CBD, or cannabidiol, has been found to have various medical benefits including easing inflammation, relieving anxiety, and even fighting cancer. But how exactly do you take CBD? More specifically, what are the top ways to consume CBD?
CBD can be taken in many ways, whether it’s ingested orally or applied topically on the skin. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks. Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, you may want to try out different methods before finding the one that works best for you.
Here’s an overview of some of the most popular ways to take CBD with some pros and cons to each one!
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 compounds called cannabinoids found in cannabis. CBD and THC are most commonly known for their effects on our endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate many functions including mood, pain, appetite, and sleep.
In addition to those listed above, cannabinoids are responsible for a variety of physiological responses that affect many different systems in our bodies. The most commonly researched cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which we all know has psychoactive properties.
However, it’s important to note that there are other types of cannabinoids present in cannabis besides just THC. For example, cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found naturally in hemp plants. This means it does not produce a high or change your state of mind when consumed but can still provide you with therapeutic benefits like pain relief or anti-inflammatory properties when used topically or ingested orally.
The Benefits of CBD
For those who use CBD for its health benefits, there are many benefits that can be reaped. It has been found that cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties, which makes it an ideal treatment for people with a wide range of conditions such as epilepsy and fibromyalgia. For example, multiple studies have confirmed that using CBD oil can help patients suffering from anxiety.
Other research shows that ingesting cannabidiol orally has a calming effect on those who suffer from social anxiety disorder (SAD). Patients who have Parkinson’s disease have also found relief through consuming topical CBD oil or taking edibles infused with cannabidiol. The relief is especially noticeable when it comes to motor symptoms such as tremors.
Ways of Taking Topicals, Edibles, Tinctures, and More
Here are a few ways you can consume CBD.
Topical CBD
Topicals are creams, salves, balms, and other products that you rub onto your body. Topicals can have significant pain-relieving properties without psychoactive effects (therefore, no high). It’s best to apply a small amount of CBD topically at first and then increase as needed.
If using in a public place or around others is something you want to do, be sure they know it’s not something they should touch. Also, if you notice that your skin has become red or irritated while using topicals with CBD (especially right after starting a new batch), take some time off until things settle down again.
CBD Sublingual Products
Sublingual products are good for those who prefer not to ingest their medicine through capsules or tablets. When put under your tongue, absorption takes place almost immediately and starts working right away (it is especially useful for chronic pain). There are many different types of these medicines available, but generally, they are made from coconut or olive oil that has been infused with cannabidiol.
Sublingual sprays are quick acting and non-intoxicating. Spray under your tongue, let it sit for a minute, then swallow. If you have just consumed some type of food or drink that can prevent proper absorption, a sublingual may not be necessary because you will usually feel a difference within 15 minutes. Letting it sit longer allows more time for absorption into your bloodstream.
CBD Edibles
If you’re going for a more natural method of using CBD, using edibles is your best bet. Rather than smoking or vaping, you can eat it directly (think baked goods or sweetened drinks). There are several options here, from candies to gummies and everything in between. Just be aware that there may be some active ingredients other than cannabidiol.
Also, note that eating a gummy bear is not as effective as taking an oil drop because it takes longer for it to digest and to enter your bloodstream via ingestion vs. inhalation.
CBD Capsules
There are two ways to take CBD via capsules. The first is just like you would any other capsule, which is with food. Simply drop it onto your tongue and swallow it with water like you would a vitamin or supplement. Make sure not to have food in your mouth while doing so; otherwise, it may not digest properly. You can also open up capsules, pour them into yogurt or applesauce, and consume them that way.
However, capsules can be quite expensive, upwards of $30 per bottle. And many people dislike having to swallow them because they feel like they could get stuck in their throat. You also need some form of THC in order to make capsules work; otherwise, they just won’t absorb into your body properly.
Vaping CBD
One of a few ways you can take your cannabidiol is by vaporizing it, which gives you quick relief without any psychoactive high. Whether you have a weed vape pen or something from a company that’s specifically made for vaporizing CBD, using a vape will allow you to take it on the go easily.
You may be skeptical about putting weed and/or oil up your nose and into your lungs (anal insertion is always an option but not recommended), but there are ways to ingest CBD that don’t involve smoking! Inhaling cannabidiol can help with inflammation and other pain issues at a faster rate than edibles would. The vape can also be refilled with any type of oil or concentrate you can get from reputed providers such as Beliebis.
Smoking
Research has found that smoking CBD may be more effective than ingesting it, but many people enjoy vaping because it’s more discreet and can be used in social settings. When you smoke CBD, you’re delivering fast-acting relief directly to your bloodstream via vessels in your lungs.
CBD Tinctures
Tinctures are drops of oil that are used sublingually (that is, underneath your tongue) and enter your bloodstream through circulation there before being taken up by cells elsewhere in your body. Some users also choose to vape their CBD tinctures as well. You’ll need a syringe or measuring cup for accuracy.
Who Should Avoid CBD
Though it’s gaining traction in medical research and has been shown to be useful in treating certain diseases, cannabidiol (CBD) is not suitable for everyone. You should not use it if you have ever had a psychotic episode or if you have schizophrenia. People under 18 years of age should not use it unless directed by a doctor. Due to its illegal status in some states, you may want to consult an attorney before using any CBD product.
Where to Buy CBD
One of the first things that come to mind is Where can I buy CBD? This is a common question and one that has multiple answers. There are tons of ways you can get high-quality, legal CBD products. A popular method is through hemp oil supplements. You may have seen these at your local health food store (only if it’s legal in your country).
When to Get a Doctor’s Recommendation
As with any kind of supplement, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking CBD. When you do, be sure to describe what ailments you have and ask if there are other possible solutions. Also keep in mind that your condition may need treatment from a variety of different sources—including medication, diet changes, and exercise—before adding CBD oil can be an effective solution. Talk with your doctor about whether or not they feel CBD is right for you.
Conclusion
If you want to start taking CBD, it can seem like a daunting task. There are so many ways you can ingest CBD and so many companies that sell products containing cannabis compounds that it’s easy to get confused about what products contain what, how much of each substance is contained in which products, and which brands are best for your needs. Therefore, choose your CBD wisely before ingesting it in any form.
FAQs
- From what age can you consume CBD?
To stay on the safe side, doctors usually recommend CBD only to people who are legally adults, i.e., 18 years or above. The age factor can vary from country to country.
- Is CBD addictive?
CBD is a non-addictive form of cannabis as it does not have a psychoactive effect. CBD does not contain THC, which is the main ingredient for the “high” feeling found in other forms of cannabis.
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