Delivery Mechanism Chart & Information

A whole new understanding of cannabis Sativa has finally come about—it is now commonly accepted as a medicine. In the past, we have been fed lies; we were conditioned to think that there are no benefits to hemp. However, recent research is illuminating that just the opposite is true. With science finally shining a beacon of light on years of government misinformation, it has now fallen on the consumer’s shoulders to reevaluate hemp and to learn its benefits.

The key to finding optimal health with CBD is individuality. The endocannabinoid system modulates many more pathways in our bodies than just the CB1/CB2 receptors. It acts on so many pathways because its job is to maintain homeostasis in the body. All of the different compounds within the plant (CBD, CBG, THC, terpenes, etc.) work together to create balance. That is why it is essential to buy an ​organic and full spectrum​ product, rather than a substandard isolate—this ensures the synergy created by the phytocannabinoids and plant compounds working together, as nature intended.

The individual provides the ultimate way of gauging what delivery mechanism is most beneficial. Modern science’s knowledge of CBD is very new. Because our bodies are all so different and the endocannabinoid system is involved in modulating so many different pathways in the body, there is no blanket answer for how CBD will work for you—i.e., a low carbohydrate diet might be right for one person, but it might not be right for their brother. Our bodies are all incredibly different. While the person at your local CBD store can help you, you must come ready and educated. You are the best expert on you.

In her book, “Healing with CBD,” Eileen Konieczny writes, “factors that will influence the bioavailability of CBD (no matter what the delivery mechanism is) include your own biochemistry and metabolism, what you’ve eaten that day, the state of your endocannabinoid system, and how frequently you consume CBD or other cannabinoids.”

Deciding which product is best for you means thinking about your personal CBD therapy goals. What do you want to get out of CBD? This will help you determine the times of day, amounts, and delivery mechanisms that are right for you.

Eating a healthy diet high in unsaturated fats will help with absorption (as CBD is fat-soluble), but it is ultimately up to the individual to utilize trial and error to see what works for their own goals and system. The rule of thumb is to start low and go slow. The endocannabinoid system works with pathways throughout the entire body. It took many years to create the unbalance you are targeting—it cannot be fixed through improper use of CBD.

Delivery Mechanisms

Bioavailability = the amount of the substance that gets absorbed by the body

With weight based dosing: Weight is not the only factor to consider, but it is a valuable rule of thumb for those new to the CBD world. Significant factors also include a person’s overall health and medical conditions. Each individual needs to personally discover the optimal dosage of CBD for their metabolism and goals.

Inhaled (Vaping/Smoking)​ ​
Advantages: Lower risk of drug interactions and less liver exposure (liver exposure can reduce the bioavailability).

Disadvantages: While vaping can hurt a person’s throat, it can be relieved by simple remedies such as cough drops, sucking on ice, and water. Also, it can be hard to know how much one is dosing and there can be acidity in the residue.

Great for those who want fast, easy, immediate relief.

Gastrointestinal​ ​
Dose based on body weight, as follows:
125-179 lb (57-83 kg) = 15 mg
180-250 lb (84-102 kg) = 30 mg
250 + lb (102+ kg) = 60 mg, with a recommendation of dosing twice a day to begin.
Peak effect will be reached in 2-3 hours.

Great for those uncomfortable with taking hemp.

Sublingual
This is the most popular form of delivery for CBD.
Recommended dosing is based on weight, as follows:
125-179 lb (57-83 kg) = 10 mg
180-250 lb (84-102 kg) = 20 mg
250 lbs (102+ kg) = 30 mg.

This is a preferred method by many, because it bypasses the liver and intestines. This allows more plant chemicals to be processed by the body. (Liver exposure = less bioavailability)
*Remember you must hold it under your tongue for at least 30 seconds*

Great for potent daily dosing.

Topicals​ ​
The skin is a detoxifier; CBD can be helpful in places of inflammation and irritation.

May be useful for occasional joint pain or skin conditions.

Transdermal patches​ ​
Usually applied to dry, hairless skin, generally in the inner wrist or on the top of the foot. A typical patch is 10mg. The concentration of veins in these areas makes it easier for CBD to enter the bloodstream and be delivered to the body.

Great for those who want a slow and steady release of the cannabinoids (overnight?).

Intranasal ​
With immediate onset and high bioavailability.

May be useful for the occasional breakthrough pain.

CBD Suppositories​
Many of the benefits are due to its utility as a relaxant for muscles in your lower body.

May be useful for those with occasional vomiting and nausea problems, or during the night to provide relief from occasional pain, post-sex pain, or menstrual cramps.

An Article By Evie Louise

Evie Louise is a recent psychology graduate from New York University. She is a certified in International Cannabinoid Clinical Therapy. Evie sees all forms of the cannabis sativa plant as the future of psychiatry, and hopes to use it in her therapy practice as a full spectrum approach to mental health and wellness.