When you take any supplement, you want to know how long you should wait until you feel the effect. In terms of Cannabidiol (CBD), some variables dictate how long before you feel its effect and how long they last for. These variables include dosage and administration. They affect whether you start to feel the effects of CBD nearly instantly or one hour after you administer it. Below are some ways to introduce CBD into the body. Each of them involves different metabolic pathways which impact how long it will take to feel the effects of CBD.
Smoking and Vaping
Smoking or vaping CBD-rich buds, also known as flower, and extracts is one of the fastest means to feel the effects of CBD. When CBD is inhaled, the cannabinoid will have an instant access to the bloodstream. As it diffuses into the capillaries through the lungs’ alveoli, it can cause a calming effect that can be felt around five to ten minutes later. But, these effects do not last long, usually just up to three hours.
Topical Application
This means applying a cannabis product in the form of creams or lotions directly to the skin. After placing the products on the skin, dermal absorption takes place and molecules are transported into the bloodstream. Factors like product solubility, concentration, and skin condition affect the time it takes for the product to be absorbed.
Generally, topical application can take around an hour before it produces effects. But, the benefit is that the products can be applied locally where necessary. Studies reveal that CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors of skin cells to help in reducing inflammation. The effects of topical CBD can last more than five hours, which is longer than the majority of other methods.
Oral Ingestion
If you choose this route, you will have to wait longer to feel the effects of CBD. However, the good thing is that once you feel the effects, they will last much longer than smoking and sublingual administration. You may feel the effects of CBD between thirty and sixty minute. Before CBD reaches the bloodstream, it has to travel through the digestive tract and into the liver. The length of effects you can experience after ingesting CBD orally can vary depending on the product and concentration. However, this usually falls between four and six hours.
You can find oral CBD in various forms that include oils, cakes, smoothies, coffee, brownies, cookies, and more. A lot of people choose this route because it is easy to do and quite discreet. You can take oral CBD anywhere without being watched.
Sublingual Administration
This CBD application refers to the placement of CBD tinctures or oil directly underneath the tongue. This route of administration provides rapid access to the bloodstream. After dropping CBD oil under the tongue, the mucous membrane will absorb it. If you administer CBD this way, you can feel the effect within minutes of administration. As CBD reaches the bloodstream it can sustain its effect between four to six hours on average.
