People’s motivations for taking CBD can vary dramatically. We have previously covered how CBD Oil can be effective in treating a variety of health conditions, from helping those suffering from mental health to aiding with pain relief and reducing inflammation in arthritis sufferers.

Similarly, the ways that people can take CBD also vary, and different application methods can suit different users. It’s all about what works for the individual. It helps that CBD is an incredibly versatile supplement and can be consumed and applied in a variety of ways. With a growing market and new products being released weekly, we’ve prepared a short guide that explains the different ways to consume CBD.

How to take CBD

There are four main methods of consumption for CBD, each with their advantages and some with disadvantages. How you decide to take CBD should align with your lifestyle and the health benefits you are seeking. These methods, along with how long (on average) it takes for CBD to work, will help you decide.

Sublingually (under the tongue)

The most common and arguably easiest method of taking CBD is via CBD oils and tinctures. By spraying (or placing drops) under your tongue and leaving it there for up to 90 seconds, the oil’s active ingredients are then absorbed into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes in your mouth.
This method is generally considered the most convenient because the product is portable and application is quick and easy. Furthermore, the absorption process is extremely efficient and allows the CBD to be absorbed into the bloodstream faster than through ingestion or topical application. This rapid absorption allows the CBD to interact with your endocannabinoid system quickly, leading to higher saturation levels and meaning that the benefits of the CBD are felt more quickly. Another major benefit of sublingual application is that the dose can be standardized so the user can better track their dosage and consumption. When taken sublingually, you also get the full range of CBD benefits. For example, if you’re using it for pain relief, you’ll still get the other homeostasis benefits that aid your sleep, metabolism and mood.
The main disadvantage to this method is most CBD Oils can taste rather unpleasant. However, if you buy from a brand that focuses on great taste, like the Hawaiian Choice range, choosing to take CBD Oil sublingually might be your best option.

How? Spray under the tongue and leave it for up to 90 seconds.

Topically (on the skin)

Topical application is when you apply CBD directly onto the skin. It can be applied in the form of creams, moisturising lotions, gels and more. Your skin’s pores then absorb the CBD and it interacts with nearby surface cells without entering your bloodstream. For those looking for a product that helps deal with a localized injury, pain or inflammation, a topical application might be the way to go. Studies have shown that it can also help with serious skin conditions, as well as being useful in targeting pain. It can be directly applied to where it’s needed most. Our topical gel is quick and easy to apply, and fast acting. It also smells great with Big Island lemongrass eucalyptus.

How? Rub the gel into your skin in areas with pain and inflammation and repeat as needed.

Ingestion

As mentioned earlier CBD Oils taken sublingually don’t always taste the best. This has caused a spike in CBD being included in a variety of edibles. Even though this method is convenient, it isn’t always as effective as the sublingual or topical application. However, you can still choose a sublingual method that tastes great by going with a brand like Hawaiian Choice who pay close attention to flavour and smell in all of their CBD products.

Compared to the sublingual application, when you ingest CBD you lose a lot of the active cannabinoids because of the journey it has to make through to the digestive system, liver metabolization and your gut wall. This causes waste as not all the CBD consumed will make its way to your bloodstream. Moreover, it will take longer for you to feel the benefits.
This method does reflect the way other daily supplements such as vitamins are typically taken, however, the effectiveness of taking CBD via ingestion is dependant on a number of factors, including what you have eaten and the time of day and the experienced effects may be more subtle.

Inhalation

Vaping CBD has become increasingly popular in recent times, with many vape liquid manufacturers jumping on the CBD bandwagon.
First and foremost, if you do not vape, this method of taking CBD is not recommended as it encourages a habit with obvious downsides. The health implications of vaping are still not fully understood and although research shows vaping is not as harmful as smoking tobacco, it’s far from harmless. Most countries equate vaping with smoking and it’s generally banned from offices and indoor public spaces. Vaping CBD oil is very different to other applications and public health warnings from the U.S Army have been issued detailing the risks involved with taking CBD in this way. Considering that the main motivation for consuming CBD is the health benefits it gives to the user, evidence points to vaping not being a suitable option. If a fast acting CBD solution is what you are looking for, the sublingual application is the best way forward.

The best way to take CBD

It’s 100% down to the individual. Everyone is different, and you will have a personal preference on how to take CBD. Most products in this market focus on sublingual methods of application due to its efficient absorption process. However, topical application is also favourable for helping with aches and pains you can target yourself. At Hawaiian Choice, our premium full-spectrum CBD products are carefully crafted to taste and smell great whilst helping you on your homeostasis journey.