CBD: What's in it for me?

CBD sales and use have skyrocketed in recent years with more and more people opting to try their own form of consumption. And while it’s grown in popularity at a rapid rate, there’s often confusion behind what it means for your own body when you use it. Still, there are some key takeaways we can all consider to fully understand how CBD works in the body, and whether or not it’s working for you. 

From CBD deodorant, mouthwash, seltzers and so much more, experts suggest that CBD-infused products have been created with the promise to help ease anxiety, reduce inflammation, and improve skin. Some studies have even shown that CBD can help protect against nerve damage and that it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory. But does CBD really work?

To start, let’s first refresh you on what CBD is exactly. It’s a naturally occurring compound present in the flowers and leaves of cannabis plants. So how much does it take to ‘work’ and how soon can one expect results? Experts say this depends largely on the dosing method you choose. So here’s a simple breakdown. 

Topical Forms of CBD Take No Time At All

Balms, ointments, and lotions can take effect pretty quickly. In fact, experts say that once you apply any kind of CBD topical product, you should start feeling relief within 15 minutes. 

Ingestible CBD Products Take A Bit More Time

For products like tinctures, capsules, gummies and more, experts say how it affects the body depends on how you take it. When kept under the tongue, tinctures may absorb within 30 seconds and the effects can be felt within 15 minutes. When ingesting CBD, meaning swallowing it, or eating a food that contains CBD, you may feel the effects within 45 minutes to two hours. 

Now that we know about the different ways to take in CBD, understanding the dosage that’s right for your body is also important. The exact dosage and serving size recommendations vary from person to person but a dosage calculator can help. Many websites offer tools to help with this. 

Experts in the field also work with people on a daily basis to understand how CBD can work for them. Dr. Junella Chin along with her team of physicians has been consulting with patients worldwide and integrating medical cannabis since 2001.

Ultimately, if you have aches and pains or even inflammation, CBD may be able to help. Keep in mind that the effects of CBD can take time. Start slowly, try it before bed, tweak your dosage according to your form of consumption and be smart. Do some research and be as well-versed in the use of CBD as you can. This will greatly increase your chances of success with CBD.