Have you ever wondered what happens to your CBD oil if it goes unused?
After all, most medicines do have expiration dates to guarantee their safety and effectiveness. But what about CBD? And, what can happen if you use old CBD oil?
If these questions sound familiar, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when it comes to your CBD’s shelf life. Plus, we’ll fill you in on top tips for checking to see if yours is still good, and making that CBD stash last longer.
Keep reading for all the details!
How Long Does CBD Oil Last?
Simply put, that depends on which oil you choose.
In most cases, you can expect your CBD to last for one to two years if properly stored. A sealed container kept away from direct heat and sunlight is best. And, don’t forget to keep your stash well out of the reach of kids and pets.
For the longest-lasting product, you’ll also want to opt for a high-quality full spectrum CBD oil. Not only will these minimally processed options last longer, but they’ll also deliver more powerful results thanks to all those naturally-occurring terpenes and cannabinoids from the original hemp plant.
How was your CBD oil made? The CO2 extraction method is your best bet when it comes to premium oils that will stay potent for longer. This is because the product’s hemp or cannabis compounds remain stable during extraction, rather than breaking down and reducing both quality and shelf life.
No matter which oil you end up with, be sure that it has a clearly printed expiration date on its label.
How Do I Know if CBD Oil Has Gone Bad?
Not sure if your oil is still good? No worries.
First, check the product label for an expiration date. If the bottle says it’s still good, you’ll still want to take a closer look. And, if it’s expired, you’re best off throwing it away and buying a new product – better safe than sorry.
Start by smelling your CBD oil. A skunky or spoiled aroma is a clear sign that your bottle has gone bad.
You’ll also want to look closely at the product’s color and texture. Cloudy, thick, or chunky CBD products should be discarded. And, any dramatic changes in darkness could also indicate an expired bottle.
Can Old CBD Oil Make You Sick?
Probably not. But why risk it?
CBD won’t spoil like milk or other perishable products. So, ingesting a small amount past its prime is unlikely to make you feel ill. In fact, you might not even notice the difference.
But, while expired CBD products won’t hurt you, they probably won’t offer any of their powerful health benefits either. For the best tasting and smelling product, and one that is most likely to deliver its promised results, avoid CBD oil that you suspect is expired.
How Can I Make CBD Oil Last Longer?
Proper storage is key to extending the life of your CBD products.
Cool, dark places are best. It also helps to select a product that is packaged in dark tinted glass. This helps to block heat and sunlight, and won’t put you at risk for dealing with plastic degeneration.
You’ll also want to store your CBD at a comfortable room temperature – somewhere between 60 and 70 degrees, Fahrenheit. And, keep the bottle tightly sealed any time you aren’t using it. This prevents oxidation, the number one enemy of CBD oil.
To prevent leaks, store your product upright, rather than horizontally. And, avoid carrying products in your purse or pockets for long periods. This can unnecessarily expose them to bacteria and other contaminants.
If possible, store your CBD away from sources of moisture and humidity, like a hot shower. Exposure to excessive warmth and water can cause mold to grow.
And, lastly, you should never double dip in your CBD oil – even if you are the only one using it. Instead, only introduce freshly cleaned spoons or droppers, and avoid any contact between your saliva and the oil itself. This can lead to cross-contamination and spoil an entire bottle!
Side Effects of Old CBD Oil
You are extremely unlikely to experience adverse side effects while using CBD oil. But it isn’t impossible.
In rare cases, some users have reported nausea, fatigue, and irritability. And, it’s also important to note that CBD may cause mild changes to your sleeping and eating patterns. However, these changes are usually for the best!
If you are currently taking prescription medications or have preexisting health conditions, it’s best to talk with your doctor before using CBD. A trained MD will be able to advise you on potential drug interactions or unexpected side effects.
Lastly, it’s essential that you try all new CBD products at home before using them in public. Introducing products in a safe, controlled environment makes you less likely to experience unwanted side effects. And, it will also help you keep better track of how CBD may be positively impacting your health.
Safeguard Your Future CBD Purchases
Now that you know a bit about expired CBD products and how to avoid them, it’s time to inspect your at-home supply. If some of your products are past their prime, it may be time to toss out that old CBD oil and replace it with a new, fresh product.
If you’ve already let some go to waste, don’t worry. With this article as your guide, you’ll never go wrong again. And, with proper storage, your next high-quality CBD purchase could last as long as two years!
Looking to learn more about CBD? Whether you’re brand new to these products or an experienced user, our blog has you covered. You’ll find the latest in CBD news, plus recipes, informative guides, and CBD inspired info from around the web.
