How to Use CBD: Different Consumption Methods of CBD Products

CBD has exploded into the mainstream over the last few years. CBD-based compounds have shown to provide a wide range of health-related benefits. CBD oil has become a promising medication that is widely used for a variety of diseases and health conditions. The uses of CBD oil products has also grown resulting in an increase in the number of companies producing the CBD-based products. This article helps to outline how the different CBD products are used and their different consumption methods.

Absorption of CBD in the body

When CBD is ingested, it must first be transferred to the administration site before being absorbed into the bloodstream. From the bloodstream, it is transported to the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. When CBD is applied on the body through CBD lotion, it is consumed through a path known as the route of administration. This has a direct effect on the distribution of the compound. CBD is then absorbed through a process known as the bioavailability into the bloodstream. However, if CBD was directly injected into the bloodstream, it would have 100% bioavailability.

Methods of ingestion

CBD products can be consumed in a variety of ways. Below we take a look at the five primary methods of CBD consumption with the pros and cons of each specific method.

Inhalation

CBD inhalation is not a very common method although it is increasingly growing in popularity. There are a number of CBD products which are available for inhaling which include waxes, hemp flower, CBD vape oil, and, concentrates. These products can be vaporized, smoked, or dabbed.

Pros:

1. Up to five times higher bioavailability.

2. Has a consistently quick onset.

3. A shorter period of effectiveness.

Cons:

1. May have enough THC to produce mild high.

2. Carries risks associated with regular vaping.

Topical

CBD topical include balms, salves, and CBD lotions. These products are administered directly on the skin and are designed to alleviate symptoms like skin irritations, aching muscles, and joints. More CBD topical products are flooding the market due to the increase in the health benefits associated with the use of CBD topical.

Pros:

1. There are no cannabinoid receptors on the skin.

2. Beneficial in treating various skin conditions like psoriasis.

3. Easy to apply.

Cons:

1. Topical is only effective on specific conditions of the skin.

2. Has a localized effect.

Oral ingestion

CBD products can be orally ingested through capsules or edibles. Oral ingestion of CBD products is the most common method of taking CBD. The capsules are swallowed while the CBD containing edibles are eaten. The CBD is ultimately absorbed into the digestive system after it is swallowed. The CBD molecules are metabolized in the liver after passing through the portal vein in the first pass process. The concentration of CBD is reduced by enzymes in the liver after which the rest of the compound is passed into the bloodstream.

Pros:

1. Ingestion is one of the easiest methods of consuming CBD.

2. It is easy to know the dosage with capsules or edibles in comparison to CBD vape oil.

3. Most CBD products are available in this form.

Cons:

1. The efficiency of CBD absorption is reduced due to the passage through the liver.

2. Bioavailability is estimated to be below six percent.

Sublingual

This is the administration of CBD products under the tongue. The CBD is held in the mouth for about 30-90 seconds before it is swallowed. Examples of CBD sublingual products include concentrates, tinctures, and, sprays. This method of consuming CBD has a higher bioavailability but the products do not come in a mix of tastes. CBD is directly absorbed into the mucous membrane when it is under the tongue. This process bypasses the need to go through the liver. The compound will reach the bloodstream without being broken down.

Pros:

1. Has a high bioavailability.

2. Reaches the bloodstream quickly.

3. No need to pass through the liver.

4. The use of CBD sublingual method is more effective than oral ingestion.

Cons:

1. Sublingual administration may turn off users not comfortable with the flavor of cannabis.

2. Does not come in different flavors.

Suppositories

This is the least popular of the all the methods of consuming CBD products. Most people would prefer to inhale or swallow CBD oil products before they choose a suppository. Suppository use of CBD has not yet been widely used although they have proven to be highly effective. When it comes to length of effect, then, the use of CBD suppository is effective.

Pros

1. Effects are realized within fifteen minutes after administration.

2. Effects last longer than other forms.

Cons

1. Use of CBD suppository is not popular hence not commonly used.

2. Most people would rather inhale or swallow CBD products rather than using this method.

In conclusion, it is important to emphasize the fact that, whatever method of consumption you choose, the CBD effects and benefits remain the same. You however have to go for products that best suit your lifestyle depending on the expected outcome.