The Surprising Truth About Sublingual CBD Absorption – Not as Fast as We Thought

Cannabis has gained widespread popularity for its potential health benefits, with Cannabidiol (CBD) at the forefront of medicinal and consumer interest. CBD products come in various forms, but the debate over which method of consumption yields the quickest results has always revolved around sublingual drops and oral capsules. A recent study published in September 2023 in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research challenges our assumptions about sublingual CBD absorption, revealing that it might not be as fast as we believed.

For years, the sublingual method, where CBD oil is administered under the tongue, was thought to offer a rapid onset of effects. This belief was grounded in the sublingual region’s exceptional vascularity, suggesting that cannabinoids could be absorbed directly into the bloodstream within seconds. On the other hand, capsules were assumed to take a more circuitous route through the digestive system before the cannabinoids finally entered the bloodstream. However, a recent study’s findings are about to turn this understanding on its head.

Details of the Study

The study that was published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research in September 2023, aimed to compare CBD pharmacokinetics between sublingual drops and orally ingested gelatin capsules. Eight male participants took part in the research, and the conditions were randomized and participant-blinded. The participants received various combinations of placebo and CBD-containing hemp oil in either capsules or sublingual drops. These combinations included placebo capsules/placebo drops, CBD capsules/placebo drops, and placebo capsules/CBD drops. Blood samples, blood pressure measurements, and subjective assessments were collected at hourly intervals for 6 hours and again at 24 hours.

The Unexpected Revelation

Contrary to common belief, the study’s findings showed that plasma CBD concentrations were not significantly different between the CBD capsules and CBD sublingual drops. This means that the route of administration does not significantly impact the overall CBD absorption.

Peak CBD concentration, the time at which peak concentration was reached, and the area under the concentration curve were all found to be quite similar between the two methods. There were no significant differences in cardiometabolic outcomes, liver function, kidney function, or subjective experiences among the participants when comparing CBD-Caps to CBD-Drops.

Implications and Future Considerations

The implications of this study are significant. It suggests that when CBD oil is delivered sublingually, it is often swallowed before any substantial oral mucosal CBD absorption occurs. This finding challenges the notion that sublingual administration offers a faster onset compared to capsules.

For both researchers and consumers, this study has several implications. In terms of research design, it highlights the importance of considering the route of administration when studying CBD’s effects. For consumers, it means that the choice between sublingual drops and capsules may not be as clear-cut as previously thought. Factors such as personal preference, convenience, and specific health concerns should be taken into account when selecting the best method of CBD consumption.

This groundbreaking study has upended our understanding of sublingual CBD absorption. The assumption that sublingual administration leads to a faster onset of effects has been challenged. With further research and ongoing developments in CBD product design, consumers and researchers alike will need to adapt to this surprising new reality.