CBD: How long does it take to work?
Author: Ondrej Stovicek
The use of CBD is versatile. There are hundreds of conditions where CBD can provide relief. When using CBD products, the common question is: How long does it take for CBD to start working? Here are the answers.
The onset of CBD fefects depends on the method of administration
The time it takes for CBD to start working largely depends on the method of administration. CBD is most commonly taken in four primary ways, each with its own onset time:
- Vaping: Within 5 minutes (CBD products with effects starting in 5 minutes)
- Sublingual application (under the tongue): Approximately 30 minutes (CBD products with effects starting within 30 minutes)
- Edibles (Ingested): Around 1 hour (CBD products with effects starting in about 1 hour)
- Topical application (CBD Patches) and capsules: About 1-2 hours (CBD products with effects starting between 1-2 hours)
Vaping CBD provides almost immediate efects
If you’re looking for the fastest onset of effects, vaping is the ideal option. When vaping, CBD enters the bloodstream through the lungs and quickly reaches the brain. Vaping is particularly suitable for mental health issues where immediate relief is needed. You can vaporize CBD flowers using an herbal vaporizer or CBD cartridges. In both cases, this is not smoking, but rather inhaling vapor containing the active compound, CBD. The effects of vaping CBD typically last up to 3 hours.
CBD under the tongue takes effect in about 30 minutes
Sublingual administration, or applying CBD under the tongue, is the second fastest method available. This is primarily used with CBD oil. Sublingual application is likely the most popular way of consuming CBD. It can be taken as drops or a spray, with effects usually appearing within 20–40 minutes.
The effects of CBD drops taken sublingually last approximately 4–6 hours.
When using CBD under the tongue, it’s important to remember that the CBD is absorbed through receptors located under the tongue, entering the body directly. Ideally, you should avoid eating or drinking for at least 10 minutes after taking it, as this could wash the CBD away, delaying absorption until it reaches the digestive system, where the onset of effects is slower.
In food, CBD takes effect in about 1 hour
Another common method of taking CBD is through dietary supplements or food products like CBD gummies. The onset of effects in this case also depends on the timing of your last meal and the quantity of supplements consumed. For the strongest effect, we recommend taking CBD supplements on an empty stomach for faster digestion and absorption.
The onset of effects when CBD is ingested ranges from 1 to 2 hours.
This method includes CBD capsules, hemp tea, CBD tea, and hemp oil with fish oil containing natural CBD. The onset of effects is slower, but the effects tend to be more comprehensive. This is ideal for issues with the digestive tract or intestines, as CBD reaches the area where it is most needed.
The effects of CBD when ingested can last about 8–12 hours after they begin, making this method perfect for nighttime use.
Topical application of CBD takes about 1 hour
Topical or skin application of CBD is another common method. It involves the use of CBD-infused ointments, gels, or creams. This approach is usually employed for muscle, joint, or tendon pain (CBD gels) and skin issues (CBD ointments) or in cosmetics (CBD creams). Simply apply the cream or ointment to the affected area and massage it into the skin.
Applying CBD topically can help with eczema, inflammation, and other skin problems. While this method has the slowest onset of action (around 1 hour), the effects can last for more than 5 hours, providing long-lasting relief.
Conclusion
Similar onset times can be expected with CBG products and CBG drops. Especially with CBD vaporization, the onset of effects can be influenced by dosage, and with CBD, you don’t need to worry about any side effects.
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