Getting the Right Timing Down When Taking CBD in 2024

For most of us, when we take CBD, it’s because we are looking for some type of purpose. This is why it’s important to time your hemp intake properly. The thing about cannabidiol (CBD) is that it can take a while to absorb into the body depending on the type of administration method that you’re using. This means that if you’re consuming, for instance, a CBD edible, you have to know that the CBD won’t actually become active within the body for a little while. If you’re trying to ensure that the CBD peaks at a certain moment during the day, you have to make sure that you consume your edible at the right time.

How is CBD Processed in the Human Body?

Cannabidiol is processed in the human body through a complex system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS has a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological and cognitive processes. When CBD is introduced into the body, it interacts with this system in various ways.

Here's a breakdown of how cannabidiol is processed:

1.Absorption: The method of CBD administration (e.g., oral, inhalation, topical) affects how it is absorbed into the bloodstream. For instance, when taken orally, CBD must pass through the digestive system and liver, a process known as the "first-pass metabolism”, which can reduce its concentration before it reaches systemic circulation.

2.Distribution: Once in the bloodstream, CBD molecules are transported throughout the body and can interact with cannabinoid receptors (CB receptors) found in different organs and tissues.

3.Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System:

CB1 and CB2 Receptors: Unlike THC, CBD does not bind directly with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are the primary receptors in the ECS. Instead, it is believed to modulate the receptors' activity indirectly. This indirect action is why CBD doesn't cause the "high" associated with THC.

Enzyme Inhibition: CBD can inhibit the activity of certain enzymes, such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which breaks down anandamide, an endocannabinoid. This inhibition can lead to increased levels of anandamide in the body, potentially offering therapeutic effects.

Adenosine Receptors: CBD is also thought to interact with adenosine receptors, which play a role in cardiovascular function, coronary blood flow, and myocardial oxygen consumption. This interaction may explain CBD's potential benefits for heart health.

Serotonin Receptors: CBD has been shown to interact with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT1A receptor, which may contribute to its anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.

4.Metabolism: CBD is metabolized mainly in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down most drugs. The metabolism of CBD results in a variety of metabolites, which may have their own effects or be excreted from the body.

5.Excretion: The final products of CBD metabolism are excreted primarily through feces and, to a lesser extent, in urine.

Note: The way cannabidiol is processed can be influenced by various factors, including the dosage, the form of CBD taken, the user's metabolism, and whether CBD is taken with food or on an empty stomach. Additionally, because CBD is a relatively new subject of research still, our overall understanding of its interactions within the body is still evolving.

What are the Different Types of CBD Delivery Methods and Their Absorption Rates?

Before we cover how to time your CBD usage, we first have to discuss the unique absorption rates of each common type of delivery method. When talking about the absorption rate, we’re referring to the length of time between taking the CBD product and having its effects fully active within the body.

• ØVaping: Has the fastest absorption rate of all internal methods of consumption. This is because of the unique absorption rate of inhalation. When we inhale a substance, it crosses the blood barrier very quickly. By vaping CBD, the compounds can be active in peak levels within minutes. Bear in mind that the potential effects can also wear off the fastest.
• ØTincture: Oil-based hemp products that are poured under your tongue so that they can absorb through the sublingual tissue. CBD tinctures tend to activate within the body somewhere between fifteen and forty-five minutes after administration. The activation can last for up to three or so hours.
• ØEdibles: Edible-based goods like gummies, candies, baked goods, and even capsules can take anywhere from one to two hours to become active. This is due to the nature of the digestive process. You see, the CBD itself must pass through the digestive tract before it’s released into the bloodstream by the liver. The reason why the absorption rate can vary so dramatically is because each person’s digestive tract is unique, and the absorption rate can be impacted by what you’ve eaten that day. Another thing to know about edibles is that they can stay active in the body for several hours at a time.
• ØTopical: CBD topicals are applied to the skin, which means that they are not consumed internally. CBD and the other compounds in hemp are actually capable of absorbing through the skin’s layers very quickly, allowing them to reach the muscular tissue fast. Many people find that topicals can peak in as little as ten minutes and can last for hours at a time. Bear in mind that if you’re using a topical, you’ll almost definitely find that the only area of the body affected is the one where you applied the product.

Timing Your CBD Experience According to the Chosen Delivery Method

Now, we can talk about how to time each delivery method. Everyone has their own purpose for taking CBD. Some people like to take it before bedtime, and others find that it really helps to have some hemp in the system prior to working out. So, first, you must identify what it is that you’re trying to achieve with CBD, and what time of day you will find it the most useful.

Once that’s settled, you can time your dose based on the information regarding absorption rates that we’ve provided above. For instances:

• -If you want to take CBD before an event, and you prefer taking edibles, you want to make sure that you take the CBD somewhere between 90 minutes prior to when you have to leave.
• -If you wanna take CBD for bedtime, and you like to vape CBD, you can hit your vaping device minutes before putting your head on the pillow due to the fast absorption rate of this delivery method.

Remember, everyone’s body is different. Some people may find that CBD absorbs into the body and peaks sooner or later than what’s considered average. If this is the case for you, make the necessary adjustments to your timing to accommodate your needs. Use this guide to time your intake perfectly based on the unique absorption rate of your preferred delivery method.