HOW TO USE CBD OIL – A GUIDE FOR NEW USERS

HOW TO USE CBD OIL – A GUIDE FOR NEW USERS

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is known for its range of incredible potential health benefits. It has been effective in relief from stress, cancer, diabetes, inflammation, anxiety, arthritis, pain, insomnia, and other health conditions. This has led to the growing number of people taking CBD oil as part of their daily wellness routine. CBD itself is completely safe, non-toxic, and has very few side effects — as stated by the World Health Organization.

CBD oil is available in different forms like liquid, capsules, pastes, sprays, creams, and salves. These different forms give you more choices and an opportunity to figure out the method of use that aligns with your needs and lifestyle. There is no general rule regarding the use of CBD oil. Choosing a method of using CBD oil depends on the optimal dose of an individual, the personal condition of the individual, the intended result to be achieved, or how long the individual wants the effect to last. Let us look at the various methods of using CBD oil, their different effectiveness, and delivery mechanism.

There are four main methods of using CBD oil:

• Sublingual (taking it under the tongue)
• Ingesting (using it in edibles)
• Inhaling  (smoking or vaping it)
• Topically (applying it to the skin)

Sublingual (taking it under the tongue)

The sublingual method entails applying a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue from the dropper and holding it in your mouth for about 30 – 60 seconds before swallowing it. It allows the CBD oil to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream from capillary-rich areas underneath the tongue. This method gets CBD into the bloodstream faster than simply swallowing it. The major benefit of this method is that the CBD bypasses the digestive process, which can destroy much of the CBD before it is absorbed into the bloodstream. It is an easy method that requires no extra tools or accessories, and can easily be done anywhere anytime without drawing attention. It makes it easy to manage and control how much you use if you’re new to CBD, and has a long-lasting effect when taken this way.

Ingesting (using it in edibles) 

One of the most common and convenient ways to use CBD is to swallow CBD oil concentrate.  When CBD oil concentrate is swallowed or ingested, it passes through the digestive system and is metabolized by the liver. Ingested CBD will stay longer in the body system as it is slowly released into your bloodstream. The effects of ingesting CBD oil can take 2-4 hours to kick in and can last for up to 10 hours. It has the longest-lasting effect compared to other consumption methods. This method of use is very discreet and practically offers endless options on how to prepare CBD edibles. CBD oil is fat-soluble, and consuming the right and healthy dose can be tricky and requires some experimentation.

Inhaling (smoking or vaping it)

Inhaling CBD oil is one of the fastest ways to feel the effect of CBD immediately since it goes straight into your lungs and bloodstream. CBD oil can be inhaled by smoking and vaping. You can smoke CBD oil concentrate using an “oil rig” or smoke high-CBD cannabis flower in a joint. The smoking method offers the highest concentration of CBD oil and the fastest way to consume it. However, smoking can be harsh on the throat and lungs. Vaping CBD oil with a vaporizer pen can be a great way to start, and a great alternative to smoking if you want the maximum possible effect. CBD oil for vaporizers can be obtained in cartridges or refill bottles. Vaping and smoking, allow the CBD to go directly into your bloodstream and takes effect in 10 minutes or less. You’ll absorb about 34 to 56 percent of the CBD you consume, and the level of concentration may be more than you want to feel.

Topically (applying it to the skin)

The topical method of use is the easiest as it doesn’t require any special tools or knowledge.  The CBD oil applied directly onto the skin is absorbed by the endocannabinoid receptors on the skin cells and reaches local targets, like muscles, inflammatory cells, and pain-perceiving nerves. This method is best for the treatment of sore muscles, migraines, chronic pain, and skin conditions like acne, as CBD oil topicals are more focused on moisturizing the skin, promoting relaxation, and natural relief. The topical method has the mildest effects of all the consumption methods, and it happens quickly and does not last long compared to the other methods.

CBD Oil Dosage and Recommended Daily Intake

There is no Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for CBD oil at the moment. Finding the best dose is important and takes an individualized process. The optimal effects are often different as the amount needed varies from person to person. It all depends on why you’re taking it, your weight, and the strength of your CBD oil. The endocannabinoid system and sensitivity of every individual differs, and so dosage varies as well. It is always good to start low and go slow. If you’re taking CBD oil for pain, anxiety, seizures, cancer, or any other reason, you’ll need more or less CBD.