7 Things to Watch For When Buying CBD

CBD products are everywhere, from grocery stores to online ads, but knowing what to watch out for when buying CBD is essential. The market has grown quickly, and while many brands offer high-quality options, others may sell products labeled incorrectly or lacking proper testing.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in industrial hemp. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause psychoactive effects, which is why so many people use CBD for mood support, relief from discomfort, or general wellness. A national survey even found that nearly one in seven Americans has tried CBD.

But with the market expanding so rapidly, it is important to know what to look for when buying CBD oil. Poor-quality hemp plants, unclear labels, and missing test results can all impact the effects of CBD. This guide answers common CBD questions and breaks down the seven key factors that help you choose safe, effective products.

1. Source of Hemp: Where Does Your CBD Come From?

The quality of CBD starts with the quality of the hemp plant. Well-grown hemp produces cleaner, safer hemp extract, which leads to better CBD products.

Why Location Matters

Hemp grown in the United States or Canada must follow strict farming guidelines that reduce contamination risks. These regions follow the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp containing less than 0.3 percent THC. Always look for brands that clearly share where their hemp is grown.

Organic vs. Non-Organic Hemp

Organic hemp is grown without pesticides or harmful chemicals. This matters because residues from non-organic farming can end up in your CBD oil.

Transparency Is Key

Trustworthy brands openly list where their hemp comes from. If a company avoids this question, consider it a warning sign.

2. Extraction Method: How Is CBD Removed from the Plant?

To create CBD oil, companies must extract cannabinoids from hemp plants. The extraction method affects purity and safety.

CO2 Extraction

This is the gold standard. CO2 extraction uses clean, pressurized air to pull beneficial compounds from hemp without leaving harmful residues. Products made using CO2 extraction tend to be cleaner and higher quality.

Avoid Chemical Solvents

Some brands use cheaper solvents, like ethanol or butane. These methods can leave traces behind, which you do not want in something you consume.

If a company proudly lists CO2 extraction on its website, it often signals a strong commitment to quality.

3. Label Clarity: Understanding What You’re Buying

Reading a CBD label should feel as clear as reading a nutrition label. Confusing or incomplete labels are a sign to look elsewhere.

What Type of CBD Is It?

Products should clearly list whether they are:

• Full-spectrum CBD: contains multiple cannabinoids and up to 0.3 percent THC
• Broad-spectrum CBD: includes many cannabinoids but zero THC
• CBD isolate: pure CBD with no additional plant compounds

These differences matter for people who are sensitive to THC, prefer specific CBD strains, or want to avoid hemp seed oil confusion.

Does Hemp Oil Contain CBD?

Not always. Hemp seed oil does NOT naturally contain CBD unless it has hemp extract added. This is one of the most misunderstood CBD FAQs among shoppers.

Amount of CBD Per Serving

Labels should list both:

• total amount of CBD in the bottle, and
• mg of CBD per serving

Without this information, you cannot know what you are taking or compare products accurately.

4. Third-Party Lab Testing (COA): Your Proof of Quality

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is one of the most important things to watch out for when buying CBD. A COA verifies:

• cannabinoid profiles
• THC levels
• contaminant testing
• whether the product is actually lab tested

These test results should be easy to find on the company’s website. If a brand refuses to share certificates of analysis (COAs), it is wise to avoid them.

5. Choosing the Right Product and Delivery Method

Different CBD formats work differently in the body, so choosing the right type matters.

CBD Oils and Tinctures

Absorb quickly and allow you to control your exact dose.

Capsules and Edibles

Offer steady, long-lasting effects and precise serving sizes.

CBD Creams and Topicals

Ideal for muscle and joint discomfort, localized tension, or chronic pain.

CBD Gummies

Great for beginners who prefer an easy, tasty option.

When comparing options, consider bioavailability, onset time, personal preferences, and any specific health concerns.

6. Company Reputation and Transparency

Trustworthy CBD companies provide:

• detailed product information
• clear test results
• professional customer service
• high-quality ingredients

A good CBD company should also be upfront about compliance with Food and Drug Administration guidelines, even though the FDA does not currently approve CBD for most uses.

If a brand avoids simple CBD questions like hemp source, extraction method, or COA availability, that is a major concern.

7. Satisfaction Guarantee: Do They Stand Behind Their Products?

Confidence matters. A company that offers a satisfaction guarantee or return policy shows that they trust the quality and long-term effectiveness of their products.

Because CBD affects everyone differently, having this option makes it easier to try various formulas without worry.

Sum It Up

Understanding what to look for when buying CBD oil can make the difference between choosing a high-quality wellness product and wasting money on something ineffective. From the source of the hemp to the type of CBD, proper labeling, and third-party testing, each step matters.

Your Path to Quality CBD with Zatural

When it comes to finding a brand you can trust, Zatural stands out. We prioritize transparency, sourcing our hemp from reputable growers and utilizing clean CO2 extraction methods. Our labels are clear and detailed, and we provide easy access to third-party lab results, so you know exactly what you're getting.

We understand that everyone's CBD journey is unique, so we offer a satisfaction guarantee. We want you to feel confident and comfortable with your purchase. By choosing Zatural, you're choosing a company that values quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

We're here to guide you on your path to wellness, providing you with premium CBD products you can trust. Make Zatural your go-to source for all your CBD needs, and experience the difference that quality makes.

Zatural CBD Products

For educational purposes only.

*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.