CBD Sublingual Vs. CBD Topicals Vs. CBD Vapes

There are various ways to consume CBD, including inhalation, topically, and sublingually. Each delivery method has its bioavailability and dosage tips. This article discusses the sublingual, topicals, and CBD vapes. 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most prevalent chemical compounds in the hemp plant. It is popular for its multiple therapeutic benefits and non-psychoactive nature. There are various CBD delivery methods, including but not limited to sublingual, vaping, and topical. Sublingual CBD involves putting drops of cannabis oil underneath the tongue, then waiting for a few seconds before swallowing the oil. It offers more quick-acting effects since CBD goes to the bloodstream directly.

On the other hand, topical use involves applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin. Popular topicals include; creams, balms, salves, and lotions. In contrast, Vaping involves consuming an e-liquid derived from Cannabidiol, the cannabis-derived oil if converted to vapor using special devices; vapes dispense the cannabis derivatives in the body almost immediately, giving an immediate impact.  

Understanding CBD sublingual, CBD topicals, and CBD vapes

CBD sublingual is one of the most common techniques of using Cannabidiol. Millar et al. (2020) noted that sublingual consumption involves placing a few drops of cannabis derivative beneath the tongue before swallowing it for faster-acting effects. The oil is absorbed into the bloodstream through the blood vessels in the mouth. Sublingual consumption has a higher bioavailability; the cannabis derivatives are not wasted during absorption.

CBD topicals feature gels, balms, lotions, creams, and solves. These products contain CBD as their main active ingredient. They should not be ingested since they contain toxic substances that may affect one's health. CBD topicals work by penetrating the skin. Before using them, it is advisable to perform a patch test to see how it reacts with the skin. 

CBD vapes are consumed through vapor inhalation. The method uses instruments such as vape pens to deliver Cannabidiol to the user. Vaping has a higher bioavailability compared to 

CBD Sublingual vs. CBD Vapes vs. CBD Topicals and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to exert its benefits to the body. However, their interaction varies with the method of consumption. The endocannabinoid system is a complex signaling system in the body responsible for maintaining body balance. The system regulates sleep, pain, memory, mood, and appetite. It constitutes endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. 

CBD Sublingual Interaction with the ECS

Consuming CBD sublingually is one of the fastest ways to feel Cannabidiol effects. Once you place the oil drops beneath the tongue, it is absorbed by the blood vessels in the mouth. The CBD binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors to provide therapeutic effects.

CBD Topicals' Interaction with the ECS

Unlike sublingual, the Cannabidiol-infused topicals do not enter the bloodstream. It is applied externally, and since the skin is thick, it hardly reaches the bloodstream. However, interacts with the CB2 receptors domiciled in the skin and peripheral nerves to dispense the health and therapeutic effects of Cannabidiol. Topical CBD is one of the most effective ways to relieve pain. The topicals offer longer-lasting results since they penetrate deeper into the skin. Once it reaches the skin's second layer, it interacts with the ECS to alleviate localized skin problems.

CBD Vape's Interaction with the ECS

CBD vapes offer faster-acting effects than other delivery techniques since they reach the bloodstream quicker. Upon inhalation, Cannabidiol is absorbed by the alveoli found along the lung's walls, and then travels to the bloodstream and the brain, interacting with the ECS. The interaction provides multiple health and therapeutic benefits.

CBD Sublingual Vs. CBD Topicals Vs. CBD Vapes Bioavailability 

CBD bioavailability refers to the number of cannabis derivatives absorbed into the bloodstream. A product's bioavailability helps you know the amount of Cannabidiol you should consume. 

Sublingual products deliver around 13 to 19% of Cannabidiol. However, some studies state that it may be as high as 35%,

Since CBD topicals do not enter the bloodstream, they are less wasted through metabolism. Their bioavailability remains lower than vapes and sublingual products.

CBD Vape Bioavailability

CBD vape bioavailability is around 34% to 46%. Some studies indicate it to be around 56%, making it the most effective method of consumption. If you want a higher bioavailability, you should go for CBD Vaping. Studies are ongoing concerning CBD's bioavailability.

CBD Sublingual vs. CBD Topicals vs. CBD Vapes Benefits

Though sublingual, vapes, and topicals differ in various aspects, they share some similarities, especially in their benefits; each delivery method contains Cannabidiol as its major active ingredient. Users of all the products enjoy a soothing effect. However, its therapeutic qualities may differ depending on the product being utilized.

Benefits of CBD Sublingual

Though research is still ongoing on the benefits of CBD sublingual, several clinical studies confirm that it relieves the body. According to Moltke et al. (2021), sublingual products benefit the body in the following way;

• Reduce anxiety and other mental health-related symptoms
• Soothes gut conditions
• Offers neuroprotective qualities
• Benefits the heart health

To experience the stated benefit, purchase high-quality products from credible brands. 

Benefits of CBD Topicals 

CBD topicals provide a soothing effect. However, their relief is centered around the skin since they are applied topically. Stojkovski&Kire(2022) suggested that CBD topicals tackle the various conditions:

• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Acne
• Dry skin
• Joint and muscle pain
• Headaches
• Menstrual cramps

CBD Vapes Benefit

CBD vapes provide faster-acting effects with the highest bioavailability. If you want to experience fast relief, look no further than CBD vapes.

CBD vapes offer the following benefits:

• Benefiting heart health
• Alleviating stress, depression, and anxiety
• Soothes digestive issues
• Offers neuroprotective qualities 

Summary

CBD is consumable through sublingual, topical, and Vaping. Consuming CBD topically involves placing a few drops of Cannabidiol oil under the tongue and then waiting for a few seconds before swallowing it. Topical use of CBD involves applying CBD directly on the skin. CBD Vaping involves using an electronic device and e-liquid to consume cannabis. The delivery methods differ in multiple ways, such as; interaction with the endocannabinoid system, bioavailability, and dosage. However, they are similar benefits since they utilize one common ingredient; CBD. Before using any CBD product, it is vital to talk to a health practitioner regarding its dosage and side effects. 

References

Liu, T. (2019). What is CBD Oil? Learn the Facts: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects.

Millar, S. A., Maguire, R. F., Yates, A. S., & O’Sullivan, S. E. (2020). Towards better delivery of cannabidiol (CBD). Pharmaceuticals, 13(9), 219.

Moltke, J., &Hindocha, C. (2021). Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of cannabis research, 3(1), 1-12.

Stojkovski, K. (2022). The Best CBD for Arthritis 2022: 7 CBD Oils and Topicals for Joint Pain. ORDER, 7(00).