CBD oil has exploded in popularity in Canada over the past few years. With cannabis legalization in 2018, CBD derived from hemp is now widely accessible. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, the compound that causes a high, CBD provides potential therapeutic effects without impairment.
With so many CBD products now available, it can be overwhelming trying to find a high-quality oil that meets your needs. Not all CBD oils are created equal, so it’s important to educate yourself before buying. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to finding the best CBD oils in the Canadian market.
We’ll overview the benefits and proper usage of CBD oil, factors to consider when purchasing, and recommendations for both online and in-person shopping. With the right knowledge, you’ll be equipped to find a top-notch CBD oil that provides results you can trust. Let’s explore the burgeoning landscape of CBD oil in Canada and where you can find the highest quality products.
Benefits And Uses of CBD Oil
CBD oil has become popular due to its many potential therapeutic benefits. Here are some of the main ways CBD oil is being used:
Pain Relief
One of the most studied uses of CBD is for reducing various types of pain. Studies have shown CBD can reduce chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries. CBD may also be effective for more acute pain like postoperative pain and headaches.
It interacts with the endocannabinoid system and immune system to reduce inflammation that often leads to pain. CBD has also been found to delay the onset of pain signals traveling to the brain. Furthermore, combining CBD with THC enhances its pain-relieving effects.
Reducing Anxiety And Depression
Clinical trials have demonstrated CBD’s ability to reduce anxiety in disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and panic disorder. It can lessen anxiety symptoms within 80 minutes and have lasting benefits with regular use.
For depression, CBD has displayed antidepressant-like effects in animal studies. It may boost serotonin levels in a similar manner to SSRIs and interact with brain receptors involved in regulating mood.
Improving Sleep Quality
CBD oil can benefit disorders that disrupt sleep like insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless leg syndrome. It may increase overall sleep amounts and improve sleep quality by increasing time spent in deep, restorative sleep stages. CBD may also stabilize sleep cycles and regulate the body’s circadian rhythm.
Neuroprotective Properties
Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, CBD shows potential for treating neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. It may be able to protect brain cells from damage and degeneration. The neuroprotective effects could also relieve concussion symptoms and aid recovery from stroke or spinal cord injuries.
Benefits For Skin Conditions
Applied topically, CBD oil may reduce symptoms of common skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It interacts with receptors in skin cells to reduce inflammation, regulate oil production, and prevent overgrowth of skin cells. CBD’s antioxidant content can neutralize free radicals that lead to signs of aging like wrinkles and dark spots.
Other Potential Benefits
Some other areas being researched include CBD’s effects on nausea and vomiting, seizures, heart health, diabetes, cancer symptoms, tobacco addiction, and drug withdrawal. However, more studies are needed to confirm CBD’s efficacy and safety for these conditions.
The wide range of potential therapeutic uses is making CBD oil increasingly popular. But it’s important to choose a high-quality product to get the best benefits.
Factors to Consider When Buying CBD Oil in Canada
When searching for a quality CBD oil, there are several key factors to consider that will help you pick the best product for your needs:
Extract Type
There are three main types of CBD extracts:
- Full-spectrum contains all compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids and terpenes. This provides the full entourage effect.
- Broad-spectrum contains CBD and other compounds except THC.
- CBD isolate is pure CBD extract with no other plant compounds.
Full-spectrum or broad-spectrum oils that feature the entourage effect are generally considered most effective.
Hemp Source and Farming Practices
Hemp quality vastly impacts the CBD oil made from it. It’s important to research where the hemp was sourced from and how it was farmed. CBD oils made from hemp grown in U.S. or EU organic farms without pesticides or contaminants are ideal.
Extraction Method
Common methods for extracting CBD oil from hemp include:
- CO2 extraction – Uses pressurized carbon dioxide; considered the gold standard.
- Ethanol extraction – Uses ethanol solvents then purges them.
- Carrier oil extraction – Uses oils like olive oil to extract CBD.
CO2 extraction is preferred since it results in pure, high potency CBD oils.
Third Party Testing And Lab Results
Reputable CBD companies will have their oils tested for purity, cannabinoid levels, and safety by an independent lab. Check for up-to-date Certificates of Analysis (COA) before purchasing.
CBD Concentration And Potency
CBD concentration or potency can vary greatly between oils. This determines the dose you need to reach desired effects. High potency oils provide stronger effects.
Ingredients And Additives
Avoid CBD oils with unnecessary fillers, preservatives, flavorings, or thinning agents. The simplest oils include just hemp extract and carrier oil.
Company Reputation And Transparency
Research the company and brand reputation. Choose transparent brands that share how their CBD is sourced and produced. Many reputable brands also provide thorough consumer education.
Carefully examining these factors will lead you to a clean, pure, and effective CBD oil.
Where to Buy High-Quality CBD Oil in Canada
There are two main options for purchasing CBD oil in Canada – online retailers or in-person dispensaries/stores. Here is an overview of the selection and notable options for both:
Online Shops And Marketplaces
Buying CBD oil online provides convenience and gives you access to a wide range of products.
