Here we are going to explain some of the methods by which CBD is used and discuss some of the factors involved in determining serving sizes. We’ll also look at the strengths and drawbacks of each method and discuss which methods are better for different situations.
Bioavailability of CBD
Bioavailability is the proportion of a substance which enters the circulation when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect.
Not all methods for using CBD are equal. Their effectiveness depends not only on the method of consumption and the ingredients in the product, but also on the bioavailability of the CBD.
Bioavailability of CBD Tinctures
A tincture is a liquid — usually an oil or an alcohol base — which has been infused with CBD oil. CBD oil tinctures are taken by mouth. If you decide to use CBD with this method, the CBD in the tincture can be absorbed pretty easily.
It is generally assumed that the bioavailability of CBD in tinctures is twice that of edibles — anywhere from 10 to 40%.
How Long Does CBD Oil Take to Take Effect?
The time it takes for CBD oil to take effect can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's metabolism, the method of consumption, dosage, and the specific product being used. Here's a general guideline:
- Sublingual (Under the Tongue) Administration: CBD oil taken sublingually typically takes effect relatively quickly, usually within 15-30 minutes. This is because the mucous membranes under the tongue allow for faster absorption into the bloodstream.
- Ingestion (Edibles, Capsules, etc.): When CBD is ingested, such as through edibles or capsules, it has to pass through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream. This process can take longer, usually around 30 minutes to 2 hours for effects to be felt.
- Topical Application: CBD creams, lotions, and balms applied topically generally work locally and may take effect within minutes to an hour, depending on factors like skin absorption and concentration.
Because of unique genetics, no two people react to CBD oil in the same way. Furthermore, factors such as age, health, weight, circulation, and metabolism can all affect the timing of the effects of CBD oil.
It's essential to note that individual responses to CBD can vary, and it may take some experimentation to find the right dosage and method of administration that works best for you. Additionally, consistent use over time may lead to more noticeable and sustained effects as CBD builds up in the body. Consulting with a healthcare professional can also provide personalized guidance on CBD usage.
These figures are to be considered general guidelines and will vary from person to person, as we mentioned above.
CBD Oil Serving Suggestions
Determining the appropriate serving size of CBD can depend on various factors, including individual body weight, metabolism, tolerance and the concentration of CBD in the product. Here are some general guidelines:
- Starting Out: For individuals new to CBD, it's advisable to start with a low serving size and gradually increase as needed. A typical starting serving size for beginners is around 5-10 milligrams of CBD. This can be taken once or twice daily, depending on personal preference and the desired effects.
- For Someone Who Has Taken CBD Before: If you have some experience with CBD and have established a baseline tolerance, you may already have an idea of your preferred serving size. For individuals who have taken CBD before, a moderate serving size typically ranges from 10-25 milligrams per dose. Again, this can be adjusted based on individual needs and the specific effects desired.
Keep in mind that it's always best to start with a lower serving size and increase gradually if necessary, rather than starting with a high dosage right away. This approach allows you to assess your tolerance and find the optimal serving size for your needs while minimizing the risk of potential side effects.
It's essential to give your body time to adjust and observe how you respond to the initial serving size. If you don't experience the desired effects after a week or so, you may consider gradually increasing the dosage.
Additionally, it's crucial to choose high-quality CBD products from reputable manufacturers to ensure accurate dosing and purity. Green Wave Organics provides a QR code on every product to look up 3rd party testing for all our of products.
However, the most important factor to be considered is that both serving size and duration of use depend largely on the effect you are interested in when you use CBD products. One person might simply be using CBD to support general wellness, while another might be using CBD to help maintain a good night’s rest.
Another factor to be considered is whether or not the product being used contains a full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD oil with terpenes. Due to the entourage effect, full spectrum products are more known to have the best outcome.
Determining your ideal serving of CBD requires some thinking. Taking too little CBD will not produce the desired effect and will be a waste of time and money. Alternatively, taking more CBD than you need may not make the benefits of CBD stronger. It will take some experimentation to determine an ideal serving of CBD for a particular person.
Here are some general guidelines for determining your ideal serving of CBD oil:
Stick With One Product
It’s a good idea to put some thought into which CBD product you’re going to use and stick with that product for a while. This allows you to gauge the effects of that particular product. If you switch back and forth between different CBD products, determining a serving amount will be much harder.
Start With a Low Serving Size
When you first begin using CBD oil, it’s a good idea to start with a low serving size. This gives you a chance to determine your body’s reaction to CBD. One option is to start with 1mg of CBD for every 20 pounds of weight. Using this rule, someone weighing 100 pounds should start with 5 milligrams of CBD, while someone weighing over 200 pounds can start with 10 milligrams of CBD, and so on.
Start Before Bedtime
When first using CBD oil, it’s best to start at night — about an hour before bedtime. That way, if CBD has a tendency to make you drowsy, you’re not dragging during the daytime. It’s uncommon for a low serving size of CBD to cause drowsiness, but it’s good to be sure.
