How to Take CBD Oil: Dose, Types, and More
With the rise in popularity of CBD comes an increase in various CBD products.
It can be confusing for cannabis users to figure out the best way to take their CBD product. Read on to find out more about taking CBD oil, the types available, and how to take it to optimize your health and well-being.
What is CBD Oil?
Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant. There are more than 100 different types present, all with various properties, chemical structures, and uses (1). One of the more popular ones is cannabidiol (CBD), which is often the go-to variant for cannabis-derived products.
CBD is a popular cannabinoid option as it’s well-tolerated with minimal side effects and is non-psychoactive, unlike the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabinoid. Its wide-ranging benefits have also been used to ease and assist various health conditions, including anxiety and insomnia (2).
CBD oil is made by infusing cannabis with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil to provide a safe and straightforward approach to taking CBD. CBD oils are often in small droppers and taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption.
Types of CBD Oil
Different types of CBD oils are available for purchase, containing different concentrations of cannabinoids. Each type comes with advantages and disadvantages and will work best with different needs and preferences.
Isolate
Like the name suggests, CBD isolate contains only isolated CBD with no other cannabinoids present. CBD isolate is considered the most “pure” form since all the other natural compounds have been removed. CBD isolate is considered free from contaminants and has no added smell or taste (3).
Because of this, CBD isolates are popular with consumers who want to limit their risk of developing side effects and are looking for a more controlled approach to their CBD use. While CBD isolate is generally well-tolerated, some researchers have raised questions about their effectiveness, as other compounds in the cannabis plant are known to play essential roles in producing effective therapeutic properties (4).
Full-Spectrum
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all the cannabinoids that can be naturally found in cannabis, including THC. They have a relatively high concentration of natural organic compounds, including other minor cannabinoids, proteins, flavonoids, and terpenes (5).
While THC is present, the amount is still minimal and usually won’t create a noticeable “high” for the user (<0.3% THC). Full-spectrum CBD oil is also top-rated amongst many users as researchers note less transformation of the cannabis plant, with all the benefits retained (6). Studies have also shown that when CBD and THC are used together, an “entourage effect” is produced (7). This effect highlights how cannabinoids can work together to create a bigger and better therapeutic effect for the user than only taking one cannabinoid at a time.
Broad Spectrum
Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains different types of cannabinoids found in cannabis, except THC. Like full-spectrum CBD oils, broad spectrum options are favored amongst avid cannabis users who prefer a more “natural” way of taking cannabis.
Due to being THC-free, broad-spectrum CBD oils may be a good option for those who want to get all the benefits of the cannabis plant but are in an environment where THC is prohibited (8). For example, at work, school, with kids, driving, or where drug tests will be conducted.
Dosage and Safety
CBD dosage will depend on your individual needs and preferences. A good way of figuring out when the best time to take CBD oil is by trying it at different times of the day. Some people like to start their morning with a few drops of CBD for pain relief throughout the day. Others prefer taking it a couple of hours before bed for its anxiety-relieving effects.
As a general rule, start slow when first taking CBD oil. This will give your body enough time to adjust to the CBD before increasing over time if needed. Try 2-3 drops once a day, assess how your body reacts to that dosage, and then increase or decrease based on what you need.
The most common way of taking CBD oil is sublingually. The area under the tongue is capillary-rich, so putting a few drops there will enhance absorption rate compared to other CBD forms like gummies or capsules that have to make their way through the digestive system before being absorbed (9).
If you’re worried about the correct dosage or whether CBD oil is the best choice for you, talk to your doctor before starting. The CBD cannabinoid can also interact with other medications (10), so it is recommended to ask a health professional if you think it might affect you.
Side Effects
Most people have no problem taking CBD oil and will experience no side effects throughout the process. However, others may develop minimal side effects due to several factors, like body composition and metabolism (11). These side effects include:
- Changes in bowel movements
- Changes in mood
- Changes in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
As mentioned earlier, to limit your risk of developing side effects, slowly incorporate CBD oil into your daily routine. If any symptoms persist or get worse, stop taking the CBD and check with your doctor.
Another way of reducing your risk of developing side effects is by choosing CBD oils from reputable companies. While these are generally more expensive, they are also higher quality and batch-tested to limit the risk of exposure to any contaminants.
The Bottom Line
CBD oil is a popular and effective way of taking CBD. There are various forms of CBD oil, each with different compounds present.
It’s always good to check in with a health professional before taking CBD. Also, choose high-quality products to limit your risk of developing adverse effects.
**Standard Disclaimer: CBD is not FDA-approved. We make no such claims that using our products will guarantee relief. Moreover, research regarding CBD is still ongoing and in the early stages.**
Why Choose Sunny Skies For Your CBD Needs?
At Sunny Skies CBD, we are committed to:
1) making high-quality products
2) operating in an open and transparent manner
3) building an independently owned and operated family business
