Updated October 2026
CBD oil labels are full of numbers: 8%, 20%, 800mg, 2000mg, 10ml. Here is how to make sense of them.
Total CBD (mg)
This is the total amount of CBD in the whole bottle. A 10ml bottle labelled 2000mg contains 2000mg of CBD in total.
Strength (%)
The percentage tells you how concentrated the oil is. A 20% oil contains 200mg of CBD per ml; an 8% oil contains 80mg per ml. A higher percentage means more CBD in every drop, not a "better" oil.
CBD per drop
A typical dropper gives about 20 drops per ml, so:
- 8% oil (800mg in 10ml): about 4mg per drop
- 20% oil (2000mg in 10ml): about 10mg per drop
The FSA advises no more than 10mg of CBD a day for healthy adults, so with a 20% oil, about one drop is a full day's amount. Always follow the directions on your label.
Carrier oil
CBD is mixed with a carrier oil such as MCT coconut oil or hemp seed oil. Read why we use MCT coconut oil.
Type of extract
Labels may say full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate. Our guide to CBD extract types explains the difference.
Batch number and best before date
These let you trace your product and check freshness. Store CBD oil in a cool, dark place with the lid tightly closed.
Warnings
A responsible label will advise against use by under-18s, by people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, and recommend speaking to a GP or pharmacist if you take medication.
Browse our CBD oils.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. CBD products sold in the UK are food supplements or cosmetics, not medicines, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises healthy adults to take no more than 10mg of CBD per day from all sources. Do not use CBD if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, and speak to your GP or pharmacist first if you take any medication.
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