Medically reviewed by
Dr. John Rackham
Written by Michael Wright
Updated on June 7th, 2023
If you’ve read some of our other helpful blogs, you know a little bit about what CBD is and some of the benefits of this fascinating compound. As a wellness supplement, cannabidiol has a wealth of benefits, ranging from sleep support[1] to possible pain relief[2] to stress management[3] — and more**. As versatile as CBD is in supporting the body’s endocannabinoid system,[4] CBD is equally versatile in its forms of delivery.
Although this remarkable cannabinoid begins its life in the hemp plant and is extracted as CBD oil, where it goes from there is as varied as the imaginations of CBD hemp innovators, like the research team at CBDfx. We offer hemp-derived CBD products in a broad range of forms, because we know that people who take CBD have different needs and lifestyles. When it comes to shopping for CBD products, it’s all about finding the right one for you.
So, with that in mind, let’s explore the different ways you can take CBD and the CBD products available in each category.
A Quick Note About Bioavailability
The term “bioavailability” refers to the extent and rate at which the body absorbs a compound into the bloodstream — in this case, CBD. Different methods of delivery offer different bioavailability.
For example, CBD oil tinctures can be taken sublingually or they can be blended with food or drink, qualifying them as a CBD edible. Because CBD taken sublingually enters the bloodstream quicker than CBD edibles, which have to pass through the digestive system, you feel the effects of the sublingual CBD tincture quicker.
There are other factors that affect your CBD’s bioavailability, as well. These include all the things that make your own body unique, including height, weight, metabolism, and your tolerance to CBD and other cannabinoids from prior cannabis/CBD use. Everyone is different, and CBD can affect each of us in a different way. Another factor in the bioavailability of your CBD is the strength of the CBD product you choose. This not only includes the milligrams of CBD in your serving, but also the kind of CBD in your product: full spectrum CBD vs. broad spectrum CBD vs. CBD isolate.
In this discussion on how to take CBD, we’re going to concentrate on methods of delivery.
Sublingual CBD
Sublingual,[5] literally, means under the tongue. This refers to the method of administration in which the CBD is absorbed through the capillaries under the tongue. In the case of sublingual CBD tinctures, the CBD product is held under the tongue for 60 seconds. This allows for maximum absorption.
The benefit of taking CBD sublingually is that this method allows the CBD to enter the bloodstream quickly and you feel the effects of the CBD faster than by other methods. This can happen as quickly as 15 minutes, depending on some of the other bioavailability factors mentioned above.
Sublingual CBD can be absorbed at a much higher rate than CBD edibles. This is because CBD edibles, like CBD capsules, have to pass through the digestive system and, in the process, lose some of their strength. CBD taken sublingually can have a bioavailability range of 15–35%. A good carrier oil, like natural coconut-derived MCT oil, helps the body to bump that number into the higher part of that range.
Absorbing CBD at a higher rate allows you to lower your dosage and still get the same effectiveness as other products. As methods of delivery go, sublingual is a solid, effective choice.
CBD Oil Tincture
There are a lot of reasons to love CBD tinctures. For one, they’re versatile. You can take CBD oil sublingually, as mentioned above. But you can also take CBD oil tinctures as an edible, either swallowing them straight from the dropper or mixing them in with your favorite foods or drinks.
For sublingual use, extract the CBD oil with the provided dropper and place it under the tongue. Allow the CBD tincture to sit there for 60 seconds for maximum absorption. Try not to eat or drink anything else for another 10 minutes, thus allowing any residual CBD oil tincture to still sink in.
As for serving size, our CBD tinctures come in a variety of strengths, ranging from 17mg CBD (in our 500mg bottles) to 100mg CBD (in our 6000mg bottles) per one-dropper serving. Our advice is to start with the lowest possible dosage, so that you can properly assess your tolerance level. If you don’t feel any effects, bump up your serving size the next day. Keep doing this until you find your own personal Goldilocks serving that’s “just right” to you.
Do not try to bump up your dosage the same day, though. Not only will you undercut your ability to determine the effectiveness of your first serving, but you may also inadvertently build up your tolerance level, making future doses less effective.
Store your CBD oil tincture at room temperature, away from light (in a drawer or cupboard) as direct light may degrade the oil over time.
We offer three effective CBD oil tinctures, each with its own unique purpose.
