WTF is CBD?

WTF is CBD? WTF is CBD? Atricle by Abbey Cloonan Layout by Maggie Peknic

With the lack of regulations over the CBD industry– despite its rapid ascent into popular culture, it can be difficult to know if the product you’re purchasing is any good. Here are some things to look out for:

Test analyses: Most reputable brands have a third-party tested scientific analysis of their products available on their websites, or available at their store location if you are purchasing from a dispensary or smoke shop. If it hasn’t been tested by a third-party, you might want to look elsewhere (Carter). Ingredients: Many people will see “hemp seed oil” or “cannabis sativa seed oil” on a product label and assume that the product is CBD. However, if it is a legitimate product, you will see cannabidiol, full-spectrum hemp, hemp oil, or PCR hemp on the label (Green). Source: Cannabis that is grown in the U.S. is subject to agricultural regulations, which gives a product a better chance of being safe (Carter). Distributor: Just gonna point out the obvious here: you should not be buying CBD products from Amazon. I know that the $5 price tag is tempting, but trust me, you won’t be buying from a legitimate distributor (Nims).

If you’re looking to dive into the world of CBD, here’s a list of a few reputable companies to get you started. All of these products are third-party tested and made from American-grown hemp (Cronkleton).

Charlotte’s Web CBD: Their products include oils, gummies, capsules, and topical lotions. They offer several different concentrations at various price levels (ranging from $25 to over $100), so this brand might be better for someone who has previous experience with CBD. Find out more at charlottesweb.com Zatural Cannabis CBD: One of the most affordable options on the market, Zatural, is a great brand to look into if you’re just dipping your toes into the CBD trend. Though this brand is labeled as full-spectrum, it is technically considered a CBD isolate, as it contains no other 50 cannabinoids or THC. They also have a help-

ful quiz on their website to help get you started with the best products for your personal needs. Find out more at zatural.com

CBDistillery:A relatively affordable brand that offers oils, tinctures, softgels, gummies, and topical products. They are a U.S. Hemp Authority certified company that uses nonGMO hemp oil, and they have a 60-day money-back guarantee. Perfect for people trying CBD for the first time. Find out more at thecbdistillery.com.

You can also incorporate CBD into your beauty routine. While CBD can not only help with pain and mood regulation, some studies have found that it could also help acne-prone skin (Adelson). Kiskanu Hemp Face Oil ($40 at kitchentoke.shop): Working on all skin types, this organic face oil can be used as a moisturizer, beard oil, makeup remover, or as a hydrating treatment on parts of your body that need a little extra love. Emera CBD Detangler ($25 at Earthly Body): Is your hair unmanageable when you get out of the shower? This detangling spray will help you reduce those knots, leaving your hair soft, shiny, and protected from the heat and environmental damage. Physician’s Grade Ultra-Nourishing Revitalize Shampoo ($40 at Physician’s Grade): If you’re looking to splurge on some new haircare, this CBD-infused shampoo is a great option. This product will help moisturize dehydrated hair, and may even help with hair growth.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound derived from the marijuana or hemp plant that has become a popular remedy for minor ailments, and a supplement to pre existing treatments. Unlike marijuana’s other main counterpart tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. Though more peer-reviewed studies are necessary to confirm claims about CBD, it has been shown to help with pain management, anxiety, depression, cancer-related symptoms such as nausea. (Kubala).