CBD oil has several medicinal applications, and it is used to treat a wide variety of diseases. Many people are starting to use it in order to alleviate their illnesses, however, the new users have tons of questions about the effect of CBD and how they must take it.
CBD is a cannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant (which has hundreds of other types of cannabinoids, like THC, the cannabinoid that has psychoactive effects), however, CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, therefore it does not alter mental abilities in any way after consumption. On the contrary, it has been proven that CBD oil (they come in different percentages, like 6% or 9% CBD oil) can bring several positive effects to the body.
After it is consumed, CBD reaches the bloodstream and it is distributed throughout the body interacting with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system and with the serotonin receptors. The average time it takes for the body to feel the effects depends on how the CBD is administered to reach the system.
The most important thing when buying a CBD product (Click here for more information) for consumption is to keep a routine and always listen to your body and how it is reacting to it. It is important to keep in mind there is no exact answer since the absorption and elimination of CBD depends on many factors according to each person, like metabolism, weight, the method of consumption, etc.
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CBD Sources
CBD comes from Hemp and Cannabis plants. Most of the CBD used for medicinal purposes comes from the least processed form of the cannabis plant, and the CBD that comes from hemp plants is mostly used for the production of therapeutic products.
How long does CBD oil take to work?
There are many different factors that influence how long CBD takes to take effect; one of the main factors is the condition suffered by the person. There are also other factors that can affect the duration of the effects of CBD, like the concentration of the substance, the type of disease you are treating, the method of administration, and the dose.
Method of administration
The method of administration is important. The route the CBD takes to reach the receptors in our body greatly affects the time it takes to stimulate or inhibit such receptors. Therefore, there is a big difference if you decide to use CBD by consuming CBD capsules, or you prefer to inhale CBD vape juice since each method takes different periods of time to take effect.
Remember, CBD always ends up in the bloodstream to be distributed throughout the body; it interacts with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system, and with receptors located on the brain after crossing the blood-brain barrier. It also interacts with receptors in the nervous system, immune system, and other cells and tissues. Taking this into account, you need to consider that some methods of administration enter the bloodstream quicker than others, that is why some methods take less time to feel the effect. Now you can understand why it is different to take a CBD tea, to apply some drops of CBD oil under your tongue, or to eat some CBD gummies. Let’s take a look at the most common consumption methods and how each one works.
There are 4 common ways to consume CBD:
- Vaporization
- Sublingual
- Topical Application
- Oral Consumption
Vaporization
It is the fastest method to take effect. It is recommended to use a CBD oil vaporizer. When you consume CBD through vaporization you experience the benefits of it quite fast; it is because the vapor you inhale with the active cannabinoids goes directly to the bloodstream, allowing you to feel the effects right the way, and it lasts a few hours. Remember you need the vaporizer and the CBD oil.
CBD Oil: Sublingual
Using sublingual CBD products is the second fastest method, which usually takes a few minutes to take effect. It consists of applying a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue before swallowing it. Sublingual products are the most popular and are available in drops and sprays. The effect starts between 20 and 40 minutes after consumption and lasts between 4 and 6 hours.
Topical Application
This is a very common method. Topical products come in the form of balms and creams that can be rubbed directly into the affected area to treat pain and skin problems. CBD creams and balms can be used to prevent age-related skin damage or to treat skin conditions like eczema or acne. This method is the slowest to take effect starting an hour after the application, however, it can last more than 5 hours, so it is still very effective.
CBD Oil – Oral consumption
This method is easy and discreet but is the one that takes longer to take effect, it consists of simply consuming the products. This is because the CBD has to pass through the digestive system and has to be metabolized by the liver before it reaches the bloodstream. It is also affected by different factors, like how long it has been since your last meal, and how much you eat.
If you want to consume CBD orally, like CBD food, tea, or coffee; it is recommended to do it on an empty stomach, to allow your body to digest and absorb the substance more easily. Oral products are available in a great variety of forms, such as capsules, gummy bears, juices, teas, CBD-infused coffee, and much more.
The effect of the CBD could take from 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the conditions described above and also on how healthy the person’s digestive system is. If the user has digestive problems the effects will be felt usually 1 hour or more after consumption. The effect can last between 4 and 6 hours.
The advantage is that it can be easily included in the daily routine and can also be included as part of a meal. However, it is not recommended for those who need immediate doses of CBD to alleviate their symptoms, because of how long it takes to take effect.
