If you’ve done your research on the many benefits of CBD, you might already know that it has been studied extensively as a potential treatment for a wide array of ailments—from daily aches and pains, anxiety and even life-altering chronic conditions like lupus and fibromyalgia. But even if you’ve done a deep dive into the potential benefits of this natural compound, you might still have questions about the best way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. Below, we’ll cover six common types of CBD products and how you can decide which one is most beneficial for you or a loved one.
CBD Oil
Let’s start with one of the most prevalent types of CBD on the market: CBD oil. The production of CBD oil starts with the extraction of raw hemp extract. This pure form of CBD is then blended with a carrier oil—often MCT coconut oil—that makes it more palatable for human consumption. CBD oil can also have flavors added (mint is a popular pick) and they mask the natural taste, that some people might find unpleasant. CBD oil is usually administered via a dropper, which is used to place the oil under the tongue.
CBD oil is convenient and easy to incorporate into your routine. But, how effective is it as a delivery method? Most researchers agree that taking CBD oil sublingually is a good way to feel the benefits of CBD quickly and effectively. Because the CBD is absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth, it bypasses the digestive system and metabolism to reach the bloodstream faster and with less molecular breakdown.
CBD Pills
Some people may find the flavor of CBD oil unappealing, or have concerns about traveling with a liquid form of CBD if they’re frequently on the road. In that case, CBD pills may be a good alternative. CBD pressed pills are made from nearly 100% CBD isolate without fillers; they’re flavorless, and generally small enough that anyone can swallow them.
CBD pills are a great option for people who are concerned with precisely measuring their CBD dosage. They’re manufactured with a standard quantity of milligrams per capsule, so you can accurately monitor your CBD intake. They’re also easily portable and shelf stable for convenience during travel. Because they’re taken orally, however, CBD pills may have lower bioavailability than options like oil. This means that that CBD is slower to travel to the bloodstream and may lose some of its potency during the digestion process. However, CBD pills do offer longer-lasting and more generalized effects than options like a vape or topical cream, which we’ll cover below.
CBD Gummies
Like CBD pills, CBD gummies are a great option for individuals who want to travel without any concerns about liquids, or those who don’t enjoy the flavor of some CBD products. CBD gummies blend natural CBD extracted from the hemp plant with coconut oil and flavorings for an experience that’s just like your favorite candy.
Because they’re taken orally, CBD gummies share the benefits and downsides of CBD pills. They contain an accurate dosage for those concerned with carefully monitoring their CBD intake, and they’re easily portable. Gummies are also great for people who like the idea of a CBD capsule but struggle with swallowing pills, and may be a good option for parents who think their children could benefit from CBD. Like pills, gummies may have lower bioavailability than CBD vapes and oils.
CBD Vape
When you think about cannabis-related products, smoking or vaping may come to mind as the most obvious way to administer CBD. Hemp-derived CBD extract is blended with other ingredients and flavorings that transform it into a liquid “vape juice,” which can be added to the appropriate vaping device for use. The device vaporizes the liquid, allowing it to be inhaled.
A CBD vape has distinctive benefits that set it apart from other methods of intake. Vaporized CBD has a much higher bioavailability than products that are ingested or taken sublingually, meaning you’ll feel the effects of a CBD vape more rapidly and strongly. This means you’ll get instant relief from acute pain or anxiety, and you may need a lower dose of CBD overall. Along with these benefits, some people simply enjoy the sensation of vaping CBD. However, a CBD vape has some downsides as well. Because the body absorbs CBD more quickly using this method, its effects subside more rapidly. In addition, a CBD vape should not be used by individuals under the legal smoking age.
CBD Topicals
We’ve now covered all of the ways you may choose to administer CBD internally, but it can also be used as a topical treatment for pain, inflammation, and certain skin conditions. CBD topical creams or salves are generally made by blending high-quality hemp extract with beneficial botanical ingredients like menthol, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. This blend provides additional soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, and helps the CBD cream to be absorbed more readily by the skin.
CBD topical creams may be a great choice for targeted relief when it comes to conditions like joint and muscle pain, arthritis, and gout. Creams can also be used for common skin issues such as acne, eczema, and rashes thanks to the soothing and healing properties of CBD. Unlike CBD vapes, pills or oils, a CBD cream does not have to disperse through the entire body to be effective; it can be applied directly to any area of discomfort for immediate absorption and relief.
CBD for Pets
Last but not least in our product roundup, there are even CBD products formulated specifically for animals! If your pet suffers from anxiety, depression, or pain, there are CBD oils and treats made especially with the dietary needs of dogs, cats, and even horses in mind.
CBD products for animals differ from human products in several ways. First, they’re only made with ingredients that are approved for pets; many flavorings or ingredients used in CBD edibles are safe for human consumption, but may be harmful to our four-legged friends. In addition, they are always made with CBD only, as any amount of THC can have serious side effects for animals.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Due to FDA Regulations, we recommend that you do your own research on CBD products. We also suggest that you read the reviews on the Intrinsic Hemp website, where our customers record their real-world results of using our products.
