With the popularity of CBD growing, companies are starting up everywhere. How do people know which CBD company is providing quality medicine? CBD companies aren’t regulated by the federal government, though, some states have regulations and guidelines in place to regulate the growing of hemp and the manufacturing of CBD products. Some states, even though legal, have yet to develop any laws regarding distribution, manufacturing, and testing requirements. One thing I can assure is that CBD companies are not all created equal and here are some key things to look for when choosing a company.

The number one consideration when choosing a CBD company is whether the company is sharing test results with the public. This is important since some states have legalized hemp production and manufacturing, but no laws and regulations are in place to regulate the safety and quality of products. Who wants to purchase herbal medicine with heavy metals, pesticides, or molds? Absolutely no one should. If a CBD company operates in a state where laws and regulations are in place to enforce proper testing of products, then sharing public results may not be necessary or warranted due to meeting state regulations. In addition to ruling out contamination, laboratory analysis checks for residual solvents. Residual solvents, like butane and carbon dioxide, are solvents that remain in the final product after the extraction process. These are used to separate oils and cannabinoids from the plant material. The solvents are, ideally, purged during the extraction process and minimal to none remain. Solvent-less or pressed concentrates do not require residual solvent testing because no solvent is used during the extraction process.

Another important component of CBD testing is the cannabinoid potency and terpene profile. The cannabinoid potency tells us what percentage of CBD and other cannabinoids are contained in the concentrate. CBD manufacturing companies should at least include certificates of analysis for both the concentrates they are using for products and any ingestible final products made with the concentrates. The final product testing is to verify dosage and rule out contamination during the manufacturing process. The terpene profile analyzes the aromatic components of the plant. Each terpene’s medicinal value varies, and this detailed information may be helpful to patients when choosing a product, especially a flower.

CBD products, ingestible or topical, should be natural and organic. No preservatives or fillers should be in quality medicine. Check your ingredients and ask about test results of products. Test results help to verify dosage so patients can make sure the correct dose is in the product that is on the label. Yes, some unethical CBD companies have manipulated this information and patients take less CBD than what’s marketed and what they intended to purchase. Be weary of companies that don’t provide testing information, either online or in stores.

Another consideration to ponder when choosing a product or company for you is what business practices a company follows. This may not be important to some, but many companies are changing the way businesses practice for the better. More and more companies are involving themselves in local and worldly issues and are trying to influence and improve the world for better. So, consider the business practices of the company and ask yourself:

What does the company provide for their local community?

Many companies get involved with numerous local community services. They may support non-profit programs, sponsor school athletics programs, provide charitable contributions to the community, or participate in local charitable events. Humanitarian efforts like these support the community, economy and all the people apart of it.

Is the company using safe practices and ingredients?

Cannabis is a natural occurring medicine of the Earth, contaminating it with any non-organic products devalues the product. It is unable to reach maximum therapeutic effect if it is combined with products that could cause harm or provide an adverse effect. Sugar, preservatives, and other processed ingredients have been found in CBD oils. Again, always verify ingredients.

Does the company support the environment in which medicinal plants and herbs thrive in?

With the cannabis industry growing so rapidly, I’ve personally noticed the overuse of one-time-use plastics and waste. There are companies that focus and care about the earth and product ingredients. Check out companies that recycle, compost, or refill.

Is the staff competent and trained to educate people who want to use medicinal cannabis? (This is important!)

Most people want to understand how and what to safely administer and aren’t just looking for a quick buzz. Medically trained professionals help companies to understand appropriate teaching and administering cannabis, including dosage, adverse effects, and appropriate products for patients and consumers.

Would I like to support women or minority-owned company?

Eighty-one percent of cannabis companies are owned by white males. Some would argue that diversifying the market helps to open the market to new ideas, products, and concepts. Supporting women and minorities supports the progression of the movement within the industry.

The information is there, and if it’s not I would find another company. There are too many dependable, safe, ethical, and reliable companies out there to settle for less.