FAQ

To understand CBD, we always start by talking about the endocannabinoid system or “ECS.”

The ECS is a complex system in the human body that is understood to modulate all physiological processes throughout the brain and body, including the management of appetite, pain, sleep and mood. The purpose of this system is whole-body homeostasis (or balance), the optimal state for maintaining health and natural healing.

Cannabinoids like CBD interact with the ECS by binding directly or indirectly to ECS receptors and acting like chemical messengers to turn on or turn off physiologic signaling in the body.

Whole-body homeostasis means the body can concentrate on what it does best: natural healing and an overall sense of wellness.

A CBD regimen is said to encourage ideal mind-body balance and an overall sense of wellness. We named our tincture products Balance, Relieve and Recover in an effort to capture the benefits many people attribute to hemp-derived CBD.

A lot of people associate CBD with mind-body balance and calm. It’s also often chosen to encourage evening relaxation, restful sleep or post-exercise relief.

Some users have reported drowsiness. For some, this is not perceived as a negative effect, and they prefer to consume CBD in the evening at home or before bed. If an altered state or drowsiness is experienced, it’s important to avoid driving, operating heavy machinery or using sharp or other dangerous tools.

If you feel you have an adverse experience, stop using immediately, seek medical attention if warranted and consult with a trusted medical professional.

With CBD, it’s possible that more is not always more! Some research suggests that therapeutic effects may actually be lessened by using too much and/or too often. When CBD is used for notable effects and the effects are no longer appreciated at a given serving amount, it may be beneficial to cease use for 2-3 days. This is typically enough time for the body to reset and for any notable effects to return.

You can track the amounts you're taking with our Cannabinoid Usage Tracker.

We cannot provide individualized usage guidelines. Please consult with your trusted medical professional for more guidance about your specific conditions and concerns.

Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and non-euphorigenic. Hemp-derived CBD extract contains only trace amounts of THC, so tinctures derived from it are not likely to produce the associated effects.

An average human can tolerate 20 mg per kilogram of body weight on a daily basis without experiencing negative effects. CBD is known to be alerting and energizing at very small amounts (1-2.5 mg) and known to cause drowsiness at extremely high amounts (100 mg to 1 g).

That said, some individuals have reported “altered” states of mind, light-headedness, imbalance and drowsiness at varying serving amounts… and at very high amounts, some users have reported gastrointestinal (GI) upset. It is not clear whether these effects are due to placebo, the CBD or possibly other plant compounds.

If you feel you have an adverse experience, stop using the tincture immediately, seek medical attention if warranted and consult with a trusted medical professional.

If an altered state or drowsiness is experienced, it’s important to avoid driving, operating heavy machinery or using sharp or other dangerous tools.

The laws surrounding CBD are constantly evolving. There is a clear trend toward full federal legalization. For the most accurate info where you live, refer to your state laws and government.

Although we guarantee that our hemp-derived CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, we can’t make claims or guarantees about how our products interact with drug tests.

Please contact your HR department and/or union representative about your company’s individual requirements.

Some individuals have reported “altered” states of mind, light-headedness, imbalance and drowsiness at varying serving amounts… and at very high amounts, some users have reported gastrointestinal (GI) upset. It is not clear whether these effects are due to placebo, the CBD or possibly other plant compounds. People who are concerned about drowsiness or other effects can take it in the evening or before bed.

We created a daily Cannabinoid Usage Tracker to assist in pinpointing your ideal amount and monitoring how it’s working.

Cannabigerol is derived from hemp and is known to support gut health. 

The research of CBG is new, but early clinical studies suggest that one of its benefits is to promote gut homeostasis. One area of study is CBG’s antibacterial properties, which one European scientific study demonstrated to be effective against resistant bacteria strains, such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Other areas of CBG research include therapeutic applications for some medical conditions. 

Learn more about CBG and gut health.

To understand CBD, we always start by talking about the endocannabinoid system or “ECS.”

