Does CBD Oil Live Up to the Hype, Or Is It Snake Oil? 

Do you sometimes feel like the natural health and wellness industry is full of gimmicks that have yet to be tested? CBD oil's popularity is going through the roof, so you might wonder if CBD oil lives up to the hype or is snake oil. 

With more evidence coming out daily to support these claims, let's take a closer look at CBD oil to see if this rising star is worth the hype or if it's just another fad with no real value beyond marketing buzzwords.

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is found in the cannabis plant but has no psychoactive properties. Unlike marijuana, which contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD oil contains only trace amounts of THC, usually no more than 0.3%. 

CBD oil makes it an ideal health supplement, as its calming and analgesic properties can be enjoyed without the intoxicating effects of marijuana. It is becoming increasingly popular as a natural way to manage various physical and mental problems, like inflammation, anxiety, depression, nausea, and chronic pain

As it becomes more popular, doctors look at it more closely and research how well it works for different health problems. Regardless, CBD oil remains a compelling alternative to healthcare for many individuals today.

What does "snake oil" mean?

An image of snake oil

The phrase "snake oil" conjures up mysterious images: merchants selling a murky liquid in bottles, claiming it to be a miracle cure-all. But the true meaning of snake oil goes deeper than that. 

Initially, it referred to an unproven or fraudulent remedy sold as a panacea for all illnesses, usually by charlatans in the late 19th century. It has become a shorthand term for any product whose claims about its effects and effectiveness are false or overstated. 

You should avoid these products and look for healing from more reliable sources. So, we now know that snake oil is more than just a strange elixir from the past; it's an idea that's still true today.

Why is some CBD snake oil? 

An image of Shady CBD oils

With the lack of regulation in the CBD industry, it is unsurprising that some products out there are being marketed as "CBD" that contain nothing more than snake oil. Companies make outrageous claims about their products, promising dramatic transformations and miraculous results. 

The truth is that without quality control or regulation, buyers can never be sure what they are putting into their bodies. Many companies need to list a complete list of ingredients on their labels, so you never know what's in it! 

Because of this lack of regulation, buyers need to research before making any purchases because there could be anything from artificial ingredients to pesticides lurking inside those bottles.

Not all CBD is snake oil.

In recent years, CBD has become known as a "miracle" drug that can manage anything from anxiety and trouble sleeping to chronic pain and inflammation. With this kind of fame, many people will inevitably try to scam you out of your money by selling "snake oil." 

Clinical trials and scientific studies conducted by various institutions all around the world show that certain forms of cannabidiol can indeed help reduce symptoms associated with various ailments. Fortunately, there is evidence that not all CBD products are snake oil. The key is to find a reputable source for your CBD.

Here is what to look for in your CBD products:

1. Made from organic hemp

When shopping for CBD oil, it's essential to research the hemp used in its production. Hemp is a bio-accumulator that absorbs everything from the soil it is grown in. Therefore, if the hemp was not farmed using organic methods, it could be contaminated with hazardous chemical residues. Investing in organically sourced CBD oils will ensure you receive only the purest and highest quality product. It is essential for your wellness and can help protect our planet, as organic farming has less environmental impact than chemical-based production.

2. Free of additives and preservatives

a young farmer inspecting his hemp plantation

When buying CBD oil, you should know the potential for hazardous additives or preservatives. While products containing these ingredients may cost less, they are not worth risking your health. It's essential to check the label to ensure that only pure, unadulterated CBD oil is in the product for maximum safety and effectiveness. Make sure you get the best product for your money by researching and buying from a reputable source. Taking time to read labels and make some comparison shopping can help you find a quality product that meets your needs without putting your health in jeopardy.

3. Third-party tested

CBD products should be tested by a third party as a standard to ensure that people get what the product says it has. It is often done using an independent lab, verifying that a product does not contain harmful contaminants and adheres to the company's claims. Any reputable CBD company will ensure their products are third-party tested and provide clear access to the results, giving customers complete confidence in their purchase. It's also beneficial for companies, as it provides assurance that their products comply with safety regulations and demonstrates their commitment to providing reliable, quality products.

4. Ingredients listed on the label

As the number of people who want CBD oil grows, ensuring that all ingredients are listed on the label is more important than ever. As a consumer, reading food labels carefully before purchasing an item is always good practice. It is essential when buying CBD oil because some ingredients can make you sick if you are allergic or sensitive to them. It also allows one to see whether or not the product matches their needs and dietary requirements and lets them know of any additional health benefits they may get from consuming it. Hence, accurate and clear labeling from CBD manufacturers can help consumers make educated decisions about their products.

5. CBD Content

When selecting CBD products, you want the most potent product possible. That is why it's essential to look for products that contain a high percentage of CBD; the higher the percentage, the more powerful it will be, enabling it to treat certain conditions better. If a product has a low percentage of CBD, it might not provide the desired benefits, so make sure you are getting enough and read labels carefully. By researching and ensuring you're investing in a quality product with the highest potency available, you can ensure maximum efficacy in treating whatever condition you're using it for.

6. THC Content

When shopping for CBD products, it is essential to be aware of the amount of THC in the product. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a "high" feeling. THC levels should be deficient in most CBD products, typically lower than 0.3%. If a product contains more than this, it is not classified as pure CBD and may not be legally allowed in your area. Look for third-party lab certificates confirming the ingredients and concentrations to ensure you buy a natural product with a small amount of THC.

