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The holiday season is packed with parties, work events, and family dinners where delicious foods and beverages are enjoyed. Most of these tasty treats include some aromatic spices like cinnamon, clove, or nutmeg.
<p>Aside from the joy that savoring a sip of eggnog or a bite of gingerbread may bring, consuming spices used to make these recipes may do wonders for your overall health thanks to the powerful plant compounds they contain.</p><p>This article covers six of the healthiest holiday spices that can be easily incorporated into a variety of festive dishes.</p>
<p><em>Registered dietitian Jillian Kubala holds a master's degree in nutrition from Stony Brook University School of Medicine as well as an undergraduate degree in nutrition science. She is certified in plant-based nutrition through the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies at Cornell University.</em></p>
1. Cinnamon
<p>Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices to use, especially during the holiday season. It's used to flavor favorites like pumpkin pie, sweet potato casseroles, and spiced apple cider.</p><p>Cinnamon brings a warm, spicy taste to recipes, making it a perfect addition to both sweet and savory dishes served during Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Years. It's also popularly used in seasonal beverages like eggnog.</p><p>Aside from its versatility, cinnamon offers a wealth of health-promoting benefits.</p><p>For example, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4466762/" target="_blank">studies</a> demonstrate that cinnamon has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and may help lower blood sugar and blood pressure levels when taken in high doses as a supplement. Cinnamon may offer <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5896244/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">anticancer</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6524496/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">neuroprotective</a>, and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5220230/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">metabolic</a> benefits as well.</p><p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4003790/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cinnamon contains compounds</a> including cinnamaldehyde and proanthocyanidins, which have potent antioxidant properties and may help protect cells against oxidative damage, which is critical for disease prevention.</p><p>When shopping for cinnamon, choose <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23627682" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ceylon cinnamon</a> or "true cinnamon" whenever possible for the most benefits.</p>2. Ginger
<p>Ginger is a popular ingredient in health products, and for good reason.</p><p>This pungent holiday spice is packed with <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/" target="_blank">health-promoting compounds</a> including gingerols, shogaols, and paradols. Dried ginger, which is most commonly used in holiday recipes, is most concentrated in shogaols while fresh ginger is packed with gingerols.</p><p>Consuming ginger can <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26228533" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">positively impact overall health in many ways</a> as ginger has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects.</p><p>Ginger supplements are commonly used as effective, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369959/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">natural treatments</a> for nausea, infections, heartburn, bloating, and gas.</p><p>Plus, many <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369959/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">research studies</a> in animals and test tubes have shown that ginger has powerful anticancer properties, and that ginger may help inhibit cell growth and induce cellular death in certain types of cancer including gastrointestinal cancer and ovarian cancer.</p><p>Try incorporating fresh ginger into teas, dressings, marinades, and fresh juices, or using dried ginger in baked goods and dry rubs to reap the many impressive health benefits this spice has to offer.</p>3. Nutmeg
<p>Nutmeg has a distinctive, slightly nutty flavor that gives a powerful kick to holiday recipes like custards, ciders, and roasts.</p><p>In addition to its delicious taste, nutmeg contains a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5222521/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plethora of antioxidants</a> that can benefit health in a number of ways. Terpenes, cyanidins, and phenolic compounds are just some of the powerful antioxidants found in this tasty spice.</p><p>Due to its high concentration of health-promoting plant compounds, nutmeg delivers a variety of health benefits.</p><p>Research has shown that this spice has <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5222521/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">anti-inflammatory</a> and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3434417/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">antibacterial</a> properties and may help improve <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31063201" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">blood sugar control</a> and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4502738/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">heart health</a> when taken in high doses.</p><p>Some <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1187868/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">research in animals</a> has even demonstrated that nutmeg may be an effective natural treatment method for boosting libido.</p><p>Nutmeg is delicious when used in savory recipes such as curries and meat dishes, and it gives desserts like crisps, pies, and puddings a pleasant punch of flavor.</p>4. Allspice
