Sublingual cannabidiol (CBD) oil has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional methods of CBD intake. Derived from the hemp plant, this oil is rich in CBD, a non-intoxicating compound that has been touted for its potential therapeutic benefits. The sublingual method of administration offers a unique set of advantages, fostering a higher absorption rate and faster onset of effects.
TL;DR – Sublingual CBD oil drops are the fastest acting form of CBD, next to vaping (which comes with its’ own unique risks). Many people prefer CBD oil because it is so easy to use, and it works so fast.
Let’s get into what CBD oil drops are, how you use them, and why they these types of CBD products are so effective.
The Advantage of Sublingual Administration of CBD Oil
Sublingual administration of CBD oil involves placing the oil under the tongue and holding it there for a few seconds before swallowing. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes of the sublingual vein, bypassing the digestive system. As a result, more CBD reaches the systemic circulation, and the effects are felt more quickly compared to other administration methods.
The main benefit to this process is that these substances do not pass through the human digestive tract.
Why Are Sublingual CBD Oil Drops So Effective?
When we eat foods, they go through our stomach where they are broken down by intense stomach acids. The stomach does a great job at breaking down things, then passing them on to the small intestine. The small intestine is where absorption of nutrients takes place, among other processes.
While the small intestine does a great job and absorbing nutrients it takes a lot of time for that to happen. A significant amount of nutrients are also either not absorbed, or destroyed in this process. That means if you consume 5mg of CBD oil, you will not get 5mg of CBD oil into your bloodstream.
You will likely receive around 1mg, or even less, into your bloodstream. This is exactly why CBD oils are much more effective.
Imagine waiting around one hour for those gummies to kick in, only to find out that you barely notice anything? That would be disheartening, to say the least.
The Pharmacokinetics of Sublingual CBD Oil
A phase I trial investigating the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of CBD in sublingual oil and wafer form demonstrated that this method of administration is generally well tolerated​​. The study found the relative bioavailability of CBD in sublingual form to be comparable to an oil solution, indicating that a similar amount of CBD becomes available in the body.
In the trial, maximum concentrations of CBD occurred approximately four hours after administration, with an estimated terminal elimination half-life of six hours. This means that, on average, half of the CBD is eliminated from the body six hours after intake, contributing to the duration of the oil’s effects​​.
How Fast Do CBD Drops Work?
The sublingual vein can absorb CBD oil into your body, and it does so very quickly (within a matter of minutes for most people). Doctors typically prescribe sublingual administration medications when they need to get a lot of a drug into a person, and they need to do it fast.
Most of us take CBD for things like pain or anxiety, so we expect pure CBD to work as quickly as it can. While other methods of taking CBD (ie: edible gummies) can work for people, they are not always the best option. Sure they taste good, but they don’t work as quickly or as effectively as sublingual CBD oil drops.
Sublingual CBD Oil vs Vaping
Both of these methods of using CBD products are effective, however, we tend to support CBD oil over vaping. This is because of the large number of reports of incidents that come about from vaping different products. CBD vapes and CBD oil tinctures both work fast, and admittedly, vaping works faster, but it comes at a price.
Cons of Vaping CBD
- Lung Health Risks: There are potential health risks associated with vaping, including damage to the lungs. The long-term effects of vaping are not fully known.
- Shorter Duration: The effects of vaping CBD tend to be shorter-lived than those from oils.
- Complexity: Vaping can be more complicated for beginners, requiring a vaping device and the knowledge of how to use it.
- Dosage Control: It can be harder to measure precise dosages with vaping compared to using oil.
Potential Adverse Events
CBD is generally considered safe. The World Health Organization has even put out information claiming that CBD is safe to consume. Some studies did note some adverse events from CBD oil, including mild to moderate somnolence, sedation, and altered mood​​. These side effects are usually temporary and may decrease with continued use as the body adjusts to the supplement. The side effects can also come about from taking too much CBD products. Always dose low, and only increase the dose as needed.
Summary – Sublingual CBD Oil
For those that like a quick recap, here are some reasons you should consume CBD, sublingually:
- Fastest relief since the digestive tract is being bypassed
- Users do not have to take as much CBD when compared to eating pills or gummies
- More CBD into the blood stream via the sublingual vein and surrounding tissue
- No swallowing of pills required
Remember, if you are looking for the fastest and strongest relief possible, CBD drops are typically your best bet. The CBD bypasses your digestive tract, which means your body retains more CBD. The sublingual vein under your tongue helps deliver large amounts of the CBD into your bloodstream quickly, and efficiently.
As the scientific community continues to explore the therapeutic potential of CBD, there’s a growing interest among consumers to incorporate this compound into their wellness routines. By understanding the benefits and potential side effects of sublingual CBD oil, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.
*FDA disclaimer: none of the statements on this webpage have been approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medical advice should be sought before starting any supplement. If you are pregnant or nursing consult with a doctor. Medical advice should be sought if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. If you take other prescription medications, a doctor’s advice should be sought.
References
Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/
International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: https://innovareacademics.in/
Medline Plus: https://medlineplus.gov/
NASPGHAN: https://www.gikids.org/
Sage Journals: https://journals.sagepub.com/
United States Veterans Affairs: https://www.pbm.va.gov/
