Since there is no standardised CBD and THC administration guide that we can turn to, experimentation may be the best way to figure out which delivery mechanism is most effective for you.
The efficacy of the product that you take depends on various factors including the grade or quality, the size of the dosage, the delivery mechanism, and finally, the individual taking it. Everyone’s body processes CBD or THC differently and the effects that you feel depend on this.
The first rule is to take the CBD or THC as it has been prescribed to you, and if you’re not happy with the outcome, return to the clinic and get a follow-up appointment. However, it is worth reading about ingestion to understand how the body absorbs it, and why sometimes it can take some time to get the dosage at the most effective level.
There are a number of different ways to take a dose of CBD.
CBD Edibles
These could take the form of gummy bears, brownies, candies or cookies. Each of these will be infused with a regulated dose of CBD. They are popular as they are very convenient to carry around, discreet and easy to consume. The flavours in the candies or gummies help mask the taste of the oil. But since these need to be digested before they’re absorbed by the body, the effects can take longer to kick in. If too much is ingested, it can cause nausea and vomiting,
which is why it is often suggested to start on a lower dose. Each individual’s metabolic rate influences this.
The effects could last for up to 12 hours, but they contain lower doses than a tincture would. Edibles may contain additives and if you want to avoid these, you can opt for one of the many other options available.
In NZ, there is the option of dried cannabis flowers for tea.
Infused into Food or Drinks
The flavour of CBD oil may take some getting used to so, many people hide their daily dosage inside a delicious smoothie. Several coffee producers overseas are adding CBD oil to their beans or to dairy-free milk so users get a boost of caffeine with none of the jitters. Some people incorporate it into their food in a bolder way – as part of their salad dressing where the flavour is more likely to be noticeable.
There are both CBD and THC oral liquids available in New Zealand.
Inhaled via Vaporiser
Inhaling CBD via a vaporiser takes it straight to your lungs. Here, it is absorbed quickly by the bloodstream so you feel the effects fairly soon. In New Zealand, there is dried cannabis flower available for use via a vaporiser.
As Sublingual Solutions
CBD is available as oils, tinctures or even lozenges. Sublingual products are those that are placed under the tongue to allow it to be absorbed quickly. A tincture is just a liquid concoction of CBD and alcohol that can be administered through a dropper directly into your mouth (some people use a spray). It is generally applied in the area that’s underneath the tongue. This space is rich in capillaries which ensures that the tincture is absorbed into your bloodstream much quicker.
Also, the use of alcohol means the active ingredients are extracted more efficiently than any other herb solvent, and it is very fast-acting.
Since tinctures have the most consistent absorption rates, it is an efficient method to administer CBD. It is often used when people need high doses of CBD. However, the downside is that the effects last a shorter time. And if you’re unfamiliar with handling droppers, you risk administering doses incorrectly.
THC Capsules
Easy and simple, this is important for those who need to take in a consistent amount each day. Just as with other edibles, you will need to wait for over 30 minutes until it has been digested to feel the effects.
Topically as Creams, Lotions or Dermal Patches
CBD can be blended with various oils like coconut oil or in natural balms like beeswax. This can be rubbed into your skin and targeted to specific spots like aching joints or sore muscles. CBD lotions, creams and dermal patches are also popular. The downside of topical administrations is that the absorption rate is lower than it is with other types. You will need to repeat the administration more frequently or use a larger quantity to get a stronger effect. It is not generally recommended for those who are using CBD as part of their mental health treatment plan.
What to Look For in CBD and THC Products
- Buy lab-tested products only. It’s safer to use products that have been tested by a third-party laboratory, so you have a better idea of what you’re putting in your body, that there are no contaminants, and the dosage is controlled. In NZ, the available options are tightly controlled, and all legally obtained products are safe.
- If it’s the first time you’re using CBD products, talk to a professional THC and CBD consultant first. Some CBD dosages and formulas interact with medications and may even result in side effects that you should be aware of.
- There are three major ‘types’ of CBD formulas available – full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate. Each of these is produced via different methods, and their effects and uses also vary. Talk to a healthcare professional to understand what would work best for you.
The CBD market is starting to see real traction as people realise how it can help with real medical issues, and that THC and CBD are very genuine legitimate medications. If you think it could help you, contact us to find out more. We have experience in prescribing THC and CBD for a range of illnesses and can help assess if it is right for you.
