It’s easy to skip over labels on products.

Typically, we look for one main ingredient and quickly sift through the text on packaging in search of the target. However, developers and manufacturers are often deliberate when it comes to selecting ingredients to use in their formulations. Cannabidiol is no exception. What you consume in tandem with the CBD content is worth considering.

Let’s take a deeper look into the “oil” part of “CBD Oil.”

When dealing with cannabidiol as well as other health products such as herbal supplements or even essential oils, you may hear of the term carrier oil. A carrier oil, also known as the vehicle,  is an oil that both helps preserve the potency and delivery of the active compounds within a substance. Carrier oils can also dilute strong substances to make them easier to absorb and use within the body. Think of carrier oils as nature’s original preservative.

Consider this: most fat-based products last longer in the refrigerator than products that are protein or carbohydrate based. It takes a long time for oils to go rancid in comparison to things like fruits, vegetables, meats, etc. This is because fats oxidize very slowly. That is, they do not denature or degrade quickly, typically because of their chemical structure. CBD oil utilizes this same effect by hosting the CBD content within a stable carrier oil. The chemical properties of the oil help to ensure that your CBD remains stable and effective from the first day of production down to the last drop.

CBD is also lipophilic (fat loving). To ensure the highest amount of exposure and absorption, oil delivery is often the best option. In addition, this is why ingesting CBD after a meal or a high fat snack will also help carry the cannabinoids, like CBD, and other beneficial nutrients throughout the body.

Here are a few carrier oils and their respective qualities

MCT Oil

Also known as Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), this type of oil is usually derived from coconut or palm oil and is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream via the liver. These oils actually do not need stomach acid or bile to be broken down and utilized by the body. They are incredibly efficient and effective. Many people on the ketogenic diet, or sensitive to dietary fats find these oils to be incredibly beneficial.

Typically, MCT oils are able to hold higher concentrations of fat soluble compounds such as CBD and may lead to slightly higher absorption rates. However, it is important to note that some people may not tolerate MCT oil, as well some of the oil options below, especially when starting. Some GI side effects, like diarrhea, can occur at first but typically normalize over a few days.

Cold-Pressed Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp is a powerhouse of a plant, providing omega 3 fatty acids, as well as a host of anti-inflammatory effects.

The method of oil production is an essential process which determines safety and stability. Since heat prematurely oxidizes organic material and can lead to the loss of beneficial nutrients of the oils, cold pressing plants is the best method to ensure you get all of the healthful qualities of hemp without sacrificing anything. Cold-pressed hemp seed oil is always an amazing choice for manufacturers to use for CBD products.

In addition, it is important to clarify, cold-pressed hemp seed oil comes from the seed of the plant and does not contain additional cannabinoids like those found in the floral material. Rather the cold-pressed hemp seed oil contains high concentrations of other nutrients like polyunsaturated fats (the good fats) with a near perfect omega 3 to omega 6 ratio that our bodies crave, as well as other essential amino acids like Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arginine.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

Perhaps the most recognizable oil in our modern culture, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is a long-chain triglyceride (LCT), high in monounsaturated fats. It is a key part of the Mediterranean diet and may help deliver nutrients like fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E, into the body. EVOO is amongst the safest and most well tolerated oils available. Turns out EVOO isn’t just for cooking.

Grapeseed Oil

Popular in the fragrance and perfume industry, grapeseed oil is another common choice for carrying CBD. A more cost effective and easier produced oil, grapeseed is a popular choice found in both oral and topical CBD products.

Black Cumin Seed Oil

Known for its antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties, black cumin seed oil has been a widely used substance, particularly for topical applications. You may find this in many topical CBD salves, lotions, or balms.

Frankincense Oil

If you recall, frankincense was one of the gifts of the wisemen in the Christmas story. This oil has been used for centuries for its ability to stimulate the lymphatic system. Since CBD may help with hormone balancing and overall inflammation reduction, frankincense oil is an amazing addition to the health profile and boost you get.

You can find our whole list of CBD oils on our products page.

(Source: Anaviimarket)