Ever since the legalization of cannabidiol (CBD) in the UK back in 2018, it’s been embraced by a growing number of people looking to enhance their wellness regimen. The CBD market has also become an economic powerhouse, currently valued at around £690 million annually, according to the Association for the Cannabinoid Industry (ACI). This robust market encourages diversity and innovation, which is great for consumers.
However, the plethora of options can be confusing, especially for those new to CBD. Numerous companies claim to offer top-of-the-line CBD oil, capsules, or gummies, but not all live up to the hype—or worse, some may not be completely transparent.
Finding the right CBD product for your specific needs is a personalized journey. For instance, if skincare is your main wellness goal, topical CBD products like balms may be more effective for you than capsules.
Here’s how to find the best CBD oils in the UK.
How to Pick the Best CBD Products in the UK
When you’re on the hunt for the top-rated CBD products in the UK — be it cannabidiol hemp oil, skincare products for topical application, or edible gummies — consider these factors:
Address Your Specific Needs
Identify what you’re looking to achieve with CBD. Some products work faster than others; for instance, vaping CBD offers quicker results than taking capsules. If you’re dealing with skin issues or physical discomfort, topical CBD creams may be your best bet.
Brand Reputation
It pays to do your research. Look for well-established brands with a history of quality.
Check for third-party lab testing, read customer reviews, and find out what type of hemp they use. Organic, non-GMO hemp is generally the best option, as it won’t contain harmful chemicals from pesticides or herbicides.
For example, Blessed CBD is often cited as one of the UK’s most reliable brands, known for its quality control, customer service, and sustainable sourcing practices. They are also listed on the UK FSA Novel Food database, ensuring compliance and safety for consumers.
Types of CBD
You’ll come across CBD isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum CBD products. All of these interact with your endocannabinoid system but differ in potency.
Broad and full-spectrum options include a variety of other plant compounds like terpenes and flavonoids that enhance CBD’s effectiveness through the “entourage effect.”
In the UK, it’s important to note that no legal CBD product will contain more than a trace amount of THC — the compound that causes psychoactive effects. If you want to avoid THC altogether, go for a CBD isolate-based product.
Strength
Products vary in potency. If you’re new to CBD, it’s wise to start with lower dosages — like a 10mg CBD gummy instead of a 25mg or 50mg version — to see how your body reacts.
Ingredients
Check the additional ingredients in the product. Many CBD oils, for example, contain a carrier oil like MCT or hemp seed oil. Some products may also contain additives like essential oils or flavorings. Make sure you’re not allergic to these.
Preferred Application Method
Revisit your primary needs once you’ve settled on a brand and a range of products. If you want to incorporate CBD into your food, oil drops or edibles might be a good choice.
For skincare concerns, creams or topical tinctures could work best. If immediate results are your priority, vaping may be the suggested way to go.
CBD UK
In summary, the most important thing is to invest in high-quality CBD products that align with your wellness goals. This ensures that you’re not only abiding by safety standards but also getting the most out of your CBD experience.