7. Price

Price is essential in CBD product selection, but don't let it be the only one. Before making a purchase, please find out more about the company, the ingredients they use, and the concentrations they offer. Quality products cost a bit more but will often have a longer shelf life and be better for your specific needs. Also, consider looking into subscription services that offer discounts or quantity discounts—it can save quite a bit over time, and you will always have a fresh supply! On the flip side, be wary of highly cheap products, as these may not be made with quality ingredients; sometimes, it's best to pay slightly more for greater assurance that you are getting what you need from your CBD supplement.

CBD doesn't work for you; what's next?

Don't get discouraged if you've tried CBD but it doesn't seem to work for your particular needs! 

There must have been some good reasons CBD might not work for you.

So before you give up on it and tell your CBD-obsessed friends they're full of it, see if any of the following apply to you:

  • Your CBD doesn't come from a trustworthy source

CBD is everywhere as its popularity grows, from online stores to shops that sell it over the counter. You might have even tried a free sample to see if it works without spending more than the cost of shipping.

Some of these products don't have high-quality CBD, which is a shame. The FDA has not yet approved any CBD products that can be bought without a prescription. Some con artists fully exploit this by selling low-quality goods with incorrect labels.One group of scientists looked at 84 CBD products and found that only 31% had the CBD they said they did. 

  • You have to build it up in your system

It can take a lot of work to figure out how much CBD to take. The right amount is different for each person because each has a unique body that makes them react differently. So how do you know what you should do? Start with a small dose and gradually raise it until you find your "sweet spot."

Some people find that taking a daily dose helps keep a steady level of CBD in their bodies. It may stimulate their endocannabinoid system to react more to cannabinoids like CBD. And many people use a method called "microdosing" to find their dose and change it over time as needed.

To read more to find out if you have built up a tolerance to CBD, click here

  • You have to give it more time

Discovering how CBD affects you is not as easy as popping some pills. It takes dedication to invest time and effort into identifying the long-term repercussions.

After a certain amount of time (say, a few weeks), if you still aren't seeing benefits, it may be time to switch products. How long you've been using CBD and whether or not you've noticed any changes can be documented in your journal.

Patience is essential, and even though it can be frustrating to keep trying and not get anywhere, you may be thrilled you didn't give up.

  • You need a different method of delivery

One thing to consider is how much CBD gets into your bloodstream. It is called bioavailability. For example, CBD gummies must go through your digestive system before they can be absorbed, and the amount in your system may be low.

On the other hand, if you take a tincture sublingually, which means under your tongue, it goes straight into your bloodstream. So you could see results faster than if you had to wait for your digestive system to break it down.

Typical forms of CBD:

    Alive Market Full Spectrum CBD Oil offers a natural and effective way to support overall wellness. It boasts 25 mg of hemp-derived CBD per milliliter, making it an excellent choice for those seeking extra relief and comfort with their daily routine. Non-GMO and organic ingredients are used to make this oil, as well as organic MCT coconut oil, which helps facilitate absorption into the body. 


      Everyone loves indulging in delicious treats, so why not treat yourself to one with a nutritional punch? Alive Market's 200mg Full Spectrum CBD Chocolate Bar is exactly what you're looking for - a sweet, delightful snack packed with 25mg of broad-spectrum CBD per square. Not only will this delicious bar make your taste buds smile, but it will also help alleviate stress and reduce anxiety.  


        Alive Market's Full Spectrum CBD Capsules are a convenient, no-mess way to get your daily CBD oil dose. Each capsule contains 25mg of hemp extract with naturally present terpenes and cannabinoids, giving you the full entourage effect created when multiple compounds from the plant are ingested together. 


          Finding the right CBD supplement can be tricky, but Alive Market 750mg CBD Daily Gummies make finding the right product easy and enjoyable! With a full spectrum of organic hemp-derived CBD in each gummy, these take delivering maximum benefits to a whole new level. The 30-count bottle makes it convenient to keep your daily routine on track with little effort and no hassle.

          Should you stop wasting your money and give up on CBD altogether?

          The popularity of CBD over recent years has skyrocketed to the point where it can seem like a definite solution for everyone. While there are success stories for all kinds of medical conditions, it's important to remember that CBD is not a miracle drug that works on everyone. Unfortunately, even if we do everything possible to make it work for us, some people may still find that this treatment isn't meant for them. 

           Your body's ability to absorb and respond to CBD depends on several things, such as:

          • Metabolism
          • Biochemistry
          • Genetics

          Your body's endocannabinoid system is what interacts with the active compounds in cannabis, and everyone's system works a little bit differently. In such cases, speaking with your doctor and considering alternatives is essential.

          Conclusion

          CBD oil is a powerfully effective substance with a wide range of potential benefits for those that use it. Despite the hype surrounding it, CBD has been carefully studied by scientists. Its effects have a sound scientific basis, including reduced inflammation and pain relief, improved mood, increased relaxation, and more. 

          CBD can be perfect for your health and well-being if used safely. That said, it's important to remember that everyone is different; what works for some may not. Before taking any supplement, it's essential to do a lot of research on both the health benefits and any possible side effects.

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