What is the best way to use CBD for you?

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a substance derived from the Cannabis Sativa L plant, particularly its variety commonly known as hemp . CBD has been recognized by the World Health Organization as a substance with promising therapeutic benefits , as well as noting that it is not harmful to health, does not cause addiction, and does not have psychomimetic effects on its own. The best way to use CBD for you will depend on several factors that we will discuss today. There are different ways to consume CBD and each has its own peculiarities, advantages and disadvantages. Currently, the following are marketed all over the world, following the regulations of each country: Oils, CBD creams , flowers, capsules, edibles, sprays, serums, patches, vaping oils, etc. CBD and other cannabinoids act through our endocannabinoid system . This system is distributed throughout the body and is responsible for regulating other physiological systems, in particular by modulating the activity of different neurotransmitters and receptors to promote the balance of all bodily functions. There are various factors to consider that help you choose the best option for your needs:

• The format: Depending on whether it is a CBD oil , a cream, an edible, etc., the type of absorption and the effect on the body varies.
• Cannabis use: If you are a person who uses Cannabis frequently, it is easy that over the years of consumption you have developed a certain tolerance to some cannabinoids and CBD can have a very subtle effect on your body. However, if you have never used any Cannabis derivative, you will feel the effects with smaller amounts of CBD.
• Your personal characteristics: This will determine the optimal dosage with which each person will notice the effects, since each organism is different and, as it is a natural substance, its effects may be slightly different depending on the person who uses it. We must take into account the uniqueness of each person's endocannabinoid system , just as our circulatory system or our liver is somewhat different from that of other people and has its own unique characteristics.

There are different ways to use CBD:

• Topical use of CBD (Regulated in Spain)

  Topical use is a localized application, so the effects will remain in the area where it is applied . It is absorbed by the epidermis (skin), without penetrating the bloodstream. We can find all kinds of products and concentrations for different needs. There are beauty and wellness products such as CBD creams , oils or serums and soaps to regulate the production and repair of skin cells, as well as soothe skin ailments related to inflammation, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis . There are also other products to relieve muscle and joint pain and speed up muscle recovery, such as oils, ointments and balms.
  • Absorption: Varies greatly depending on concentration and location of application.
  • Duration : Between 2 and 3 hours
  • Advantage : being able to use CBD exclusively in the area where it is needed, without having all the other physical and mental effects
  • Disadvantage : The limitation of absorption through the skin, which is usually quite low.

• Sublingual use of CBD (Regulated in Switzerland, Canada, USA) This method of use is used to alleviate other problems such as insomnia, anxiety, muscle pain, and other illnesses. A few drops of oil are placed under the tongue, held for 60-90 seconds, and then swallowed. Experts have recommended taking it divided up during the day so that the effects are more effective and prolonged, so it is divided into three doses: in the morning, at midday, and at night.
  • Absorption: It is high since under the tongue we have a mucous membrane that reaches the bloodstream faster because it does not have to go through the digestive system.
  • Duration: They can last between 6-8 hours in a continuous and balanced way.
  • Advantage : being able to use CBD in a continuous and regular way, optimizing dosage and bioavailability
  • Disadvantage : it takes some time and method to find the dosage for optimal effect

Others:

• CBD Edibles A more palatable and easier way to take CBD is through food and drink.
  • Absorption: As it passes through the stomach, absorption is slow.
  • Duration: They can last between 6-8 hours.
  • Advantage: Administration is very easy.
  • Disadvantage: The effect can be very variable in degree and duration.

• Transdermal use of CBD Patches can be interesting to obtain a smooth and continuous effect. Patches are applied in an area where they can be easily absorbed into the bloodstream. It usually takes less than an hour but their duration is continuous depending on the concentration.
  • Absorption: Through the skin, but due to its format it enters directly into the bloodstream.
  • Duration: Patches can last between 8-12 hours
  • Advantage : you don't have to worry about anything.
  • Disadvantage : It is a recent and quite invasive administration route.

• Inhaled use of CBD Inhalation offers us the fastest way to feel the effects of CBD because it goes to the lungs and enters the bloodstream directly.
  • Absorption: Very high because it goes through the lungs and directly into the bloodstream.
  • Duration : The effects are immediate and maximum from the beginning, gradually reducing until it disappears within 2-4 hours.
  • Advantage : the effect is immediate and the dosage can be adjusted instantly according to the need
  • Disadvantage : the duration is short, therefore it is a complicated route if a more continuous effect is needed.

If you want to know more about CBD or the Endocannabinoid System, check out the following blogs: What is CBD? History, benefits and properties The Endocannabinoid System