Ask Cheri:

How long does it take before CBD effects kick in?  How long do the effects of CBD last?  How much CBD should I take?

Thanks,

Carole

Those are ALL great questions Carole!  Regardless of the reason you are taking CBD, you obviously want to know what to expect and how to best use it.

Instead of answering this question myself, I am going to turn it over to CBD expert Joy Smith, of Joy Organics, a full spectrum (minus THC) CBD hemp oil company.  Be sure to read down to the end as Joy has some great advice when it comes to dosing and how much CBD to take.

So without further ado, I am going to let Joy Smith take it away.  Here's what she had to say about the how long an onset you can expect before CBD products typically take effect, how long you can expect various CBD products to last.  Also, be sure to check out this post that explains why after staying out of the CBD arena for a LONG time, I finally chose to work with Joy Organics.

Start Here: The First Thing to Understand About CBD Effects

Remember, CBD affects everyone differently and dosages between individuals will vary tremendously. 

How Much CBD Should I Take?

If you’re new to CBD, give it some time.  You’ll want to give your body some time to adjust to taking it. Many people just starting out on their CBD journey try it for the first time and think they’re going to immediately see extraordinary results, but this isn’t always how CBD works.

Now to be sure, some people do see extraordinary results the first time (and we love hearing those stories), but remember that CBD affects each person differently. It’s best to give your CBD regimen some time before determining how long various methods of administration work for you.

How to Begin a CBD Regimen

Start slowly by taking a low serving size (5-10mg) and then work your way up over the course of a couple weeks until you hit that sweet spot and feel the relief you desire.

CBD works differently for everyone, which will ultimately determine how long the effects last for you personally. The method of administration also has a significant influence on how long the effects of CBD last. 

The Method of Delivery Determines How Long it Takes to Feel the Effects of CBD and How Long the Effects of CBD Last

There are several different ways to take CBD, and the method of delivery you choose will ultimately determine how long the effects of CBD last.  

As a general rule you can expect the effects to last somewhere between 2-8 hours.

Now, let's explore some the various CBD delivery methods and how long you might be able to expect their effects to last.  While there is the option of CBD flower that can be smoked or vaped in several medical marijuana dispensaries, most individuals who use CBD favor products made with CBD oil, so that is what we will focus on here.

How Long Do the Effects of CBD Tinctures Last?

Tinctures are one of the most popular methods of delivery. CBD tinctures are taken most effectively sublingually (under the tongue), where the CBD oil is held for approximately 60 seconds then swallowed. When it’s held under the tongue, the CBD oil is absorbed by the mucous membranes and then directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract, which allows for a quicker delivery.

It typically takes 20-30 minutes to feel the effects of a CBD tincture, and the effects are known to last between 4-6 hours.

How Long Do the Effects of CBD Capsules Last?

CBD capsules are taken just like any other supplement. When CBD is ingested orally in a capsule form, it must first pass through the digestive system and then the liver, where CBD molecules are metabolized by various enzymes. This is something that reduces the concentration of CBD compounds that are then passed into the bloodstream. Because CBD must pass through both the digestive system and the liver, it takes longer to feel the effects.

It can take up to one hour to feel the effects of CBD capsules, which are known to last between 6-8 hours.

How Long do the Effects of CBD Beverages and Edibles Last?

CBD edibles and beverages work much like CBD capsules. When CBD is consumed in the form CBD gummies or infused hard candies, chocolates, drinks or other edibles, it must pass through the digestive system and the liver.

If you want to reduce the time it takes for CBD to make its way through the digestive tract and be broken down by the liver, take CBD in the form of capsules, edibles or drinks on an empty stomach.

Like capsules, it typically takes up to an hour to feel the effects of edibles or beverages, and the effects last between 4-6 hours.

How Long Do the Effects of CBD Topicals Last?

CBD topicals are applied directly to the skin, and come in the form of lotions, creams, balms and salves. CBD topicals are excellent for providing localized relief in the affected area. They are designed to be applied directly to the skin, where they are then absorbed through the skin, bypassing the digestive tract completely.

Research indicates the presence of an endocannabinoid system in the skin, which has been associated with several biological processes. Because CBD topicals are applied directly to the skin and bypass the digestive tract and liver, the effects can be felt much more quickly than any of the other delivery methods.

Generally, the effects of CBD topicals can be felt within 15-20 minutes (and sometimes faster) and can last for up to 6 hours. Surprisingly, topicals are known to be the longest-lasting form of CBD administration.

How Long Do the Effects of CBD Vaping Last?

Vaping CBD oil is the quickest method of delivery. When you vape CBD, the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs that allow for rapid gaseous exchange, quickly absorb the CBD you inhale. From here it quickly enters the bloodstream, where it then travels to various parts throughout the body.

The effects of vaping CBD are felt almost immediately, however, don’t last as long as other methods of delivery. The effects of vaping CBD are known to last around 2-3 hours.

More on CBD