Organic versus non-organic CBD. The benefits

Have you ever wondered if it's worth buying organic CBD products? With growing interest in the health and wellness powers of CBD, more options are hitting store shelves. That includes organically grown CBD. But what exactly does "organic" mean when it comes to CBD oil, capsules, and other products? Are there real differences between organic and conventionally grown CBD? Let's dig into some key points in plain language.

Defining Organic CBD

To be certified organic, CBD must be grown according to organic farming standards. This means no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are prohibited. And growers emphasize sustainability, natural soil health, and land conservation. There’s also oversight and certification involved. Key phrases here include “organically grown,” “organically produced,” and “certified organic CBD.”

Why Go Organic?

Supporters argue organic farming methods are better for the environment. Chemical pesticide use is linked to declines in soil quality as well as negative impacts on wildlife, water quality, and more. Organic methods also promote soil health and land sustainability for future generations. There’s interest as well in potential human health benefits from reducing pesticide exposures from both crops and the environment.

Research on CBD Quality Differences

Recent studies have started to analyze differences between organic and conventionally grown hemp plants used for CBD. Are there measurable benefits to CBD products sourced from organic plants? Results are mixed, but some analysis has found higher levels of cannabinoids like CBD and CBG in organically grown hemp varieties. Some data also points to more diverse terpene profiles. Terpenes are compounds that influence flavor and may play a role in the effects and benefits of CBD. More research is still needed on how growing methods influence CBD product quality.

Assessing Testing and Certifications

When evaluating organic versus non-organic finished CBD products like oils and capsules, testing for purity and safety is important. Contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria should be avoided no matter how the plants are grown. Look for brands that follow good manufacturing practices and test for impurities in third party labs. Reputable companies should provide access to certificates of analysis. Ideally the hemp or CBD is also certified organic by national or international bodies. That can give added peace of mind that quality standards are met.

Comparing Product Options

There’s growing availability of certified organic CBD oils, capsules, gummies, topicals, and other products. But the selection is still more limited than conventional CBD. And buying certified organic products can come with a premium price. Costs and accessibility can be barriers for some consumers. But as demand increases, more organic options should hit the market. And prices may come down over time.

Weighing Your Priorities

Ultimately whether paying extra for organic makes sense comes down to individual priorities around things like:

• Promoting sustainable, environmentally-friendly farming methods
• Avoiding pesticides and GMOs
• Potential added health benefits from organic certification
• Higher costs and availability barriers

While more research is still needed, some early studies suggest organic hemp might produce CBD products with additional advantages. But conventionally grown options that follow other quality testing and manufacturing protocols can still result in safe, effective CBD products that are more budget friendly. It’s about finding what works for your individual health goals and principles.

Have some more specific questions on organic versus non-organic CBD oils, capsules or other products? The unique benefits and background can get a bit complex. Feel free to drop us any follow-ups in the comments below!

What growing methods make CBD "organic"?

For CBD to be certified organic, the hemp plants must be grown without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic farmers use natural fertilizers like compost and emphasize sustainability, conservation, and healthy soils.

Are there downsides to non-organic growing methods?

Conventional farming often relies on pesticides and chemical fertilizers that can harm soil health and carry environmental risks related to water contamination, impacts on wildlife, and more. Some also raise concerns about human exposures.

Does organic growing affect the CBD created by the plants?

Some early research shows differences in CBD and terpene levels when comparing organic and conventionally grown hemp varieties. But more studies are still needed on this specific topic.

Does organic CBD testing reveal fewer contaminants?

When finished CBD extracts and products are tested by third party labs, results for purity and contaminant levels are variable and don’t clearly correlate to growing methods alone. Proper processing and manufacturing protocols also play a key role.

Is organic CBD regulated differently than other CBD?

In the U.S., the same quality and labeling standards outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill apply across all hemp-derived CBD, whether the plants are organically or conventionally grown. Some companies go beyond that to earn organic certifications through additional third-party auditing.

Does organic really matter when it comes to CBD product benefits?

While some early research shows promising differences, CBD products sourced from both organic and conventionally grown hemp have demonstrated health and wellness benefits. So results likely have more to do with things like dosages, techniques, and finding what works for your individual body and needs.

Why does organic CBD cost more?

Organic farming tends to require more labor, land resources, oversight protocols, and certification processes that drive costs up. And since organic CBD products are still less common, economies of scale don’t necessarily apply. The pricing gap should close somewhat if demand continues rising.

Summary

As CBD’s popularity grows, you’ll see more “organic” labels applied to oils, gummies, capsules and other products. But what does organic truly mean with CBD? And are there proven differences that make paying a premium worthwhile?

For CBD to be officially certified as organic, the plants must be grown meeting USDA organic standards - no synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or GMOs. Supporters argue this is better for human health and the environment. Some early studies have also found higher levels of cannabinoids like CBD and terpenes in organic plants versus conventionally grown hemp. Terpenes influence the effects and benefits.

When it comes to finished products, quality can vary widely whether the source is organic or not. Proper extraction, manufacturing, and testing protocols also play a key role. Third party lab certificates of analysis should show purity and low contamination no matter the growing method.

Currently organic certified CBD oils, gummies and capsules are less common, so cost more. Prices may come down over time as organic production expands. For consumers, weighing priorities around sustainability, perceived health advantages, and budget determines if paying the organic premium makes sense. While the organic label doesn’t automatically mean superior products, some see benefits that align with their values.