CBD oil is a natural product derived from the hemp plant. It contains cannabidiol (CBD), a compound shown to have numerous potential health benefits. CBD oil is commonly used to improve sleep, relieve anxiety, and reduce inflammation.
CBD oil has become increasingly popular as more people have become aware of its potential health benefits. Some people keep their CBD oil at room temperature, while others swear by refrigeration and claim it helps preserve its quality and potency. So, which is the right way to store CBD oil?
The answer may depend on a few factors, including the quality of the oil and how long you plan on storing it. In this blog post, we'll explore whether or not refrigeration is necessary for CBD oil and provide some tips on how to store it properly.
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Can CBD Oil be Stored in the Fridge?
While refrigeration is not strictly necessary, it may be a good idea to keep your CBD oil in the fridge, especially if you live in a hot climate or plan on storing it for an extended period of time.
Heat can cause the compounds in CBD oil to degrade, reducing their quality and potency. Refrigeration can help prevent this degradation by keeping the oil cool and dark.
If you choose to refrigerate your CBD oil, it's essential to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from picking up any unwanted flavors or scents from other food items in your fridge.
Can You Freeze CBD Oil?
CBD oil can be frozen, but it's not necessary. Freezing may help to preserve the quality of the oil, but it can also make it more challenging to use.
If you choose to freeze your CBD oil, store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to use it, thaw the oil in the fridge overnight before using it.
Whether you refrigerate or freeze your CBD oil, proper storage is key to preserving its quality and potency.
How Long Does CBD Oil Last?
These are the significant factors when it comes to how long a CBD oil will last.
- Quality - Regarding the quality of CBD oil, the growing condition of the plant and the grade of the other chemicals are evaluated.
- Ingredients – CBD oil can be mixed with other ingredients like carrier oils, flavorings, and extracts. These additions can help extend the shelf life of the product.
- The Extraction Process – The extraction process can also affect the shelf life of CBD oil. CO2 and ethanol are common extraction methods, but the gold standard is the CO2 extraction method.
- Packaging – The packaging of CBD oil can also affect its shelf life. Dark glass bottles are the best option for storage as they protect the oil from light damage.
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How Long Is CBD Oil Good for Once Opened?
Ideally, you should use opened CBD oil within six months to one year.
To extend the shelf life of opened CBD oil, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. You can also refrigerate or freeze the oil to help preserve its quality.
When stored properly, CBD oil can last for up to two years. However, the shelf life will vary depending on the quality of the product and the ingredients used.
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How to Know If the CBD Oil Is Still Safe to Use?
Every bottle of CBD oil has an expiry date to inform consumers as to whether or not it has passed its prime. However, there are times when labels slip off or the expiration is unreadable. This is when our senses come into play.
You can tell if your CBD oil has gone bad, if it has changed colors or if it has a rancid smell. If the oil has changed colors, it may be an indication that the compounds present in the oil have degraded. If the oil smells rancid, the fatty acids in the oil have gone rotten.
What are the Factors That Affect CBD Oil's Storage Conditions?
Using expired CBD oil is unlikely to make you sick, but it may not be as effective as fresh oil.
CBD oil has no contaminants that would cause it to spoil, like milk or food; thus, it is safe to consume at room temperature. However, the factors mentioned below are known to impact the efficacy and potency of CBD oil significantly.
Related: Can You Take CBD Oil and Gummies Together? That Depends.
- Temperature – Exposure to heat may induce CBD oil to degrade and go bad. Keep the oil in a cool, unlit place out of direct sunlight. You can also refrigerate or freeze the oil to help preserve its quality.
- Light – Light can also degrade the quality of CBD oil. Store the oil in a dark glass bottle.
- Air – Air may make CBD oil oxidize and go sour. Be sure to store the oil in an airtight container. Moisture can cause mold and bacteria to grow in CBD oil.
Be sure to consider these factors when storing your CBD oil to ensure that it stays fresh and potent for as long as possible.
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Final Thoughts
Yes, you can keep CBD oil at room temperature. The main thing is to keep it away from heat, light, and air. You can store CBD oil in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or drawer. You can also refrigerate or freeze CBD oil to help preserve its quality. When stored properly, CBD oil can last for up to two years.
CBD oil does not go rancid like milk or food, but the quality of the oil can degrade over time. Factors like light, heat and air exposure can cause CBD oil to oxidize and go bad. Be sure to consider these factors when storing your CBD oil to stay fresh and potent for as long as possible.
If you are unsure if your CBD oil is safe to use, check for signs of spoilage, such as discoloration or rancidity. If the oil has changed colors or smells bad, it is best to discard it.
