01/02/2023

Over the last few years, CBD has become one of the hottest topics in the wellness industry, and one of the most sought-after natural supplements. But what are some of the different ways to take CBD, and why? Here are our top five.

Like the vast majority of hemp-based cannabinoids, CBD is non-psychoactive, so the long list of effects of CBD doesn’t include any habit-forming ‘highs’. Instead, it shows an ever-expanding list of positive effects on the human body and mind, from pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties through to helping with sleep issues and stress.

There are many ways to take CBD: oils, capsules, vapes, and sweets – to name a few. Though most products on the market don’t have enough high-quality CBD to give therapeutic benefits.

In this article, we’ll focus on the most effective ways of adding CBD to your daily routine and help you choose a serving size, best suited to your needs.

How much CBD should I take?

Because of differences in our genetics, body makeup, metabolic rates, and current health situation, there’s no single perfect answer to that question. The ideal amount varies by individual.

At the moment at least, there is no RDI for suggested daily CBD servings. That said, there have been efforts to create guidelines for the hemp & CBD industry by EU lawmakers, based on the ever-increasing body of scientific research. This will help differentiate more clearly between food, dietary supplements and medical-grade products. One such RDI guideline was created by EIHA – the European Industrial Hemp Association – in which the suggested daily intake of CBD for non-medical purposes is between 20 and 160mg. A commonly recommended amount for adults is 50mg per day. We always recommend: ‘start low and work up’ until you find an amount that works for you.

Ways to take CBD

CBD is available in many forms. A key factor is the bioavailability of CBD provided by each method, that is – how effectively and quickly it delivers cannabinoids to the receptors of your EndoCannabinoid System (ECS).
Here are the five most popular, convenient, and effective delivery methods to take your cannabidiol.

#1 CBD Oil orally

Undoubtedly the most popular way to take CBD, CBD in oil form is also one of the most convenient ways. CBD oils are oily extracts of the hemp plant, and should – in theory – contain the full spectrum of compounds naturally occurring in the cannabis plant. Since cannabinoids dissolve in oils, it is the oily carrier – such as MCT coconut oil or hemp seed oil – that ensures the efficient absorption of the CBD. For that reason, CBD oils are the best choices for giving the beneficial ‘entourage effect’ of the hemp compounds, and they are the best choice for general use.

CBD oils can be taken sublingually, that is by putting a few drops under the tongue (good for quick absorption), or added to food, smoothies and other drinks – which allows CBD to be absorbed by our digestive system.
Taking CBD sublingually is one of the most efficient ways to take your cannabinoids, as it allows for the highest bioavailability.

It is important not to confuse CBD oils with CBD tinctures. CBD tinctures are alcohol-based extracts that often contain as much as 70% alcohol. In addition, alcohol is not the best carrier for CBD as all cannabinoids are best absorbed in oily forms.

#2 Topical CBD

As more research is conducted on the advantages of hemp oil, newer ways to use hemp-based products are being developed, including on our skin. The receptors of the ECS can also be found in the skin, our body’s largest organ, which opens a world of possibilities for CBD skincare products.

Hemp topicals include balms, salves, lotions, and oils that are infused with active hemp oil and applied to, and absorbed directly through, your skin. Topicals have grown in popularity in recent years, with hemp oil making its way into everything from lip balms and salves to cosmetics and skincare products, with Kannaway being the first company in the world to produce a cannabis-based skincare range.

Rather than ingesting hemp oil orally, which will affect the whole body and can take up to 2 hours or more to fully experience the effects, the topical application of hemp allows them to be absorbed directly into the affected area for the faster and more focused onset of effects.

This minimally invasive method for hemp oil use often serves as the first point of contact between curious consumers and hemp oil products. New users may be more willing to try external applications for the first time before moving on to oral hemp oil supplements.

CBD-infused topicals can be great for skin, muscles, and joints, allowing their users to benefit from their moisturising, nourishing, and soothing properties, targeted to where needed.

#3 CBD Edibles

CBD edibles are a great way to start introducing CBD to your diet. They can be made with CBD oil or infused with CBD isolates and can include chewing gums, honey, cookies, candies, or gummies.

Most forms of edibles can make it harder to precisely measure the amount of CBD taken, so that’s a consideration depending on your needs. In comparison to putting CBD oil under your mouth, ingestion of CBD edibles results in a slower onset and longer effects, making it less recommended for users looking for instant effects, but more convenient if you need a lasting effect, such as sleep or mood regulation.

#4 CBD Vapes

Although not the most efficient way to absorb CBD, vaping is certainly one of the quickest, allowing for almost instant onset of the effects, so is the favourite way to take CBD for many casual users.
Vaping is certainly convenient and allows taking small portions of CBD every few minutes, which is the best solution for a steady, but not excessive, use of CBD. The sole act of holding your vape pen or vaporizer and blowing milky clouds of harmless smoke, can in itself be calming (especially for those users trying to quit cigarettes), and vaping CBD is best for just that: managing your mood throughout the day.

#5 CBD Capsules

Finally, among the 5 top ways to take your CBD are capsules filled with CBD oil. Capsules mix the benefits of edibles and CBD oils: they are convenient and easy to take, whilst allowing for more precise measurement of dose than any hemp oil or edible. This makes CBD capsules a good solution for users seeking precise doses and convenience. Capsules also allow bypassing the distinct taste of CBD oils, which can be a big plus for many users with more delicate stomachs – or for children who simply dislike the taste.

Conclusion

There is no right or wrong way to take your daily CBD.
If you need a precise amount, you won’t be taking edibles right now, nor will you be vaping, but you can choose your preferred method.
Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned CBD user, we recommend you try one or more of the most popular ways to take your CBD, adjust the amount to your needs, starting low and working up. You’ll come to find the right amount for you.


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Article extract from Hemp for Humanity, powered by Kannaway – The Premier Cannabis Company™