Today, cannabidiol (CBD) is manufactured in many forms, from oils and gummies to creams and even clothes. There isn’t one type that works best as a suitable method of intake depends on various factors, such as the condition to be treated, the concentration of CBD and the person using it. So, it’s crucial to find the best administration method for you and your needs. Here we will draw attention to the four common methods of CBD intake, including the main types of CBD extract.
Full-Spectrum vs Broad-Spectrum vs CBD Isolate
When shopping for CBD, you probably notice these terms like full-plant extract, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate, aside from different concentrations of CBD and THC. Here is an in-depth introduction to the main categories of CBD: isolate, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum, which will help you choose the most suitable CBD product.
Full-spectrum CBD oils (also called whole-plant extract) contain a full range of cannabinoids, including terpenes and other useful cannabis plant compounds. There is a theory that cannabis compounds are more active when combined together in one product. Therefore, full-spectrum CBD products are referred to as more effective. However, these products can also include a small amount of THC. Beware that the allowed amount of THC in the UK is 0.2%, and products that have THC above this figure are considered illegal.
Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains all the cannabinoids except for THC. That’s why it is legal in most countries, including the UK. Most broad-spectrum CBD goods are produced using industrial hemp, which contains less THC than conventional marijuana.
CBD isolate products contain pure CBD without any other compounds. CBD isolates don’t have the cannabis plant aroma. However, they preserve all useful qualities attributed to cannabidiol. Like broad-spectrum products, CBD isolate oil traditionally comes from industrial hemp.
Popular Types Of CBD Products Available
Tinctures
CBD oils often come in glass bottles with measuring droppers and are considered the most common format of consuming CBD. While all CBD tinctures vary in concentration and composition, some brands also sweeten or infuse their products with different natural flavours to make your CBD intake more enjoyable.
The best way to intake CBD oil tinctures is to drop the needed dosage under your tongue and hold the product for 60-90 seconds before swallowing, where the oil drops can be absorbed by small capillaries. Sublingual intake (under the tongue) helps to maximise the amount of CBD available for use by the body and supplies CBD directly into the bloodstream, unlike oral ingestion when it has to first pass through the digestive system. You can also add a couple of oil drops to various foods and drinks to get your daily dose of CBD.
The main disadvantage of using tinctures is that they can be a little messy if you spill the bottle while using it. In addition, placing the oil dropper under the tongue can be inconvenient and not so discreet for some, especially if you need to do it when you are on the go.
Vapes
Vaping CBD is much like any other type of vaping except for e-liquid that is infused with CBD oil. Of all the methods of taking CBD oil, vaping is considered to have the quickest onset and highest availability.
Understandably, not everyone likes the idea of vaping to receive positive effects of CBD. Although CBD vaping doesn’t offer long-lasting benefits, many users report immediate relief for their acute symptoms of pain and anxiety. Since the active compounds are supplied directly to the lungs, CBD oil is quickly absorbed into the body, allowing it to provide a positive impact faster.
CBD vape products available on the CBD market include disposable/reusable vape pens, vape cartridges or vape juices. CBD e-liquids also come in a variety of flavours that either accentuate the natural terpenes from hemp or mask the earthy taste of the plant by adding fruity or dessert-inspired flavours for full satisfaction. However, it is crucial to remember that prolonged vaping is associated with potential health risks.
Edibles
When vaping CBD or consuming specifically designed mouth sprays and oral tinctures, it can be difficult to track the exact doses due to the liquid form of the product. Capsules and other edible products like gummies, cookies or chocolate bring a pre-measured dose of CBD oil, which eliminates special calculations and allows you to easily trace your dosage during your treatment.
Edible CBD products offer not only an easy and quick way to get the dosage you need but also a great way to incorporate cannabidiol into your daily regimen. When it comes to CBD pills and capsules, they are typically tasteless and odour-free, making it easier for those users who want to avoid the natural taste of CBD. They also can be easily added to your existing supplement routine without special measurement or dose calculation.
No matter if you choose CBD oil capsules or gummies, such products need to pass the digestive tract, which might take up to two hours to bring the first positive effects as well as decrease the amount of CBD that will hit the bloodstream. At the same time, as they are absorbed when digested, CBD edibles can offer long-lasting effects, allowing consumers to experience a consistent supply of CBD throughout the day.
Topicals
Taking CBD orally or inhaling with the help of a vape pen are not the only methods to deliver CBD in your system and reap its potential benefits. Since endocannabinoid receptors in the body are also found on the skin, applying CBD directly to the painful or irritated skin area can provide needed relief as active compounds will interact with your skin rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream.
CBD creams and lotions are often made by infusing high-quality cannabis plants with natural oils like coconut or olive. Oil extracts the active compound of cannabidiol before blending with therapeutic herbs to create an ointment for chronic or muscle pain, swelling or inflammation.
Aside from providing localised treatment for sore muscles, different injuries and aches, you can also find topical CBD products created for addressing specific skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, dryness, etc., in the form of CBD bath bomb, face cleansers, serums, massage oils, lip balms and many others.