Different Ways to Consume CBD Oils - Cannabotech CBD Oils & Products Articles

Different Ways to Consume CBD Oils

Joel Taylor - writer and editor for Cannabotech
By Joel Taylor
Edited by Shir Lapidot

Updated April 14, 2023.

Smoke billowing out of pine tree and leaves

CBD oil can help ease ailments such as stress, anxiety, headaches, and even epilepsy. Therefore, it has become increasingly popular in recent years, but what kind of methods are available to utilise this functional substance?

Inhalation

Probably the most popular way to use CBD oil is via inhalation, either by smoking or vaping the substance. This provides the highest concentration of CBD, meaning that the substance will go directly into your lungs and bloodstream.

This is fast in terms of delivery, but users that are unaccustomed to smoking may find that it is harsh on their lungs and throat. Another option is to use a vapouriser pen.

Topical Application

CBD oil is also available via creams and lotions, and these can be applied topically. This is known to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from migraines. The substance should be applied to the neck, feet, or back, although those suffering from headaches may wish to massage it into their temples.

This is an easy, straightforward, and low-maintenance way of utilising CBD oil, but it does require a lot of oil to apply a high dosage.

Sublingual

You can purchase CBD oils or tinctures if you wish to use CBD sublingually. This requires placing a few drops of the substance under your tongue, holding it in your mouth for approximately 30 seconds, and then swallowing.

This can be a highly effective way to consume CBD oil but doesn't always find favour due to the relatively unpleasant taste of the substance.

Mixing With Cold Foods

This can be anything from a glass of water to a non-fruit smoothie, as neither will alter the effects of the CBD. In fact, if you mix it with fatty components like butter or coconut oil, it will actually bind better due to it being fat-soluble and restrict how much CBD is lost in the process. On the opposite end, avoid acids and alkalines that dissolve fat (such as the citric acid in fruit), as this will actually speed up the breakdown of CBD.

Another potential error in this method is that it's more difficult to control the dosage. Although you might know how much you initially put into the food, you can't be totally confident that you'll consume every iota of it.

Cooking With CBD

When cooking with CBD, extracts or flowers are first decarboxylated at around 110 degrees Celcius (230 Fahrenheit). Anything higher than that in your cooking, and you'll start to lose exponentially more CBD.

To put it simply, baking at low temperatures is fine but avoid frying. Even at low temperatures, you can't be sure you'll be consuming all of what you added to the food, nor how much is lost in the prep.

This is the least controlled method of consuming CBD oil.

Conclusion

With so many different ways to consume CBD, you shouldn't have too difficult a time of finding out what works the best for you.