Cookies, Cream, Concentrate, or Cloud? Find Out If Edibles, Topicals, Tinctures, or Vaping Is the Best CBD Consumption Method for You
The CBD (cannabidiol) movement has really taken off over the past decade, with no signs of slowing down. Both long-time cannabis lovers and new consumers are lining up to enjoy CBD’s many beneficial properties for recreational and therapeutic purposes. But those who are less familiar with CBD might be asking ourselves, should we be trying out edibles like cookies or gummies? Should we be looking at CBD oil and the great variety of vaporizers available? Or maybe we should consider creams and tinctures? This half-guide, half-questionnaire might just help you determine which best CBD consumption method you should be giving a go..
If yes, consider vaping or edibles.
Vaporizer devices come in many types (check out our many articles on the advantages of different devices), and, better yet, CBD oil comes in endless different strengths, textures, and flavors. On the other hand, edibles include any CBD product that can be ingested, from pills or capsules to cookies or candy to beverages. Both classes of products allow consumers to take their time finding their favorite, or maybe never to find one at all, and keep changing their go-to product.
If yes, consider vaping or tinctures.
Vaping is the fastest way to feel the results of CBD, taking just minutes from the first inhalation for most people to experience effects. Peak bloodstream levels hit around 10 minutes, but the effects can generally last for three to five hours. CBD tinctures or concentrates, on the other hand, are usually placed under the tongue using a dropper or sprayed on inside the cheek. It is similarly absorbed directly into the bloodstream and usually takes around 30 minutes for the effects to take place. In contrast, edibles take a while to hit the bloodstream as they have to be digested and metabolized by the liver. With edibles, peak bloodstream levels are usually reached within one or two hours, although the effects may last longer and taper more slowly.
Refer to: Everything You Need to Know About CBD Vaporizers
Question 3: Are you looking for discretion in your CBD consumption?
If yes, consider edibles.
CBD edibles such as cookies and gummies can look identical to regular food items, so no one has to know that you’re consuming CBD products. They can also smell and taste quite indistinguishable to you, the consumer, so you can enjoy them the same way you would a piece of candy or a refreshing drink. Vape pen manufacturers have launched smaller, sleeker devices for greater discretion and portability, but the vapor exhaled might still give you away. In the same vein, CBD topicals (creams, lotions, and balms) can be pretty discreet as long as you make sure there is no recognizable scent in the product.
If yes, consider edibles or vaping.
Packaged edibles usually spell out the amount of CBD it contains in them. However, it is essential for cannabis vapers to check the product’s certificate of analysis to confirm the type and dose of ingredients. Similarly, dosing is relatively easy with vaping because you can see how much pure CBD vape oil is contained in the packaging, and pre-filled disposable pens are available for even greater accuracy.
If yes, consider topicals.
CBD topicals are applied directly into the skin and work locally, making them an excellent option for targeting issues like arthritis or menstrual cramps. However, they can be more expensive than vapes and edibles (as you need a greater amount of active ingredients for the effects to kick in) and can risk skin irritation.
If yes, consider vaping.
If you’d like more bang for your buck in your CBD purchasing decision, vaping might be the best method for you. The rising popularity of CBD vape oil in recent years has allowed prices to come down. In addition, high-quality refillable devices can help you curb spending while reducing waste.
Consider all these questions and simply prioritize the characteristics of consumption methods that matter most to you. For example, if rapid effect and low cost are more important than discretion, then vaping (using a smaller device) is for you. Remember to always source your products from trusted manufacturers and distributors or dispensaries, however, to take maximum advantage of the strengths of each consumption method.
