Route of Administration

First choose your preferred route of administration, in other words choose how you want to take CBD. There are four main ways of consuming it..

Sublingual
The most common way of consuming CBD is by taking CBD oil or CBD paste beneath the tongue. From here it is absorbed into your bloodstream via your oral mucosa where effects can be felt in around 20 minutes.

Inhalation
CBD can also be inhaled by vaping CBD e-liquid or dabbing concentrates such as wax or distillate. Effects are almost immediate however they will not last as long.

Oral
CBD can also be eaten in the form of CBD capsules, drinks or edibles. This method will take longer to become effective however effects are longer lasting.

Topical
Finally CBD skincare products can be applied directly onto your skin to enjoy all CBD’s inflammatory properties on a localised area.

Strength

CBD products are also available in a range of strengths. This is usually displayed on the item in milligrams (mg) or as a percentage of the final container, e.g. 5%, 10%, etc. Although CBD has a very broad, safe and effective dosing window, dosage is unique to the individual.

With that said it is advisable to begin with a low dose of CBD to monitor how you respond then slowly increase the dose, as required, until you find your sweet spot. Once you ascertain your dosage you can retain efficacy at this dose for years or even decades.

CBD Extract

Additionally there are three main extracts used to create the CBD products you see around you today, each with unique features. Moreover, there are also three main families of wellness molecules within the cannabis plant each being researched around the world for their therapeutic value. These families are known as cannabinoids like CBD and THC, terpenes and flavonoids.

Full Spectrum CBD
Contains all of the molecules that are found in the natural plant including minor traces of THC. Don’t worry though this naturally occurring minute amount will never be enough to get you high.

Broad Spectrum CBD
Broad spectrum CBD on the other hand contains many of these beneficial compounds also but without the THC. CBD products made from this extract are perfect for those who want the entourage effect without any THC.

CBD Isolate
contains only highly refined >99% pure CBD alone. Isolate is completely free of THC and the smell of hemp as it isn’t accompanied by terpenes.

Flavour

Another important point to note when choosing a CBD oil is taste. Traditional full spectrum CBD oil is earthy and bitter tasting which can be off putting for some. Luckily there are many options now for a more palatable experience. Broad Spectrum and isolate based oils are more neutral tasting than their full spectrum counterpart.

If you prefer flavour in your oil, many brands are now adding essential oils and other flavouring to their products. Alternatively you could choose capsules or edibles which will help you swerve any unpleasant tastes while lasting longer in your system.