As a consumer ofCBD oil, you should know that it's essential to store your bottles properly if you want to optimize the shelf life of your product. And if you didn't know, I'll explain the risks of consuming oxidized oil, and how to store CBD oil properly.
What alters CBD oil?
CBD, like most cannabinoids, is a molecule that oxidizes very easily due to its polyphenolic nature. As you can see, an oxidized oil is no longer able to deliver its benefits. The same is true of terpenes, molecules which are also part of the composition of your CBD oil, and which are highly volatile and sensitive to heat.
Moreover, the intrinsic nature of all products in an oily state is particularly sensitive to light, heat, humidity and oxygen in the ambient air.
Of course, each product has its own specifics, so it's essential to read the label on your CBD oil to find out more about its specific storage conditions. However, the advice I'm about to give you remains true in the majority of cases.
How to store CBD oil?
My tips for storing your bottles of CBD oil are pretty simple:
- If you can keep your oil in a tinted bottle, that's ideal. Retailers often think of this detail, but it's possible that your bottle is completely transparent. In this case, it's best to store your CBD oil away from light. This can be in a drawer, in a box, or simply by keeping the original hermetically sealed packaging of your CBD oil.
- Keep an eye on the ambient temperature. If it's very hot, you can store your oil in the fridge, as the cold won't affect its effects. Don't be surprised if your CBD oil hardens, it's a normal phenomenon.
- This may seem insignificant, but remember to close your bottle tightly! You risk losing terpenes and triggering oxidation of your oil.
- Good to know: it's perfectly possible to store your CBD oil in the freezer. Provided, of course, that you only do it once.
Does CBD have an expiration date?
In most cases, CBD oil will keep for approximately 6 months to 1 year. Of course, the best way to get a more precise answer is to consult your product label.
In the event of poor storage, take care to ensure that your oil is still usable. To do this, you need to detect any signs that your oil has expired.
How do I know if my CBD oil has expired?
To recognize if your CBD oil is expired, there are certain points to check:
- The appearance of CBD oil. Particularly if its color becomes darker.
- Smell. If you smell something unusual, stronger and a little rancid, it's probably because the oil has oxidized.
- Taste. As a last resort, you can check the quality of your oil by tasting it. Once again, if the taste has become stronger and rancid, your oil is probably no longer fit for consumption.
I should also point out that it can happen, when your oil has already had a certain shelf life, that the active ingredients no longer work, while the oil is still consumable. The best way to be sure of its effectiveness is to check the expiration date and storage conditions of your CBD oil.
Is expired CBD dangerous to health?
Expired CBD oil is not dangerous for your health. It will simply no longer have any effect, as the oxidized molecules will have lost all their benefits.
Now you know everything you need to know to store your bottles of CBD oil properly. Always remember to read the product label carefully, as there may be additional instructions. It's up to you to take good care of your bottles!