NEW TO CBD? START HERE.
CBD doesn't have to be confusing.
If you've found yourself wondering what CBD is, what all those labels mean, or how you're supposed to know where to start — you're definitely not the only one.
At Nuts & Buds in Grandy, NC, we believe you should understand what you're buying and feel comfortable asking questions along the way.
So let's start with the basics.
What Is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. It's one of many compounds called cannabinoids that can be found in cannabis plants.
CBD is available in many different forms, which is why you'll see everything from oils and gummies to capsules, creams, salves, and other hemp-derived products.
One important thing to know: CBD itself isn't considered intoxicating in the same way THC is.
Different hemp products can contain different cannabinoids and amounts of THC, however, so understanding the product you're purchasing matters.
CBD VS. THC
What's the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions people have when they're new to CBD.
CBD and THC are both naturally occurring cannabinoids, but they're not the same thing.
CBD (cannabidiol) itself is not considered intoxicating.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the cannabinoid most commonly associated with the intoxicating effects of cannabis.
Depending on the product, a hemp-derived product may contain CBD alongside other cannabinoids, including THC.
That's one reason we encourage customers to look beyond the front of the package and understand what's actually inside.
Understanding the Different Types of CBD Products
There isn't one type of CBD product that's automatically right for everyone. One of the easiest places to start is understanding how the most common products differ.
CBD Oils & Tinctures
CBD oils and tinctures are liquid products that typically come with a dropper, allowing you to measure individual servings.
They're a popular option for people who prefer flexibility when measuring their product.
CBD Gummies & Edibles
Gummies and other edibles provide CBD or other cannabinoids in a pre-measured serving.
They're convenient, portable, and don't require measuring with a dropper.
CBD Topicals
Creams, lotions, balms, and salves are applied directly to the skin rather than consumed.
If you're shopping for a topical, pay attention to the full ingredient list in addition to its cannabinoid content.
Other Hemp-Derived Products
The hemp world extends well beyond these three categories. Different products can contain different cannabinoids, formulations, strengths, and ingredients.
If you're looking at a label and thinking, I have absolutely no idea what any of this means, bring your questions to us!
How to Read a CBD Product Label
A product may say "CBD" in giant letters on the front, but there's more you'll want to look at before deciding what to buy.
Depending on the product, the label may tell you:
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How much CBD or other cannabinoids the package contains
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Serving size
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Amount per serving
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Ingredients
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Suggested use
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Manufacturer information
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Batch or lot information
You may also see terms such as full spectrum, broad spectrum, or CBD isolate.
Full Spectrum
Full-spectrum products generally contain CBD along with a range of other naturally occurring hemp compounds and may contain THC within applicable legal limits.
Broad Spectrum
Broad-spectrum products generally contain CBD and additional hemp compounds but are formulated to remove or minimize THC.
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is a highly purified form of CBD intended to contain CBD without the broader range of cannabinoids found in full- or broad-spectrum products.
Individual products vary, which is why checking the label and available testing information is important.
YOUR
QUESTIONS,
ANSWERED!
WHAT IS A COA?
Three Letters Worth Knowing.
When shopping for hemp-derived products, you may hear someone mention a COA, or Certificate of Analysis.
A COA is a laboratory report that can provide information about what's in a particular product or batch.
Depending on the testing performed, it may include information about:
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Cannabinoid content
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CBD and THC levels
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Potency
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Other laboratory testing results
Think of it as another tool for understanding what you're actually purchasing.
Looking for lab results for a specific product? COAs are available with applicable product listings in our online store.
WHAT ABOUT THE "BENEFITS" OF CBD?
Here's Where We Encourage You to Do Your Homework.
You may hear people talk about using CBD as part of their wellness routines for all kinds of reasons.
However, CBD products aren't a replacement for medical care, and we don't believe in promising that a product will diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent a health condition.
What we can do is help you understand the products we carry, what's in them, how they're intended to be used, and the differences between your options.
Then you can make an informed decision about what's right for you.
SHOPPING FOR CBD FOR THE FIRST TIME?
Here's What to Look For.
Don't let a flashy package make the decision for you.
Before purchasing a CBD or hemp-derived product, consider:
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What's actually in it? Read the cannabinoid and ingredient information.
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How much does it contain? Look at both total package content and serving information.
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How is it intended to be used? An oil, gummy, and topical aren't interchangeable.
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Is testing information available? Look for a COA when available.
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Do you understand what you're buying? If not, ask.
And perhaps most importantly:
Don't feel pressured into buying something you don't understand
THAT'S WHY WE'RE HERE
CBD Without the Pressure.
At Nuts & Buds, we don't expect you to walk through the door already knowing the difference between a tincture, topical, isolate, or full-spectrum product.
We'd rather you ask.
Our team takes the time to get to know our customers, understand what they're looking for, and explain the options available without simply pushing the most expensive product on the shelf.
Because feeling confident about what you're buying matters.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
That's What We're Here For.
There really are no "stupid questions" when you're learning about CBD.
Check out our FAQs for answers to more common questions, contact Nuts & Buds, or stop by the store and talk with us in person.
We'll help you understand your options so you can make a decision you feel good about.