CBD products are amongst the most popular medicinal cannabis products being sold in the market today. This is because CBD caters to a wide audience due to its beneficial properties which help alleviate various conditions among patients. In case you need a refresher on what CBD is; it is one of the many natural occurring compounds in cannabis plants. It does not produce the same high as THC, but has various medical benefits.
CBD is a popular form of treatment among patients with mental health issues including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, etc. Additionally, it also works an anti-inflammatory compound for patients who suffer from migraines, and other forms of chronic pain. Cancer patients often consume CBD since it helps alleviate some of the symptoms.
It is important for every patient to consider how long the medication takes to deliver the desired effects. In the case of CBD, there are quite a few factors that affect the time it takes for the effects to kick in, and how long these effects last. Two of the most important factors are the dosage, and how it is administered. Here, we will inform you about the delivery methods of CBD, and which ones are the best for quick effects.
Delivery methods
There are a number of ways to consume CBD, and each of these has a different mechanism. Another factor that determines the speed of absorption of CBD is the metabolic rate of the consumers, which differs from person to person. The following are the commonly used methods.
Vaping and Smoking: Smoking and vaping CBD rich cannabis and its extracts are the fastest ways to feel its effects. This is because inhaling CBD directly leads to its entry in the bloodstream. CBD diffuses into the blood through the alveoli of the lungs. It takes about 5-10 minutes for the consumer to feel the effects of CBD, once inhaled. The only downside to this method is that its effects last the shortest amount of time, only up to 3 hours.
Sublingual: The term sublingual refers to the administration of CBD, in the form of CBD oil or tinctures, directly under the tongue. This is a common way to take medicines, wherein, the compound gets quick access to the bloodstream. After CBD oil is dripped under one’s tongue, the mucus membrane absorbs it. After this, it enters the bloodstream by diffusing into the capillaries under the tongue. The effects of sublingual administration are felt within minutes. The effects also last longer than smoking, for around 4-6 hours.
Oral Ingestion: Oral ingestion refers to the consumption of CBD through edibles. In this case, individuals have to wait for the longest period of time to feel the effects of CBD. It takes between 30-60 minutes or more to feel the effects, since CBD has to travel through to digestive tract to the liver prior to its admission in the bloodstream. The plus side of oral ingestion is that the effects last the longest; between 4-6 hours. It is available in various forms: oil, drinks, brownies, cake, coffee, etc.
Topically: Topical application means applying a product in the form of a lotion or cream, directly to the skin. After that, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream through the epidermis. The concentration of CBD in the product, its solubility, and the condition of the skin of the individual, are some factors which affect the time it takes to feel the effects. It usually takes about an hour to feel its effects. The advantage of this method is that it can be directly applied where it is needed, thus, greatly helpful for patients with inflammation.
Word From HempStreet
As discussed above, it is apparent that there are diverse ways to consume CBD that take different amounts of time to affect those taking it. Self-medicating using cannabis is advised against. If you feel that you could benefit from one of these methods, it is best to approach your medical practitioner and get a prescription for the same.
