The last decade has seen cannabidiol (CBD) becoming exponentially popular. As more and more states and countries begin to legalize cannabis, consumers are exploring this potent herb not just for recreational purposes but also as a remedy for several health ailments.
With the ease of access, there is an increased surge in vape resources and CBD products available with versatile methods of consumption and usage. From supplements to ointments and even body care products, it comes as no surprise that you will find CBD in almost any form.
While the availability of CBD products is excellent for consumers, it is equally important to have the right information on how to choose and consume them. Different methods lead to different effects, and with so much out there, it can be challenging to decide what approach is right for you.
If you are looking to understand the best ways to consume CBD products, we have the perfect guide. Read ahead for a detailed explanation of various consumption methods that could help you make the most of your CBD experience.
How it Works
Before getting into various consumption methods, you need to understand how CBD works. Cannabidiol is one of the many compounds that make up the Cannabis plant.
While marijuana is often associated with mind-alteration, CBD is one compound that does not have psychoactive properties. There are several benefits that you can take advantage of without the feeling of being high.
When you use a product containing CBD, it is transported from the site of administration into your bloodstream. Once there, it moves through the human body’s cannabinoid receptors and also via other non-cannabinoid receptors, like the serotonin receptors, causing its effect.
The product’s effect depends on how you choose to administer it, as well as the bio-availability of CBD using that method.
Now let us dive into the different methods of administering CBD products.
Oral Ingestion
One of the most common ways of using CBD products is to consume them through your mouth. This could either be in the form of capsules or pills or in the form of CBD drinks and edibles.
Capsules and pills
If you do not smoke or have a lung condition, ingesting CBD capsules and pills is the best option for you.
Capsules and pills that are swallowed make their way to your gut and take effect once they are broken down. The onset of the effect can be more prolonged, depending on the body’s metabolism. You can choose from a variety of CBD oil capsules that can provide you with a quality experience that best fits your needs. While the effect might be prolonged, they still are a popular and effective method of consumption.
Edibles
Edibles are food items infused with CBD that you need to eat to feel the effect. They come in the form of chocolates, candies or gummies, to name a few. This is an easy, delicious, and discreet way to consume CBD.
Inhalation
The inhalation method is when you inhale CBD smoke or vapor into your lungs for an instant effect. Because of the quick effectiveness, this method is one of the most popular ways to use CBD.
Nowadays, the CBD industry introduces more and more innovative CBD vape products that are used by smokers or vapers. Because CBD vape pens are easy to use, they are an attractive option for non-smokers as well.
While this is an extremely effective method of consumption that offers you great value for money, there are certain health risks involved, making regular vaping unsuitable for some users. To minimize the risks, go for vapes with inbuilt filters.
Even if smoking or vaping is not for everyone, it is still worth exploring if you want to reap the optimal benefits of your desired CBD strain.
Sublingual Ingestion
Sublingual ingestion is when you place a CBD product at the bottom of your tongue and keep it there for a minute and a half before swallowing.
A common method of sublingual ingestion is through the use of tinctures. Tinctures are droppers that contain CBD oil, which is placed under the tongue. Sprays and pastes can be used for the same effect as well.
Consuming CBD products this way is a faster way to intake the product into your bloodstream than other means of consumption.
Topical Application
Due to its pain-relieving properties, CBD products are also available in the form of topical creams, roll-ons, lotions, balms, and salves that can be applied directly to the skin.
Such products containing hemp extract are mainly designed to resolve aches and skin issues and work well due to the presence of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors on the skin. Topical creams and ointments are commonly used by athletes that may experience chronic pain due to their lifestyle. They are used to treat acne and eczema, too.
Topicals are also being infused in cosmetic products. Because they contain vitamins and antioxidants that work to repair and protect the skin, CBD products are becoming more popular in the beauty industry.
Final Thoughts
Having a complete understanding of how CBD works and the various ways in which it can be consumed is crucial if you want to have an optimal experience with the herb and its extracts.
Since each method could lead to a different outcome in terms of the effect it has, you also need to be sure of what it is you want out of your cannabis experience.
For recreational activities, go for vapes or if you want the effect to last longer consume CBD pills. Gummies are a quick and easy method to consume CBD on the go, but if you are not into edibles, then tinctures are for you.
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