Our CBD + CBG Oil Wellness Tincture takes advantage of the Entourage Effect, the phenomenon that happens when you ingest multiple cannabinoids. Instead of simply working in parallel with each other, the two cannabinoids enhance each other’s effects, creating a deeper CBD experience. In this case, broad spectrum CBD and the “mother of all cannabinoids,” CBG — in addition to special terpenes, curcumin and coenzyme Q10 — combine to give you a blast of wellness benefits.
Our CBD + CBN Oil Calming Tincture also makes use of the Entourage Effect, but this time combining full spectrum CBD with the “ultimate relaxation cannabinoid,” CBN. Along with a proprietary blend of calming terpenes, this one-two cannabinoid punch relaxes the body and calms the mind. It’s the perfect drop of afternoon “chill.”
Our CBD Oil Sleep Tincture is the ultimate natural sleep aid. Combining broad spectrum CBD with CBN, plus a full 5mg dose of melatonin and a special blend of sleep terpenes, this CBD sleep tincture allows you to get to sleep quickly and sleep uninterrupted through the night, without the morning hangover feeling associated with most sleeping pills.
We have two full spectrum tinctures, boosting the delta-9 THC levels up to the legal max.
Our Ultimate Chill Delta-9 THC Drops are great for unwinding and relaxing with that distinct THC “chill.” Our Sweet Dreams Delta-9 THC Drops add CBN and restful terpenes to the mix for a blissfully potent sleep oil. Please note that all delta-9 THC products may cause psychotropic effects.
With our CBD Mushroom Tinctures, we take wellness-boosting CBD and add healthful adaptogenic and nootropic mushrooms.
Our Focus Blend CBD + CBG Mushroom Drops deliver broad spectrum CBD and the “Mother of All Cannabinoids,” CBG, along with cordyceps for energy, lion’s mane for stress, and chaga for immunity. Our Relax Blend CBD + CBN Mushroom Drops deliver broad spectrum CBD and restful CBN, along with reishi for stress, maitake for wellness, and turkey tail for immunity — all combining for a deeply relaxing experience.
CBD Edibles
CBD edibles have the lowest bioavailability rate among delivery methods (5–15%). This is because the CBD has to pass through the digestive system, losing some of its strength along the way. But there are also benefits to consuming CBD as an edible. One of those benefits is that the CBD you do absorb stays in your system for a longer period of time, allowing you to experience its benefits longer. While it might take your CBD edible 20 minutes to two hours to kick in, you could potentially enjoy its effects all day long, which is one reason CBD Morning Capsules are so popular.
With pre-portioned servings, CBD edibles are simple for beginners to take. Just look at the serving size and follow the directions.
For instance, the serving size of our original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies is two delicious gummies. You may choose to begin with one gummy to gauge your tolerance, before trying a full dose. Otherwise, consumption is easy: Just eat!
CBD Gummies
CBD Gummies are among our most popular CBD products, because they’re not only effective and packed full of vegan, organic broad spectrum CBD, as well as other health-boosting ingredients, but they’re also delicious. Choose from classic Mixed Berry CBD Gummies, health-boosting CBD Gummies with Turmeric and Spirulina, powerful CBD Gummies with Melatonin for Sleep, diet and detox-friendly CBD Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies, nutrient-rich CBD Multivitamins for Men and Women, CBD Gummies for Focus and Energy, and CBD Mushroom Gummies for Wellness. CBD Gummies are all the calming wellness you need in a tasty, little chew!
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are a convenient way to get your daily CBD boost, perfect for people who are on the go. We’ve already mentioned the rise and shine power of our CBD + CBG Morning Capsules for Energy and Focus, but we also offer two other options that are equally effective. Our CBD Soft Gel Capsules give you all the effects of full spectrum CBD, along with a rich profile of minor cannabinoids, in a convenient cap. And our CBD + CBN Night Capsules for Sleep are a nightstand essential for those who need a good night of rest. Many people pair our CBD Morning Capsules and CBD Night Capsules for around-the-clock CBD wellness benefits.
THC Edibles
Our Berry Buzz Sativa Delta-9 THC Gummies deliver 5mg THC in a mood-enhancing sativa formula. Magic Melon Sativa Delta-9 THC Gummies offer a high-potency 10mg THC option for those same uplifting sativa effects. And our Lemon Dream Delta-9 THC Gummies give you 5mg of restful THC, along with a potent dose of melatonin for deep sleep effects. Our Microdose THC Capsules give you a low-dosage option, perfect for settling the nerves.
