The different ways to consume CBD

The multiple virtues of CBD (cannabidiol) are now no longer a secret to anyone. Long demonised because it was associated with the psychoactive effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is now widely accepted by society, which is gradually becoming aware of its analgesic, anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects.

In fact, more and more people are starting to consume CBD in order to enjoy its benefits for the body and mind. That being said, not everyone knows how to consume it properly yet. In this article, we explain how to consume CBD in a healthy way that is safe for your health.

How to consume CBD

Of course, CBD should not be smoked with tobacco. Although hemp has long been associated with smoking a joint, this is far from the case today. Without further ado, here are the different ways to consume CBD well.

The sublingual route

This method of consumption is specific to CBD oil and crystals. To do this, you simply pour a few drops of CBD oil or some CBD crystals directly under your tongue. Then wait a few seconds for the mucous membranes to soak up the cannabinoids.

The sublingual route is one of the fastest in terms of absorption. Depending on the individual and the dosage of CBD oil or crystals, it takes between 5 and 20 minutes to feel relaxing effects. The CBD oil bottles are equipped with a dropper which allows you to respect the dosage. The biggest advantage of consuming CBD sublingually is that the intake is as effective as it is precise.

Inhalation

CBD consumption via inhalation is a fairly common technique among consumers. It is particularly popular with smokers or ex-smokers as it represents a potential alternative to the consumption of THC nicotine. Inhaling CBD gives the consumer optimal absorption and almost instantaneous effects, and therefore outperforms the sublingual method in this respect. There are various accessories that allow you to consume CBD via inhalation and these are:

• The vaporizer: this is one of the most popular accessories for this type of consumption. Usually compatible with flowers or resin, some of the more advanced vaporizers allow you to put wax or even CBD crystals in it.
• The dab bong: shaped like a hookah, this tool allows you to inhale flowers or resin and is suitable for "old school" consumption enthusiasts. That said, as the temperature is not controlled, it is a relatively dangerous method for health.
• The electronic cigarette: electronic cigarette smokers will not have to get a new accessory to get into CBD inhalation. A great opportunity for them to turn to a healthier consumption by choosing CBD-based e-liquids.
• The ultrasonic nebuliser: if you want to adopt an inhalation method that is as healthy as possible, this is what you need. The ultrasonic nebulizer is the recommended accessory in the medical world.

Oral absorption

Administering CBD orally is equivalent to consuming CBD capsules or softgels. It is also possible to consume CBD oil, flowers or resins orally by mixing them with food or in a drink. With this method, the relaxing effects may take longer to manifest themselves. Depending on the individual, the relaxing effects can be felt anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 hours after intake.

While this slowness may represent a constraint for some, others may benefit from it. Indeed, this method allows the benefits provided by CBD to be spread out over the long term, something beneficial to people suffering from chronic pain. The only disadvantage of oral consumption is bioavailability: only about 20% of ingested CBD is absorbed by the body. Apart from the oil and capsules, some CBD-rich food products are also available on the market.

Skin absorption

This method amounts to using creams, balms, or oils to apply directly to the skin. Absorbing CBD through the skin helps to alleviate irritation, inflammation, or itching, but also to benefit from its antioxidant, anti-aging, moisturizing, and healing properties. Used daily, CBD-based cosmetic products help maintain the epidermis and slow down its ageing.

Note that with this use, the effect provided remains local because CBD does not enter the bloodstream. To enjoy the benefits of CBD on the skin, it is possible to buy ready-to-use cosmetic products or to make them yourself. To create your own CBD-based cosmetics at home, simply add a few drops of CBD oil to products you already use on a daily basis, such as moisturiser or shampoo.

What is the best way to consume CBD?

Really, there is no right or wrong way to consume CBD. The best method is the one that works best for you. For example, consumers who want quick effects should look to sublingual administration or inhalation. On the other hand, people with chronic pain should use oral administration to enjoy the effects for longer. If your goal is to relieve a skin irritation or mosquito bite, there is no point in inhaling CBD, the only effective solution is to apply it directly to the skin.

Today, there are enough CBD products on the market to satisfy everyone's needs. The most important thing is to consume CBD in the healthiest and most effective way possible. This way, you will always get optimal effects, without ever endangering your health.