The ECS is a complex system in the human body that is understood to modulate all physiological processes throughout the brain and body, including the management of appetite, pain, sleep and mood. The purpose of this system is whole-body homeostasis (or balance), the optimal state for maintaining health and natural healing.

CBG interacts with receptors throughout the ECS, including the serotonin 5HT-1a receptor. Serotonin (often called “the happy chemical”) is mainly found in the digestive tract even though it is manufactured in the brain. 

CBN can both inactivate and enhance various (P450) enzymes in the liver, which can potentially impact a wide range of medications.

CBD, CBN and even herbal remedies can have an effect on cardiac and blood pressure medications, blood thinners, immunosuppressive drugs and antipsychotic medications to name a few. However, one person might not respond to a drug, combination of drugs or even herbal medicines the same way as another person.

Some factors that may contribute to how we respond to drugs, combinations of drugs or herbal medicines include: genetic make-up, ethnic background, sex, liver and kidney function, diseases and nutritional state, age and method of ingestion. Elderly people and people with certain medical conditions may have a greater risk because of reduced liver and kidney function used by the body to process drugs.

As with all medications, cannabinoids or even herbal remedies, we always recommend tracking your usage and closely observing your body’s responses. Please consult with your trusted medical professional for guidance related to your specific conditions and medications.

Some people have reported:

• Tiredness

• Drowsiness

• Dizziness

• Loss of appetite

• Euphoria

Depending on the individual’s desired outcomes, euphoria may not be perceived as a negative side effect.

Because everyone is different and there are many contributing factors, users might experience the effects of CBN differently. We can’t give specific effects or results that any single individual will experience.

We named our CBN tincture Dream to indicate that it’s intended only for evening use. Do not use before or during operation of machinery or a vehicle.

Grogginess, disorientation and clumsiness (both physical and mental) are possible, but side effects and responses vary by individual. It’s possible that those who report feeling morning clumsiness or grogginess may be experiencing the effects as a result of taking more than their “ideal” amount. Determining the “ideal” number of servings for an individual depends on several factors, including body chemistry, weight, health, prescription medications, sensitivity to CBN and desired effect. We cannot provide individualized usage guidelines.

We created a daily Cannabinoid Usage Tracker that can assist in finding your ideal amount.

CBN is metabolized (processed by the body) in a manner similar to tetrahydrocannabinol; however, research shows that it is metabolized less extensively and more slowly. Cannabinoids can be detected in plasma at a minimum of 12 hours after the last serving. So it is safe to say it’s cumulative.

If CBD and/or CBN is taken daily, improvement to sleep and other benefits should be appreciated with consistent use.

With cannabinoids, more is not always more. Research suggests that the effects can lessen when using too much and/or too often. For example, when CBD is used for notable effects and the effects are no longer appreciated, it may be beneficial to cease use for two or three days. This is typically enough time for the body to reset and any notable effects to return.

There are many methods for extracting CBD, but some are considered notably safer than others.

For example, C02 extraction is one common method considered reliably safe. That’s because at certain temperatures, C02 pulls away all of the important plant compounds like a solvent does—but without any of the potential dangers of actual solvents. This extraction method has long been used in other industries to create carbonated beverages and produce essential oils.

Other extraction methods employing ethanol and solvents are also widely used, but may be more problematic. While ethanol extraction is considered pretty safe, it tends to extract chlorophyll along with the cannabinoids, which can disrupt the color and flavor of the final product. Solvents like butane are believed to leave residual toxins that are harmful to ingest.

At Bloom Farms Wellness, we use gentle thermal extraction and flash activation to craft our full-spectrum tinctures. Only heated air comes in contact with the organic material—no alcohol or other solvents. “Flash activation” preserves the source plant’s cannabinoids and full terpene profile for a truly full-spectrum whole-plant hemp extract.

After use, seal tightly and store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.

