What’s CBD Bioavailability?

You’ve probably seen it on your CBD topicals or even your cherished CBD-infused beverages: “higher CBD bioavailability!” This is a fairly new concept that is just now starting to pop up on the labels of our favorite CBD products, but, what does this mean?

In the CBD world, it often feels as though we’re introduced to new terms and acronyms every day. This can be hard to keep up with; but, in an ever-growing industry, being knowledgeable is key. Bioavailability is a somewhat new idea within the industry, so we’re here to get everybody on the same page.

Essentially, CBD bioavailability refers to the amount of CBD that’s actually absorbed into the bloodstream when applied or consumed. The higher the bioavailability, the higher the percentage of CBD you’re actually getting. When brands are upfront about their bioavailability, it gives you a bigger indication as to just how these products will affect you, helping you pick out the ones that fit your needs the most. Though, CBD bioavailability does differ depending on the method of consumption.

Regularly, sublingual CBD consumption has a bioavailability of near 20%, with topicals being even lower. Out of all the smoking methods available to you, studies have shown that vaping, or inhalation, actually provides the most bioavailability. Through this method, the smoke is immediately sent to your lungs where the cannabinoids can be broken down effectively. Quickly, the CBD enters your bloodstream, and all it took was a single puff.

Unfortunately, vaping or inhaling CBD products isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. But, with all other methods of CBD consumption resulting in much lower percentages, manufacturers are looking for ways to change that. Though changing the molecular structure of something like a cannabinoid may seem impossible, we’re actually making headway.

Recently, CBD producers have been able to come up with unique and effective ways to increase bioavailability within their CBD products, specifically topicals and tinctures. Newer techniques like micro-emulsion or Nanotechnology are proving successful in shrinking cannabidiol molecules small enough to break down more appropriately when consumed; essentially this helps the CBD to be more water-soluble, rather than fat-soluble, which is exactly what our bloodstreams need. By doing this, the products that are produced have a significantly higher bioavailability than usual, and we’re not stuck spending hard-earned money on something that doesn’t affect us.

However, the idea of increasing CBD bioavailability is still being experimented with and perfected each and every day. Some methods are proving more successful than others, with everybody simply wanting to make their products as potent as possible. Soon, the CBD bioavailability will probably become a staple on every CBD products’ label, and we’ll be able to make our choices based on not only the potency, but its bioavailability, too.

Until then, don’t be afraid to inquire about bioavailability testing within your favorite CBD products. Do your own research to see which method of consumption is best for you and your bloodstream, and start looking out for high-quality products who are boasting higher bioavailability. With this information, you’ll know what to expect from your CBD oil, topical, or vape every time.