Where to Buy CBD: A Shoppers Guide

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant, renowned for its potential health properties.

Unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn't induce a "high" feeling, making it an attractive option for those seeking potential benefits without psychoactive effects. The increasing acceptance and research surrounding CBD have propelled it into various products, from capsules and tinctures to edibles and topicals.

Key Points: 

• Source: CBD is primarily derived from hemp, a type of Cannabis sativa plant with low THC content.
• Benefits: Many users claim CBD helps with stress reduction, and sleep, though research is ongoing.
• Legality: CBD is legal in many countries and states, but it's essential to verify local regulations before purchasing.

Looking for a deeper dive on CBD? Check out our CBD 101 guide. 

Understanding CBD

When it comes to purchasing CBD, not all products are created equal. Quality can significantly vary, and inferior products may not provide the desired effects or might even contain harmful additives.

Factors to Consider:

• Extraction Methods: High-quality CBD is often extracted using CO2 extraction, preserving its purity and potency.
• Third-party Testing: Always opt for brands that provide third-party lab results, ensuring the product's safety and potency.
• Origin of Hemp: Knowing where the hemp is sourced can give insights into its quality; prefer hemp grown without pesticides and in nutrient-rich soil.
• Solubility: Water-soluble CBD is believed to have higher bioavailability, meaning it can be absorbed and utilized by the body more efficiently than its oil-soluble counterpart. This enhanced absorption can lead to faster and potentially more noticeable effects, making water-soluble options a preferred choice for many users.
• Reputation: Finding a reputable company with positive customer reviews is a great indicator of whether or not you can trust that you’re getting a quality product from a company that cares about your well-being.
• Certifications: A COA (certificate of analysis) is an essential certification for CBD companies, issued by accredited labs, verifying the product's cannabinoid content and ensuring it's free from harmful levels of contaminants.
• Transparent Ingredients: With so many brands being flagged for mislabeling their CBD products, it’s important to find brands that utilize quality ingredients and are upfront and honest about what goes into their products.

By prioritizing quality, you ensure that you're investing in a product that's both safe and effective. 

Why Quality Matters

CBD, given its  potential, has gained immense popularity in recent times. Genuine CBD products ensure that users benefit from the full array of properties the compound has to offer.

Acquiring genuine products guarantees the purity and potency of the CBD, translating to better results and safety for the consumer. However, it’s important also note the risks associated with counterfeit or substandard products, such as:

• Impurities and Additives: Fake products might contain harmful substances not suitable for consumption.
• Reduced Efficacy: The potential benefits might be diminished or entirely absent in low-quality products.
• Legal Ramifications: Non-genuine products might have THC levels above the legal limit, potentially leading to legal issues for consumers.
• Unexpected Side Effects: Substandard products can cause unforeseen adverse reactions due to the unknown compounds they might contain.

 

Spotting Authentic CBD Product

Identifying genuine labels and certifications. When purchasing CBD products, consumers should seek to identify genuine labels and certifications.

• Labels: A genuine product will have clear indications of serving size, how to take the product, and ingredients indicating the amount of CBD present, its source (e.g., hemp-derived), and other essential ingredients.
• COAs: This certification, as mentioned above, is issued by third-party labs and confirms the product's cannabinoid content. It also verifies it's free from harmful levels of contaminants.

We may be sounding a bit redundant here, but it bears repeating. Third-party lab testing is paramount for CBD products as it: 

• Ensures Product Safety: Labs test for harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents.
• Confirms Potency: It verifies that the CBD content matches what's claimed on the label.
• Checks for THC Levels: It ensures the THC content is within the legal limit.
• Instills Consumer Confidence: Knowing a product has been third-party tested gives consumers peace of mind about their purchase.

By being informed and cautious, consumers can ensure they are investing in quality CBD products that provide both safety and efficacy.

 

Online vs. In-Store Shopping for CBD

In the ever-expanding world of CBD products, consumers are often faced with a crucial choice: purchasing online or in-store. 
Both avenues have their distinct benefits and drawbacks, tailored to cater to varying shopper preferences and needs. Let's delve into these to help make your shopping decision more informed.

Pros and Cons of Buying CBD Online

Pros

• Convenience: Shop anytime, anywhere without the need to travel or wait in lines.
• Broader Selection: Online stores often have a wider variety of products compared to physical stores.
• Reviews and Feedback: Customers can read reviews and feedback from other buyers to make informed decisions.

Cons

• Lack of Immediate Guidance: No in-person assistance for queries or concerns.
• Potential for Counterfeits: The risk of encountering fake or substandard products can be higher online.
• Shipping Delays: Waiting for product delivery can sometimes be lengthy.

However, it’s worth noting that purchasing from a company with positive reviews, transparency, and top-tier customer service can resolve most of these issues.

Another option is to purchase from brick-and-mortar stores which can provide a tangible shopping experience. Physically browsing products can offer certain assurances, but are there any downsides? Let’s take a look.

Pros and Cons of Purchasing from Physical Stores

Pros

• Personalized Guidance: Staff can offer specific recommendations based on individual needs.
• Product Authenticity: Physical inspection of products allows for immediate assessment of quality.
• Instant Gratification: Purchase and take the product home immediately.

Cons

• Limited Variety: Some stores might not have as extensive a range as online platforms.
• Potential Higher Prices: Overheads for physical locations can sometimes translate to higher retail prices.
• Less Anonymity: Some shoppers might prefer the privacy of online shopping.

 

Why Choose NextEvo Naturals

NextEvo Naturals stands as a beacon of trust and quality in the bustling CBD market. With its unwavering dedication to providing top-tier CBD products, transparency around sourcing, manufacturing, ingredients, certifications, and third-party testing- consumers can always rely on its authenticity and effectiveness.

NextEvo Naturals' commitment is not just about selling products; it's about forging trust. Every product under its name undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring what's on the label is what's in the bottle.

In a market as dynamic as CBD, genuine products make all the difference. For the health-conscious consumer, prioritizing quality is non-negotiable. With brands like NextEvo Naturals, this decision is simplified.

Choose wisely, choose quality, choose NextEvo Naturals for a CBD experience that stands apart.

 

Resources

• Atalay S, Jarocka-Karpowicz I, Skrzydlewska E. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Dec 25;9(1):21. doi: 10.3390/antiox9010021. PMID: 31881765; PMCID: PMC7023045.
• Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. Perm J. 2019;23:18-041. doi: 10.7812/TPP/18-041. PMID: 30624194; PMCID: PMC6326553.