There are plenty of ways to take advantage of the medicinal properties of cannabinol (CBD), but which method of consumption is most common?
CBD offers several potential health benefits, including alleviating inflammation, pain, anxiety, and seizures. [1] [2] [3] It’s also been studied for its potential link to treating cancer, brain injury following concussions, and acne. [4] [5] [6] Considering all the potential ways that CBD can improve overall health and wellness, it’s understandable that the cannabinoid would generate lots of demand among consumers.
Considering this, CBD is available in a variety of products, but some are more popular among consumers than others.
CBD Tinctures
The most popular way to use CBD is sublingually through a tincture. Not only is it an easy mode of consumption, but it’s also highly effective. Since the CBD consumed under the tongue bypasses the digestive system, it can directly enter the bloodstream without having to be metabolized. Thus, the effects of CBD when consumed sublingually can be experienced much faster compared to other modes of consumption.
Sublingual CBD is also easy to use. Just a few drops placed under the tongue is all that’s needed. Tinctures also offer a more consistent level of absorption compared to edible CBD products.
Further, CBD tinctures are ideal for dosing at higher levels of the cannabinoid, particularly for those who require high doses of CBD for serious medical ailments or for those who have a high tolerance.
Having said that, there are other methods of CBD consumption that consumers can choose from.
CBD Edibles
Edible CBD products are also popular and offer an alternative to carrying liquid tinctures around. In particular, CBD gummies are common and offer a simple and convenient way to consume CBD. They’re also a tasty treat, discreet, and make precise dosing easy.
That said, CBD gummies take a long time for effects to be felt, as the CBD must first be broken down in the digestive system. Further, the CBD is not as bioavailable through edibles compared to CBD tinctures.
CBD Topicals
Those who are looking for more targeted relief may find CBD topicals more appealing. For instance, those who are experiencing pain in the joints or muscles due to injury or disease may find the application of CBD creams, salves, and ointments more effective when applied directly to the site of discomfort.
CBD topicals also offer indirect benefits thanks to the other ingredients that typically accompany these products, such as essential oils. In addition to pain relief, CBD topicals may also provide moisturizing and soothing benefits to the skin.
Ultimately, the best way to consume CBD depends on the reason why you are looking to use it and your comfort level. While taking CBD sublingually may offer a slew of perks, other modes of consumption offer their own benefits, too.
Image source: Erin Stone from Pixabay
References:
1- Shannon, S., et al, “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series“, Perm J., January 2019; Vol.23: 18-041.
2- Baswan, S.M., et al, “Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Skin Health and Disorders“, Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol., December 2020; Vol.13: 927–942.
3- Atala, S., et al, “Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol“, Antioxidants (Basel), January 2020; Vol. 9(1): 21.
4- Seltzer, E.S., et al, “Cannabidiol (CBD) as a Promising Anti-Cancer Drug“, Cancers (Basel), November 2020; Vol. 12(11): 3203.
5- Singh, J. & Neary, J.P., “Neuroprotection Following Concussion: The Potential Role for Cannabidiol“, Can J Neurol Sci., May 2020; Vol.47(3): 289-300.
6- Oláh, A., ET AL, “Cannabidiol exerts sebostatic and antiinflammatory effects on human sebocytes“, J Clin Invest., September 2014; Vol. 124(9): 3713–3724.
