CBD or cannabidiol is one of the compounds derived from the hemp plant. It is known to have several therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, it is a non-psychoactive compound. Cannabidiol has gained popularity over the years with various methods of consuming it being developed. Vaping is one of the modern modes and is preferred by many because it is smokeless and fast-acting.
However, despite CBD having various health benefits such as managing chronic pain and anxiety, there are some downsides to consuming it through vaping.
Regulations
Many argue that the lack of set regulations governing various companies that manufacture CBD oils and vape pens significantly contributes to vaping being uncertain. Research on cannabidiol and vaping is still in infancy, hence why there is not much information to rely on.
There have been several vaping related illnesses and deaths over recent years, and the main suspect for these problems is vitamin E acetate. Notwithstanding, due to how unregulated the vaping industry is, it is difficult to narrow the effects down to a specific brand or ingredient.
Ingredients
Speaking of ingredients, CBD, in its purest form, is most likely safe. However, the methods of extraction and processing are capable of adding harmful elements into the oil. Undiluted CBD isolate does not have anything mixed with it with the hope that the oil used for its extraction is suitable.
The problem is that the CBD oils in the market are heavily diluted with oils that are not safe for smoking or even oral consumption. Studies have shown that some vape oils contain harmful compounds such as propylene glycol (PG) that have carcinogenic properties.
Authenticity
The authenticity of CBD products can only be ascertained through laboratory tests. Other than authenticity, these tests can guarantee safety. These tests are conducted to identify cannabidiol levels, residual solvents, and contaminants.
Various items sold are labeled as pure and authentic, while in the real sense, they are adulterated with toxic substances. Some of these substances are harmful to the lungs and can cause severe damage to one’s overall health. Generally, these products do not undergo proper testing.
Research
A study was conducted by the Associated Press, where thirty different pods from thirteen brands purchased online were analyzed. From the thirty cartridges, ten of the samples contained synthetic marijuana, and eight samples had no detectable level of CBD at all. The remaining pods had very little cannabidiol levels.
From this study, you can easily identify the problem. Consumers are quite unaware of what they purchase and their authenticity. They, consequently, use goods that could slowly be ailing them and doing more harm than good.
Conclusion
This information can be quite discouraging. However, if proper regulations are set in place to control the manufacture and sale of vape products, their safety can also be increased. This goes hand in hand with the proper use of vaping products.
Also, checking the ingredients of your CBD vape oil is crucial, and one of the best ways of taking precautions. If you fancy vaping, make sure you get products from licensed firms that provide laboratory tests.