How To Take CBD Oil?

How to take CBD oil?

Written by Georgia Chappell & Reviewed by Paul Holmes

Summary

  • CBD (or cannabidiol) is a non-intoxicating compound present in hemp with a variety of medicinal uses.
  • It can be taken in many different forms, including capsules, oils, edibles and topicals.
  • While dosage differs for each person, the FSA recommends a maximum total daily CBD dose of 70 mg (including any supplements).
  • For people new to CBD, it is recommended that they start with a low dose and increase it gradually until the desired effects are attained,

CBD is the new buzz-word in many wellness circles. Among influencers, athletes and celebrities, there seems to be a growing recognition that this all-natural oil is a key to improved health. So, if you’re interested in trying CBD out for yourself, look no further - this article will show you how.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound found in relative abundance in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa).

It is the main active ingredient in hemp-based products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, capsules and skin care products.

CBD has been used by humans for thousands of years for its various therapeutic properties. Today, it is the subject of mounting scientific research, and in recent years has enjoyed a sudden (and ongoing) rise in popularity.

what is cbd

Types of Cannabinoids

One of over 100 natural components, CBD is a cannabinoid found within the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). While there are many other cannabinoids, the most common are THC, CBD, CBN, CBC, and CBG.

Despite being derived from the same plant, each cannabinoid can have very different effects on the body when consumed.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the intoxicating element of the cannabis plant known to get you ‘high’. CBD products are purified to remove as much THC content as possible, in order to enable the user to get the health benefits of CBD without the potentially unsafe side-effects of THC.

How Does CBD Work in the Human Body?

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a natural function within our body which helps to regulate a wide range of cognitive and physiological processes, including mood, appetite, sleep and pain.

Ultimately, the endocannabinoid system plays an essential role in keeping our body balanced and functioning properly. Within the endocannabinoid system is a network of cannabinoid receptors in the brain and central nervous system. Phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant) such as CBD and THC, naturally bind to these cells in a similar way to neurotransmitters and can alter various mental and physical functions. For example, one study showed how CBD protects nerves from damage and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory.

There’s also research to suggest that CBD can be used to help manage a variety of other ailments, such as anxiety, insomnia and long-term pain conditions.

Find out more about our essential bodily process and the power of the endocannabinoid system here.

How to Take CBD Oil?

So, you know you want to take CBD, but just don’t know how? With so many different CBD products on the market, it can be hard to choose the one that’s right for you. Let us guide you through the different ways to introduce CBD to your daily routine, whether you’re looking to address a long-running health issue or simply wanting to discover the benefits first-hand.

1. CBD Oil Capsules

The most common way to take CBD is orally. That’s because ingesting CBD in capsule form is a great place to start - it’s easy to manage your dosage and many people are used to taking tablets or capsules, so it feels completely familiar.

Dosage is really important when it comes to CBD usage too, and this option offers an accurate way to monitor how much you’re having each day. Every person has different needs, and reacts to CBD strengths in different ways, so it’s important that you begin with a small dose before slowly increasing – which is simple to do with capsules.

But remember, it can take 45 minutes for the CBD to become fully digested by your body, so don’t ever take more than the recommended amount. Overall, if you’re new to CBD, it’s definitely recommended you give capsules a try first.

cbd capsules


We’d start with a 10mg CBD Capsule – giving you a good amount of CBD but allowing you to easily track and assess the effects it’s having on your body. Those we’ve linked are also vegan, too – perfect for those on strictly plant-based diets, as many capsules can contain ingredients derived from animals.

cbd oil

2. CBD Oil

Familiar with CBD? Or need a stronger dose than capsules offer? It could be time to switch to CBD oil. For this, you simply place a few drops under your tongue and hold them there for around a minute. This is a quick and effective way to get the CBD into your bloodstream, and offers a more cost-effective solution for daily use. The important point here is to watch your intake. With a pipette dispenser (which oils usually come with) it’s easy to take more (and we mean way more!) than you need.

Oils come in different strengths so be sure to choose wisely, taking into consideration the amount of CBD you need and your reasons for taking it. For example, the CBD volume needed for restful sleep is much less than what’s needed to manage pain. This is why it’s always recommended starting off with a small dose, before building to a level that fits your requirements. Just take your time and you’ll notice when you reach this wellness sweet spot.

Need a good place to start? 5% CBD Oil is the perfect beginner-strength oil to test out the powerful benefits of CBD without breaking the bank. Or are you looking to maximise the effects and get more for your money? Look no further than 40% CBD Oil. It offers the highest CBD concentration and is the most cost-effective option for those who want to take larger amounts on a regular basis.

3. CBD Balms, Skincare and Topicals

Oils and capsules allow CBD to be delivered with a systemic effect. This means that, once ingested, they work to affect the whole of your body - perfect for anxiety, restlessness and other generalised issues. However, when it comes to aches and pains, it’s all about focusing on the troublesome issue – whether it’s a sore joint or muscle pain – and with topicals you can keep CBD benefits localised to the point where you need them most.

