How to take CBD Oil: A comprehensive guide

Taking CBD Oil can seem confusing initially due to the plethora of options. This guide will help simplify the process, offering multiple ways to incorporate CBD oil into your routine, using methods such as sublingual drops, edibles, and through select CBD brands, like The Tonic Tribe. CBD (Cannabidiol) is an intriguing compound found in cannabis plants, renowned for its potential therapeutic benefits. But, how to take CBD oil effectively is a common query. This guide aims to demystify that.

Step 1: Opt for a quality CBD oil product

When contemplating how to take CBD oil, the first step is to select a reliable product. Reputable brands like The Tonic Tribe’s CBD oil, ensure quality and adherence to strict safety and production standards. In the UK, CBD must be made from Hemp, a strain of Cannabis called Sativa L, which is naturally very low in THC (the controlled, psychoactive compound that is illegal in this country). Good brands should offer third-party laboratory reports, which show the CBD and THC content as well as heavy metals and other contaminants that the hemp plant can absorb from the soil. Our CBD is grown organically, outside, in Germany and processed by our experts in Holland.

Step 2: Identify a suitable dosage

Dosage varies widely, depending on factors like body weight, the concentration of CBD in the oil, bio-availability of the CBD formula and the health condition you aim to address. A common strategy is to start with a modest dose and gradually increase until you find your optimal level. A good guide is 12 mg to 24 mg of full spectrum CBD taken daily via an oral oil, capsules, our water soluble version or patch. You may need a greater amount to get the same benefit from inferior qualities of CBD such as ‘broad spectrum’ and ‘pure CBD isolate’ (as found in many popular drinks).

Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs CBD Isolate

When choosing a CBD product, you’ll often come across terms like ‘CBD isolate’, ‘broad spectrum’ and ‘full spectrum’ CBD. Understanding the difference can help you choose the product that’s right for you.

The highest quality Full-spectrum CBD contains all the natural compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, and trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%), as it’s made from the entire plant, tip to root, and is not filtered. Some believe in the “entourage effect,” a theory suggesting that full-spectrum CBD compounds work together synergistically to enhance the potential benefits. It’s dark in colour and strong in taste, which intensifies the higher the concentration.

Broad spectrum CBD is made from parts of the plant and filtered to extract any trace of THC, but this also means other essential compounds are lost in the process too. It won’t be as dark in colour and strong in taste as full spectrum.

CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD in the sense that it is just one of the many cannabinoids found in the plant, Cannabidiol. It’s extracted from the hemp plant and then isolated from all the other natural plant compounds, leaving you with 99% pure CBD extract, and therefore 100% THC free. It’s a dry, white powder, that has maximum absorption rate, and unlike oils, can be mixed with liquids, hence it’s used in all CBD tinned soft drinks. If you find a CBD oil that is clear, it will be made by mixing CBD isolate powder with an oil, so it can be called ‘CBD oil’.

Step 3: Determine the CBD formula that’s right for you

There are various ways to take CBD oil. A prevalent method is using sublingual CBD drops. By holding the drops under your tongue for around 60-90 seconds before swallowing, CBD can enter your bloodstream directly through the sublingual membrane beneath the tongue, potentially leading to faster and more potent effects.

Taking CBD orally

Oral ingestion is a popular way to take CBD oil. Simply place a few drops of the oil under your tongue (sublingual method) and hold it there for about 60-90 seconds before swallowing. This method allows for faster absorption of CBD into your bloodstream. The absorption rate of taking traditional CBD sublingually is around 60-80%.

You can also add CBD oil to your food or drinks. However, this method could lead to a reduced absorption and slower onset of effects since the oil must go through your digestive system first. Some brands, like The Tonic Tribe, even offer CBD capsules for those who prefer a more traditional method of taking supplements, but do note that the absorption rate will be anything from 20% to 60%.

There is also the option of a full spectrum CBD which is specially formulated to be ingested, so you can add this to food or drink without compromising the absorption rate, which is around 90-100%. Water-Soluble CBD has the highest bio-availability of any other form of CBD.

Using CBD on your skin

Topical application is another common method of using CBD oil, especially for addressing localised pain or skin issues. In this method, CBD oil or a CBD-infused product is applied directly to the skin. The CBD is absorbed through the skin, where it can interact with nearby cannabinoid receptors.

You can find various CBD topicals in the market, including creams, lotions, and balms. These are particularly beneficial for those seeking relief from conditions like arthritis, joint pain, restless leg or skin conditions like eczema.

Step 4: Maintain consistency

CBD generally isn’t a quick fix—it requires consistency. Regular intake of CBD oil at the same time every day can help maintain a stable level of CBD in your system, potentially leading to better results over time. CBD binds to receptors in your brain and throughout your body to regulate functions like mood, appetite, sleep, temperature and hormones. Because it’s working on so many levels, consistency is key.

Different ways to take CBD

1. Tincture: A CBD tincture is typically taken sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption into the bloodstream. Just drop the recommended dose under your tongue, hold for 60-90 seconds, and then swallow.
2. Capsules: CBD capsules provide a familiar, discreet, and easy way to take a consistent dose of CBD. It’s as simple as swallowing a pill.
3. Smoothies: Adding CBD to your smoothie can make it a wellness drink. You can experiment with various fruits, veggies, and even add a spoon of protein powder to create your CBD-infused super smoothie. Because you’re ingesting the CBD, ensure it’s a formula designed to be easily absorbed, like our CBD Shots.
4. Food: From salad dressings to baking treats, Water-soluble CBD can be infused into almost any dish. This can be a fun and delicious way to include CBD in your diet. Don’t use regular CBD oil in this way though, as the absorption rate is a mere 4-20% when ingested this way.
5. Coffee: Adding a few drops of water-soluble CBD to your morning coffee could potentially help manage the jitters associated with caffeine while providing the purported calming benefits of CBD.
6. Tea: Tea and CBD could be a perfect match considering the calming effects associated with both. The Tonic Tribe have a range of five delicious blends of CBD Infused Tea which contain their unique water-soluble CBD.
7. Topical Balms: For localised pain or skin issues, CBD infused balms or lotions can be applied directly to the skin. This allows CBD to be absorbed and interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin.
8. Cocktails or Mocktails: Some mixologists have started adding CBD to their mocktails or cocktails for a unique twist. It’s a novel way to enjoy CBD socially or wind down at the end of the day.
9. Edibles: CBD gummies, cookies, chocolate and other edibles provide a tasty and discreet way to consume CBD. However, remember that edibles take longer to kick in as they have to be digested first.
10. Vaping: Inhaling vaporised CBD oil, like vapes for CBD, is the fastest way to experience effects. But it may not be safe for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues.

Remember, CBD affects everyone differently, and the best method for you depends on your personal needs and lifestyle. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works best for you. Consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the right method or dosage.

While considering how to take CBD oil, it’s intriguing to explore the diversity of options beyond just CBD drops. CBD oil can be creatively incorporated into your lifestyle. Remember, everyone’s CBD experience is personal. What suits one may not suit another. It’s all about finding what works best for you. Hence, invest time in research, understand your body, and proceed accordingly.

We offer free CBD consultations should you wish to have a chat with our expert Kate before starting your CBD journey.