necessary in a CBD hemp oil. – Their THC-free products contain “full spectrum hemp oil extract.” |
In addition, I would place all brands that the FDA found to be mislabeled in the “worst” category. You can access the list here.
“Bad” CBD Tincture Products
The main reason the brands presented in the table below are in the “bad” category is that they are not USDA certified organic. In my opinion, it is necessary for CBD hemp oil to be certified organic. Otherwise, it is likely to be contaminated with various pesticides and heavy metals.
In addition to having no USDA organic seal, some of these brands have other concerns. If you are interested in buying any of these products, I encourage you to contact the company and get your questions answered.
Importantly, we have also looked at the price-potency ratios for these CBD hemp extracts. However, we are not publishing the results because we do not recommend these products in the first place.
Note that most of these brands offer affiliate programs and fine commissions. However, I chose not to affiliate with them because they do not meet my standards.
Brand | Description |
Blue Sky | – Unclear where they grow and manufacture – Offers only CBD and CBN isolates |
CBDMD | – Unclear where they grow and manufacture – Natural flavors |
City and Sea | – Unclear where they manufacture |
Cureganics | no additional concerns |
Earthley Wellness | – Includes other herbs so it is not a true CBD product |
Highline Wellness | – Unclear where they grow – Contains melatonin |
Koi | – Unclear where they manufacture |
Mett Naturals | no additional concerns |
Nuleaf Naturals | no additional concerns |
Purium | – Unclear where they manufacture – Contains flavors |
Soul CBD | – Unclear where they grow and manufacture – Natural flavors |
Veritas Farms | – Contains additional herbs |
“Better” CBD Hemp Oil
Brand | Description |
Charlotte’s Web | – Organic – Provides test reports but the test reports are not available on the website, which is the main reason I am placing this brand in the “better” category, not the “best.” – The downside of their CBD tincture products is that they contain “natural flavor,” and there are no unflavored options. – By the way, they have an affiliate program, but I made a conscious decision not to affiliate with them. |
“Best” CBD Oil Products
Fortunately, I have found two brands that meet my strict standards:
- Aspen Green and
- Green Compass.
I researched them in -depth and contacted them via email, phone, and Zoom with lots of questions.
Aspen Green CBD Hemp Oil
It was Aspen Green CBD tincture that helped me with my sleep issues.
To begin, the owners of the company are very knowledgeable and passionate about doing things the right way and delivering the highest quality CBD oils. For this, they grow and manufacture hemp in Colorado that seems to have perfect climate for it. Plus, they use the CO2 method for extraction without any solvents from the best part of the plant – flowers or buds.
In addition, every batch has 3rd party test reports. Even though they are USDA-organic certified, they test for numerous pesticides, just in case. They also test for the right compositions and numerous toxins, such as heavy metals and mold. In fact, their test reports are the most comprehensive I have seen in a long time.
Importantly, they also offer unflavored CBD hemp oil formulations without any essential oils, flavored with essential oils or natural flavor. After testing all of them, I am happy to report that the ones flavored with essential oils are mild and not overpowering at all. So, if you are not up to the pure herbal taste, get the flavored ones.
To visit the Aspen Green website, click here. Use my IREAD20 code to get 20% off on the first non-subscription purchase.
Green Compass CBD Oil
First, they grow and manufacture their organic hemp in North Carolina. Just like Aspen Green, they extract via the CO2 method without any solvents from the best part of the cannabis plant – flowers. Every batch has 3rd party test reports that are also posted on the website and/or can be accessed by scanning the packaging. The most recent reports show testing for the right composition only. Since they own their organic hemp growing fields and manufacturing facilities, testing every batch for heavy metals might not be very important.
Unlike Aspen Green, they offer a variety of CBD hemp oil product options: full spectrum hemp extract, broad spectrum hemp extract, and isolates.
I like the fact that Green Compass provides many options. I understand that people who are tested for work and pregnant women prefer to take THC-free hemp products and Green Compass offers the options.
