There are many different variations of CBD and choosing the right CBD product is important. Different formulations and products can be more effective for some conditions over others, and you want a CBD product that will provide an accurate dose suitable for the ailment or condition being treated. Different CBD products and formulations have different bioavailability levels. Bioavailability is defined as: "the amount of a substance that enters the bloodstream when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect." Knowing how and which product will enter your bloodstream fast and effectively is very beneficial for accurate dosing to properly treat the issue at hand. I’ll touch base on some of the most common CBD product types, how their absorbed, and what they’re good for.
Oil Tincture- When you hear or see “CBD oil”, a tincture is typically what they’re referring to. CBD tinctures are liquid solutions that have the benefits of CBD oil combined with additional ingredients like carrier oils. Tinctures are one of, if not the most effective ways to consume CBD. It’s absorbed through your mucous membranes, sublingually, right into the bloodstream. The onset time (time it takes to kick in) can be anywhere from 25 minutes to an hour. A dose of a CBD tincture can provide relief for up to 5 or 6 hours. I recommend tinctures for depression, generalized anxiety, and chronic pain/inflammation, to name a few.
Water-Soluble (nano-emulsified)- Water soluble CBD is broken down into tiny nano particles to allow faster absorption. This formulation is a rather new one and should be considered more “water compatible” than water soluble. It is intended to be mixed into a liquid and then drank (or eaten) and is absorbed up to 4 times faster than a tincture or gummy. The onset of a water-soluble CBD can take up to 15 minutes and can last in the system about 4 or 5 hours. A water-soluble CBD product is beneficial for sleep, headaches, and onset or panic anxiety because of its fast-acting properties.
Gummies/Edibles- I have such a love/hate relationship with CBD gummies. Although they are tasty, convenient, and fun, they are the least effective in my opinion. Most (not all) gummies are made with a CBD isolate and that alone is less effective than a broad or full spectrum product ( Full Spectrum or Full of It?). Gummies also need to be digested and metabolized, passing through multiple organs while being absorbed into our bloodstream. Because of that (decreased bioavailability), it’s hard to say just how much of the CBD a person is actually absorbing from the gummy or edible. For example, if you eat a 10mg CBD gummy bear, you very well may only be absorbing 6mg of CBD after it’s processed through your digestive system and liver. Gummies, however, are a great way to get introduced to the world of CBD! They’re also good for sleep, pain relief, and anxiety when dosed appropriately.
Topicals- Topical CBD products are a great way to get relief with the use of CBD without orally ingesting it. Some are still wary about CBD and would like to avoid oral consumption if possible. With topical CBD, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients and quality of the product, as some can be misleading. CBD topical creams, salves, or gels are primarily used for pain, but can be used for skin issues (such as psoriasis or acne), muscle recovery, and more.
Vapes or Cartridges- CBD vapes are controversial not only because of the stigma, but because of the dangers recently revealed with vaping. However, a quality CBD product that is designed specifically for vaping is still a safe way to consume CBD. Vaping CBD will provide the quickest onset (within minutes), but not last in your system very long. CBD vapes are good for onset anxiety, addiction, and those trying to stop smoking tobacco products.
There's a lot to know and even more to learn about the different CBD products and formulations and how they work within the body. In my professional opinion, I think that whatever product you decide to start with will be a good one. Getting started with CBD can be the hardest and most daunting part, but once you figure out a regimen that works for you, you'll be so happy that you did! I wrote this article to provide you with some of the basic information needed to select a CBD product that is right for you, and hopefully it did just that! As always, don't forget to be smart, stay safe, be kind, and stay medicated!
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