Edibles, Topicals, or Smoking: Which Is Best for Consuming CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound of cannabis, has been confirmed by different scientific research to offer numerous health benefits. In some cases, it can cure ailments incurable by everyday medicine.

With the rising fame of CBD and the abundance of its products in the market today, many users are confused about which to use whether edibles, topicals, or smoking.

This article will explain the difference between these CBD products and how to choose the best for your purpose and lifestyle.

CBD vs THC

Before placing an order for a cannabis product on online dispensaries like www.Kolas.com, it is important to understand the main differences between cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to know what to buy.

CBD and THC are both compounds present in cannabis plants. Both also interact with the endocannabinoid systems in the brain, but they have different psychoactive effects.

CBD does not produce the “high” effect associated with cannabis products like marijuana. THC is responsible for such feelings.

CBD and THC have a lot of similar medical benefits, such as treating anxiety, pain, depression, migraine, schizophrenia, and insomnia, among others.

Interest in CBD has continued to grow because it does not give a high sensation. There are different products you can purchase, but understanding them will help you make the right decision.

It is also essential to note that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are advised against consuming CBD except if monitored by a physician. Likewise, people who are under medication.

Edibles

CBD edibles are simply food, beverages, and drinks infused with CBD. It includes ingestible products like gummies, chocolate, truffles, cookies, and biscuits. Due to the variety of options and considering these edibles are people’s favorite, they is one of the most preferred CBD products.

A report predicted the edible CBD market to generate about $51.60 million globally by 2027.

Pros of CBD edibles

• A large variety of options is available
• Taste and flavor are relatable
• They are delicious to consume
• Portable to carry around
• No dosing is required
• Great and discreet way to consume CBD
• Stronger and longer effects

Cons of CBD edibles

• Absorption can be slow
• The body only absorbs 20 to 30 percent of it
• Most research on CBD effectiveness is based on pure CBD oil, not edibles

How many CBD edibles can I eat per day?

Experts recommend consuming no more than 70mg of CBD per day unless directed by a doctor to consume more.

This means you can consume up to seven per day if you are eating a bar of CBD-infused chocolate with 10mg of CBD.

Topicals

CBD topicals are transdermal products designed to be applied on the skin. They are typically lotions, balms, creams, salves, and CBD Patches infused with CBD.

CBD has been researched to ameliorate skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Some studies also revealed it might aid in treating musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis and temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

The topical CBD you choose will depend on your preference and purpose. Lotions are lighter and easily absorbed into the skin, while balms and salves are thicker; hence, they take more time to get absorbed but offer a longer-lasting effect, making them suitable for a more intensive treatment.

Pros of topical CBD

• Suitable for treating localized pain
• Patches offer a more wide-reaching effect

Cons of topical CBD

• The skin has poor permeability; thus, more CBD will be needed for a noticeable effect
• Risk of skin irritation

Smoking and vaping

Dried and cured flowers of cannabis plants can be consumed by smoking or vaping. This is one of the common methods of consuming CBD and is considered a form of enjoyment by some people.

When CBD-rich cannabis flower is smoked or vaped, the constituent compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. The effect is quick and offers high bioavailability. You can feel the effect of smoked or vaped CBD-rich cannabis in 10 minutes or less.

Due to health concerns such as lung cancer and heart attack, vaping is considered a safer alternative to smoking.

Pros of smoking and vaping CBD

• Quick effect
• High absorption
• The effect can last for 3-5 hours
• Vape produces little smoke, hence can go undetected

Cons of smoking and vaping CBD

• Health concerns such as the increased risk of asthma and cancer
• Dosing is difficult to determine and control
• The label on the product can be confusing
• Absorption is determined by the amount of time you hold your breath after inhaling the smoke

Things to consider when choosing CBD cannabis flower to smoke or vape

• Flower quality: Only purchase from reputable dispensaries. Ensure the cannabis flower was grown with organic farming practices.
• Storage: Cannabis flowers are best stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool and dry place.
• Dispensary: It is important you only purchase from a licensed dispensary. This will ensure you are getting a quality product.
• Dose: If you are smoking or vaping cannabis for the first time, go for flowers with low doses of CBD. This will help you gauge your tolerance and adjust doses as you deem fit.