There’s no precise answer for the best method of taking CBD. Mostly, it’s all about personal preference and finding what works best for each consumer. Also, different methods deliver different results depending on the consumer’s desired result.
Over the last few years, many people have become familiar with CBD. Increased media coverage and increased research into CBD oil benefits are largely attributed to its growing popularity. There’s some evidence that one can reap a range of health benefits from CBD oil by using quality CBD products.
CBD oil extracted from the cannabis plant has no psychoactive effects but offers possible treatment for various health conditions. Fortunately, there are several ways to consume your CBD oil, such as CBD oils and tinctures, vaping, CBD edibles, and CBD topicals. As a result, one can choose the best method for their needs. Let’s discuss some ways and how differently they affect your body.
What is CBD?
CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol and is the second most prevalent chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, is the second most abundant chemical compound in the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant comprises a hundred other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work together to produce the entourage effect. According to Russo (2019), The entourage effect is the scientific phenomenon by which all cannabinoids work together to produce health benefits in your body rather than when alone. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning consumers don’t have to worry about getting high. Rather, CBD will offer its users relaxing and therapeutic effects, as Moltke& Hindocha (2021) noted.
THC is an intoxicating compound that causes a high and may have adverse effects when taken in large doses. According to Chesney et al. (2020), CBD has very few or no adverse effects except for initial nausea in beginners, which is very rare. However, according to Kogan et al. (2016), when THC is taken in large doses, it can increase blood pressure, dry mouth, drowsiness, slow thinking, etc. Consequently, this article looks forward to unveiling more CBD benefits, as the current results are already promising.
Edibles
Nowadays, you’ll come across a wide range of edibles containing CBD oil, which is an excellent way of taking CBD. Chew and swallow the edibles; consumers can choose from cookie browns, chocolates, gummies, etc., and enjoy a tasty treat while simultaneously getting their daily dose of CBD. Also, edibles are a discreet and convenient way of taking CBD oil both at home and away from your home, such as when traveling or working.
Edibles offer clear and measurable dosing, making them among consumers’ most preferred ways of CBD intake. Also, the flavorings in edibles help to mask the earthy hemp taste. However, one might have to wait a little longer to feel the effects of the CBD since the liver and digestive system first digest edibles. Perucca et al. (2020) found that the bioavailability of ingestible CBD is lower than any other method of CBD consumption, such as tinctures or vapes. Bioavailability refers to the rate and extent to which an active compound is absorbed and used by the body. Consequently, the study above suggests that CBD remains in the bloodstream longer when digested. Therefore, convenience is the game’s name for ingestible CBD.
Topicals
CBD infused topicals refer to a cream, balm, lotion, or salve infused with CBD oil. They are designed to be applied directly to the skin. CBD topicals are great for people who want to reap CBD benefits but don’t want to inhale or ingest CBD. Most CBD topicals have additional ingredients such as shea butter or aloe Vera gel for added moisturizing and therapeutic benefits for the skin. Moreover, some even have added menthol for localized cooling relief from injuries or muscle aches.
According to Jorge et al. (2011), topicals might effectively treat arthritis, muscle aches, pains, or skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. However, applying these products directly to the skin leads to a medium bioavailability. Therefore, ensure to apply generously to feel the effects and avoid applying on broken skin. CBD topicals are great for dealing with localized problems and easy to integrate into one’s daily routine, but one won’t experience full-body effects.
CBD Vaping
Vaping has taken the vaping world by storm over the last few years, as many are turning to vape instead of smoking cigarettes. Consumers can use CBD vape oil to enjoy the calming effects of vaping coupled with the therapeutic benefits of CBD. Although vaping is similar to smoking, vaping uses an atomizer that turns CBD vape juice to vapor. CBD vaping is considered significantly safer than smoking. Additionally, vaping offers a quicker intake of CBD compounds in the body than any other method of CBD consumption. Inhalation gives the consumer a quicker dose of CBD in the body. However, users should always research which vape pen fits them and know the quality of their marijuana strain to avoid the harmful effects of a low-quality product.
Tinctures
A CBD tincture is a formulation of different ingredients added to CBD, such as alcohol and flavors, to enhance the taste. Also, dissolving ingredients such as vegetable glycerin, coconut oil, and ethanol are used in making CBD-infused tinctures. The process of consuming CBD through tinctures includes using a dropper. Place oil drops under the tongue using a dropper, and this method of CBD intake is referred to as sublingual administration. Consumers are advised to hold the liquid under their tongue for some time to allow for more effective absorption of natural compounds. It’s a convenient and easy way to take CBD and is great for those on the move who want to carry CBD along with them.
Conclusion
For newcomers to CBD, choosing between the various delivery methods can be daunting. It won’t do them harm to try out the different options to find out the one that suits them best. The best thing is to start on a low dosage with each method. Also, a lot goes into determining what dosage and what method works for a consumer. For example, the body chemistry may influence the results they are looking for from the products they choose. There’s no better method than the other, but the methods discussed above are the most popular and convenient options. Once you’ve discovered the right consumption method for you, you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of CBD.
References
Russo, E. B. (2019). The case for the entourage effect and conventional breeding of
clinical cannabis: no “strain,” no gain. Frontiers in plant science, 9, 1969.
Chesney, E., Oliver, D., Green, A., Sovi, S., Wilson, J., Englund, A& McGuire, P. (2020). Adverse effects of cannabidiol: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(11), 1799-1806.
Jorge, L. L., Feres, C. C., & Teles, V. E. (2011). Topical preparations for pain relief: efficacy and patient adherence. Journal of pain research, 4, 11.
Kogan, L. R., Hellyer, P. W., & Robinson, N. G. (2016). Consumers’ perceptions of hemp products for animals. J Am Holist Vet Med Assoc, 42, 40-8.
Moltke, J., & Hindocha, C. (2021). Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of cannabis research, 3(1), 1-12.
Perucca, E., & Bialer, M. (2020). Critical aspects affect cannabidiol oral bioavailability, metabolic elimination, and related clinical implications. CNS drugs, 34(8), 795-800.
MS, University of Latvia
I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.
- FDC – Giejo Magazine Article - July 29, 2023
- MoriMa Tea the – Chinese tea culture - April 26, 2023
- Missionary Position – Least Likely To Bring You To Climax - April 7, 2023