Overview of Selection and Buying Process
Online CBD shops will offer various extract types, carrier oils, potencies, sizes, and flavors. Browsing and comparing products is straightforward. Check for independent lab testing on products. Read customer reviews.
After ordering, CBD oil is shipped right to your door typically within 1-7 business days. Discrete shipping packaging is used.
Recommended Online Retailers
- OrganiGram – Large Canadian licensed producer of CBD and THC oils. GMP certified facility.
- Apollo Cannabis Clinics – CBD oils paired with wellness consulting. Organic, CO2 extracted.
- Zenbliss – Wide range of CBD products. Hemp sourced from licensed Canadian farms.
- LeafyThings – Variety of full and broad-spectrum CBD oils. Seed to sale tracking.
Dispensaries and Specialty Stores
Purchasing CBD oil from local stores allows you to see products firsthand and get advice from knowledgeable staff.
Availability in Major Cities
Dispensaries and vape shops carrying CBD oils can be found in most major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, and Edmonton.
Notable Storefronts to Purchase From
- Nova Cannabis – Chain with locations across Canada selling CBD oils.
- Fire & Flower – Cannabis retailer with CBD oils, topicals, capsules.
- Canvas Organics – Upscale dispensaries focused on CBD products.
Considerations When Buying Online vs In-Store
It’s a matter of personal preference. Benefits of buying in store include seeing/sampling products, getting expert advice, and taking oils home same-day. Online gives wider selection and home delivery. Compare options to suit your needs.
Proper Usage And Dosage of CBD Oil
To experience the benefits of CBD oil, using the proper dosage for your needs is important. Here are some guidelines for optimal use:
Factors That Influence Dosage
- Body weight – Heavier people may need higher doses.
- Desired effects – Relief from severe symptoms may require larger doses.
- Tolerance – Long-term users may increase dosage over time.
- Concentration of CBD oil – Higher potency means lower volume doses.
General Dosage Guidelines
Note dosage varies greatly per individual. It’s best to start low and increase slowly.
- Mild effects: 2.5-15 mg CBD per day
- Moderate effects: 15-45 mg CBD per day
- Strong effects: 45-120 mg CBD per day
Methods of Using CBD Oil
- Sublingually (under the tongue) – Fast-acting, high absorption into the bloodstream. Hold for 60-90 seconds before swallowing.
- Orally – Swallowing like capsules or adding to food/drinks. Slower acting but longer lasting effects.
- Topically – Applied to skin. Best for localized pain or skin conditions.
- Vaping – Inhaling vaporized CBD oil in “vape pens”. Fast effects but short duration.
Potential Side Effects and Safety Precautions
- Dry mouth, drowsiness, reduced appetite – Generally mild side effects.
- May interact with certain medications. Speak with your doctor.
- Stop use if any adverse reactions occur and reduce dosage.
Properly dosing CBD oil takes some trial and error. Keep a journal of use to dial in what works best for you. Always consult a doctor before using CBD oil for any health condition.
The Future of CBD Oil in Canada
The CBD market has exploded since legalization, and is poised for continued growth and expansion across Canada.
Projected Growth And Expansion of The Market
- The Canadian CBD market accounted for $784 million in sales in 2022.
- Sales are expected to grow to $1.6 billion by 2027, a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%.
- More products will emerge, including edibles, cosmetics, pet products, extracts, and nanoemulsions for higher bioavailability.
Potential Legal/Regulatory Changes
- The Canadian government is currently working to establish new CBD regulations that would allow more products to legally come to market.
- This includes lowering the limit on THC content in CBD products. Currently capped at 0.3% THC.
- Regulations for producing and labelling CBD could be updated as well.
Ongoing Research on Benefits and Uses
- Governments and academic institutions continue to fund clinical studies on CBD for health conditions.
- This research will help guide CBD applications and accelerate growth.
- It may lead to new medical applications being approved.
Increasing Product Selection and Accessibility
- More brands entering space with focus on innovation and expanding product selection for different needs and users.
- Mainstream retail chains likely to begin offering CBD product ranges.
- Online shopping CBD Gummies Canada provides greater accessibility especially for rural areas.
The CBD industry will continue maturing. Users will have more options catered to their preferences as it becomes a mainstream wellness product.
Conclusion
With cannabis legalization in Canada, CBD oil is now widely available to those looking to experience its touted wellness benefits. However, not all CBD oils live up to their claims. By researching products carefully and buying only from reputable sources, you can find a high quality CBD oil.
Focus on full or broad spectrum oils extracted properly from organically grown hemp. Check independent test results for purity and potency. Give preference to transparent brands that use best practices. Use our recommendations as a starting point for where to buy superior CBD oils online and in stores.
When you purchase a top-tier CBD oil and use proper dosage, it can provide natural relief and wellness enhancement. As more clinical research emerges and product selection expands, CBD oil will likely become a staple wellness supplement for many Canadians. Use this guide to buy and use CBD oil that delivers noticeable benefits you can trust.