Bloom Farms Wellness tinctures start with unique strains of hemp, which are responsibly grown in the United States specifically for use in tinctures. Only the finest organically grown plants are selected for the proprietary extraction process that uses gentle thermal extraction with zero solvents. Flash activation preserves the hemp’s full cannabinoid and terpene profile to ensure a truly full-spectrum whole-plant extract.

Balance, Relieve and Recover tinctures combine the whole-plant hemp extract with Organic MCT Oil (Coconut Oil), which was chosen as a carrier because of its natural antimicrobial properties and pleasantly neutral flavor that doesn’t mask the natural essence of the extract.

Dream CBN tincture combines the whole-plant hemp extract with Organic MCT Oil and potent CBN (Cannabinol) isolate. The organically grown hemp from which our CBN is derived is tracked from its origin through its conversion to CBN.

Comfort CBG tincture combines our signature whole-plant hemp extract with full-spectrum whole-plant extract of a unique CBG-rich strain of hemp and Organic Cold-Pressed Olive Oil, which should be well-tolerated by those with sensitive digestion. 

Ethically grown with responsible farming practices, our hemp and tinctures are meticulously lab-tested for safety and consistency.

The default color of Bloom Farms Wellness tinctures ranges from light golden to dark amber, depending on formula. Slight variations in color and flavor are possible from batch to batch and may vary over time. And because the plant compounds and oils have different weights, it is possible that harmless sedimentation may occur between uses. 

For best results:

• Use tincture by its “best by” date listed on the package.

• Store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Shake well before each use to restore the suspension.

The standard serving size of our tinctures is 1/4 mL.

Generally speaking, it is common for users to begin with 1 serving and increase the number of servings consumed at a time until a desired effect is achieved. Some people will find benefit with just our single serving size:

• 300 mg Balance: 2.5 mg

• 600 mg Relieve: 5 mg

• 1200 mg Recover: 10 mg
• 1200 mg Comfort: 5 mg + 5 mg CBG

• 1200 mg Dream: 8.3 mg + 1.7 mg CBN 

These 1 oz (30 ml) tinctures contain 120 servings. We also offer mini (10 ml) bottles of Recover and Dream, which contain 40 servings.

The only difference between Balance, Relieve and Recover CBD tinctures is the amount of CBD suspended in the oil. 300 mg Balance is a great option for first-time users, while 1200 mg Recover is stronger in content and flavor—an overall better value.

It is common for users to consume CBD in increments of 10 mg, 20 mg or 50 mg at a time. This is why best results are achieved by starting with the smallest serving size and increasing the number of servings over time until the desired effect is attained.

An average human can tolerate 20 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight on a daily basis without experiencing negative effects, so it is not uncommon for users to ingest 50 mg or more depending on the intent of use.

Determining the “ideal” number of servings for an individual depends on several factors, including body chemistry, weight, health, prescription medications, sensitivity to cannabinoids and desired effect. We cannot provide individualized usage guidelines.

The bottle contains 120 1/4 ml servings.

As with our CBD tinctures, we recommend starting low and going slow. Begin with the smallest serving size and, if necessary, increase incrementally over time until you find the right amount for you. Best results are achieved by starting with the smallest serving size and increasing the number of servings over time until the desired effect is attained.

Determining the “ideal” number of servings for an individual depends on several factors, including body chemistry, weight, health, prescription medications, sensitivity to CBD and desired effect. We cannot provide individualized usage guidelines, although we can share some general recommendations.

If you aren’t sure how much 1200 mg Dream to take, it is recommended to start with a smaller amount, like 1-2 servings. Starting with a smaller amount allows you to observe how your body reacts and gauge whether you need more or less. Always gradually increase or decrease the amount you use until you find the right amount. Although it is safe to take up to 4 servings per evening, more is not necessarily better. Do not exceed 4 servings in 24 hours.

