The popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) shows no signs of waning. And for good reason: its many benefits and effectiveness have won over even the most skeptical.
Whether you're new to CBD or not, you may often wonder how it works and how long it takes to take effect.
Howdoes cannabidiolaffect our bodies? How long does it take to feel its effects? How long does CBD stay in the body?
We'll tell you everything we know.
How does CBD affect our bodies?
The scientific community now recognizes the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and relaxing properties of CBD. However, numerous studies are still underway to identify and understand the full extent of its interactions with the body.
One thing is certain: CBD can affect our body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in maintaining internal balance. It regulates numerous physiological mechanisms and is involved in a wide variety of functions, such as decision-making, anxiety, pain, sleep, and the immune response, among others…
We now know that cannabidiol also interacts with other receptor proteins that are indirectly linked to the endocannabinoid system, which greatly complicates our understanding of the mechanisms involved.
Nevertheless, science can explain how CBD circulates in our bodies and estimate how long it takes to take effect.
The time it takes for CBD to take effect depends mainly on the method of administration
Depending on how CBD is consumed, its path through the body will vary, and the duration of its effects may be shorter or longer.
Taking CBD Oil Sublingually
This is a quick and effective method: simply place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue and wait about 1 minute. Absorbed through the mucous membranes, the CBD quickly enters the bloodstream for optimal results.
Inhalation
Whether smoked or vaped, CBD enters the lungs directly and enters the bloodstream. It is then distributed throughout the body in just a few minutes, without breaking down or losing its properties. The effects are felt very quickly after consumption.
Taking CBD Orally
When you ingest CBD, it passes through the digestive system. Digestion is a lengthy process—taking 1 to 2 hours—during which the CBD molecules are broken down. The concentration of cannabidiol in the blood will be reduced, and the effects will be delayed.
The dermal route
When applied to the skin, CBD can act locally on specific areas. Since the absorption rate is relatively low, a higher dosage will be required, and the time it takes to take effect will be extended to about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
CBD dosage is an important factor
The recommended CBD dose depends on various factors specific to each individual, such as:
- weight;
- metabolism;
- the desired effect or the condition to be treated;
- the concentration and quality of the product;
- the frequency of administration.
To find the right dosage for you, start by experimenting with small amounts of CBD spread out over several doses throughout the day. Then gradually increase and adjust the dose until you feel the desired effect.
How long does it take for the body to eliminate CBD?
Once again, many factors come into play. These include the same ones mentioned earlier: method of consumption, body weight, metabolism, product quality, and so on. It is therefore difficult to estimate how long it takes the body to eliminate CBD.
According to a 2007 study, CBD remains in the body for 72 hours after being smoked. Meanwhile, other studies show that a CBD and THC extract, when taken in capsule form, is no longer detectable after 6 hours.
If you are required to take a drug test after using CBD, don’t worry. The risk of testing positive for THC is extremely low. CBD products in France contain no more than 0.2% THC. You would therefore have to consume an excessive amount of CBD for it to be detected in a test.
You should also know that there is a very pure product with a high concentration of CBD and no trace of THC:CBD extract.