<p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23140298" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Allspice</a> is the dried unripe berries of Pimenta dioica, which is native to the West Indies, Central America, and Mexico. It's used in traditional Carribean recipes like jerk chicken and mole sauces, and it's a staple in holiday dishes such as spiced apple cider, soups, and gingerbread.</p><p>Additionally, allspice has been used for hundreds of years as a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3891794/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">folk remedy to treat ailments</a> including indigestion, pain, headaches, and more.</p><p>Allspice has a spicy taste and pungent aroma and is rich in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23140298" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">medicinal compounds</a> including polyphenols, terpenoids, and lignans that offer antioxidant, antihypertensive, antiviral, and anticancer effects.</p><p>In particular, the bioactive compounds eugenol, ericifolin, and gallic acid, which are concentrated in nutmeg, have been studied for their potent anti-tumor properties.</p><p>For example, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29073729" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">one test tube study</a> found that eugenol was effective in fighting an aggressive type of breast cancer while <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3731804/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">another study</a> found that allspice extract stopped the spread of, and induced cell death in prostate cancer cells. Although these findings are promising, human studies are needed to confirm these potential benefits.</p>5. Clove
<p>Clove is another popular holiday spice that has a rich history. Clove has been used since ancient times in traditional medicine practices to treat pain and fight infections.</p><p>Like allspice, clove is rich in eugenol and gallic acid, as well as a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819475/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">number of other phenolic acids and flavonoid compounds</a>, all of which offer impressive health benefits.</p><p>Clove has powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.</p><p>What's more, some research suggests that clove may offer anticancer effects due to its high concentration of eugenol. In fact, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819475/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">eugenol</a> makes up around 89% of clove essential oil.</p><p>Additionally, clove oil has been <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19589904" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">shown to have powerful antifungal effects</a> against Candida yeast and Aspergillus fungus, which commonly cause infections in humans.</p><p>Clove has a strong, slightly bitter flavor, so you only need to add a small amount of this spice to your favorite holiday recipes. Try adding clove to meat dishes, veggies, and baked goods.</p><p>You can even add a dash of this healthy spice to your coffee or hot chocolate for a seasonal taste during the holiday season.</p>6. Cardamom
<p>Cardamom is a spice commonly used around the holidays to add a kick of flavor to baked goods and stews.</p><p>It is a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine and has been used in traditional medicine practices throughout history to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5557534/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">treat medical conditions</a> such as heart disease, constipation, colic, and fungal infections.</p><p>Recent research has demonstrated that cardamon may offer a variety of health benefits due to the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5557534/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">abundance of phytochemicals</a> — including myrcene, limonene, subinene, cineol, α-pinene, β-sitostenone, and γ-sitosterol — concentrated in this pungent spice.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5557534/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">rodent study</a> found that treatment with cardamom powder improved blood sugar, prevented increases in blood lipids, and reduced liver inflammation in rats fed a high fat diet over an 8-week period.</p><p>Other studies in test tubes and animals have demonstrated that cardamom may offer antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects.</p><p>Plus, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20361714" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">one human study</a> showed that supplementation with 3 grams of cardamom powder for 12 weeks significantly decreased blood pressure and significantly increased antioxidant levels in 20 adults with hypertension.</p><p>Interestingly, human studies are currently being conducted to assess the potential impact of cardamom supplementation on blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammatory markers in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5463368/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">people with diabetes and obesity</a>, yet the results are not yet available.</p><p>Although the small amounts of cardamom used in cooking are unlikely to have the same benefits as high-dose supplements, adding cardamom to holiday recipes may benefit overall health by providing a wealth of protective plant compounds.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>The holiday spices listed above are not only delicious, but they offer an abundance of powerful phytochemicals that may protect overall health.<br></p><p>Try adding these flavorful spices to your favorite seasonal recipes to kick up the flavor and nutritional benefits of your meal.</p>From Your Site Articles
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Many people fear they will pack on pounds during the holiday season because of the abundance of indulgent dishes and tasty treats served at dinners, parties, and work events.