Another piece of good news is that Green Compass carries both flavored (with organic essential oils and sometimes with organic stevia) and unflavored CBD tincture options.
Note that Green Compass jellies contain natural flavor.
However, since their products are USDA-certified organic, their natural flavor should be the safest possible of natural flavors. Also, I have not seen any unflavored jellies or gummies. On the other hand, I have seen gummies with synthetic petroleum dyes that I do not recommend applying even topically.
I tried and liked Green Compass broad spectrum jellies as well as 750 mg broad spectrum tincture. I have observed many positive results, including more energy without caffeine, reducing belly fat, and making my belly flat.
To visit the Green Compass website, click here. (Get $10 off on the 1st purchase of $50+). All in all, in my opinion, both Aspen Green and Green Compass are excellent options and the best choices for you.
Summary Of The CBD Hemp Extract Products Post
cannabidiol (CBD) is known for a great many healing and calming properties.
In conclusion, some people may have concerns about cannabidiol (CBD) since it is sometimes derived from marijuana that creates the “high” effect. However, CBD from hemp is different because it has no delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that is responsible for this effect.
However, CBD is different from THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which is responsible for this intoxicating effect.
When I encountered insomnia, Aspen Green CBD full spectrum extract proved very effective in helping me maintain a productive life. At present, I take a combination of Aspen Green and Green Compass hemp wellness products. I have noticed many positive changes that include more energy, better mood, more patience, and reduced belly fat and hair shedding.
While the FDA prefers people to take approved drugs made with CBD that come with hefty prices, I keep hearing healing stories from many. So, I set out to find what are, in my opinion, the very best CBD tincture options.
After looking into 21 brands, I have narrowed it down to just two CBD oil brands that I consider the best based on my strict criteria. They are Aspen Green (IREAD20 code for 20% off on the first non-subscription purchase) and Green Compass. Indeed, both brands:
- are USDA-certified organic
- have their products tested by independent 3rd parties and post their test reports on their websites
- use flowers only (not branches or leaves)
- apply the CO2 extraction method without any solvents, and
- have an excellent level of control over production processes from seed to growing to extraction to packaging.
I wish all of you well in your journey toward health and hope that this post will assist you in making decisions!
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Thankyou Irena! Once again a wealth of valuable info!! Probably a dumb question, but I don’t understand why the Aspen Green has THC in it- I thought THC was to be avoided? Do you have any recommendations for a broad spectrum product or are you saying the entourage effect wont happen unless product is full spectrum?
Thankyou
Hi Kara,
Thank you for your question!
Aspen Green contains no more than 0.3% of THC (0.3% is the limit set by the 2018 Federal law). It helped Irina with her sleep trouble.
For those seeking THC-free options, we suggest looking into Green Compass products (in the “best” category in this post).
We hope this helps!
I really appreciate the work you put into this list. I have been using Mett Naturals and I have been happy with them but reconsidering now.
Did you look into mold testing in your investigation? 3rd party mold testing is what sold me on Mett Naturals to begin with. I’ve read that mold can be a big issue with the plants. Any thoughts?
Hi Lanae!
We appreciate your feedback!
As for your question, we have looked at the Mett Naturals website and didn’t see any 3rd party test reports for mold or heavy metals. In addition, they don’t seem to be organic.
Green Compass monitors their incoming biomass and tests it for mycotoxins as part of their quality programs.
Have you looked into Mary’s Medicinals? I have taken their oil called “the Remedy+” in the past , but wanted to try Aspen Green based on Irina’s recommendation. I am taking 1/4 dropper am and pm and after a week am noticing an improvement in energy and focus. I contacted their customer service (they are excellent!!) because I find the flavor/smell of the 3000 ml mint flavor almost unusable. They have replaced it with the Calm berry flavor, which is less offensive but similar. Maybe I just don’t know what real CBD tastes like. The Mary’s has a very pleasant, mild taste. I am determined to continue daily dosing with Aspen Green and expect to continue to feel an improvement in overall wellness. Thanks to Irina for doing all the work for us.
