The market of cannabis extracts is a vast and detailed landscape, but learning how to use cannabis oil in the right way can provide a blueprint for making these products specifically work for you. Recently, more and more people have been reaching for cannabis oils for their ease of use and discretion.
You’ve probably heard tons of good news about cannabis oil. Available in both THC and CBD variants, they are a great alternative method of consumption and they provide the medicinal utility of cannabis without the downsides of smoking. Navigating this landscape can be difficult at times, but the rewards are immense.
If you’re looking to dive into cannabis oils, you’ll need a helping hand to cover the basics. We’re here to help you learn how to use cannabis oils.
What is Cannabis Oil?
Cannabis consumption comes in many forms, each with its particular benefits and downsides. Cannabis oil is a marijuana extract created by isolating and extracting key cannabinoids such as THC and CBD and transferring them into a carrier substance such as oil.
This works by isolating the valuable compounds in cannabis like the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids while removing any less desirable compounds that may affect the taste, potency, and effect of the product.
One of the most common ways to extract these compounds is through a means of chemical extraction. As the name suggests, a chemical extraction utilizes a chemical solvent to isolate and extract the desired compounds from the plant.
That said, there are several different chemical solvents to be used in the extraction process, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some of these solvents range from butane, propane, ethanol to even CO2.
How it Works
Cannabis oils are designed to be absorbed by the mucous membranes under your tongue and around the insides of your cheeks. The oil is generally placed in those regions and left to be absorbed where it eventually makes its way to your brain and the rest of your body.
Since the compounds are absorbed by your mucous membranes, they bypass your digestive system and thus enhance their bioavailability by traversing directly to your bloodstream. The bioavailability of the cannabinoids in cannabis oils falls somewhere in between edible cannabis and smoking or vaporizing cannabis.
While it’s not quite at the level of smoking your cannabis, it is definitely higher than edibles.
Working a little bit quicker than edibles, the psychoactive effects of cannabis oil last approximately 4 to 6 hours long and can be experienced around 15 to 30 minutes using the sublingual method of consumption.
Much like edible cannabis, cannabis oils can also be ingested orally and mixed in with any food or drink. When taken through the digestive tract, the cannabis oil makes its way to the liver where it undergoes a process called first-pass metabolism.
On the way to the liver, much of these cannabinoids are broken down and destroyed by stomach acids decreasing their bioavailability.
Finally, when the cannabinoids reach the liver, they undergo structural changes that ultimately alter the way they are utilized by the body. This long journey is what gives edible cannabis their delayed onset.
Popular Types of Cannabis Oil
THC Oil
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is just one of the hundreds of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Being the primary constituent responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, THC oil is one of the most famous types of cannabis oils on the market. It’s great for stealthy use or incorporating into cannabis cooking.
CBD Oil
Along with THC oil, CBD oil also among the top tier of cannabis oils for its non-psychotropic nature and calming effects. Several clinical trials have demonstrated CBD’s prowess in easing symptoms of several types of common health issues with little to no side effects. Many of those solutions include:
- Treatment of chronic pain
- Reduction of anxiety and depression
- Alleviation of cancer symptoms
- Acne reduction
- Potential neuroprotective properties
- And several others…
5 Foolproof Ways to Use Cannabis Oil
Baking and Cooking
Using cannabis in Cooking is always a solid option. Cannabis oils can be implemented in baked goods such as brownies, cookies, or cakes. A great option many people have been reaching for is cannabis-infused coconut oil. Not only is coconut oil vegan, but it’s also paleo-friendly, lending itself to be easily used in a variety of sweet or savory dishes.
Capsules
If you’re looking for a quick and stealthy way to consume your cannabis on the go, capsules are a great option. One of the most effective ways to make these is to use infused coconut oil capsules. Coconut oil has a high saturated fat content, aiding in the absorption of the cannabinoids, effectively delivering more potent effects per dose when compared to other oils.
Coffee and Tea
For those looking for an extra edge, tea or coffee with cannabis-infused coconut oil provides an easy way to kill two birds with one stone. The wakefulness from the coffee, combined with a CBD or THC oil can help stimulate creative and productive work sessions. Simply use the oil as a substitute for milk or cream and mix with your favorite brew or tea in a blender.
Skincare
In addition to oral consumption, cannabis oils, namely CBD oils can provide relief to irritated skin as it’s loaded with an abundance of antioxidants. In fact, one study found that CBD may carry a higher potency of antioxidants when compared to vitamin C and vitamin E. Additionally, mixing the oils with vitamin E or aloe vera can make it a great lotion for everyday use.
Pain Salves
Cannabis-infused topicals can deliver fast-acting localized pain relief along with a calming sensation. Along with being largely non-psychotropic, cannabis oil topicals can be used to treat sore muscles, inflammation, and many other common health issues without slowing you down.
Final Thoughts
The cannabis flower is a versatile plant.
With cannabis oil, the possibilities are endless. Eat it, smoke it, or put it on your body and it can be easily absorbed and integrated in your everyday life. Just like any other cannabis product, dosing relies heavily on unique individual characteristics and tolerance levels.
Remember to take it slow and enjoy the ride.