At Equilibria, we are all about the science of cannabis. One of the terms we frequently use is cbd bioavailability, and for good reason! Bioavailability is an important factor in how CBD products work within our bodies.
When we talk about bioavailability, we’re referring to the amount of CBD that your body absorbs and uses systemically. In other words, bioavailability is the rate and degree at which a substance is absorbed into the body. This differs between products (methods of administration), and is part of why Equilibria offers a wide variety of premium, CBD products! Bioavailability is a key concept when it comes to CBD dosing, as it essentially determines how effective or potent your CBD dose will be. So how can we use this knowledge to our advantage and optimize our products? Let’s dive into EQ’s ingestible product line!
Everything you need to know about CBD bioavailability
Daily Drops
Daily Drops are taken sublingually (under the tongue), which allows for fast absorption. When taken properly, Daily Drops almost entirely avoid the GI tract. This means that it avoids the liver’s first-pass-metabolism, a process that decreases a product’s potency. This is because the oil is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the many capillaries, or tiny blood vessels, within the cheek and under the tongue. Depending on a few factors, including a person’s body chemistry, the CBD bioavailability of Daily Drops sit between 12-35% .
How to optimize
Make sure you’re holding your Daily Drops under your tongue for at least 60 seconds. The goal is to swallow as little as possible, since your body will digest anything swallowed (versus absorbed sublingually) which results in less bioavailability.
Daily Softgels
Our Daily Softgels are swallowed whole and absorbed through the process of digestion. In contrast to the sublingual delivery method, Softgels DO go through a first-pass process. When you first digest your Softgel, it is then further broken down by the liver before entering systemic circulation. This can result in a lower bioavailability of around 13-19%, depending on the level of healthy fat you have in your diet. Though more subtle, the benefit here is that the effects tend to last longer.
How to optimize
Make sure you take your Softgel with food! CBD is fat-soluble, which means that if we pair it with a meal or snack that contains healthy fats, our body can absorb the CBD more easily! Many members love to take their Softgels with a handful of almonds, a spoonful of nut butter, or avocado toast!
Rapid Calming Melts
Designed for fast-acting support, our Rapid Calming Melts have the highest bioavailability out of our entire product line at about 95%. They are absorbed sublingually, much like Daily Drops. What makes these different is the fact that they are engineered on a molecular level to bind to our oral mucosa and enter the bloodstream much more efficiently.
How to optimize
The only thing you need to do to optimize these is swallow a sip of water and then hold one under your tongue until it fully dissolves! They kick in within 10 minutes.
Should products be chosen solely based on their CBD bioavailability?
While it may seem best to reach for a product with the highest possible bioavailability, there is so much more to consider! More does not always equate better. There are reasons to chose and cultivate a unique routine for every individual.
For example, Softgels have a relatively low bioavailability compared to Rapid Calming Melts, but there are many reasons our members reach for our Softgels. The slower absorption of the Softgels allows for a more subtle, long-lasting effect. This is great for those who prefer more background support. The swift action of our Rapid Calming Melts is ideal for more in-the-moment relief.
When choosing the right CBD product, it is always valuable to consider your goals and lifestyle. It’s also important to educate yourself on how CBD products work. Luckily, you’re in the right place for that! Here at Equilibria we have a highly educated team of Certified Wellness Coaches here to support you throughout your wellness journey. Email wellness@myeq.com to get started or schedule a wellness call today!