Just a few years ago, cannabidiol (CBD) was everywhere. Touted as a miracle cure for everything from anxiety to insomnia, the non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant seemed poised to revolutionize the wellness industry. CBD-infused products sprouted like weeds, from oils and tinctures to lattes and bath bombs. As a parent, I remember Moms whispering at the social events about the CBD tincture they were taking to alleviate all types of issues. As the choices became numerous, it became apparent that not all players in the CBD market were on the same level. The quality started to become questionable, and oversaturation of product certainly didn’t help.
Recent data suggests a decline in sales, particularly for consumable products like edibles and beverages. Experts point to a market saturated with similar offerings and a lack of clear regulations as contributing factors.
A Market Glut
The initial surge in CBD products was driven by a combination of factors. Consumers were drawn to the potential health benefits and the natural, non-intoxicating nature of CBD. Additionally, the legal ambiguity surrounding cannabis made CBD a more accessible option for those curious about the plant’s potential.
However, this rapid growth led to a glut of products, many with questionable quality or exaggerated claims. With little differentiation between brands, consumers became confused and skeptical.
Regulation in Limbo
The lack of clear regulations around CBD is another major hurdle. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD at the federal level, but individual states still have the authority to implement their own restrictions. This patchwork of regulations creates uncertainty for both producers and consumers.
For instance, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not yet approved CBD as a dietary supplement or for any specific medical condition. This lack of oversight makes it difficult for companies to make legitimate health claims, further dampening consumer confidence.
Here are some things to look for in quality CBD products:
- Source: Look for companies that source their hemp from farms that use sustainable and organic farming practices. This helps ensure that the CBD is free of pesticides, herbicides, and other contaminants.
- Third-party lab testing: Look for a certificate of analysis (COA) from a third-party lab. This COA should show the potency of the CBD (the amount of CBD in the product), as well as the levels of other cannabinoids, terpenes, contaminants, and solvents.
- Labeling: The label should clearly state the amount of CBD per serving, as well as the total amount of CBD in the container. The label should also list all of the ingredients in the product.
- Type of CBD: There are three main types of CBD products: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate. Full-spectrum products contain all of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including THC. Broad-spectrum products contain all of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant except for THC. Isolate products contain only CBD.
- Reputation: Choose a company with a good reputation. Look for reviews from other customers and see what they have to say about the company’s products and customer service.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you are buying a high-quality CBD product. It is important to remember that CBD is not a regulated substance, so it is important to do your research before you buy.