There are so many different ways to take CBD: capsules, creams, edibles, tinctures, and supplements—but is the choice just down to personal preference or are there differences in how effectively your body will absorb them?
If you’re overwhelmed by the wide variety of CBD products on offer, you’re not alone. And although there is no one-size-fits-all recommended dosage or timing, there are ways to maximize the efficacy of CBD by mindfully selecting your delivery method with our guide below:
CBD Capsules—Find a Water Soluble Formula
When CBD is ingested, it passes through the digestive tract where it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and travels throughout your body. Because Cannabinoids, like CBD, can dissolve in fats but not water, the best way to ensure you’re getting the most CBD absorbed into your body (i.e. the highest bioavailability) is to look for capsules that are formulated to be water soluble (avoid gel caps). Because even if something has a high dosage of CBD, that doesn’t guarantee your body will be able to absorb it all (or even most of it) if it’s not made to be “body ready”.
It’s also important to know that CBD has a cumulative effect in the body, so we recommend building up your CBD “stores” by taking water-soluble capsules over a period of time—some people may notice a difference within a few days and others might after a few weeks.
CBD Topicals—You Are What You Absorb
Another common way to consume CBD is via topicals like creams, lotions, sprays, and salves. Our skin is our largest organ and what we put on our skin directly affects our wellbeing (which is why we’re focused on making topicals with super clean, non-toxic ingredients). Topical CBD products are a great delivery method if you’re looking to release localized tension since you can apply the product directly to different parts of your body.
Topicals are also great for an instant cooling feeling—look for topical products that are infused with complementary ingredients, like essential peppermint oil and menthol, that can help CBD’s natural ability to return balance to the body. Keep in mind that topicals will work best when incorporated into your daily routine for a minimum of seven days (as opposed to only when your shoulder starts causing you discomfort).
CBD Oils—Consider the Taste Factor
The most common form of CBD you’ll find on the market is suspended in oil (i.e. a tincture) which has an oil dropper that you either put under your tongue or a sprayer that sprays directly into your mouth. Under the tongue, there is a vein called the sublingual gland which absorbs the oil directly into the bloodstream, avoiding the first-pass of your metabolism. Keep in mind that some people don’t love the taste of CBD oil or the feeling of oil in their mouths—if this is the case for you, a CBD as a capsule might be a better alternative.
There are currently no established guidelines for the best method to use CBD, but with an understanding of the various ingestion methods available, your personal needs, and how comfortable you are with each administration you can feel better placed to decide what’s right for your personal wellness journey. So, get ready for a truly unique experience that warrants patient experimentation and will allow you to be even more highly tuned into your body’s needs.
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