CBD is available today in so many different dosage forms and strengths, but not all CBD is equal. The effectiveness of CBD depends not only on the type of product and the ingredients in the product but also on something called bioavailability.

Bioavailability is defined as a measure of the amount of a compound that is actually absorbed from a given dose. That bioavailability changes depending on how the drug is administered to the body. For instance, the only way to achieve 100% bioavailability is through intravenous administration, which is an injection directly into the bloodstream. All other methods of administration will have some loss due to metabolism or storage in fatty tissue.

When it comes to CBD, bioavailability mostly depends on how you consume it. There are many ways to take CBD, from tinctures and edibles to vapes and topical products. Each of these methods has a different bioavailability. Some of the most common ways to take CBD are outlined below:

Tinctures -A tincture is a liquid, with an oil or alcohol base, which has been infused with CBD oil. CBD oil tinctures are taken sublingually (under the tongue). When taken this way, the tissues and blood vessels under the tongue quickly absorb the CBD and it can enter the bloodstream and begin working its effects. It is important to hold the CBD in the appropriate place (under the tongue) for at least 30 to 60 seconds. If you swallow too soon or apply the drops above your tongue and swallow quickly, you may as well be taking the CBD orally, which has lower bioavailability. While not as quick as the inhalation method, sublingual administration of CBD still produces effects fairly quickly, within 20 minutes or so.

Oral (Capsules, Edibles) – Although oral ingestion of CBD is very popular, it does not offer very high bioavailability. When you consume CBD orally, it must pass through your digestive system first before it ever reaches your bloodstream. This process can take up to 2 hours for some people. During this process, some of the CBD gets lost to the liver and digestive tract. As a result, you will have to wait longer for the CBD to work, and it may not be as effective.  However, at CanRelieve, the CBD oil in our softgels goes through some advanced technology. This unique manufacturing process takes the raw hemp oil and transforms it into nano-sized emulsions. This small size allows for better bioavailability and leads to much more effective absorption and stability of our product.

Topical – There is another way to take CBD—topically through the skin. With this method, CBD engages primarily with the endocannabinoid receptors located in your peripheral nervous system. This method is best for providing targeted responses in a particular area. Because the CBD only interacts with local receptors in your skin, it will not enter the bloodstream. The topical product should be applied to the affected area liberally and rubbed in well for the best results.