By Therapist Preferred | September 28, 2021
A Guide To Taking CBD
The last Wednesday in September annually marks “National Women’s Health & Fitness Day”, a day for all women to spend some time reflecting on their overall health & fitness goals and achievements. We know that many women (and men) are incorporating CBD products into their fitness regimen so we want to offer a brief guide on taking CBD.
First, some background. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is among the 113 active compounds present within the cannabis plant. It makes up about 40 percent of the entire plant’s extract, and is currently under immense spotlight for its health-related attributes.
While research may still be in infancy, there is a lot of evidence suggesting that CBD can help relieve the symptoms of various physical and psychological problems, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression and insomnia.
If you are currently taking or thinking about trying CBD, you’ll find that there is an abundance of CBD products available. There are likely many questions that you have so let us help you figure things out by digging deeper into a few common CBD related topics.
In this article, we’ll provide a guide to taking CBD along with recommendations on Therapist Preferred products. We’ll also help answer key questions on effective amounts and time of day to take these products.
5 Ways to Take CBD at Home & On The Go
1. Tinctures
A CBD tincture is made by dissolving the substance in alcohol to create a liquid form and then combining with a plant based carrier oil to get absorbed into your system. Tinctures are generally taken by a dropper, or sprayed directly inside the mouth.
The most common way to use a tincture is to place a few drops (depending on the strength of CBD) under the tongue, hold for a minute or so, and then swallow. This area is rich in capillaries, so the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream quicker and provides almost immediate relief.
Using a USDA Certified Organic Tincture like ours, ensures that the ingredients are all natural and free from harmful chemicals; an important consideration when taking any oral products.
One challenge with tinctures it is difficult to maintain an exact amount of CBD each time since you are relying on extracting it from the bottle with the dropper.
2. Capsules or Soft-Gels
CBD is also available in capsule form, which is a viable option for people who want to consume and maintain a desired amount of CBD every time. The use of capsules is becoming more and more popular for the consistency and reliability.
Since ingestion involves passing through the digestive tract before getting absorbed into the bloodstream, the effect of the CBD might be somewhat delayed (up to 30 minutes) as compared to the tincture (15-20 minutes). It’s important to prioritize a water soluble capsule as they are distributed to the tissues instead of being stored in fat cells.
Therapist Preferred’s CBD Softgels for Everyday Wellness & CBD Softgels with Melatonin for Sleep are both water soluble and contain 25mg of premium CBD.
3. Topical Creams/Balms
For those who don’t want to ingest CBD or are seeking a localized option for aches or soreness, creams or balms are the best choice for efficient relief from inflammation, sore muscles and joints.
In these products, CBD is commonly blended with oils or beeswax and can be scented or unscented. Creams and lotions contain water while a balm generally does not, so many people find a cream is easier to rub into the skin.
Our most popular product is our scented CBD Sports Cream with menthol, camphor, rosemary, peppermint and other essential oils combining for a great smelling and fast acting solution. Also popular is our unscented cream; highly concentrated and extremely portable in a 1oz bottle.
4. CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are an edible form of CBD available in a variety of flavors, colors, shapes and sizes. They too provide a measured amount of CBD with each dose, and are an ideal alternative for people who find it difficult to swallow capsules, or don’t like their taste. CBD gummies are also really easy to take with you anywhere.
Our gummies come in two amazing flavors- Green Apple & Strawberry Lemonade. Our customers love both flavors so try them for yourself to determine which one you like best.
5. In Foods & Beverages
If you don’t like the taste of CBD oil, or just aren’t into taking gummies or capsules, you’re not out of options just yet. There are many ways to incorporate CBD into some of your favorite recipes. We recently posted some Delicious CBD Tincture Recipes.
Some other food related options are adding CBD oil to your favorite smoothie, incorporating into salad dressing or baking into your favorite sweet treats.
How Much CBD Should You Take Daily?
As with any product, it is always suggested that you begin by taking the minimum amount and evaluate when the effects kick in, and for how long. Once your system gets the hang of things, you can gradually increase.
Remember that every individual is different, and everyone’s system processes CBD differently. Moreover, the amount that works for you will also depend on the specific condition you’re taking CBD for, along with its severity.
So simply start small and settle on what feels good. For a deeper discussion on this topic, you can refer to a previous article titled “How Much CBD Should I Take?”.
How Often Should You Take CBD?
This will again vary from person to person as mentioned above. But if you’re a first time user, it’s best to consult a doctor. After you understand how the product is affecting your body, you can make a better choice increase or decrease the amount and frequency.
Many people find that oral CBD products are most beneficial as part of a consistent, daily routine while topicals can be utilized as needed.
When Should You Take CBD: Morning or Evening?
Another commonly asked (and searched for question).
For people taking CBD to relieve symptoms of anxiety and for feeling energized and clear-headed, the most common time is the morning (or afternoon) if they need a little boost.
However, for those struggling with chronic pain and sleep issues, taking CBD in the evening or just before bed time can help provide a good and peaceful rest.
