Health & Fitness

CBD for Beginners: 6 Ways to Take CBD

CBD contains powerful properties that can enhance your mental and physical wellbeing. It even does this without producing any psychoactive effects. 

So, it’s no secret that the popularity of this cannabis compound has skyrocketed in the last few years. About 14% of Americans currently use CBD products, with this number only expecting to grow. 

For those new to the CBD experience, many question the right way to consume CBD, as there are a few different methods for getting a proper dose of CBD.  

Here are 6 effective ways to take CBD, for beginner users and beyond. 

1. Oils and Tinctures 

CBD oils are one of the most popular ways to consume CBD. These give you full control over your dosage size. So, it’s important to learn the right dose for your body and condition. 

There are different types of oils to consider. Full-spectrum oils use the whole cannabis plant, including other cannabinoids besides CBD.

Full-spectrum oils may contain small traces of THC. Yet, taking CBD and THC together may enhance the effects of the product. 

Broad-spectrum oils do not contain THC. The product goes through an extra process to remove this cannabinoid for a fuller CBD effect. CBD tinctures often contain other natural ingredients, like flavorings.  

The best way to take CBD oils is by placing the dropper beneath your tongue. Then hold the dose there for a minute or two before swallowing. There are many capillaries under your tongue that increase the CBD’s absorption. 

62% of people who use CBD do so to get relief from anxiety, depression, or pain. CBD oils reduce symptoms of these conditions that will last a few hours. 

2. Capsules

It’s easier for some people to take CBD in a pill form. This way, you’re getting the same exact dosage every single time. Pills come in different CBD strengths based on your body weight and needs.

Many people learning how to take CBD capsules find that onset results vary. This is due to the CBD needing to get broken down by your stomach before entering the bloodstream. Your metabolism and the amount of food in your stomach can affect this. 

Note that the longer you take CBD, you will begin to build up a tolerance. So, many people need to up their CBD dosage after awhile.  

3. Edibles

You can get a delicious dose of CBD with gummies, candies, and baked goods. Edibles are one of the most common ways to take CBD, as long as you know your dose. This guide by Highland Pharms has more information on dosage methods for edibles. 

Chocolate covered nuts, mints, lollipops, and truffles are other great forms of edibles. You can also find it in beverages, like CBD-infused coffee, beer, and tea.  

Edibles take longer to feel the effects, yet they tend to last longer as well. After consuming an edible, it may take an hour or more to kick in.

This depends on your digestion process and how much food is in your stomach at the time. Expect a proper dose to last you about 4 to 6 hours.  

You can buy edibles or use a CBD oil to make your own treats. Some people even make special CBD treats for their pets.  

Edibles are a great option for children with epilepsy. They may be easier for them to take than pills or oils. CBD is a great way to help reduce the amount and severity of seizures for epileptic patients.  

4. Topicals

CBD also comes in the form of lotions, creams, and salves. These are the best way to use CBD when looking for localized CBD products. This means they are great for targeting the skin or a certain area of the body. 

Topicals don’t need to travel through the bloodstream for you to feel the effects. They work to help with pain management, swelling, and muscle aches. Topicals help many people find targeted relief from arthritis as well. 

CBD bath bombs and salts are also used to alleviate muscle tension or menstrual cramps. Vaginal suppositories and sprays are other options. Some people even combine CBD orals with topicals for extra relief. 

CBD also helps promote healthier skin, showing up in many beauty products. It offers anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. These help with skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. 

5. Vape Pens 

Vaping may be the best way to consume CBD for instant effects, as the CBD travels through your lungs right into your bloodstream. Vaping also offers a discreet and easy way to get your dose. 

It gives you high absorption and bioavailability with the right inhalation technique. Vaping CBD also distributes the effects well throughout your body and brain. 

The instant effects make it ideal for those using CBD to help with anxiety symptoms or pain relief. Yet, with vaping, the results will wear off quicker. 

There is some debate over the potential health side effects of vaping. This method can also be more expensive with having to buy a quality pen and cartridges. 

6. Patches 

Transdermal patches stick to your skin to provide an extended dose of CBD. These patches use body heat to deliver a consistent dose of CBD throughout your body.

Patches offer maximum absorption for how to use CBD with long-lasting results. This makes them ideal to use while sleeping. They can help with insomnia and night wakings. 

CBD patches are also a natural way to help control pain overnight. This is a great alternative to taking over-the-counter pain medications.   

The Most Effective Ways to Take CBD

All these ways to take CBD will provide you with an effective remedy. CBD can help provide relief from pain management, anxiety, and other health conditions. 

When picking your preferred product, there are a few important considerations. Always use natural and organic-grown CBD. This way, you are not consuming any harmful additives.  

You also want to check that a third-party company has lab-tested the product. This ensures the safety and quality control of the CBD products you consume. 

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