How to Read a CBD Label Like an Informed Consumer

(And What We Prioritize at Made From Dirt)

CBD has become a common ingredient in wellness products but not all labels are easy to understand. If you’ve ever turned over a jar and felt unsure about what you’re reading, you’re not alone. Learning to read a CBD label well allows you to make thoughtful, informed choices. Here’s what to look for and how we approach these standards at Made From Dirt.

1️⃣ Know the Type of CBD Used

CBD products typically fall into three categories:

• Full-Spectrum – Contains multiple cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC within legal limits.

• Broad-Spectrum – Contains multiple cannabinoids but typically without THC.

• CBD Isolate – Pure CBD only.

Each option reflects a formulation philosophy. Some adults prefer full-spectrum because it keeps more of the plant’s naturally occurring compounds intact. Others prefer broad-spectrum or isolate depending on personal comfort levels.

At Made From Dirt, we believe transparency around cannabinoid type matters. Our labels clearly state what spectrum is used so you can decide what aligns with your preferences.

2️⃣ Look at Total Milligrams (mg)

When you see “500 mg CBD,” that refers to the total amount of CBD in the entire container — not per use.

To understand concentration:

• Check the container size (1 oz? 2 oz?)

• Consider how much you’ll use per application

A smaller jar with the same total milligrams will be more concentrated than a larger jar.

Our goal with our topicals is balanced formulation — not inflated numbers, but intentional potency paired with supportive plant ingredients.

3️⃣ Always Check for Third-Party Lab Testing (COA)

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) verifies:

• Cannabinoid content

• THC levels within legal limits

• Absence of heavy metals

• Absence of pesticides or solvents

Responsible brands make this easy to access via batch numbers or QR codes.

We believe this isn’t optional. Every batch of our CBD products is tested, because trust should never rely on guesswork.

4️⃣ Read Beyond the CBD

CBD is just one part of a formula. For topicals especially, the supporting ingredients matter just as much.

Look for:

• Minimal, recognizable ingredients

• Plant-based oils and butters

• Herbal infusions

• Thoughtfully chosen essential oils (if included)

At Made From Dirt, our topicals are rooted in simple, plant-forward formulations. We avoid unnecessary fillers and prioritize ingredients that feel aligned with slow, intentional living.

Because what carries the CBD matters.

5️⃣ Confirm It’s Labeled for Topical Use

Topical CBD is designed to be applied directly to the skin. Labels should clearly state:

• “For external use only”

• Suggested application instructions

• Storage guidance

Our CBD products are crafted specifically as topicals — designed for direct skin application rather than ingestion — because many adults prefer a localized approach to plant-based wellness.

6️⃣ Be Wary of Big Promises

Any product claiming to:

• Cure conditions

• Replace medication

• Treat diseases

…should raise concern.

Education and transparency are signs of integrity. Exaggeration is not.

You deserve clarity, not hype.

Why Label Literacy Matters

When you understand:✔ The spectrum type✔ The total milligrams✔ The lab testing✔ The full ingredient list

You’re no longer buying based on marketing — you’re choosing based on knowledge.

At Made From Dirt, our approach to CBD is simple:

• Plant-based

• Thoughtfully formulated

• Clearly labeled

• Batch tested

• Made with intention

  
  

No overstated claims. No complicated ingredient lists. Just transparency and education.

Because informed consumers build better wellness routines — and better trust.