CBD Topicals
Topical CBD products can give localized relief to dry skin, as well as minor aches and pains in the muscles and joints. CBD topicals come in a variety of forms, from CBD creams and CBD balms to CBD masks and CBD bath bombs. These hemp-derived CBD products offer an effective, natural alternative to sports creams and bath products, which are often loaded with chemical perfumes and additives that can be ineffective, clog pores, stain bathtubs, and leave a strong, unpleasant scent. Our organic CBD products are also cruelty-free and contain no GMOs. The bioavailability rate of CBD topicals is quite high, compared to some other delivery methods, potentially reaching 45%.
CBD Creams and CBD Balms
CBD creams and CBD balm sticks are easy to apply. Simply cover the affected area and let it sit for an hour. If you don’t feel any relief by that time, you can reapply as necessary. It’s unlikely you can take too much CBD through a cream or balm, but we recommend no more than 3 or 4 applications per day.
CBDfx offers a good assortment of CBD topicals for minor pain relief in muscles and joints.
Our rapidly absorbing CBD Cream for Muscle & Joint: Cooling Formula offers relief for minor aches and pains with up to 3000mg of broad spectrum CBD, along with potent botanicals, pain-relieving caffeine, and cool, soothing menthol. It’s a must for every training table and medicine cabinet. We also have a CBG Cream for Muscle & Joint: Heating Formula that takes advantage of CBG’s many beneficial properties, as well as camphor. Our CBD Balm Stick Muscle and Joint offers similar relief for aches and pains, but in a convenient stick form — making it the perfect grab-and-go pain reliever for every gym bag.
CBD Bath Bombs
CBD Bath Bombs give you spa-quality indulgence in the privacy of your home. Simply drop the single-use bath bomb into your bath water, swirl the bath water around with your hand or toes, and wait for it to dissolve. Then, enjoy a luxurious soak in 200mg of organic broad spectrum CBD, plus botanicals and nutrients to soothe and pamper your body. We recommend a 20 to 40-minute soak to make full use of the active ingredients. These all-natural CBD Bath Bombs have no artificial dyes or colors, so they won’t stain your tub or irritate your skin. Our CBD Bath Bombs come in four formulations: Soothing Lavender, Hydrating Mango & Shea Butter, Calming Lemongrass & Chamomile, and Recharge Eucalyptus.
CBD Vapes
Of all the available options of CBD delivery, nothing tops vaporizing in terms of bioavailability. With CBD vapes, you can absorb up to 50% of the active ingredients. Unlike other vapes, our CBD vape products contain no nicotine or THC, and only use pure, organic CBD.
CBD Vape Pens
CBD vape pens are incredibly easy to use, and come in a variety of flavors. Simply place the open end in your mouth and inhale. Usually one or two puffs will do the trick. Pause and see if you feel the effects. You can take more if you have a higher tolerance. CBD vapes are non-toxic, so the only real effect you might feel if you take too much is that you will probably get drowsy.
There are no buttons or plug-ins in our CBD vape pens. And no need to charge. When the battery runs out or, more likely, you run out of juice, simply throw the pen away. Our pens hold approximately 2500 puffs for most users.
Our broad range of CBD vape pen flavors include Cool Mint, Blue Raspberry, Strawberry Lemonade, and Mango Ice.
CBD Vape Juices and Liquids
Many vapers prefer a reusable CBD Vape Kit, which can be refilled with your choice of CBD juices and liquids. To power on your vape kit, first press the power button five times in quick succession. After this, you’ll see the device power on and the LED light will blink pink/purple five times. Once the device is powered on, you should see the button light up blue any time you press it. To vape, you’ll need to hold this button down through the length of the inhale. As with vape pens, one or two puffs should suffice, though it’s okay to take a couple more puffs if you can’t feel anything.
The fun thing about using a CBD Vape Kit is the variety of juices and liquids you can experiment with — each available in 500–2000mg bottles. Our CBD vape juice flavors include Blue Raspberry, Wild Watermelon, Fresh Mint, Strawberry Kiwi, and Strawberry Milk.