You may need to INCREASE your amount if you:

• are still having trouble falling asleep within 20-30 minutes

• are still having trouble staying asleep

• are waking up briefly (i.e. to go to the bathroom) and cannot go back to sleep quickly.

You should be able to comfortably get up (without staggering/ falling/losing balance) to use the bathroom, then be able to fall back asleep easily.

You may need to DECREASE your amount if you:

• feel groggy the next morning after getting a full night’s sleep

• are experiencing abnormally vivid dreams, experiencing dizziness or headache

Less is more to avoid unwanted side effects. By taking more than your body’s needs, it may not have any effect at all.

If you do not perceive benefit or are struggling to find the right amount for you and/or if you feel it isn’t working as you would like, please consult with your trusted medical professional for guidance.

The bottle contains 120 1/4 ml servings.

As with our CBD tinctures, we recommend starting low and going slow. Begin with the smallest serving size and, if necessary, increase incrementally over time until you find the right amount for you. Best results are achieved by starting with the smallest serving size and increasing the number of servings over time until the desired effect is attained.

Determining the “ideal” number of servings for an individual depends on several factors, including body chemistry, weight, health, prescription medications, sensitivity to CBD and desired effect. We cannot provide individualized usage guidelines, although we can share some general recommendations.

If you aren’t sure how much 1200 mg Comfort to take, it is recommended to start with a smaller amount, like 1-2 servings. Starting with a smaller amount allows you to observe how your body reacts and gauge whether you need more or less. Always gradually increase or decrease the amount you use until you find the right amount. Take up to 2 times per day, spaced out by 5-6 hours, or take whole daily amount before bed. Do not exceed 1 ml (4 servings) in 24 hours.

You may need to INCREASE your amount if:

• your GI issues persist

• you do not feel relief.

You may need to DECREASE your amount if:

• you experience nausea or queasiness.

Less is more to avoid unwanted side effects. By taking more than your body’s needs, it may not have any effect at all.

If you do not perceive benefit or are struggling to find the right amount for you and/or if you feel it isn’t working as you would like, please consult with your trusted medical professional for guidance.

Many people add hemp tinctures to their smoothies and other recipes. There are many books and online resources to explore adding CBD to your food. 

By ingesting sublingually (under the tongue where many capillaries reside), the active ingredients of a tincture—in this case, hemp-derived cannabinoids—reach the bloodstream more completely and quickly by bypassing absorption barriers like the intestines.

We feel our products are priced well—in line with the market. We know not all tinctures are created equal. Each tincture is an exceptional value because of a few key differentiators:

• It’s important to know where the hemp is sourced from and made. Our tinctures are made in the USA and derived from unique strains of high-cannabinoid hemp cultivated specifically for this purpose.

• Proprietary clean extraction methods use zero solvents and result in extracts of exceptional quality.

• Our hemp is organically grown with responsible farming practices.

• Everything we make is meticulously lab-tested by third parties to ensure purity and quality. 

• Test results (Certificates of Analysis, or COAs) are published for your review. Check out “How to Read a COA” to learn more about understanding these results.

The exceptional quality of the full terpene profile is evident in the distinctive taste of our tinctures. Free of artificial colors and flavors, its earthy unfiltered flavor indicates that it’s all-natural and full-spectrum.

Our products are meticulously lab-tested multiple times throughout the process to ensure clean, great-tasting oil that exceeds state pesticide standards and is thoroughly tested for heavy metals, microbes, etc.

Chief Scientist Michael Coffin says, “There are metals and trace pesticides in almost everything that we consume. Sadly, there is environmental contamination in our entire food supply chain. Making sure it is below the very strict levels set by the state in which it was manufactured is the critical point.”

For more specific information and analysis reports (COAs) for all of our products, check out our Test Results page.

HIGHLIGHTER® Vapor Battery is rechargeable up to 300 times with a battery capacity of 350mAH and operates at a range of ~3.3V-4.2V. It quickly recharges in about an hour with the included USB charger. A battery typically lasts for an entire cartridge on a single charge and comes partially charged, so it's ready to use out of the box. Batteries are compatible with most 510-thread cartridges.

