CBD basics
Plain-language guides, no hype and no health claims.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of many compounds found in the hemp plant. Hemp-derived CBD products are sold as oils, gummies, capsules and topicals. CBD products sold online are not approved by the FDA to treat any medical condition, so talk to a healthcare professional if you have questions about your own health.
Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate
Full-spectrum products contain CBD along with other compounds from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC.
Broad-spectrum products keep other plant compounds but remove or minimize THC. How much THC is left varies by brand, so check the label.
Isolate is CBD on its own, without the other plant compounds.
If you're sensitive to THC or could face drug testing, ask the seller for the total THC per container before you buy.
How to read a CBD label
A clear label should show:
- The serving size and the amount of CBD per serving, in milligrams.
- The total amount of CBD in the whole container.
- The total THC per container.
- A full ingredient list, including any flavors or sweeteners.
- A batch or lot number and an expiration date.
- The company's name and contact details.
How to compare prices fairly
A bigger bottle isn't always a better deal. Divide the price by the total milligrams of CBD in the container to get the price per milligram. That lets you compare a small bottle and a large one, or an oil and a gummy, on equal terms. Watch out for a high "regular price" that is always crossed out. If a product is always on sale, the sale price is the real price.
A note on the law
Rules for hemp-derived products differ by state and are changing. A federal change that limits total THC to 0.4 milligrams per container was delayed to December 11, 2026, and some states are acting sooner. Full-spectrum products are among those most affected. Check the rules where you live before you buy.