Experts recommend that beginners start with a low dose of CBD oil, such as 25 milligrams per day, and gradually increase the dosage until you get the desired effects. Because everyone responds differently to CBD, it's best to go through this process under the guidance of a qualified medical provider.
For CBD oil to be effective, it must first be digested in a process called first-pass digestion. Preliminary research suggests that taking CBD oil with fatty foods may increase the bioavailability of CBD, but more human trials are needed. CBD tinctures are taken under the tongue and absorbed by the mucous membranes, so they may take effect more quickly, but more scientific evidence is needed to support this theory.
Choose the right CBD oil strength for you
There is no standard dose or potency when it comes to taking CBD oil. Effects vary from person to person and depend on the type of CBD used, as well as other factors such as height, weight, and metabolic function. Additionally, the effective dose of CBD oil may vary depending on the purpose of use, such as to support sleep, improve pain levels, or reduce anxiety. More research is needed to determine the standard effective dose and potency of CBD oil.
“CBD oil has been used to self-treat a variety of conditions, including pain and anxiety, but there isn't much evidence to back it up,” says Dr. Piomelli. “If you decide to try it, I recommend starting with a small dose (up to 50 milligrams) and making sure to self-monitor for side effects like drowsiness, fatigue, or diarrhea. I wouldn't take more than 250 milligrams a day, or for more than two to three weeks.”
How much CBD oil should I take?
The amount of CBD oil an individual should take depends on the potency of the oil, the type of CBD being used, and the desired effects. Additionally, the effectiveness and absorption rate of CBD oil will vary depending on additional factors such as an individual’s weight, height, and personal metabolism.
Experts generally recommend starting with a low dose and low potency and gradually working your way up from there to find the ideal CBD oil dosage for you.
How long does it take for CBD oil to start working?
Some studies suggest that placing CBD oil under the tongue may allow it to be absorbed through the bloodstream, meaning the effects may be felt more quickly than with other methods, but more research is needed to back up these claims.
Meanwhile, swallowed CBD oil can take anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours to take effect, says Dr. Piomelli, and research has shown that CBD is more bioavailable when taken with a high-fat or high-calorie meal than when taken alone or on an empty stomach.
“Although a full stomach speeds up absorption, it can still take several hours for the CBD to be fully absorbed,” adds Dr. Piomelli.