Do not use high-powered batteries with Bloom Farm Wellness cartridges.

Whether you’re using our Vapor Cartridge plus HIGHLIGHTER or our all-in-one Mini Vapor Pen, for best results:

• Hold the vape to your mouth at a 45-degree angle. 

• Inhale slowly for a short puff or two. (LED tip will glow with inhale.) 

• Wait a few minutes for the effects to settle in, then sip as you might a glass of wine. 

• Stop when you feel good.

Special considerations for Dream 5:1 CBN vapor: Start with one micro-puff. (Over 1-2 seconds, inhale and exhale comfortable and thoroughly without holding breath.) Allow 1-2 minutes before deciding whether to use more. See product pages for step-by-step details.

No. 

Sometimes the amount of oil in a cartridge may look inconsistent. Except in the rare case of an obvious leak, each cartridge contains a standard amount of oil—even if it appears less than full. All Mini Vapor Pens and Cartridges are precisely filled with specialized equipment, but some of the oil may flow into the unseen areas of an individual cartridge. We created an “Is my vape underfilled” graphic with a cross-section of a cartridge to address this concern. 

We are committed to quality and consistency. It’s why we meticulously lab-test products up to five times and perform randomized spot checks. Your satisfaction is important to us and we want you to have an amazing experience, so if you ever have questions or concerns, let’s discuss! 

Both Mini Vapor Pen and Vapor Cartridge contain 0.5 g uncut hemp extract. So what are the differences? Check out this side-by-side vape comparison to determine which option is best for you.

1. Unscrew the mouthpiece/cartridge and set aside.

2. Screw on the included USB charger.

3. Plug into an available laptop or desktop USB port.

Battery lights illuminate during charging, then flash and turn off when full. A full charge takes approximately one hour. For best results, keep the battery charged—but do not charge overnight. If you have any issues, contact us right away!

Sport Stick contains whole-plant hemp extract, a proprietary herbal blend and additional botanicals to soothe and comfort. Ingredients were chosen for their unique properties as well as to aid optimal absorption of the CBD and other active ingredients. Menthol and camphor contribute to an initially cooling then warming topical effect, which comforts and distracts as it absorbs. 

Hands-free Sport Stick has a firm texture that can withstand heavy application pressure, and it leaves a thin protective film.

Sport Stick is ideal for pre- and post-workout application to enhance stamina and endurance and kick in recovery response. It also may be applied over Relieve Lotion for added support.

Store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.

Apply as needed.

For best results, apply before and after activity to targeted areas, and use consistently to appreciate benefits over time. For added support, Sport Stick can be layered over Relieve Lotion once absorbed.

Sport Stick may be used on clean skin anywhere on the body except mucous membranes and/or sensitive areas. Do not use near the eyes.

Wash hands before touching sensitive areas. Do not use on broken or irritated skin or directly on blemishes. For external use only.

Consistent use is the key to feeling both immediate and long-term benefit.

Before and during activity: Ingredients known to support circulation were selected to enhance stamina and endurance during your workout—so you can go longer, faster and harder—and kick off recovery.

In the hours and days after activity: Immediately, soothing menthol and camphor, which are known as “counterirritants,” quickly give a cooling then warming effect to comfort the area and distract from other acute sensations. Afterward, arnica and our proprietary herbal blend amplify and extend the recovery response, which may activate within the first few hours or over the course of three days and continue to sooth over the following days and weeks when applied consistency. 

Individual results can vary depending on a variety of factors. Tracking your usage and assessing how you feel from time to time is always recommended.

Sport Stick and Relieve Lotion were designed with different purposes but also to be used in concert. If you’re trying to choose between the two, check out this side-by-side comparison.

Store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.

