The popular cannabidiol CBD is being put into virtually everything these days. From gas station drinks to lollipops, CBD is playing the field.
And while there are hundreds of ways to consume it, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 5.
1. Tinctures
On the list as number 1 is our handy dandy tinctures. Tinctures tend to refer to the fancy dropper bottles your oil comes in. While the actual meaning of a tincture is a “medicine made by dissolving a drug in alcohol,” CBD tinctures are a bit less extreme.
In tinctures, CBD extract is often mixed with a carrier oil (instead of with alcohol). Some of the most common carrier oils include coconut (MCT), hemp, or olive oil. It’s done this way because these fats are easy for the body to digest, which means that the CBD can dissolve into the bloodstream quicker. These fatty acids often take the form of natural healthy fats, like the ones listed above.
The beauty of tinctures is there are dozens of ways to incorporate them into your routine. Many individuals place a dropper worth directly under their tongue and let the liquid sit for about a minute. Taking CBD oil sublingually allows for it to absorb into the bloodstream faster (and for you to feel the effects in no time!).
Another common way to use tinctures is by putting a dropper or two into food or drinks. Many people like to put CBD into their smoothies, coffee, or even baked goods, to get that daily dose in without having to change their routine too much.
2. Edibles
Just like how you can add a dropper of oil to your smoothie or coffee, CBD oil can also be added to different foods (and you don’t have to hassle with the dosing because it’s all done for you). It can be put into chocolate bars, candy, drinks, and almost anything you can dream up.
While CBD oil can be infused into almost any food, gummies are a fan favorite! Gummies, also known as fruit chews, are a throwback to those sugary movie theater candies from childhood, but with a much needed CBD kick. And even better, because many CBD companies are on the health-conscious side, these gummies not only taste sweet and delicious, but also come packed with much healthier ingredients. We suggest opting for a fruit chew with organic ingredients and natural flavoring to ensure a healthier (but tasty) option.
Just remember to look at the overall amount of CBD in a container and then parse out how much is in each piece. For example, if there is 300mg of CBD in one container of gummies and 30 gummies per container — each gummy has 10mg of CBD.
Also make sure to read labels carefully for the correct dosing for whatever effects you are trying to achieve. It’s important to note that because edibles must be digested, it will take longer for you to feel the effects in comparison to, say, a tincture. That’s because your body must break down the food and digest it before it can enter the bloodstream.
3. Topicals
CBD topicals come in many different forms, some of the most common being balms, creams, and salves. Topicals are meant to be put directly onto the skin (instead of eaten or ingested) and are for those with muscle or joint pain. However, not all topicals are created equal.
If you are looking for pain relief from muscle or joint soreness, a topical with CBD as well as other natural ingredients will be your best bet. While CBD works great on its own, it may have a synergistic effect when paired with other natural ingredients. Carrots are good on their own, but mixed into a yummy salad with a whole bunch of vegetables they’re even better! CBD works the same way.
Topicals are great for athletes as they allow for localized pain relief. Sore shoulder? Rub into the exact area of pain for targeted relief. Topicals have this advantage over other methods.
While not exactly a topical, we thought we’d let you in on a secret. Pro tip: you can use natural CBD oil (with no additives) in your skincare routine! Just squeeze a dropper onto your face before bed and rub in for glowing, dewy skin by morning.
4. Vaporizing / Smoking
While not a favorite by most regular users, smoking CBD is definitely a popular option.
CBD vape often comes in the form of rolled joints or pens. A joint contains hemp flower, which you can also smoke using a pipe or bong. Pens, on the other hand, have a battery or vaporizer and a CBD concentrate cartridge.
When CBD is smoked or vaped, cannabinoids enter the lungs and then the bloodstream, circulating throughout the body from there. One common benefit of smoking or vaping is that you will feel the effects almost immediately (because it does not need to be absorbed or digested). Vaping and smoking allow the CBD to go directly into your bloodstream, so you'll feel effects much faster than you will with other methods.
Because smoking involves — no surprise here — smoke inhalation, there is the risk of developing respiratory issues that is not a risk with other methods of consumption.
5. Capsules / Supplements
While this method can technically be listed under the edible category, capsules are a whole different ball game, so we thought we’d give them their own section.
If you’re not new to the supplement lifestyle, CBD capsules may be your new favorite addition. Capsules are an easy and efficient way to add Cannabidiol to your routine, especially if you already have a supplement regimen in place.
CBD capsules are often combined with other great adaptogens or botanicals, which means that you don’t only get the amazing effects of Cannabidiol, but also other plant-powered goodness.
We highly recommend a CBD capsule with adaptogens that support brain health. Because who doesn’t want a little more spark to their morning! Plus, CBD may very well have adaptogenic properties that have a synergistic effect on your body.
Another great option is a CBD capsule with botanicals for sleep. Because CBD is believed to help the mind and body relax, adding it to a supplement that is already formulated for sleep may increase the effectiveness.
If you’re just getting into the supplement game, opting for a capsule with both CBD and other natural ingredients is a win-win for your mind and body!
