CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of more than 400 chemical components from the cannabis plant. Other components include aromatic terpenes, colorful flavonoids, and other cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and THC. Though CBD is crystalline in its purest form, many manufacturers infuse it into oils, tinctures, or other consumable products to improve bioavailability and dosing accuracy.

The most common question asked is how does CBD work? Essentially, CBD mimics naturally-occurring cannabinoids in the body to help control the flow of information within and between cells. It does this by partially binding with special cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain and spinal cord (these are called CB1 receptors) and most peripheral tissues, as well (CB2 receptors). In doing, CBD can mitigate immune responses like pain and inflammation throughout the entire body, and help regulate mood responses like joy, sadness, and worry.

CBDa is the raw, acidic form of CBD. To be clear, all cannabinoids develop as raw, acidic compounds, which means they all include an additional acidic carboxyl atom (for example, raw cannabinoids include CBDa, CBGa, THCa, and CBNa). This extra atom limits the bioavailability of these cannabinoids while removing the atom improves bioavailability, or the body’s ability to absorb the compound. This removal process (called “decarboxylation”) occurs when the substance heats or ages. For example, decarboxylation may occur when someone toasts dried hemp flower or smokes a bowl of cured hemp greens.

CBD differs from THC in many ways. Probably the most crucial difference is the non-psychoactive effect of CBD. Noise conditions caused by CBD are almost impossible. THC, on the other hand, has an intoxicating effect. The sale and consumption of THC is therefore also prohibited or allowed only in relation to a medical application in part and under strict templates.

Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating. As such, those who consume CBD will not experience pronounced psychoactive effects. Instead, users might feel more relaxed and pain-free, and will likely experience a slight boost in mood thanks to CBD’s anti-stress qualities. Studies also suggest that CBD may improve sleep, which may relate to CBD’s sedative and anti-anxiety qualities.

CBD’s proposed applications are wide and varied. For example, research suggests that CBD might help reduce inflammation and pain, mood problems, sleep problems, skin problems, and more. Studies also suggest that CBD may speed bone fracture recovery time and improve bone strength. Moreover, consumers may be able to gargle with CBD oil to improve oral health.

The effect of CBD does depend on the dosage – at least partially. However, there is much more to CBD efficacy than dose size. For example, different ingestion methods require different dose sizes due to variable bioavailability. Sublingual doses are often 80 percent smaller than metabolized methods, whereas topical doses differ completely because they generally don’t make it to the bloodstream.

Another factor that contributes to CBD efficacy is the frequency of use. Though CBD may provide some short-term benefits, it is most effective when consumed regularly. By adding CBD to a regular health routine, users may help stimulate endocannabinoid production and maintain EC system functionality – but the dosing must be consistent.

How long it takes for CBD to take effect depends on many factors, including the dose size, the consumption method, tolerance, and more. For example, those who smoke or vape CBD products will usually experience a general calming within about five minutes of the first puff as the cannabinoids absorb into the blood through the lungs. The effects of inhaled CBD are usually shorter-lived, though, lasting only an hour or two on average. CBD applied sublingually through mucous membranes in the mouth usually take effect within ten to 20 minutes and last between two to four hours. Edible CBD products, or those that the body metabolizes, can take anywhere from 30 minutes for a few hours to take effect with relief lasting as much as six hours or more.

CBD will generally begin working after the first dose. However, the effects are transitory if not taken regularly. As such, experts recommend consuming CBD supplements daily or twice daily for the best results.

The side effects of CBD are generally mild and include drowsiness, dry mouth, appetite loss, nausea, and diarrhea. Importantly, CBD may also alter the effectiveness of certain medications. Those who wish to add CBD to their routine should always consult with a doctor before taking CBD supplements.