CBD labels can be confusing — some show percentages, others list milligrams, and almost none explain how that translates into a serving. Here’s a clear, UK-friendly guide to decode labels and shop with confidence.
Read more: How to read CBD lab results
mg vs % vs ml — What They Mean
- Total mg CBD: the total CBD in the whole bottle (e.g., 1000 mg).
- % strength: concentration (e.g., 10%). Often used for comparison but not enough on its own.
- Bottle volume (ml): most tinctures are 10 ml or 30 ml.
Read more: How to take CBD & set servings
Quick Label Maths (Real Examples)
Example A: 1000 mg in 10 ml
- mg per ml: 1000 mg ÷ 10 ml = 100 mg/ml.
- Per 0.5 ml dropper: ~50 mg.
Example B: 1500 mg in 30 ml
- mg per ml: 1500 mg ÷ 30 ml = 50 mg/ml.
- Per 0.5 ml dropper: ~25 mg.
Rule of thumb: mg per ml = total mg ÷ bottle ml. Then multiply by your dropper amount.
Servings, Droppers & Capsules
Oils (Sublingual)
Look for mg per ml on the label or product page. Hold oil under your tongue for 60–90 seconds before swallowing.
Capsules
Check mg per capsule (e.g., 25 mg). Capsules are easy for consistent daily routines.
Topicals
Topicals list total mg per jar/tube. Apply locally around joints and muscles.
Read more: Guide to topical CBD
COAs & Safety Screens
A Certificate of Analysis should match your bottle’s batch number and confirm:
- Cannabinoids: CBD amount as labelled; compliant THC.
- Contaminants: heavy metals, pesticides, solvents, microbes.
- Date & lab: current and third-party accredited.
Read more: How to read CBD lab results
Simple Buying Checklist
- Broad-spectrum (THC-free, multi-cannabinoid) or isolate (single compound)?
- Clear mg per ml (or mg per capsule).
- Visible, batch-matched COA.
- Honest, compliant language (no cure claims).
- Added botanicals aligned to your goal (sleep, focus, recovery).
Final Thoughts
Once you decode mg, %, ml and serving maths, choosing CBD is simple. Verify the COA, pick a format that fits your routine, and be consistent with timing for the best results.
FAQs
Is % or mg more important?
mg is more actionable — it tells you the actual amount of CBD. Use % to compare concentration, but calculate mg per ml for dosing.
How many mg are in half a dropper?
If a bottle is 100 mg/ml, then 0.5 ml ≈ 50 mg. Check your product’s mg/ml first.
Do I need a COA for every bottle?
Yes — the COA should match your batch number and be current.
