Everything you need to know about the Bioavailability of CBD
Bioavailability fully understand how the different methods of administering CBD influence its effects on the body. It is a fundamental criterion for determining the dosage, method of administration and speed of action of cannabidiol, which directly influences the satisfaction and effectiveness felt by the user.
What is Bioavailability and Why is it Crucial?
Bioavailability represents the percentage and rate of absorption of a substance by the human body after administration. This is particularly significant for cannabidiol (CBD) , where higher bioavailability means that more CBD reaches the bloodstream directly and is therefore usable by the body. Depending on the method of administration, bioavailability varies greatly, thus impacting the effects felt, their intensity and their duration.
Different Methods of CBD Administration and Their Impact on Bioavailability
Each method of administering CBD affects its absorption and, therefore, its bioavailability. Here is an overview of the main methods and their respective effectiveness:
Sublingual Administration: Oral Drops and Sprays
Sublingual administration, which includes oral drops and , involves placing the CBD under the tongue for direct absorption through the mucous membranes. This method bypasses the digestive tract and liver, which helps avoid some of the CBD loss. With a bioavailability that can reach up to 35%, the effect is rapid, generally appearing within 15 to 30 minutes, with a duration of effect of approximately 4 hours.
Tips for optimizing sublingual administration:
- Use a high quality carrier oil.
- Hold the CBD under the tongue for at least 30 seconds.
- Take CBD after a meal to maximize absorption.
Oral Ingestion: Capsules, Capsules and Foods Enriched with CBD
Oral ingestion remains a popular method despite lower bioavailability, ranging between 6% and 20%. CBD taken orally must pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver, where much of the active substance is lost. This process also delays the onset of effects, which occur on average between 1 and 2 hours after ingestion, but allows prolonged action over several hours.
Optimization of bioavailability by ingestion:
- Take CBD with fatty foods to improve its absorption.
- Favor formulations enriched with lipids.
Inhalation: Vaping and Smoking
Inhalation, through vaping or smoking , is a method of administration that provides high bioavailability, sometimes reaching 50%. When inhaled, CBD passes directly into the lungs and then into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, allowing rapid absorption, often within 5 minutes of inhalation.
Advantages and precautions:
- Vaping: Less risk than smoking for the respiratory tract.
- Smoking: Offers high bioavailability but exposes the lungs to toxins from smoke.
Nasal Administration
The nasal spray is a quick and effective alternative, with higher bioavailability than oral sprays. Passing directly through the nasal mucous membranes, CBD is absorbed more quickly and in greater quantities than orally. The effects are noticeable within 10 minutes, making this method a great choice for fast action.
Transdermal Administration: Patches and Creams
Transdermal patches and creams are options that release CBD gradually through the skin, allowing for a prolonged effect. However, due to CBD's fat-soluble properties, its absorption through the skin is limited unless it is combined with agents like ethanol to enhance penetration. This type of administration is particularly suitable for localized applications, such as muscle pain and chronic inflammation.
Benefits of transdermal patches:
- Continuous and stable release.
- Ideal for localized and chronic pain.
Factors Affecting CBD Bioavailability
Besides the method of administration, various external and internal factors influence the bioavailability of CBD. Here are the main things to consider:
User Health Status
Physical condition, including liver function and gastrointestinal health, directly affects the bioavailability of CBD. For example, people with liver problems may metabolize CBD differently, which can slow its absorption and limit its effectiveness. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you are undergoing medical treatment before adding CBD to your routine.
Dosage and Individual Sensitivity
The dose of CBD influences the amount absorbed by the body. Proper dosing is essential to maximize the effect of CBD while avoiding saturation, where an excessive dose can actually reduce effectiveness. Personal sensitivity, influenced by genetic factors, body weight and metabolism, should also be taken into account when adjusting the dosage.
Presence of Piperine
Piperine , a compound found in black pepper, is increasingly recognized for its role in improving the bioavailability of many substances, including CBD . Studies show that combining CBD with piperine can increase its absorption up to six times, making this combination particularly advantageous for maximizing the therapeutic effects of cannabidiol.
Food and Digestion
Taking CBD during a high-fat meal significantly increases bioavailability. This is because CBD, being a fat-soluble molecule, binds better to dietary fats, making it easier to absorb into the bloodstream. Foods rich in omega-3, such as oily fish, nuts and seeds, are ideal for this effect.
Thermal treatment
The method of production of CBD and its heat treatment directly influence its bioavailability. Overheating CBD can change it into less active forms, reducing its potency. It is therefore advisable to favor high quality products, extracted by gentle methods such as CO₂ extraction, to preserve the effectiveness of the CBD.
Conclusion
Bioavailability is a crucial factor in optimizing the use of CBD and obtaining the desired results. Choosing the right method of administration, adjusting the dosage according to personal needs and understanding the factors that influence absorption helps maximize the beneficial effects of cannabidiol. Whether you opt for sublingual drops, vaping or transdermal patches, it is essential to listen to your body to determine the most appropriate method and dosage.