But what are topicals? If you’ve not guessed already, these are creams, balms and oils (the relaxing massage kind) that are applied directly to the skin, and are usually available in different scents and strengths for all kinds of application. Here you can choose the products that best fit your requirements without worrying about taking too much. Need a tip? In our experience, there’s nothing better than a red-hot CBD chilli or cooling menthol balm to soothe aching muscles after sport or intense activity.

cbd balms
cbd edibles

4. CBD Snacks, Gummies & Other Foods

But what if you want to casually add CBD to your diet? Well, edibles offer you a great (and usually delicious) way to introduce your body to CBD. And yes, we know you ingest these too, but when something comes in the form of a snack and has the power to satisfy your sweet tooth, too, it deserves a shout-out of its own.

If you can name it, it’s probably been infused with CBD. Chocolate, cookies and brownies – some of your favourite snacks that can not only feed those cravings but give you a dose of CBD, too. However, if you’re trying to get a specific dosage from your CBD product, always check the nutritionals on these sweet treats as many won’t reach the level you require, with only a small amount (in most cases) added to each.

When it comes to edibles that pack a powerful but convenient dose, CBD Gummies are the resounding winner here. A popular alternative to capsules, these offer different strengths and a number of delicious flavours, too.

5. CBD Vapes

Vaping is an effective way to absorb CBD into the body. The bioavailability is higher than other routes of administration such as sublingual drops and topical creams. This means that CBD can enter into the bloodstream faster and its effects can be felt sooner.

It is important to understand that vaping is still a fairly new phenomenon, and the industry is still in its infancy. However, it is well understood that when compared to smoking cigarettes, vape products produce far less of the harmful chemicals usually present in cigarettes.

Following an independent review, Public Health England concluded that” e-cigarettes are around 95% less harmful than tobacco (cigarettes)”. While vape products are seen as a reduced risk alternative for smokers, we would not encourage non-smokers to take up vaping.

cbd vape

CBD delivery methods

Researchers are constantly investigating which CBD delivery methods are best for those starting their CBD Oil journey.

Different forms and delivery methods of CBD include oil, CBD edibles, lotions and balms, capsules, cosmetics and more.

How to take CBD Oil:

  • Shake the Bottle: Before using the CBD oil tincture, shake the bottle well. This ensures that the oil is properly mixed, as sometimes the ingredients can settle at the bottom.
  • Squeeze the Dropper: Open the bottle and squeeze the rubber top of the dropper to draw the oil into the dropper. Release the pressure to allow the dropper to fill to the desired measurement.
  • Place Oil Under the Tongue: Hold the filled dropper above your mouth, placing it under your tongue.
  • Drop the Oil: Squeeze the dropper gently to release the oil under your tongue. Let the drops fall naturally, allowing them to rest beneath your tongue without swallowing immediately.
  • Hold for 30-60 Seconds: After releasing the drops under your tongue, keep the oil there for 30-60 seconds. This allows for sublingual absorption, where the CBD enters the bloodstream more directly through the capillaries under your tongue.
  • Swallow: After holding the oil under your tongue, you can swallow any remaining oil. If you feel any residue or oil on the dropper or your mouth, you can rinse your mouth with water afterward.

How to take CBD Edibles:

  • Choose Your CBD Edible: CBD edibles come in various forms such as CBD gummies, chocolates, capsules, or infused foods like cookies or brownies. Select the edible that suits your preference and the dosage you require.
  • Check the Dosage: Read the packaging to understand the CBD content per serving or per edible. Dosages can vary, so ensure you're aware of how much CBD is in each piece.
  • Start with a Low Dosage: Especially if you're new to CBD or trying a new product, begin with a low dosage. Edibles take longer to take effect compared to other methods (like sublingual tinctures) because they need to be digested first.
  • Time Your Consumption: Take the CBD edible at a time when you're comfortable and have a clear schedule, as the effects might take some time to kick in. It's recommended to take edibles with a light meal to aid in absorption
  • Chew and Ingest: Simply consume the CBD edible by chewing and swallowing it. It will pass through your digestive system before the CBD is absorbed into your bloodstream.
  • Be Patient: Unlike sublingual administration, which acts more quickly, edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours to take effect. The onset of effects largely depends on your metabolism and the contents of your stomach.

How to use CBD Balms:

  • Clean the Area: Before applying the CBD balm, ensure the targeted area of your skin is clean and dry. Use soap and water to gently clean the skin and pat it dry with a clean towel.
  • Check the Instructions: Read the label or packaging of your CBD balm. Some balms may have specific instructions or recommendations for usage.
  • Scoop or Squeeze Out the Balm: Depending on the consistency of the balm (solid or semi-solid), use your fingers to scoop out a small amount or squeeze out the desired quantity. A little goes a long way with balms.
  • Apply to the Target Area: Gently massage the CBD balm onto the specific area of your skin where you want to experience its effects. Use circular motions or a gentle massage to help the balm absorb into the skin.
  • Rub in Thoroughly: Make sure to evenly spread the balm across the skin and massage it in until it's fully absorbed. Focus on the area where you seek relief or comfort.
  • Allow Time for Absorption: Let the skin absorb the balm for several minutes before covering it with clothing or applying other skincare products.

