You’re aware that CBD comes in different forms ranging from oils and gummies to topical creams, right? Each method has its strengths. Oils, for instance, can be absorbed quickly and so you feel the effects almost instantly. Gummies, on the other hand, are great tasting, discreet, and topicals are useful for certain areas. But which of these options works best for you? This is a question that we can answer ourselves. Stay tuned for us to dissect the pros and cons of each method, so by the end you can make the most informed decision possible to aid your journey into the world of CBD.
CBD: Brief Overview for The Set Up
Although CBD can be ingested in numerous ways, it is best to first explore the definition of CBD itself.
CBD which stands for cannabidiol is one of the several components located in the cannabis plant. Much like THC, CBD also has no psychoactive properties and therefore, does not get you ‘high’.
CBD has been studied largely due to its potential therapeutic effects such as increasing anxiety levels, relieving pain, and insomnia.
Oils, topicals, and edibles are all primary forms that CBD comes in. Each type has its own unparalleled advantages alongside ways to utilize them which will be covered further in the text.
The Bioavailability of Different CBD Products
Do you know why CBD products come in many forms? It’s because of bioavailability, which refers to how much of the CBD product is actually useful to the consumer.
Here’s how each product is absorbed:
- Inhalation: Both smoking and vaping CBD products have the highest rate of absorption but the effects will wear off the fastest.
- Topicals: The effects of creams and lotions may take longer to show, but they can last for several hours.
- Edibles: The capsules and gummies lose a lot of the CBD from absorption as they have to go through the digestive system.
- Sublingual: The absorption level of tinctures and CBD oils is in between high and low when they are placed under the tongue.
Consuming CBD: The Oil Method
You may know about gummies and creams, but CBD oil is also very effective, and it is easy to use.
Just place a few drops under your tongue and after a short while, swallow it. This method, also known as sublingual administration, allows CBD to skip the digestive system which leads to quicker and more efficient absorption.
Everything starts with the dosage; once you can change the dosage, that puts control in your hands. With oil, it can be taken straight, added to food, or poured into a drink which makes it easy to consume.
It’s a practical but innovative method which helps people use CBD anywhere and at any time.
CBDs in Food: The Gummy Option
CBD gummies may be the most delicious and fun way to take the cannabinoid.
They help with the non oily and pill variety, while remaining delicious and convenient to carry around.
Here are four reasons why you should consider switching to the gummy option:
- Ease of Use: You only have to put it into your mouth and chew, kind of like candy.
- Portability: If you are someone who takes CBD on the go, these are great. No need to have liquid droppers or water to wash it down.
- Conspicuous: Unlike other CBD edibles, these don’t draw attention to themselves. They simply look like regular gummies.
- Flavor: These gummies grant the ability to consume CBD while tasting great as they come in multiple flavors.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using CBD Capsules
CBD capsules may not sound the most exciting, but they provide an easy way to integrate CBD into your daily routine. Think of them as the less-fun cousin of the gummy variant.
They do, however, come with their advantages. For one, you don’t need a scale to weigh your serving. Since each capsule is pre-packaged with a certain amount of CBD, you won’t have to guess how much you are using. More importantly, this foresight makes it much simpler to track and adjust your dosage.
CBD Lotion and Balm Products
As you delve deeper into topical CBD products, lotions and balms will surely grab your attention. These products provide a more focused way of using CBD and are not designed for widespread impact.
- Convenience: It works like any other lotion or balm. Simply rub it on the skin and you are good to go.
- Focused Treatment: Tend to non systemic pain or skin conditions. With newer formulations in CBD Lotion and Balm, the work can be done at the site of action.
- Concealed: They can be used with little to no attention which means you can use them I public without having a strange scent following you.
- Rich Selection: Various and diverse formulations abound such as those with or without fragrance, plus those blended with other beneficial ingredients.
Vaping CBD: Everything You Need to Know
CBD is becoming increasingly popular, and so has vaping. For some, vaping is a relatively new concept, but for others, it is one of the most preferred methods of consuming CBD. From my experience, vaping allows the compound to reach your bloodstream almost instantaneously.
Additionally, a good quality vape pen will guarantee that you inhaling pure CBD instead of a harmful cocktail of chemicals. Investing in a high-quality vape pen is a must.
Vaping CBD oil also provides a discreet and convenient method of consumption. You can carry a vape pen with you everywhere you go, and just take a puff whenever you need it.
It’s crucial to check the local laws where you are to find out if vaping is allowed, because it varies from one place to another.
CBD Infused Food and Beverages
Vaping is not the only way to integrate CBD into your diet, though. You can also add it through food and beverages. This method is easy to adopt due to its flexible nature, and best of all, doing so throughout your day becomes enjoyable.
- CBD-infused snacks: Check out the advancements being made in the world of snacks. We now have CBD-infused gummies, chocolates, and popcorn! Clearly, there is nothing more fun or tasty than consuming CBD this way.
- CBD Edibles: If you are looking for a more substantial dose, try infusing your pasta or salad dressing with CBD.
- CBD Drinks: We have CBD-infused coffee, teas, and even cocktails. What more can you ask for?
- CBD Oil Recipes: You can make your own recipes at home and add CBD oil into it.
Tinctures and Sprays – Sublingual CBD
For those who prefer an effortless and exact way to use CBD, sublingual applications like sprays and tinctures are ideal.
With these methods, CBD is able to bypass the digestive system, getting directly into the bloodstream. All you need to do is place several drops or sprays under the tongue, hold it there for a minute or so, and then swallow.
Through the mucous membranes, following these steps will let the CBD be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. As a result, effects can be felt quicker while as using less CBD and money.
A Less Known Option, CBD Suppositories
While most people do not prefer it, CBD suppositories are an interesting method of taking CBD, especially for those who are unable to take CBD through the mouth. They can be placed either rectally or vaginally for direct use into the bloodstream.
Here are four benefits of using CBD suppositories:
- Fast absorption: Due to their placement, suppositories bypass the digestive system, leading to quicker absorption.
- Higher bioavailability: More CBD gets into your system, as it’s not degraded by stomach acids.
- Best for Vomiting/Nausea Relief: When nausea is so extreme that nothing can be kept down, suppositories are a good option.
- Menstrual Pain Relief: Vaginal suppositories may provide some relief to people suffering from menstrual pain.
Conclusion
With this, you have multiple ways of consuming CBD. While oils are the most flexible in terms of dosage and provide the fastest absorption, gummies are the most tasty and discreet, ideal for beginners. Topicals, on the other hand, provide fast-acting relief and are perfect for those undergoing localized relief. Everyone has different needs so whether it is quick action or sweet relief you are looking for, there is a suitable CBD method out there. Just remember to ease yourself into it. Enjoy!