As each person is unique, our bodies all react to CBD differently. There are many factors which affect how long it will take to feel the effects of CBD, and how long those effects will last. These include age, sex, physical condition, weight, and metabolism.

One consideration is that our endocannabinoid systems differ from person to the next. If you have more cannabinoid receptors or produce fewer endocannabinoids, that will determine your body’s sensitivity to CBD.

If you are taking CBD oil to treat a specific condition, that also plays a significant role in how soon you'll feel CBD's effects and for how long. Many people use CBD regularly for pain relief, to reduce anxiety, treat skin conditions, reduce inflammation, and more. Some of these conditions can be treated immediately with CBD, and some may require ongoing CBD use for its full healing benefits.

In addition to these individual variables, CBD’s onset time also varies depending on the type of CBD product being used and how it is being administered. A product which offers quick relief for some conditions may take more time when treating other kinds of conditions.

Let’s take a look at the various types of CBD products, how long they each take to work, and how long their effects will typically last.

1. CBD Vapes

Inhaling CBD oil using a vape cartridge and vape pen is one of the fastest ways to enjoy the benefits of CBD. Vaping offers rapid relief because it allows CBD to enter your lungs and diffuse directly into your bloodstream. Within a minute or two after inhaling, you can expect to feel its effects, and it will last for a few hours. If you are new to vaping CBD, it’s recommended to start with less than 10 mg a day.

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2. CBD Tinctures

Taking a CBD tincture sublingually, by placing a few drops of CBD oil directly under your tongue, is another quick method for reaping the benefits of CBD. Like inhalation, sublingual intake provides a fast onset because it allows CBD to enter the bloodstream directly. You can start feeling the effects within 30 to 90 minutes from ingestion, and its effects will last for four to six hours.

3. CBD Topicals

As studies have shown that CBD offers anti-inflammatory properties, applying it externally with a CBD topical cream, balm, lotion, or salve can protect your skin from the free radical damage that leads to pigmentation, wrinkles, and signs of aging. Topical application can also be beneficial for skin conditions including acne, dryness, and offer localized relief from muscle soreness and joint pain.

CBD topical products work by binding to CB2 receptors near the skin and activating the endocannabinoid system, without being absorbed into the bloodstream. Your skin absorbs these cannabinoids at a low rate, which is why it’s recommended to apply liberally to the affected area. Topical methods are slower to take effect than other methods. It takes about an hour, but its effects last for about five hours, providing longer-lasting relief.

4. CBD Edibles and Capsules

You can ingest CBD in edible forms, like gummies or in capsules. However, consuming CBD in these forms is relatively slow for its effects to be felt, compared to other methods. This is because your body has to first digest and absorb the food or capsule before you can begin experiencing its benefits.

After ingesting a CBD edible or CBD capsule, you may start feeling its effects in as soon as 20 minutes, depending on your individual digestive system and metabolism. However, for most people, it takes about 60 minutes to start feeling its effects. If taken on an empty stomach, you’ll feel its effects faster (compared to if taken after eating a large meal).

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When is the Best Time to Take CBD?

There is no ideal time take CBD, as long as you are being consistent and monitoring how long its effects last for you. This will help you determine the best times of the day for you to use CBD to meet your personal needs.  

If you find that CBD makes you feel drowsy, then you'll want to take CBD before bedtime. If you find that CBD makes you feel more alert than taking it in the morning would make more sense. For most people, it's essential to take CBD at the same time every day to ensure its effects are consistent so you can gain its maximum benefits.

Learn more about CBD and all the health benefits it offers.