The popularity of CBD has skyrocketed, with usage of the product for various applications taking off across a wide range of demographics. From consumers looking for alternatives to strong medications to individuals seeking natural, cruelty-free self-care products, CBD seems to be the universal solution on the market. BioCBD+ understands the importance of quality CBD extracts for use in any product, and in this article, we share some tips about how to get the most out of your CBD products by exploiting its bioavailability.
What is Bioavailability?
CBD extract, or cannabidiol, is a compound collected from industrial hemp for the purposes of consumption. “Bioavailability” describes the pathway of the compound through the body, how readily it will be absorbed, and how pronounced its effects will be once consumed.
Typically, the extracted CBD is suspended in a lipid or alcohol solvent (for tinctures). These solvents all share one common characteristic: they are lipid-soluble. This property is understood as an important element in infusing cannabinoids into consumable products, due to cannabinoids being most readily absorbed in the gut. In some cases, alcohol tinctures may be combined with water and used as a topical or a lighter consumable product. However, this reduces the bioavailability of the cannabinoid in the body, making it likely that effects and potency will be blunted.
Another important element of CBD bioavailability is the mode of administration. A well-concentrated CBD extract may be consumed directly, imbibed in an infused beverage, eaten in a gummy (which has shown to prolong the onset and duration of the effects), applied topically, inhaled in vaporized form and even taken intranasally.
Does Water-Solubility Matter?
Our CBD extracts are highly bioavailable because our CBD is able to be dissolved in water. Water solubility greatly enhances the potential for the cannabinoid nanoparticles to enter the bloodstream and start providing fast-acting relief. For those seeking rapid and effective relief from symptoms of acute pain or digestive discomfort, vaporizing the CBD extract (or intranasal administration) will provide rapid relief, the effects lasting between 2-3 hours. Ingesting CBD extract has been shown to increase the duration of effects between 8-16 hours depending on dosage.
The effects of ingesting CBD may not be as powerful or noticable in the short-term, but will provide lasting relief. Ingesting CBD is the preferred option for non-smokers, or those uncomfortable with inhaling vapors. Topical application of CBD infused creams, salves, and ointments is the lowest ranking in terms of bioavailability. The onset of effects after topical application will be gradual and highly mild. However, when applied topically, CBD has been reported to relieve mild musculoskeletal pain, tension, and improve the texture and quality of the skin.
Ultimately, the most important factors to consider when assessing CBD bioavailability are:
- The potency and quality of the extract
- The base solvent used to extract the CBD
- Intended mode of administration/consumption
- Proximity to mucous membranes and major blood vessels (the reason why, for instance, it’s more effective to ingest CBD extract intranasally as opposed to topically).
At BioCBD+ we take pride in the quality of our CBD extracts and oils. BioCBD Plus™ products are our newest innovation, featuring our quality CBD extracts, blended with traditional Ayurvedic herbs to maximize nanoparticle solubility and bioavailability. Our team of scientists utilizes all available data regarding CBD testing and effectiveness to bring you natural relief in a variety of forms to meet your needs. To browse our extracts, visit our website. For more information about CBD, check out our regularly updated blog. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