Hi Kathy! Thank you for your feedback on Aspen Green – we appreciate it! We haven’t looked into Mary’s Medicinals.
I ordered from Aspen Green at Irina’s recommendation. I am very impressed! I chose a topical product because I’m sensitive and am using it for mild pain relief. It works almost instantly upon contact! Wow!! I’ve used another brand that didn’t have near that effectiveness. I could also feel an overall bodily effect simply from applying a small amount topically. Impressive!
Wow! Thank you for your feedback! We really appreciate it, especially because it can help other readers with their choices. We are also happy we could help you!
Can you please explain your rating for Cureganics? It’s not very clear to me. “no additional concerns”
Thanks!
Hi Jennifer! As we explain it above the table where Cureganics is placed:”The main reason the brands presented in the table below are in the “bad” category is that they are not USDA certified organic. In my opinion, it is necessary for CBD hemp oil to be certified organic. Otherwise, it is likely to be contaminated with various pesticides and heavy metals. In addition to having no USDA organic seal, some of these brands have other concerns.” In other words, Cureganics is not USDA certified organic, but it has no additional concerns like some other brands mentioned in the table and the concerns specified. It is our number one criterion for the product to be USDA certified organic, not just “organically grown.” We hope this helps!
I am new here. Do you have reviews of CBD topicals? I desperately need one for pain.
Also, are there any unscented CBD topicals that are safe to use?
Thank you!
Hi, Liz! You will love this organic balm by Aspen Green that is in the best category: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1784814&u=857922&m=111213&urllink=www%2Easpengreen%2Ecom%2Fproduct%2Fpain%2Drelief%2Dbody%2Dbalm%2F&afftrack=. It works like a charm. And Aspen Green is offering 50% off right now. ~Irina
I’m so thankful you did a blog post on this! Have you ever looked at Poofy Organics CBD? I’m curious if it would pass your test.
Hi Kimberly! Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels For You and for your kind feedback! We have not looked into Poofy Organics CBD because we didn’t have a request for it. The good news is that you can take our criteria and apply them to any CBD product to decide whether it passes our test. Otherwise, you can book an email product review following the instructions here: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/services/ingredient-review/ Thank you for your interest in our opinion!
Hi Irina! Thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us! I was wondering if you had looked into Equilibria as many influencers recommend this brand!
Many Thanks,
Noelle
Hi Noelle! Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels For You! We were focusing on CBD tinctures helping specifically with sleep issues and did not see those on Equilibria. They do have 3rd party test reports, which is good, but I didn’t notice their USDA-organic certification. Did you?
I am wondering if in your research, you came across information on whether CBD is safe for teens? And if you can share that research?
Thank you for all you do!!!
Hi Netty! Thank you for reaching out to I Read Labels For You and your kind feedback! We didn’t come across any research dedicated specifically to teenagers; however, as you can see in the “Hemp Oil Health Benefits and Hemp Extract Benefits” section of our blog post, we mention CBD usage for pediatric purposes. Also, please look into the “What is the right hemp oil dosage?” section for the information about Leaf411 and Realm of Caring that may guide you in this question.
Ojai Energetics appears to meet all of your criteria. I’m curious if you looked at this brand. They are slightly different in that they are water encapsulated so it’s supposed to absorb into the mucosal lining within seconds as opposed to going through the gut. Would be interested in hearing your thoughts! Thank you for the in-depth report. It was really helpful.
Hi LMG! Thank you for your feedback! We didn’t look into Ojai Energetics because there had been no request for it. But we have looked at it now! While their products are USDA organic and there are test reports published on the website, we have some concerns. If you would like to know what they are, please book an email product review here: https://ireadlabelsforyou.com/services/ingredient-review/
It looks as though the Green Compass is close to, but not quite 3x the cost of the Aspen Green? I think I’m reading that right from looking at the available full spectrum options. So, the Aspen Green appears to be a much better price/ml, unless there’s something else I’m not considering?
Hello Angela! Thank you for a conscious approach to making purchasing decisions! You are right about the prices. We give all possible options to help you make informed decisions!