<p>Although enjoying your favorite recipes can be an important part of the holiday tradition, making sure that you balance your diet with nutritious foods can help you stay happy and healthy this holiday season.</p><p>Here are 10 healthy side dishes perfect for seasonal celebrations.</p>
<p><em>Registered dietitian Jillian Kubala holds a master's degree in nutrition from Stony Brook University School of Medicine as well as an undergraduate degree in nutrition science. She is certified in plant-based nutrition through the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies at Cornell University.</em></p>
1. Brussels Sprout Slaw With Manchego
<p>Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetables that offer an abundance of health benefits. For example, Brussels sprouts are rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants including kaempferol, which has been shown to provide neuroprotective, anticancer, and heart health promoting effects (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21428901" target="_blank">1</a>).</p><p>Even though this vegetable is highly nutritious, many people don't like the taste of Brussels sprouts, especially when they develop a mushy texture after being cooked.</p><p>To make a holiday side dish that everyone will love, try out this <a href="https://www.wellplated.com/brussels-sprouts-slaw/" target="_blank">Brussels sprout slaw recipe</a> that combines crispy, raw Brussels sprouts with other tasty ingredients like almonds and manchego cheese.</p>2. Paleo Sweet Potato and Cranberry Stuffing
<p>While traditional bread-based stuffing recipes are usually delicious, they can be high in calories and full of ingredients that aren't good for overall health.</p><p>For a nutritious spin on traditional stuffing, try out <a href="https://fedandfit.com/paleo-sweet-potato-cranberry-stuffing/" target="_blank">this inventive recipe</a> that uses sweet potatoes instead of bread as a base. Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients including vitamin C and provitamin A and provide an excellent source of filling fiber.</p><p>Leave out the sausage and add legumes for a punch of plant-based protein for a vegetarian-friendly version.</p>3. Cauliflower Butternut Squash and Sage Mash
<p>If you're looking for a tasty side dish, try this <a href="https://therealfoodrds.com/cauliflower-butternut-squash-mash/" target="_blank">flavorful mash recipe</a> that uses cauliflower and butternut squash as stand-ins for regular old potatoes.</p><p>Both cauliflower and butternut squash offer an abundance of nutrients that can benefit health in many ways. They are both teeming with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber — which can help boost the health of your digestive system (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/407887/nutrients" target="_blank">2</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/527023/nutrients" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3</a>).</p><p>Sage not only adds flavor to this mash, but it boosts the health benefits thanks to the abundance of powerful plant compounds contained within its pleasant-tasting leaves including flavonoid antioxidants and essential oils (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4003706/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">4</a>).</p>4. Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
<p>Acorn squash are small in size and make a perfect vessel for a nutritious stuffing mixture when cut in half and roasted. Acorn squash are loaded with carotenoid antioxidants like beta-carotene, which may provide immune-boosting effects and enhance the health of the eyes, heart, and brain (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29885291" target="_blank">5</a>).</p><p>Quinoa, on the other hand, is a highly nutritious, gluten-free pseudo-cereal that's packed with plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6024323/" target="_blank">6</a>).</p><p>Try this recipe for <a href="https://detoxinista.com/stuffed-acorn-squash-vegan-quinoa-stuffing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">quinoa stuffed acorn squash</a> to impress even the most hard-to-please dinner guests.</p>5. Harvest Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
<p>This recipe for <a href="https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/harvest-paleo-vegan-stuffed-sweet-potatoes/" target="_blank">stuffed sweet potatoes</a> makes an excellent side dish to bring to holiday dinners and can also be used to make a quick, hearty meal for you and your family on cold winter nights.</p><p>To make this recipe more filling, add an additional source of protein such as fried eggs, roast chicken, or chickpeas.</p><p>The cranberries and Bartlett pears add a subtle hint of sweetness while the walnuts provide a crunchy texture. Leave out the maple syrup to reduce your added sugar intake and create a more savory tasting stuffed sweet potato.</p>6. Parmesan Crusted Delicata Squash Rings
<p>Unlike most holiday appetizers, this recipe for <a href="https://thetoastedpinenut.com/parmesan-crusted-delicata-squash-rings/" target="_blank">parmesan crusted delicata squash</a> is both delicious and nutritious.</p><p>Delicata squash have a sweet, nutty flavor and are high in many nutrients, including provitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium — a mineral essential for blood pressure regulation, muscle function, and nerve transmission (<a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank">7</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/602407/nutrients" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">8</a>).</p><p>Sprinkle the finished product with fresh, chopped herbs like basil and oregano and serve with a no-sugar-added marinara dipping sauce for a super healthy holiday side dish.</p>7. Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
