Which Form of CBD is Best For Me?

CBD is all the rage these days, so how do you pick which form to use? Luckily, CBD is available in many different dosage forms. You can find CBD in tinctures, topical ointments and creams, capsules, syrups, patches, gummies, chocolate, water, vaping, and the list goes on. These various forms allow people to tailor their method of use to their specific need.

When evaluating different forms of CBD, the primary differences will be whether the product provides systemic or localized effects, the onset time, and the duration of effects. Systemic effects affect the whole body, whereas localized effects only affect the area to which the product was applied.

Here are the most common forms of CBD:

CBD Oils and Tinctures

These liquids, usually oils, are infused with CBD and placed under the tongue with a dropper. Historically, tinctures were alcohol based; however, today oil based tincture (usually in coconut/MCT oil) allows the CBD to be easily absorbed by the body.

The area under the tongue and in the mouth (oral mucosa) is full of tiny capillaries and tissues which absorb the compounds quickly and provide rapid effects. Oils and tinctures are a good choice for anyone who can’t take pills or capsules. The solution is absorbed by the blood supply under the tongue within seconds, but the full extent of the effects can take up to an hour to be felt. Holding the liquid under the tongue allows for faster absorption through the bloodstream as opposed to processing through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Tinctures can provide effects for up to 8 hours.

People love using a CBD oil tincture because it is extremely versatile. You can take as much CBD as you want or as little as you want. The CBD is distributed evenly throughout the bottle.

CBD Creams, Salves, Balms, Roll-Ons and Lotions

CBD-infused topicals are mainly used to treat isolated areas. They offer local effects and many of the topical products also contain other ingredients such as menthol or essential oils like peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus.

These topical products may also be used to treat some skin conditions. The CBD goes to work immediately after rubbing the product onto the affected area, and effects can be felt in as little as 15 minutes. Topicals provide effects for hours; simply re-apply as necessary.

CBD Capsules and Pills

CBD capsules and pills are used for systemic treatment of various conditions. With any form of CBD that you ingest, you’re going to get a lower level of bioavailability. Since the CBD is processed through your digestive system and gets metabolized, some CBD gets filtered out. Also, the time from ingestion to onset of effect can take a while.

Gelcaps provide long-acting effects for several hours. Many people like the gel caps because it feels like they are taking a normal pill, which they are already comfortable doing. Also, like most pills, they are convenient, easy to swallow, and easy to transport. In addition, they contain a specified amount of CBD, so you don’t have to worry about controlling your dose. CBD capsules are perfect for those on the go.

CBD Edibles

Gummies are an extremely popular edible form of CBD. They’re affordable, portable, discreet, and tasty. There’s also no guesswork involved: you know exactly what dose you’re taking.

Gummies can also come in standard doses, often 10-25 mg per gummy. Be sure to clarify this before changing your dose. There are other edible products available like chocolates, powders to dissolve in smoothies, and CBD infused water.

CBD Skincare

CBD Skincare is all the rage these days. Much like your brain, the skin has cannabinoid receptors, so it comes as no surprise that CBD would be helpful.

Certain skin problems can be helped with CBD because it slows sebum secretion. Impure skin and acne have also been effectively treated through the use of CBD oil.

Cracked, broken skin can be helped due to the affected areas being provided with moisture, thanks to CBD oil.

CBD is also useful in reducing dryness, redness, and burning of the skin.