Effective CBD Delivery Methods

There are several ways of consuming CBD Products, including inhalation, sublingual drops, topical application, and ingestion.

The effects may not be felt immediately when you start taking CBD, but there are mild effects after 30 minutes although that will heavily depend on the nature of the user and the method of application they used. So, which are the methods that can make CBD effective?

1. Sublingual Tinctures

This is one of the most effective methods of taking CBD products, where the user places some drops under the tongue and waits for 30 seconds before swallowing. This method is easy to use (even in public), requires no extra accessories, is easy to control, and has long-lasting effects believed that can start working in a relatively short period of time.

CBD oil and tinctures are similar products, both taken via a dropper under the tongue (sublingually). Oils are often confused with tinctures because they employ the same delivery method. CBD oil is usually composed of CBD and a carrier oil, such as coconut, MCT or hemp seed oil. Tinctures, on the other hand, are made by soaking cannabis flowers in oil or alcohol. Tinctures often contain other ingredients, such as vegetable glycerin alcohol, vinegar, ethanol, or artificial flavoring.

Many edibles contain sugar and preservatives, so if you want to avoid additives, you might want to try a sublingual product. Also, by letting the product absorb under your tongue rather than subjecting it to the digestive tract preserves more of the CBD, and you’ll feel results faster. Although, CBD oils and tinctures can be added to smoothies, coffee, and baked goods if that’s your preference. Many people claim to feel the effects within 20 to 40 minutes.

2. Ingestion

CBD Edibles are another discreet way to try CBD because they can be added to food and beverages. CBD-infused foods and drinks are usually available for purchase where other CBD products are sold.

There are a couple of important things to consider with edibles, however. Studies have identified something called the “first pass effect.” CBD is partially broken down by the liver and digestive tract during the first pass effect. This means that the CBD can take up to two hours to kick in, and you’ll only absorb about 20 to 30 percent of it.

Ingested CBD must be digested and then absorbed into the bloodstream through the lining of the stomach and may take up to 2 hours to take effect.

You may decide to add a few drops of CBD oil to your drinks and/or food. Some products have infused CBD into delicious gummies, truffles, lollipops, or even mints, so you even don't need to add them to your meal. You can also make CBD edibles on your own without necessarily buying them pre-made. However, be careful of how much CBD oil you add to the edibles.

3. Topical application

CBD-infused topical applications are believed to potentially be very effective. This is basically applying CBD through a lotion, cream, or ointment on your skin. It is the easiest because it requires no special equipment or devices.  Advocates of topical CBD suggest that the products work by interacting with endocannabinoid receptors found under the skin (instead of being absorbed by the bloodstream), which makes them appropriate for targeting pain in a specific area.

CBD skin patches (transdermal)

Skin patches, also called transdermal patches, are small adhesive patches that deliver CBD through the skin. Unlike topical lotions and creams, transdermal patches cross the dermal barrier to enter the bloodstream and are activated by body heat to release small amounts of CBD over an extended period of time.

There are 2 types of CBD skin patches:

Matrix patches are infused with CBD, often in the adhesive layer. Reservoir patches, on the other hand, have a small reservoir that contains CBD, usually combined with a gel solution.

Reservoir patches are generally more controlled, meaning that you will get a steady amount of CBD over a period of time.

Topical CBD products may take up to an hour to take effect and can last up to 5 hours.

4. Inhalation

This happens to be the most effective and fastest method because the CBD is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tiny air sacs of your lungs. There are two methods of inhalation: Smoking and vaping. You will need some tools and accessories like a vaporizer, dabber, or oil rig for you to use this method. Also, it can be harsh on your throat.

CBD can be inhaled using a tool, called a vape device, that creates a breathable vapor by heating up a concentrated mixture of cannabinoid infused vape juice or e-liquid so that it can be inhaled. Vaping may require some getting used to and is not as discreet as other methods.

Inhaled CBD is absorbed through the lungs quickly, taking effect almost immediately. While this is the quickest method to get CBD into the bloodstream, it also is effective for the shortest period of time. This means that you will have to take additional doses for continued effect.

Ultimately, you may want to try each method of CBD consumption to see which work best for you.

The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.