<p>Mushrooms are packed with health-promoting nutrients like B vitamins, copper, and potassium. They are especially high in selenium, a mineral that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body and plays essential roles in DNA synthesis and hormone metabolism (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/342623/nutrients" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">9</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5295066/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">10</a>).</p><p><a href="https://iheartumami.com/herb-stuffed-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This recipe loads mushroom caps</a> with a mixture of almond flour, sun-dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint, all of which provide a number of benefits.</p><p>For example, nutritional yeast adds a boost of B vitamins while the fresh herbs offer a wide array of potent plant compounds that can help boost overall health (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30651162" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">11</a>).</p>8. Kale Salad With Apples and Cheddar
<p>There's no doubt that kale is one of the most nutritious vegetables you can eat, providing over 100% of the daily value for vitamin K1, provitamin A, and vitamin C in just one cup. It's also a great source of manganese, a mineral that's important for the health of the skeletal and immune systems (<a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Manganese-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank">12</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/511764/nutrients" target="_blank">13</a>).</p><p>Pairing kale with tart apples, chopped almonds, and creamy cheddar cheese creates a flavor combination that is sure to wow your holiday guests.</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/projects/well/healthy-recipes/recipes/kale-salad-with-apples-cheddar-and-toasted-almonds-or-pine-nuts" target="_blank">When following this recipe</a>, be sure to finely chop your kale to make it tender and pleasing to eat.</p>9. Crockpot Rosemary, Carrot, and Parsnip Mash
<p>Having a crockpot makes creating healthy holiday side dishes a breeze. This <a href="https://www.cottercrunch.com/crock-pot-rosemary-carrot-parsnip-mash-paleo/" target="_blank">super nutritious recipe</a> combines carrots, parsnips, and rosemary to create a delectable mash.</p><p>Parsnips make an excellent substitute for potatoes and are chock full of nutrients including vitamin C and folate—a B vitamin that's critical for fetal development and the production of red blood cells and DNA (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3648733/" target="_blank">14</a>).</p><p>Carrots are also a nutritious choice, providing a dose of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3550877/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">15</a>).</p>10. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
<p>This <a href="https://paleogrubs.com/roasted-broccoli-recipe" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">garlic roasted broccoli recipe</a> combines two of the most nutritious foods you can eat into one mouthwatering side dish.</p><p>Fresh garlic is a concentrated source of sulfur compounds including allicin and ajoene, which may provide anticancer, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic effects according to scientific research (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103721/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">16</a>).</p><p>Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that's a hit with adults and children alike. This tasty vegetable is a concentrated source of folate, magnesium, vitamin C, potassium, manganese, provitamin A, and vitamin K1 (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/486511/nutrients" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">17</a>).</p><p>Broccoli also contains a wide array of antioxidants such as kaempferol, quercetin, and sulforaphane, all of which offer an abundance of health-promoting effects (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4103733/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">18</a>).</p>From Your Site Articles
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Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
<p>Here you can learn about the importance of organic hemp oil, why it's better for the environment, and which CBD companies actually make trustworthy products with sustainable farming processes. origins which weigh heavily on many consumers who want to buy a product that's produced in the best way possible for not only themselves to ingest, but for the environment as well through sustainable farming methods. </p><h2>What Is CBD Oil?</h2><p>First things first, CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it's a cannabinoid found within cannabis sativa plants. This plant compound is believed to have many potential benefits, and it is primarily derived from hemp plants via a CO2 extraction process. </p><p>Since CBD is extracted from industrial hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis plants), this means that CBD won't make you feel high like marijuana, which has much higher levels of THC that causes psychoactive effects. Instead, the effects of CBD are much more subtle and promote a general sense of calm and relaxation in most users.</p><h2>What Makes a CBD Oil Organic?</h2><p>In terms of organic labels, perhaps the most important (and prominent) certification comes from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This government organization has been labeling foods as "organic" for many years, but what exactly does this certification entail? Essentially, a label indicating that a product is "USDA Organic" or "Certified Organic" means that at least 95% of the ingredients are obtained from organic sources.