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CBD Oil vs Edibles: Differences in Absorption and Effects of CBD

28 December 2023

What are the differences in absorption and effects between CBD oil and edibles? This is an essential question that can influence your choice of a specific CBD product. The method of intake for oil and edibles affects their absorption and the speed at which you can notice the effects. In this blog, we’ll explore the exact differences between oil and edibles.

 

The Benefits of CBD

In recent years, CBD has become one of the most popular supplements. Initially, CBD oil was the most used, but now there are more options, and CBD edibles have become the first choice for many people. An edible is food infused with CBD, such as a cookie, candy, or chocolate with CBD. There are differences between these edibles and CBD oil, especially in terms of how they are consumed and the speed at which their effects can be noticed.

However, the function of both types of supplements is the same. A CBD supplement contains cannabidiol (and generally other cannabinoids, such as CBG, CBN, and CBC). These substances can influence the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating processes like the sleep-wake cycle, immunity, and emotions.

When comparing CBD oil to edibles, they have the same effects. They can be used for sleep problems, long-term anxiety or stress, or for pain relief. CBD is anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and soothing. Whether you choose CBD oil or edibles, the differences lie in the speed of absorption and the duration of effects.

 

CBD Oil vs Edibles: Absorption Speed

When you use a supplement, the active substances should enter your bloodstream to start working. The absorption speed of these substances, like CBD, depends on how they are ingested.

In the case of CBD oil, you drop the oil under your tongue. The advantage of this is that the tissue under the tongue has many small blood vessels. When CBD oil comes into contact with this area, it is quickly absorbed through the oral mucosa into the bloodstream. Consequently, CBD starts working rapidly, and its effects can be noticed within 10 to 20 minutes.

The process is different when you use CBD edibles. In an edible, CBD is integrated, but before this cannabinoid reaches your bloodstream, it has to travel a long way. You eat the edible, chew it, and swallow it. Then all the substances reach your stomach, where they are digested. Next, the food moves to the intestines. When comparing CBD oil to edibles, it’s clear that CBD oil will have a quicker effect than an edible. It can take up to two hours before you feel any effects. Another downside of edibles is that some of the CBD is lost during digestion.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

We’ve looked at how quickly CBD can have an effect, but it’s also important to know how long these effects last. Although CBD oil works quickly, its effects are not as long-lasting, usually around four hours. This means you might need to take doses more frequently to benefit from CBD’s properties.

When you use CBD edibles, it’s important to know that their effects last longer. Compared to other methods of ingestion, like CBD tablets or oil, the effects of edibles can last up to six hours longer. This is because they are absorbed more slowly by the body and therefore stay in your system longer.

 

Combining CBD with Food

When comparing CBD oil to edibles, the bioavailability of CBD also plays a significant role. This term refers to how easily CBD can be absorbed by the body. Higher bioavailability means less CBD is needed to achieve a particular effect. If bioavailability is low, more CBD is lost (it cannot be absorbed), so you need more CBD to achieve an effect. Research has shown that some types of food can help increase the bioavailability of CBD.

At the University of Minnesota, research was conducted on this. It was found that people who took CBD with fatty foods had up to 4 times more CBD in their bloodstream than those who took it with other types of food. Fat acts as a protective shell for CBD, making it less likely to be broken down by the body.

This is a good reason to use CBD in combination with fatty foods. A great option is our CBD Chocolate. Chocolate is rich in healthy fats, making it an excellent combination with CBD. An added bonus is that chocolate is also very tasty.

However, even when using CBD oil, it’s wise to take your supplement during or after a meal. Spread your dosages evenly throughout the day, for example, in the morning with breakfast, at lunch, and in the evening with dinner. This way, the body can absorb CBD best, and you can benefit most quickly and effectively from the supplement.

If you’re looking for CBD edibles, check out our shop for our CBD food and drinks. Besides chocolate, we also have CBD Oatmeal and CBD Candy Tablets. These edibles are a nutritious and tasty way to take your daily dose of CBD!