How to Use CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD oils are becoming a popular alternative to address a wide variety of symptoms. Some use hemp CBD oil for sleep, for pain management, or even for depression and anxiety.

But how do you actually use CBD oil? What’s the appropriate dosage, and the best time to take CBD oil? Keep reading to learn how to use CBD oil for a variety of applications.

Note: CBD is not FDA approved for any medical condition. The information on this page is strictly for reference and should not be taken as medical advice. You should speak with your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

How to Use CBD Tincture

Hemp oil tinctures are liquid products that are typically packaged in a glass bottle. They usually have a dropper top, or a spray top for easy dispensing. These products contain CBD oil that is mixed with another “carrier” oil, or with high-proof alcohol.

If you’re using a tincture, the process is quite simple. Just take a dropper full and place it under your tongue. Hold it there for about 60 seconds, then swallow it. This process is called sublingual application, and it allows for the CBD to enter your bloodstream more rapidly.

You can also explore mixing these tinctures into drinks, smoothies, and even foods. See the “cooking with CBD” section further down this page for more information.

Here at NuLife, the majority of our products are tinctures. We mix pure CBD hemp oil with grapeseed oil and hemp seed oil. This form is very easy to take, and the milder flavor of the carrier oils helps to mute the sometimes harsh taste of pure CBD oil. The carrier oils also help to enhance the bioavailability of the mixture, while also extending its shelf-life.

How to Use CBD Oil Capsules

Capsules are perhaps the easiest form of CBD to use. Simply swallow a capsule as needed, with or without a meal, and drink plenty of water to wash it down.

Capsules eliminate some of the guesswork associated with the dosage of tinctures and plain oils. They allow for a completely controlled dose. In the case of our CBD Softgels, each capsule has 25mg of CBD – no more, no less.

How to Use CBD Hemp Oil Topicals

To use CBD oil topicals, simply rub a small amount onto the affected area. If you’ve never used the product before, it’s best to spot test using a very small area of skin. That way you can test for any potential allergies or adverse reactions, before applying it to a larger area.

Topical CBD products are usually blended with other oils, like coconut or jojoba, which help the product absorb more easily into your skin.

How to Use CBD Vape Oil

If you have a vape or e-cigarette, some manufacturers sell pure CBD oil vape cartridges. These cartridges screw on to the vape just like any other cartridge. Simply follow manufacturer instructions, and use the product as needed.

It’s also possible to make your own hemp oil e-juice, but it’s not recommended. It’s best to just buy a premade mix.

CBD Oil Dosage Guidelines

The proper dosage for CBD oil is dependent on a wide variety of factors. The right amount to take depends on the symptom you are trying to address, your size and weight, your historical use of CBD products, and more. For best results, follow these broad guidelines:

• Start small. Begin with a smaller dose of CBD and gradually work your way up
• 10mg is a good place to start, with 25mg being a widely accepted “standard” dose
• Keep in mind that the form of CBD you’re using will affect the dosage guidelines
• Consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns

CBD also affects different people in different ways. Even for the same person, the first dose of CBD may have a different effect than the 50th dose. Interestingly, it appears that can build up in the body, increasing the number of cannabinoid receptors. This could potentially make the endocannabinoid system more sensitive to cannabinoids over time.

To add to the confusion, there’s no “official” CBD dosage recommendations out there. Instead, most manufacturers just recommend “using as needed”, or taking a standard 25mg dose. Leafly recently interviewed a neuroscientist about the proper CBD dosage guidelines. If you’re interested, the article has some interesting tidbits on ideal CBD dosage.

When to Take CBD Oil

Now you know how to take CBD oil – but when should you take your dose?

The question of when to take CBD oil is another topic of debate.

There’s no “right” time of day to take a dose – and many people choose to use CBD products multiple times a day.

The effects of CBD tend to last for 3-6 hours or so, although this varies from person to person. Thus, if you’re aiming for all-day effects, you’ll likely want to take a dose in the morning and the afternoon.

Keep in mind that CBD can cause drowsiness in some people. Until you know how it affects you, it’s best to start with a nighttime dose.

The best time of day to take CBD oil also depends on what symptoms you are hoping to address. The right answer to this question is highly dependent on your individual situation – so it’s best to experiment and find what’s right for you.

Cooking with CBD Oil

If you’re taking CBD on a regular basis, you may find yourself looking for interesting ways to get your daily dose. Some people experiment with cooking with CBD oil, to incorporate it into daily routines.

There’s a lot you can do with CBD oil in the kitchen, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Avoid high heats. CBD, and particularly the terpenes in CBD oil, are sensitive to high heats. It’s okay to warm CBD oil up, but don’t place it over direct heat or use it in any recipes that require high heat.
• Consider the flavor. CBD oil has a earthy flavor that some people find unpleasant. Consider how the flavor of the oil might affect the final dish. You can also buy flavored CBD oils for a different approach.
• Sauces and garnishes are the easiest ways to cook with CBD. They can be used to top a wide variety of dishes, and you won’t have to worry about heat damaging the potency.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.