</p><p>For a crop to be considered organic by the USDA, it must be grown without the use of industrial solvents, irradiation, genetic engineering (GMOs), synthetic pesticides, or chemical fertilizer. Instead, farmers rely on natural substances and <a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mechanical, physical, or biologically based farming</a> techniques to cultivate healthy and organic crops.</p><p>Before the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, no hemp-derived products could be dubbed as "certified organic" since the hemp plant and its extracts were still categorized as a Schedule I Controlled Substance. However, it's still difficult for CBD companies to obtain a USDA certified organic label for their products due to the legal grey area that still surrounds CBD extracts. </p><p>Because of these challenges, and due to the fact that industrial hemp has only recently become an agricultural crop, very few CBD oils are USDA certified organic. Rather, many CBD products contain hemp extracts from plants that were grown in organic conditions but may not be federally certified.</p><h2>What are the Best Organic CBD Oil Brands?</h2><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><em><br></em>
<h2>Why Organic Hemp Oil Matters</h2><p>Hemp is a unique plant, not only for its rich cannabinoid content, but also for its ability to absorb a wide variety of components in soil. But this trait poses great risks when it comes to the creation of CBD products derived from hemp.</p><p>Because hemp has a high capacity for compound uptake, this means that the plants can retain <a href="https://www.remedyreview.com/industry/lab-test-results/" target="_blank">harmful chemicals like pesticides</a>, heavy metals, and other residual solvents. This is especially true when it comes to synthetic chemicals that are more toxic to humans, and difficult to remove once they have been absorbed by the hemp plant.</p><p>Organic farming practices help reduce the risk of hemp crops absorbing harsh chemicals that may later end up in CBD oil after extraction. When you're taking CBD as a wellness supplement to help alleviate your symptoms or improve your overall well-being, the last thing you want is to ingest compounds that might negatively outweigh the benefits of CBD. This is an important reason to look for third party lab test results when shopping for CBD products since these certificates of analysis can show the full cannabinoid and terpene profile of a hemp extract, as well as test results that search for the presence of any residual solvents.</p><p>In addition to creating a better end product, organic farming practices are also better for the environment. Sustainable and organic farming methods may <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/organic-foods.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy</a>. The use of natural pest deterrents as opposed to chemical pesticides is also better for nearby animal populations and ecosystems.</p><h3>Organic vs. Natural</h3><p>While there are only a select few companies offering certified organic ingredients in their products, almost every brand in the CBD market creates "natural" products. The term "all-natural" or "plant-based" does not mean that a product is organic, and since hemp oil is a natural derivative of hemp plants, these products are often referred to as all-natural. However, there are some synthetic CBD oils that should be avoided because they are chemically constructed and may produce unwanted side effects that are not caused by naturally derived CBD extracts.</p><h2>What are the Benefits of Organic CBD Oil?</h2><p>There's a long list of potential CBD oil health benefits, and some of the most common wellness advantages include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/" target="_blank">Chronic pain relief</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/" target="_blank">Anti-anxiety effects</a></li><li>Better sleep</li><li><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inner-source/201901/cbd-oil-mental-health-should-you-take-it-too" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Improvements in mood</a></li><li>Internal balance and regulation</li></ul><p>When dealing with pain, inflammation, sleep issues, and mental health struggles, it can be hard to find sufficient treatment options. The use of certain prescriptions can cause unwanted side effects, yet they are often the only solution for patients with these medical conditions. In search of other therapies, people have started to flock towards CBD oil as an alternative remedy for a variety of conditions. However, it should be noted that CBD products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and you should seek your doctor's advice before using CBD if you have a serious medical condition.</p><h2>Look at the Labels Before You Buy CBD Oil</h2><p>When you go online to buy CBD oil, you'll quickly realize there is an overwhelming number of brands that are saturating the market. It can be difficult to determine which products are truly as good as they make themselves out to be. Always look for up-to-date third-party lab tests so you know you are getting a great product, and don't hesitate to contact the brand if you have any additional questions. And if you're intent on purchasing 100% organic CBD oil, it's best to look for certified products or brands that are held to strict regulatory standards.</p><p><strong>Melena Gurganus </strong>is the Reviews Editor at EcoWatch. She is passionate health and wellness and her writing aims to help others find products they can trust. Her work has been featured in publications such as Health, Shape, Huffington Post, Cannabis Business Times, and Bustle.<br></p>
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$89
CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>
$35
FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>
$39
NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>
$38.50
Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>
$60
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