What Happens if You Use Expired CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a product derived from the hemp plant that has gained immense popularity in the US. CBD oil is known for its potential benefits to alleviate various health conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, and epilepsy. However, using expired CBD oil can lead to reduced potency, negative side effects, and potential danger for users. This article discusses what happens if you use expired CBD oil, how to identify it, and the legal and health implications of doing so.
The Potential Risks of Using Expired CBD Oil
Like any other food product, CBD oil has a shelf life beyond which it loses its potency, flavor, and eventually becomes unfit for consumption. Even though there is no immediate danger in consuming expired CBD oil, it’s not recommended, especially if you are using it for medical purposes.
The benefits of CBD oil are made possible by the interaction of cannabidiol compounds with the human endocannabinoid system. But as CBD oil ages, it loses its potency and effectiveness, making it less impactful to the body. This may lead to prolonged health conditions, absence of therapeutic effects, or worsening of medical conditions.
Another potential risk of using expired CBD oil is the negative side effects that may occur. Consuming expired CBD oil may cause nausea, dizziness, and an upset stomach. These side effects may persist and worsen if the CBD oil contains other expired ingredients.
You should also be aware that using CBD oil beyond its shelf life for medical purposes may pose a health risk. Clinicians and doctors administer specific doses of CBD oil based on their patients’ weight, age, and medical condition. Using expired CBD oil may affect the therapeutic effects and cause potential harm to the user.
How to Tell If Your CBD Oil is Expired
Typically, CBD oil has a shelf life of around 12 to 24 months, depending on the brand and manufacturers’ procedures. It’s essential to know how to tell if your CBD oil has gone bad to avoid using it past its use date as it may cause health problems.
One of the most apparent signs that your CBD oil has expired is a change in color. Fresh CBD oil appears golden or light green, but as it ages, it may turn dark brown and cloudy. Additionally, expired CBD oil may have a creamy or sticky texture that differs from the fresh, oily texture. Lastly, an unpleasant smell or taste is another indication that your CBD oil has expired.
If you suspect that your CBD oil has expired, dispose of it safely. You can seal it in a plastic zipper bag and dispose of it in the trash. Since CBD oil is a biodegradable and non-toxic substance, it’s safe to dispose of it with other household waste.
To avoid unknowingly consuming expired CBD oil, it’s recommended that you purchase from a reputable source. Trusted companies adhere to strict quality standards and regularly test their products. Reputable companies post their test results on their websites and packaging, making it easier for consumers to know what they are consuming.
The Science Behind CBD Oil Shelf Life
When it comes to the shelf life of CBD oil, several factors come into play. Oxidization and other chemical processes are the most common causes of CBD oil expiration. Once a bottle of CBD oil is opened, the cannabinoids begin to react with the oxygen in the air, leading to a process called oxidization. The more CBD oil interacts with the air, the faster it loses its potency.
Preservatives such as tocopherol (vitamin E) and natural oils like coconut oil or avocado oil play a crucial role in extending CBD oil’s shelf life. These oils reduce the rate of oxidization, keeping the cannabinoids intact and effective. Similarly, storing the CBD oil in an airtight, cool, and dry environment also helps prolong its shelf life.
Exploring the Legal Implications of Selling Expired CBD Oil
The sale of expired CBD oil goes against the regulations put in place for the protection of consumers. CBD oil and other hemp-derived products have become increasingly popular in the US, and the industry is relatively new. Therefore, the FDA has not yet established regulations for the production and sale of CBD products, but several states have implemented their regulations.
In states where CBD oil is legal, manufacturers and retailers are expected to comply with strict guidelines. These guidelines include conducting regular testing, labeling, and packaging that meets specific standards. Violating these guidelines may attract legal action, hefty fines, and a tarnished reputation among consumers.
The Benefits of Regular CBD Oil Inspections
Regular inspections of CBD oil products are essential in avoiding the use of expired products. Manufacturers take several measures to ensure the quality and extended shelf life of their CBD oil products. These measures include using appropriate preservatives, packaging, and labeling, among others.
Purchasing high-quality CBD oil products is crucial in attaining the most effective results. Trusted CBD brands regularly test their products and post their results on their websites and packaging, which makes it easier for consumers to purchase high-quality products. Doing so ensures that the CBD oil products are safe, potent, and effective.
Conclusion
Using expired CBD oil may lead to reduced potency, negative side effects, and a potential danger to users, especially when it’s used for medical purposes. Signs of expired CBD oil include changes in color, taste, and smell. Regular inspections of CBD oil products are essential to avoid using expired products. Using reputable sources and purchasing high-quality products ensure that CBD oil products are safe, potent, and effective.