Cannabidiol, or CBD, derived from the cannabis plant species, is gaining popularity due to its potential health benefits. Its availability in various forms caters to individual preferences. The surge in CBD use in America is due to its natural, wide-ranging benefits. The potential effects on the endocannabinoid system pique the interest of new users.
Despite the vast range of CBD products, users often question the most effective way to consume them. Different methods affect absorption rates and, consequently, onset and duration times. Is it best consumed as edible gummies, sublingually or topically? Ultimately, the optimal method depends on the individual and their desired benefits. The choice differs for those seeking discomfort management from those promoting general wellness. Here’s a detailed explanation.
How Should CBD Be Taken?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a purified extract from the hemp plant. It’s different from the marijuana some people smoke. CBD oil is legal and has minimal ‘psychoactive’ delta-9 THC. The hemp used to make CBD oil is always high in CBD and low in THC. This allows users to enjoy CBD without THC’s psychoactive effects. In CBD products, only trace amounts of THC are present.
Ingest Orally
If you’re new to CBD, starting with oral ingestion is straightforward. You’re likely already familiar with taking capsules or pills, making CBD intake feel less daunting. Plus, pre-measured capsule sizes make dosage monitoring simple.
Consistent concentration is crucial when it comes to dosage. Many users initiate their journey with a 25mg softgel capsule and gradually increase in 25mg steps until they find their optimum dosage. It’s important to note that capsules may take 45 minutes or more to enter your system but can last several hours.
CBD oil, a tincture, offers another oral intake method. Typically, you place it under your tongue and hold it for up to a minute. Some even incorporate it into their food or add a few drops to their favorite smoothie. The advantage of a tincture is the ease of dose adjustment and potentially quicker effects.
Edibles like chewable gummies are another ingestible option. These tasty bites come in various flavors and sizes but deliver potent CBD hits. Oral CBD products like SoftGels, tinctures, and Gems have a systemic effect, impacting your whole body. However, a topical cream could be your go-to if you’re targeting specific areas like a troublesome knee or a tight back.
Pros
- Ideal for high dosage: Oral ingestions are the preferred method for administering large doses of CBD, particularly for those with high tolerance or using it for specific, often serious, complications.
- Highly efficient: Sublingual administration of CBD is direct and efficient, boasting the highest and fastest absorption rate. This means less CBD is required to achieve desired effects than other methods.
- Fast-acting: Oral ingestion offers immediate, fast-acting relief. After dosing, it typically takes 15 to 20 minutes for the effects to be felt throughout the body.
- Easy to use: CBD tinctures can be easily administered under the tongue or added to food or beverages. The small bottle fits conveniently in your pocket, purse, briefcase, or backpack.
- Consistent absorption: Unlike edibles, tinctures are not metabolized, ensuring a more consistent absorption level.
Cons
- Simple to dose: Oral ingestion of CBD is straightforward, especially with products that provide measurement guides. For instance, Envy Tinctures include measurements on the dropper for easy dosing.
- Efficient delivery: CBD tinctures are one of the most efficient delivery methods. They offer a quick way to absorb CBD into the bloodstream.
- Shorter effects: While some might see this as a downside, it can also be a pro for those seeking quick relief but not wanting prolonged effects. The effects of CBD tinctures wear off comparatively quicker than other methods like gummies.
Application to the Skin
Applying CBD topically can be an effective way to experience its benefits, particularly for muscle aches and pains. Topical applications are favored by many, including athletes, due to their quick action and targeted relief.
Topical CBD products are designed specifically for external use. They often combine with other herbal and natural remedies to alleviate muscle and joint pain. Whether you’ve strained a muscle or want to keep knee pain at bay on a chilly day, there’s a specific formulation for you.
Pros
- Discreet: Topicals are easy to carry and can be conveniently tucked away in your purse, car, or office. They are so discreet that many people keep them in various locations for easy access.
- Ease of use: CBD oral ingestion methods are as simple as using a lotion. Just apply a significant amount to the targeted area and rub it in.
- Emollient benefits: Using CBD topicals like Envy CBD’s products, you get the dual benefits of CBD and unique moisturizing emollients.
- Direct application: Topicals offer direct application, making them ideal for those sensitive to CBD or other cannabinoids. You can apply it directly to your discomfort source, whether a sore knee or a skin breakout.
Cons
- Difficult to dose: While the total CBD content in a full container is known, determining the exact amount of CBD in a dollop of cream is challenging.
- Not ideal for psychological or mental conditions: Due to direct application, topicals are not the best CBD for addressing mental or psychological conditions like insomnia.
- Low absorption rate: CBD absorption through the skin barrier is significantly lower than other delivery methods. This implies more CBD is needed to achieve the same effects.
- Not best for higher dosage: Topicals may not be the preferred method for those with a naturally high CBD tolerance due to the need for more CBD to get the same results.
Inhalation
Inhalation is another method to consume CBD, which involves breathing in CBD rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream via the lungs’ mucous membranes. This can be achieved by smoking dried hemp flowers, vaporizing CBD oil, or using a CBD vape pen. However, this method may expose you to carcinogens or other chemicals that could irritate or harm your lungs. Inhalable forms of CBD include:
- CBD vape pen
- Vaporized CBD oil
- CBD cigarettes
Endnote
The most effective way to take CBD appears to be a matter of personal preference and specific needs. However, CBD tinctures stand out as a particularly convenient and efficient method. They can be easily administered sublingually (under the tongue), offering fast-acting relief with effects often felt within 10 to 20 minutes. Despite the shorter duration of effects compared to other methods like edibles or capsules, tinctures allow for precise dosing and consistent absorption. The best method for consuming CBD depends on an individual’s specific needs, lifestyle, and comfort level.