If you have no issues, then take another serving in the morning. If CBD oil does make you sleepy, then take it at night. At the same time, CBD oil may be used to support both nighttime sleep and daytime focus, in which case CBD can be taken as needed throughout the day.
Increase Your Serving Size Slowly
If all goes well, but you have not achieved your desired benefits, you can try doubling your servings of CBD. Each time you increase your serving size, take a few days to make note of how your body feels.
If a rise in serving size of CBD produces unwanted effects such as making you drowsy, back off to a lower serving.
Can You Take Too Much CBD Oil?
You would have to consume quite a bit of CBD oil before it results in any truly adverse health effects.However, taking more CBD than needed might cause some unwanted effects such as making you too relaxed for particular activities like work or sports.
Once you have arrived at a particular serving of CBD based on the product you are using, it’s a good idea to stick with that product.
Ways to Take CBD Oil
Let’s now take a look at some of the ways to take CBD oil and the pros and cons of each, in order to help you to determine which CBD products are right for you.
Some of the factors that should be considered when determining which product is ideal for you are your lifestyle, the reasons you’re using CBD oil, the time to take effect and the bioavailability of the method.
Lifestyle Considerations
In regards to lifestyle, some CBD products are more convenient than others, some products travel better than others, and some products are simply more enjoyable to use than others. Capsules are preferred for traveling, for instance. There’s nothing to drop and break or spill.
Use Considerations
Certain methods are better for certain uses. For example, if you’re using CBD to support skin health, you can use our topical cream to directly use on your skin.
If you’re using a CBD product to support a good night’s rest, a special formulation such as CBD Softgels or Gummies with melatonin could be more beneficial than regular CBD softgels or gummies.
CBD Oils and Tinctures
Earlier, we discussed the fact that there are a variety of products which makers refer to as CBD oil. These can include everything from raw hemp extract to more refined products to pure CBD-infused oil.
There are also a number of types of oil which are used as a base for CBD oil. Some CBD oil products also contain added ingredients such as additional terpenes, essential oils, and vitamins.
Pros and Cons of Oils and Tinctures
Tinctures are generally used at home in the morning and the evening, and can also be used at work if your situation allows it.
The downside of tinctures and oils is that they don’t travel well. They can be messy if you’re trying to use them on the go. They also generally come in a breakable bottle with a breakable dropper. If you’re looking for a product to take hiking, for example, tinctures are probably not your best choice.
CBD Oil Capsules
Capsules are made with gelatin, which melts within minutes in your stomach and delivers the entire serving of CBD oil. This means that none of it will get absorbed into the tissues in your mouth or throat. And, depending on whether or not you take them with food, very little is likely to make its way through the rest of your digestive system.
Nanoemulsion
Green Wave Organics softgels are formulated using a patent-pending water-soluble nanoemulsion technology which encapsulates the active compounds in nano-sized emulsions. The average size of nanoemulsion CBD oil droplets is between 4 and 200 times smaller than the industry standard.
This smaller size leads to much higher absorption in the blood and, therefore, results in extremely high bioavailability. Because of this, less nanoemulsion CBD oil is needed to produce the same results as regular CBD oil.
Pros and Cons of Capsules
As we mentioned, capsules, because they dissolve quickly, will deliver a serving of CBD directly into your stomach.
Capsules are also very convenient and easy to use with no mess, and they also allow for exact serving sizes. If a CBD Softgels capsule contains 25 milligrams of CBD, assuming you’re using a reputable manufacturer with good production methods, you know you’re getting a serving of 25 milligrams of CBD.
One downside of capsules is that they take longer to feel the benefits. Also, as mentioned, when taken on an empty stomach very little of the CBD will make its way into your body as most of it will be directly absorbed into the lining of your stomach. But this is easily avoidable by taking the capsule with food.
It’s also important to note here that capsules that do not use nanoemulsions have far lower bioavailability than those that do contain nanoemulsions.
CBD-Infused Topicals
CBD-infused topicals include skin creams, balms, salves, and oils. Once again, these products can be infused with pure CBD, or they can contain a PCR CBD oil.
The same rule applies — the products with the full or broad spectrum oils will contain other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes.
Topicals often have a variety of additional beneficial ingredients meant to contribute to the overall benefits of CBD products. For example, skin creams may contain moisturizers, vitamin E. collagen, and so on.
Pros and Cons of Topicals
Topicals are great for use on a particular area of skin or underlying muscles and joints. They deliver the CBD and other beneficial ingredients directly where they can do the most good.
However, they take some time to apply and can be a little messy. This may not be a concern for you if you use these kinds of products regularly.
Another thing to consider is that, when taken internally either orally or inhaled, CBD will make its way to all areas of your body, including your skin. If skin health is your goal, you may just opt for one of those other applications rather than having to apply a topical all over your skin.
Which brings up a side note — when receiving a massage, generally, an oil is used on the entire body. This is a great opportunity to give your skin some extra love by adding some CBD oil to your massage oil.
I hope I answered all of your questions! Head over to our CBD Education Blog to answer all more of your CBD FAQ's
In Health & Wellness
💖 Lynsey