While administering CBD Oil under the tongue is the most popular method of CBD delivery, some people may find the use of the following delivery methods better for their lifestyle:

  • Oral
  • Inhalation
  • Topical

Regardless of what CBD delivery method works for you, it is advisable to purchase these products from a reputable source, like Naturecan, ensuring you discuss adding them to your routine with a healthcare professional.

Make sure to follow the instructions on the product packaging and ask your doctor about dosages and whether CBD will impact any medications you currently take.

Can I take CBD with Food?

Yes. Taking CBD with food may actually help to increase the bioavailability of the CBD (i.e. the amount of CBD that enters into the bloodstream). As described above, CBD can be taken in a range of edible forms, including cookies, nut butters, chocolates and gummies. Explore Naturecan’s full range of CBD snacks and edibles here.

Does CBD Oil Go Under the Tongue?

One of the most effective ways to take CBD oil is to administer it sublingually (under the tongue).

This allows the oil to enter directly into the bloodstream, so its effects may be felt a little more quickly. To do this, place a few drops under your tongue and hold them there for around 60 seconds.

how to take cbd

How should I store my CBD products?

When it comes to storing your CBD products, it is important to protect them from any excess light, air and heat. Doing so will preserve their quality and potency for as long as possible.

  • Light: keep your CBD products in a dark room or cupboard, away from direct or excess light.
  • Air: make sure your CBD products are fully sealed when not in use to keep out any excess oxygen and other contaminants.
  • Heat: store your CBD products at or below room temperature (around 20°C) away from any potential sources of heat, such as radiators, stoves and other appliances. It is also safe to keep CBD products in the fridge. For long term storage, you can place CBD products in the freezer.

Other tips for effective storage:

  • Store your products in their original packaging. CBD oil, for example, is typically sold in airtight, dark glass bottles specially designed to keep out excess light and air.
  • Store liquid and balm CBD products upright.
  • Use a clean dropper or utensil every time you take CBD oil to protect the product from contaminants.

How long do CBD products last?

  • CBD products usually expire after one or two years, at which point they begin to degrade and lose potency.
  • The shelf life of CBD products depends on a range of factors, including quality, ingredients, extraction process, packaging and storage.
  • An unpleasant smell, unpalatable taste and a change in colour and consistency may be signs that your product has expired.

Can I Refrigerate CBD Oil?

As mentioned above, it is safe to keep CBD oil in the fridge. Low temperatures may cause the oil to separate, so be sure to shake the oil well before use.

What’s My CBD Dosage?

Dosage differs with each person, depending on a range of factors, such as weight, height, and reasons for taking CBD. If taking CBD oil, we recommend taking 1-2 drops at first to see how your body reacts before increasing your amount.

The FSA recommends a maximum total daily CBD dose of 70mg. This includes any additional products, so please ensure that you never exceed this amount. While following this guidance, you can manage your daily dosage based on what works best for you, and combine various CBD products if desired.

To find your CBD dose, click on our Dosage Calculator below:

How Often Should I Take CBD oil?

Like dosage, the number of times you take CBD oil each day depends on many factors, including your reasons for taking CBD. The important thing is that you do not exceed the FSA’s recommended maximum total daily dose of 70mg.

Should I Take CBD in the Morning or at Night?

Again, the answer to this question will vary with each person, depending on their reasons for taking CBD. Some people prefer to take CBD before bed to support sleep, while others use it to support recovery after intense exercise.

Is CBD Safe?

Although the effects of long-term CBD use are still being studied, CBD is considered safe to take every day with adverse side-effects reported very rarely.

In 2018, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared that “CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile. Reported adverse effects may be as a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and patients’ existing medications.”

Just be sure to check for certified ingredient lists and evidence of third-party testing to provide your body with the safest, purest and most effective CBD available.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition or take prescribed medication, it’s absolutely essential you speak to your doctor before use. Also, it’s important to not use CBD if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Read our articles to find the exact reasons why, and when it’s safe to do so again.

Why Choose Naturecan?

Whether it’s capsules, oils, topicals or edibles, there’s a type of CBD to fit your needs and lifestyle. But, now you know how to take CBD, whatever product you choose, be sure it’s only ever from a certified supplier. This is the safest and most effective way to use CBD, and guarantees you receive all of the benefits you’re looking for.

All of Naturecan’s products undergo rigorous third-party testing processes in order to guarantee their safety and quality, making us the perfect  choice for starting your CBD journey.

References

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26845349
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5877694/
  • https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-take-cbd