It’s likely you have heard of CBD by now. But have you tried it? 

If you are new to the world of CBD and cannabinoids, it can feel a bit overwhelming. There are a ton of different products, different doses, and different spectrums. If you are new to CBD and looking for a place to start, here is some simple advice to get you started. 

What Even is CBD? 

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of many compounds found naturally in hemp and cannabis plants. These compounds are known as cannabinoids. They can be extracted and turned into a number of products, some of the most popular being oils, edibles and topicals. 

In the U.S., CBD products are produced using hemp plants with a THC threshold of 0.3% or less. THC is another commonly known cannabinoid often associated with marijuana and its intoxicating effects. Unlike THC, CBD is not intoxicating, but could provide a variety of potential therapeutic benefits. 

Possible Benefits of CBD

Many people turn to CBD for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common uses for CBD are to possibly help with stress and anxiety, pain, inflammation, and improved sleep. All of the possible benefits of CBD are brought on by its interaction with the ECS, or endocannabinoid system. 

The ECS is a bodily system responsible for vital functions like our emotional responses, inflammation, immune response, motor control, sleep cycles, pain signaling and more. The goal of the ECS is to maintain balance or homeostasis. Through its interaction with the ECS, CBD may be able to help reach that goal. 

There are a number of different CBD products that you could take to reap its potential benefits, but there are still a few things to consider.

Types of CBD 

There are three spectrums of CBD that you can choose from, and each is a little different: 

-Full-Spectrum – A full-spectrum CBD product should contain the full spectrum of rare cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes present in hemp plants. Most high-quality full spectrum CDB products will contain some THC, but not enough to get you “high.” A full-spectrum product is great for those who are looking for the entourage effect. The entourage effects refers to a theory in which cannabinoids can work better together. On the other hand, if you are looking to avoid THC or have drug testing concerns, it’s best to avoid a full-spectrum CBD product. 

-Broad-Spectrum – Broad-spectrum CBD products refer to a product that has rare cannabinoids present, but all THC has been removed. A broad-spectrum CBD product still allows for the possibility of the entourage effect, but without trace amount of THC. If you are curious about the entourage effect but wish to avoid THC, a broad-spectrum CBD product could be the perfect middle ground for you. 

-CBD Isolates – A CBD isolate product is any product that is pure CBD. CBD isolates are processed to have all other cannabinoids removed so only CBD remains. For those with drug testing concerns or anyone looking to completely avoid THC, a CBD isolate product could be the best choice. 

Different CBD Products 

These days you can find CBD in just about any form you can think of. Still, there are some products that are more common and possibly more reliable than others. Here are some different CBD products to try if you need somewhere to start: 

–CBD Oils – CBD oils come in different spectrums, potencies, and flavors. CBD oils are great for easy and fast sublingual consumption. 

–CBD Topicals – CBD topicals are ideal for targeted relief through specific application. If you are seeking pain relief in a specific are, a CBD topical is a good choice. 

–CBD Edibles and Gummies – CBD edibles and gummies are one of the tastiest ways to consume CBD. They come in a variety of spectrums, potencies, forms, and flavors. 

–CBD Hemp Strains – CBD hemp strains are great for inhaled CBD, one of the fastest consumption methods. CBD flower for smoking comes in a wide variety of unique strains, all of which should have less than 0.3% THC. 

–CBD Pre-Rolls – CBD pre-rolls are similar to CBD hemp strains, just in a ‘ready to consume’ form. CBD pre-rolls are usually perfectly dosed and ready to spark up at any time. 

–CBD Capsules – CBD capsules are another easy form of CBD consumption, just like taking a daily vitamin. CBD capsules provide a discrete and perfectly dosed way to get your CBD. 

–CBD Beauty Products – CBD beauty products are one of the newer things to take the industry by storm. If you are looking for a way to add some natural ingredients to your beauty routine, there are shampoos and conditioners, serums, creams and more. 

–CBD Pets Products – Just like for us humans, there are also a variety of pet-specific CBD products that could provide similar benefits to your furry or feathered friend as CBD could provide for you.  

Always Turn to Third-Party Tested Products 

Now that you know what to look for in a CBD product, the best place to start is with high-quality products backed by third-party lab test results. Third-party lab testing gives you a way to double check the ingredients of your product, from rare cannabinoids to passes on solvent and pesticide tests.

Turn to Real Tested CBD for the most transparent and reliable third-party lab tested products in CBD today.