CBD has shown the potential to promote health and wellness in a variety of ways. Different types of CBD can have different effects on the body, which is why it’s so important to choose a CBD form that fits what your body needs. But between oral and topical CBD, which is best for your use? Read on to discover which CBD products might be right for you!
Understanding CBD Forms: What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) and THC are a few among 100 active compounds found in varieties of the hemp plant. Found in both full-spectrum and isolate varieties, CBD can help support optimal functioning of your endocannabinoid system, an important regulatory system in your body that manages how we feel pain, the communication of our nervous system, and our mood, among others. In addition, CBD can also work alongside some receptors in your body as an analog, meaning they can replace and/or function similarly to certain chemicals in the body that work in tandem with those receptors. For example, CBD has been shown to work and interact with the brain’s receptors in ways similar to serotonin, an important mood regulator.
Legalized by the 2018 Farm Bill, industrial hemp is a cannabis plant that contains 0.3% or less of THC, the primary psychoactive component in marijuana. To create different forms of CBD, mature hemp plants are harvested, trimmed, then processed to extract the pure CBD oil. This oil is then 3rd-party lab-tested, blended with a carrier to provide a standardized CBD concentration, and formulated into premium products.
The Different Types Of CBD: Oral vs Topical
While there are many different CBD forms, the CBD itself in each product is the same. Potent, pure CBD oil is suitable for both topical and oral use. The additional ingredients in the formulation, however, are what make different types of CBD products stand out.
Oral CBD – Perhaps the most popular way to add CBD to your daily care routine is with an oral tincture or CBD oil. With oral tinctures or oils, the CBD is standardized to a specific strength in milligrams per milliliter, such as 125mg/ml. To use, you draw the amount you want into the included dropper, then place under your tongue or swallow directly. It’s also possible to mix CBD oil and tinctures into your favorite smoothie, coffee drink, salad dressing, or baked treat. CBD can be absorbed through the mucosa in the mouth or esophagus, but also as it passes through your digestive system.
There are also different types of oral CBD available beyond tinctures and oils. From various concentrations to unique flavorings that suit every palate, even capsules, gummy edibles, and drink mixes, oral CBD can take many forms. There are even pet CBD oils available to help support the wellness of your furry companion. Generally, oral CBD is favored by those who want a discrete and easy way to incorporate CBD into their on-the-go lifestyle. Additionally, oral forms of CBD are often used to treat whole body, systemic issues (such as stress, anxiety, depression, or pain) or provide sustained, daily wellness support.
Topical CBD – Topical CBD also comes in a variety of forms from lotions to creams and even gels. Topical CBD products readily absorb into skin, penetrating the tissues directly underneath. As such, topical CBD products are generally preferred over oral CBD because they can provide targeted relief directly to the areas in need. Topical CBD research has shown this can be beneficial when trying to remedy location-specific problems such as muscular soreness, inflammation, or even nerve issues.
Additionally, CBD as a subset of hemp oil is naturally nourishing and moisturizing. It has even been suggested that topical CBD can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, brown spots, and leave the skin soft and supple. There is also some evidence that points to CBD’s potential to regulate sebum production in the skin’s pores. This could be beneficial to those who suffer from acne and other skin conditions caused by irritation.
Choosing The Right CBD
Choosing between these two types of CBD seems simple, after all, each of these CBD forms seems fairly unique. Some users, however, find that it gets a little more complicated. For instance, if their independent research has led them to consider CBD as an addition to their care regimen for spasticity in the legs, would an oral or topical preparation be better? While you should always consult your doctor when considering adding alternative products to your treatment plan, generally:
Topical products work best when there is a localized area you want to treat. If you have a relatively small area where you want to focus the CBD, topical products can be the right choice.
Oral products disperse the CBD to the entire body, including areas where topicals won’t reach. If you want to give your entire body a wellness boost, opt for oral products.
If you still aren’t sure, try both. Both types of CBD are safe and can be used together. No matter which form of CBD you choose, make sure you’re choosing high-quality CBD that’s been lab-verified as potent, and pure.
