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 Natural Awakenings Lancaster-Berks

Three Things to Look for When Purchasing CBD Oil

Feb 24, 2018 07:30PM ● By Kyle Hass

The benefits of high-cannabidiol (CBD), low-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) hemp extract are becoming well known. Extensive studies have investigated its efficacy in a range of conditions, including anxiety disorders, inflammatory pain and liver disease. The Project CBD website includes links to a large variety of studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, however, has not evaluated CBD oils, and companies are forbidden from making medical claims.

 Commercially available, legally produced CBD oil is extracted from hemp. It has a THC level below the federally legal limit of 0.3 percent. It is non-addictive, non-intoxicating and legal in all 50 states. But CBD oil prices can vary considerably. To ensure a safe, high-quality product, consider these factors.

 1. Know where the hemp is grown

Many cheaper CBD products are extracted from European or Chinese hemp. This material comes from hemp byproducts left over from industrial applications. Ask distributors for the name and location of their hemp CBD farmer or producer. American hemp production is closely regulated under federal law in conjunction with Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Under this research pilot program, U.S. farmers are allowed to grow a more diverse crop, leading to increased, high-quality CBD production.  

 2. Know how the hemp is grown

Hemp from unknown origins could contain pesticides, herbicides or fungicides used in the growing process. Waste or free “trash” hemp often contains heavy metal contaminates from industrial processes. Choose oils grown in certified organic fields. Request results from gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis for pesticides and other contaminates to ensure personal safety.

 3. Know how the CBD is extracted

High-quality CBD oil is extracted from the hemp plant with carbon dioxide, without the use of solvents. It contains all the cannabinoids and phytochemicals of the plant. Waste hemp CBD requires manufacturers to apply chemical solvents to refine and remove heavy metals. The purified CBD crystals are then dissolved in a carrier oil, resulting in an initial extract that is 10 to 14 percent CBD. Choose the natural extract, which is 48 to 58 percent CBD.

 Don’t be misled by cheap imitations or slick marketing. Get the purest product and reap the highest benefits from CBD oil.

 To learn more about CBD, visit ProjectCBD.org/guidance/conditions.


 Debra Stoltzfus is a nationally certified clinical aromatherapist with more than 1,000 hours of advanced chemistry, physiology and aromatherapy training with the Aromahead Institute and the Institute of Traditional Herbal Medicine and Aromatherapy, in London, England. She is the owner and master blender for Inshanti Essential Oils, in Lancaster County. For more information, visit Inshanti.com.