If you’re a health-conscious buy cannabidiol , chances are you’ve seen cannabidiol, or CBD, all over the place. The trendy substance is in everything from drinks and pet products to chewable gummies and even lotions. It’s also becoming increasingly popular for arthritis pain and other aches and pains. But CBD is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the quality of the product can vary widely. It’s also important to understand what CBD actually is. It’s a cannabinoid, which means it comes from the cannabis plant, but unlike THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that gets you high), it doesn’t have any psychoactive properties.

Shop Smart: How to Choose the Best CBD Oil for Sale Online or In-Store

CBD is most often extracted from hemp, which is a variety of the cannabis plant and contains only trace amounts of THC. It can be sold legally as an oil, capsule, vaporizer and even in foods. There is some evidence that CBD can help with a variety of conditions, including arthritis, anxiety and insomnia. But more research with human test subjects is needed, and it’s best to consult a medical professional before trying any new supplement.

When shopping for CBD, look for a certificate of analysis on the brand’s website. The more comprehensive the COA is, the more the company invests in transparency and quality testing. Also, look for a pesticides analysis, which measures traces of chemicals used in the growing process. Exposure to pesticides can wreak havoc on your body, from weakened immunity to hormone disruption and liver toxicity.