The airless pump used for Relieve Lotion is designed to keep the ingredients inside potent and effective for as long as possible. At first, you may need to “prime” the container by pumping several times before any lotion dispenses. It is not uncommon for a container to require dozens of priming pumps, but once it starts, the lotion should pretty consistently flow. 

For a closer look and troubleshooting, download A Look Inside Our Airless Pump (PDF). 

Apply as needed. Relieve Lotion is intended to be used daily as a regimen for continuous support. 

For best results, start by applying where needed three times per day, then once or twice daily to maintain. It may take several days or even weeks of consistent use to fully appreciate benefits.

For added support, Sport Stick can be layered over Relieve Lotion once absorbed.

Relieve Lotion may be used on clean skin anywhere on the body except mucous membranes. Do not use near the eyes. Do not use on broken or irritated skin or directly on blemishes. For external use only.

Consistent use is the key to feeling both immediate and long-term benefit.

It may take several days or even a few weeks of consistent use to appreciate the benefits of topical hemp products like Relieve Lotion.

Individual results can vary depending on a variety of factors. Tracking your usage and assessing how you feel from time to time is always recommended.

Relieve Lotion has been reviewed by a dermatologist and clinically tested; the hypoallergenic formula is unlikely to cause skin sensitization. 

Sport Stick and Relieve Lotion were designed with different purposes but also to be used in concert. If you’re trying to choose between the two, check out this side-by-side comparison.

On business days (Monday through Friday), orders received before 1 p.m. Pacific Time ship the same day. Orders received after 1 p.m. Pacific Time usually ship the following business day. We ship via UPS SurePost, so transit times are generally in line with regular mail.

At this time, we’re not shipping internationally… please check back in with us.

Our products are available exclusively at bloomfarmswellness.com and select retail shops around the US. Please check out our store locator for locations near you, and be sure to talk to your local businesses you’d like to carry Bloom Farms Wellness.

We know hemp, and we know that great products come from great plants. Our production team has decades of combined processing experience, and they know how to pick the best plants.

We meticulously lab-test multiple times throughout our process, because we believe in creating products that balance safety, quality and great taste. We also actively participate in helping shape standards for the whole industry.

Social good is at the heart of what we do.

Besides working with responsible farmers who care about the plants and environment, commitment to community is part of our day-to-day culture. For every product sold, our 1-for-1 program donates a healthy meal to someone in need through our network of food bank partners. (Since December 2015, we’ve donated over 2.5 million meals!)

We also do company-wide hands-on Volunteer Day events and invite people to join us. In 2018, we made a diversity pledge that officially supports the women-owned and operated businesses that have been exceptional partners over the years.

Broad-spectrum hemp contains most of the original plants’ material but not everything. Across the industry, it generally refers to products that are free of THC, although there is not a consistent standard.

These chemical compounds interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system as ligands, binding directly or indirectly to ECS receptors and acting like chemical messengers to turn on or turn off physiologic signaling in the body.

Cannabinoids can be made in the body (endocannabinoids), in plants (phytocannabinoids) or synthetically in the laboratory (synthetic cannabinoids). Hemp-derived CBD is an example of a phytocannabinoid. 

CBD (cannabidiol) is renowned for its analgesic properties and ability to counteract the intoxicating, euphorigenic effects of THC.

CBG (cannabigerol) is gaining recognition for its support of gut health. Known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG is the first cannabinoid produced by the plant and the source of all other phytocannabinoids.

CBN (cannabinol) is known to provide superior evening relaxation and sedative effects, encouraging faster and more restful sleep. Via ultraviolet light, heat and air, CBN begins as a byproduct of oxidation of phytocannabinoids, creating cannabinolic acid (CBNa) which can be converted to CBN usable by the human body.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the most well-known of over 100 identified cannabinoids, promises analgesic and mind-altering qualities most notably affecting focus, pleasure and perception of time. Hemp products exclude THC or have only trace, non-effective amounts of THC.