THC Vape Pens and THC Vape Juice
If you’re looking to raise the “chill” level of your vaping experience, we have a wide range of delta-9 THC pens and juices. Our pens deliver 500mg of CBD and 5mg THC per pen, in the following flavors: Maui Wowie Delta-9 THC Vape Pen, Pineapple Express Delta-9 THC Vape Pen, Watermelon Skit THC Vape Pen, and Purple Punch Delta-9 THC Vape Pen.
Our THC vape juices contain a whopping 2000mg CBD and 75mg THC per bottle, and are available in the same classic cannabis flavors: Maui Wowie Sativa Delta-9 THC Vape Juice, Wedding Cake Hybrid Delta-9 THC Vape Juice, Pineapple Express Hybrid Delta-9 THC Vape Juice, OG Kush Delta-9 THC Vape Juice, and Purple Punch Delta-9 THC Vape Juice (with added CBN).
CBD for Pets
Because all mammals have an endocannabinoid system, CBD can be a great wellness supplement for your dog or cat.** Pet owners use CBD to help their furry friends with everything from dry skin to stress to relief for minor aches and pains. As with any new pet supplement, make sure to consult your veterinarian before starting a CBD regimen for your pooch or kitty.
CBD Oil for Pets
CBD oil is a great way to dial in your pet’s daily wellness. CBD oil for pets allows you to start with a small serving and then work your way up — just as you would with your own CBD oil tincture. Simply use the provided dropper and add the appropriate amount to your dog or cat’s favorite food, or feed them right out of the dropper. The bacon flavor is a hit with pups and putty tats everywhere. With calming and health-boosting benefits, it’s a must for every pet pantry.
For cat owners, our CBD Oil for Cats features 250mg of human-grade, broad spectrum CBD to calm your kitty and boost their overall health. Our CBD Oil for Dogs comes in strengths formulated for every size pooch: 250mg for small breeds, 500mg for medium breeds, 1000mg for large breeds, and 2000mg extra strength for large breeds.
We also have a vegan chicken-flavored tincture that’s sure to please even the most finicky pets. Our CBD Cat Tincture delivers the same organic, broad spectrum goodness as our bacon tincture in a 250mg strength. And our CBD Dog Tincture delivers four CBD strength options, so that you can dial in your dosage for every breed, from chihuahua to mastiff.
CBD Dog Treats
CBD pet treats allow you to give your pet the calming wellness of CBD in a tasty chew. Each all-natural CBD dog treat contains 15mg of broad spectrum CBD, so give them to your pet sparingly depending on their size and experience with CBD. These CBD treats for pets come in two formulations: CBD Dog Treats: Calming Chews, CBD Dog Treats: Skin Health Chews, and CBD Dog Treats: Hip & Joint Chews.
In Conclusion
CBD is a wonderful compound that has a seemingly endless array of benefits.[7] We encourage you to explore our wide range of CBD products to find the best one (or ones) for your needs. Hopefully, this guide will make taking CBD a little less intimidating. We wish you the best on your journey to wellness!
Ready to explore CBD? Try one of our delicious, wellness-boosting CBD Gummies!
- Breus, Michael J. “How CBD Can Improve Your Sleep, Mood, and Health.” Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sleep-newzzz/201903/how-cbn-can-improve-your-sleep-mood-and-health. 21 March 2019.
- Manzanares, J.; Julian, M.D.; and Carrascosa, A. “Role of the Cannabinoid System in Pain Control and Therapeutic Implications for the Management of Acute and Chronic Pain Episodes.” Current Neuropharmacology, https://www.eurekaselect.com/56504/article. July 2006.
- Moltke, Julie and Hindocha, Chandni. “Reasons for Cannabidiol Use: A Cross-sectional Study of CBD Users, Focusing on Self-perceived Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Problems.” Journal of Cannabis Research, https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5. 18 February 2021.
- Raypole, Crystal. “A Simple Guide to the Endocannabinoid System.” Healthline.com, https://www.healthline.com/health/endocannabinoid-system. 17 May 2019.
- Kinman, Tricia. “Sublingual and Buccal Medication Administration.” Healthline.com, https://www.healthline.com/health/sublingual-and-buccal-medication-administration. 6 June 2017.
- Dao, Dan Q. “CBD Cocktails: What They Are and Why They’re Taking Over Bar Menus Everywhere.” Food & Wine, https://www.foodandwine.com/cocktails-spirits/cbd-cocktails. Updated 1 October 2018.
- Bauer, Brent A. “What Are the Benefits of CBD — And Is It Safe to Use?” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700. 18 December 2020.
