How to Take a CBD Oil Like a Pro
Key Takeaways
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Intro
CBD oil (sometimes called CBD tincture) is a discreet and convenient way to take CBD, particularly if you are using it daily.
But when it comes to how to take CBD oil, there are some important things to know that will maximize your money and your results.
(Note: there is a technical difference between a CBD “tincture” and CBD “oil,” but the terms used interchangeably in the CBD products you’ll find on the market, and I will also use them interchangeably in this article).
What is CBD?
First, let’s start with some foundational knowledge, what exactly is the “CBD” in CBD oil?
CBD stands for cannabidiol (ca-NA-bi-DI-ol). It is one of about 150 chemical compounds produced by the cannabis plant called cannabinoids.
Other cannabinoids you’ve probably heard of include THC, CBG, and CBC.
Each cannabinoid has its own unique chemical structure and healing effect.
CBD may be best at easing anxiety, mood imbalances, digestive issues, headaches, and joint pain.
CBG may be better for nerve pain and sleep issues.
For more info on all things CBG, read my article, What is CBG? Your New Secret Weapon for Focus and Sleep.
CBC may be the most analgesic, the best pain reliever.
We are still at the forefront of our understanding of the full suite of magically complex cannabinoid compounds. And the more we learn, the more exciting it gets!
In much of that research, CBD has proven to be amazingly versatile, it can address broad range of ailments.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is one of the most popular ways to take CBD.
The compound CBD, either with the other cannabinoids or isolated into a single molecule, is suspended in a carrier oil, most often MCT oil.
However, within the world of CBD oil, there is massive variation in purity, quality, and production methods, so it is critical to understand what to look for when you’re buying CBD oil.
What are the different types of CBD Oils?
CBD Isolate
CBD isolate is the least expensive, but also the least effective form of CBD oil.
If your cbd oil is labeled “CBD Isolate,” that means that, via a complex chemical process, the CBD molecule alone has been isolated from the rest of the cannabis compounds, typically turned into crystal or powder form, and then blended into the carrier oil.
CBD Isolate is the cannabis analogy of taking a beta carotene pill instead of eating a carrot.
A carrot contains all of nature’s wisdom.
It grows from the earth, not a lab. It contains a symphony of compounds beneficial to our bodies.
There is nothing harmful about taking a proper dose of beta carotene pills, just as there’s nothing harmful about taking a proper dose of CBD isolate.
But you can’t isolate a single compound and expect it to work as well as the symphony.
It’s what you’re missing out on that matters.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil
On the other end of the spectrum from CBD Isolate is “Full Spectrum CBD Oil,” which is made using the whole cannabis plant.
That means that ALL of those beneficial compounds; cannabinoids, terps, and flavinoids, make their way into the oil.
In other words, the “full spectrum” of compounds.
The only downside to Full Spectrum CBD oil is that because it contains THC, it is only legal in THC legal states, and only through licensed dispensaries, which is a barrier to entry for some people.
Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
“Broad Spectrum CBD Oil” is Full Spectrum CBD with the THC removed.
The benefit of Broad Spectrum vs Full Spectrum is that because the THC is removed, it can be purchased broadly nationwide.
This makes it a practical choice for everyday use, and for the few unfortunate souls still living in prohibition states, LIKE ME in Wisconsin (side note: wake up, Wisconsin!).
The difference between CBD “tincture” and CBD oil
Technically speaking a “tincture” is alcohol-based, and an oil is oil-based.
Tinctures are made by removing a plant’s beneficial compounds by soaking the plant in high-proof alcohol. You then strain off the plant matter and the remaining liquid is the tincture, administered by dropper under the tongue.
Oils are made by isolating the plant’s compounds and suspending them in oil.
Practically speaking, most CBD oils you can buy are labeled “CBD Tincture.”
Both alcohol-based and oil-based CBD “tinctures” will work, it comes down to personal preference.
But if are you looking specifically for a tincture because you want to avoid MCT oil, or conversely you’re looking for MCT oil to avoid alcohol, be sure to read the label on your CBD “tincture” bottle carefully.
How much CBD Oil Should I Take?
Like any medicinal compound, this answer is highly personal.
That said, here are some general guidelines when trying to figure out how much CBD oil to take:
Somewhere between 5-15mg/day 2x/day is generally considered a safe amount of CBD oil.
If you find yourself taking 50-100mg/day and not feeling better, that indicates you’re not using a high-quality product (i.e. there’s not actually as much CBD in the bottle as the label claims).
How to take CBD Oil
How to take CBD Oil Tip #1:
One of my favorite tips because it’s so simple yet so impactful. CBD oil is typically taken under the tongue, but it can be really tricky to see how many drops you’re taking, and you may end up squeezing more from the dropper than you intended.
How to take CBD Oil Tip #2:
To keep this from happening, stand in front of a mirror while you take the CBD oil drops.
Watch carefully, and count as you administer each drop of CBD oil.
Super simple, but very effective.
How to take CBD Oil Tip #3
Once the CBD oil is under your tongue, hold it there for at least 2 minutes before swallowing.
This increases the absorption of the CBD oil, making it more effective. This is because it can be absorbed by your mouth via capillary action instead of needing to travel through your entire digestive system to take effect.
How to Take CBD Oil Tip #4:
Keep your CBD oil refrigerated in between doses.
Refrigerating CBD will extend its shelf life, no one wants a spoiled product!
Do not freeze CBD oil, that can impact its consistency and make it difficult to accurately dose.
My favorite CBD Oil
My favorite CBD oil on the market right now is made by HealerCBD. Now that you are an expert on CBD, you can see why:
HealerCBD CBD Oil Drops
These drops are the highest quality: physician-formulated, organic, non-GMO, and lab-tested.
I use these daily for non-impairing mental calm and to quiet minor aches and pains.
It’s more effective than any other CBD oil I have taken, at smaller doses. That leaves me feeling great for less money. Win-win!