The plant family cannabaceae includes what are commonly known as cannabis (or marijuana) and hemp. Hemp is typically grown for textiles, construction materials and cannabinoid-rich oil with low traces of THC. Cannabis is the term generally used by the industry to describe the flowers that contain higher amounts of THC.

A complex system in the human body discovered in the 1990s, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is understood to modulate all physiological processes throughout the brain and body, including the management of appetite, pain, sleep and mood. The purpose of this system is whole-body homeostasis (or balance), the optimal state for maintaining health and natural healing.

This concept suggests that the effectiveness of cannabinoids is enhanced by the delivery of these key components (such as CBD or THC) alongside other components—like terpenes and other compounds that are not yet fully understood. In a nutshell, a plant’s “magic” is somewhat lost the further you get from the full plant.

Cannabinoids and other compounds—such as terpenes and essential oils—can be extracted from source plants through different methods. Some extraction processes require solvents or additives, while others do not. Solventless extraction methods are generally preferred, because it takes great expertise, skill and extremely methodical processing to minimize the chance of toxic residual solvents in the final product.

Flash activation is a step of processing—specifically, it’s the method of decarboxylation—that preserves the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes as they naturally occur in the source plant material. The “flash” refers to the short amount of time the conversion takes.

Sometimes called whole-plant, his industry term implies that an extract contains all cannabinoids and beneficial terpenes from its source plant. See “Isolate,” “Broad-Spectrum” and “Entourage Effect” for more information.

Hemp is cannabis with low THC content, as defined by Title 7 of the US Code: It contains less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. Hemp is typically grown for textiles, construction materials and cannabinoid-rich oil with low traces of THC. See “Cannabis” for more information.

This is a state of relative stability and optimal balance between interdependent elements, such as coordinated physiological processes—the ideal state for natural healing and wellness.

Science can “isolate” cannabinoids from the rest of the compounds found in hemp plants. Research is scant but suggests that a more complete full-spectrum plant extract—which includes all of its cannabinoids and full terpene profile—is more beneficial. This concept is known as the entourage effect.

Although full-spectrum is generally considered better, sometimes isolate may be more appropriate to specific formulations.

The widely used term “micro-dosing” refers to the practice of consuming small amounts of CBD (or another cannabinoid) at a time, often at increased frequency throughout the day.

A “micro” amount typically refers to a serving size ranging from a fraction to 2.5 mg of CBD. Since less is typically more with CBD, users can benefit from taking smaller amounts more often as opposed to a large amount all at once. Via CBD micro-dosing, a constant amount of CBD remains in the body throughout the day instead of being metabolized and eliminated just a few hours after use.

While it technically applies to any substance with mind-altering effects, the word “psychoactive” is most often used to describe the intoxicating properties and euphoria associated with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

Conversely, “non-psychoactive” technically applies to anything that doesn’t affect the mind. In industry jargon, however, this term is widely used to imply that a product should not induce the altered-state effects generally associated with THC.

So, while CBD is actually psychoactive, it also is non-intoxicating and non-euphorigenic—and therefore often referred to as non-psychoactive on packaging and in advertising.

Literally meaning “under tongue,” this method of ingestion delivers an active substance to the bloodstream via capillaries under the tongue. Sublingual delivery may allow greater bioavailability of active substances by bypassing some absorption barriers, such as the intestines and liver. (Inhalation and intravenous infusion generally are even quicker.)

Terpenes are natural compounds that serve a variety of purposes, including forming a plant’s distinctive flavor and aroma profile, which can range from earthy and pungent to sweet and fruity. Though terpenes are found throughout nature, the plant family cannabaceae is unique because it can express a wide variety of terpenes to create complex and distinctive flavor profiles.

Whole-plant hemp extract (also called “full-spectrum hemp”) contains a range of terpenes native to the plant, while broad-spectrum products may contain a reduced amount lost in processing.