CBD Edibles, Education

CBD Suppositories vs. CBD Edibles

Posted on by Brandon Nolte
CBD Suppositories vs. CBD Edibles
08
May

The CBD landscape has gotten larger and broader, offering you a variety of different forms and concentrations of CBD to choose from. From tinctures and oils to balms and creams, gone are the days of having to rely only on smoking and vaping for your CBD needs. While CBD edibles still remain one of the most common methods of administration, CBD suppositories are seeing a growing trend. Learn more about the differences between CBD suppositories and edibles below.

Differences Between CBD Suppositories and CBD Edibles

CBD suppositories are a unique delivery system that allows for the quick, efficient absorption of CBD into the bloodstream. Similar to how sublingual delivery systems use the thin cell walls under the tongue, CBD suppositories are absorbed via the mucous membranes and cell walls of the vagina or rectum to distribute CBD directly into the bloodstream, providing fast, targeted relief. CBD suppositories are usually conical in shape, allowing for easy insertion into the vagina or rectum. In terms of formulation, most CBD suppositories consist simply of CBD oil and natural carrier oils (most commonly cocoa butter and coconut oil), ensuring safe use.

CBD edibles comprise any food or beverage that contains CBD. Similar to a pill or capsule, CBD edibles utilize the digestive system to deliver CBD to the body. Edibles can be made by adding CBD oil, tincture or isolate to any food or drink. Because edibles provide a foolproof way to consume CBD, more and more CBD-infused edible products are hitting the shelves. Popular CBD edible products include:

  • Gummies
  • Lozenges
  • Candies
  • Chocolates
  • Honey
  • Gum
  • Drinks

CBD Suppositories Uses

CBD suppositories offer many of the same potential effects and uses as any other form of CBD.

However, CBD suppositories can offer more specific, localized usage. Vaginal suppositories may provide fast, targeted relief for women suffering from symptoms associated with menstruation, menopause, and post-menopause, though further studies are still needed.

Rectal CBD suppositories may provide localized relief. It is important to remember, however, that our products are not meant to diagnose or treat any medical conditions, illnesses, ailments, or diseases. We encourage you to do your own independent research before trying CBD.

CBD Edibles Uses

Edibles are an easy means of getting all of the potential benefits of CBD. They offer long-lasting effects that may be particularly beneficial for those suffering from persistent issues. The design and ease of use of edibles also makes them an efficient way to add CBD to your daily routine.

How to Use CBD Suppositories

Prior to use, suppositories should be placed in your freezer for at least 30 minutes, so that the carrier oil in the suppository can solidify. This allows for easier insertion. For vaginal or rectal insertion, most manufacturers recommend lying on your back or side with your knees pulled up to your chest. Once inserted, the suppository will warm and begin to melt, so lying flat will help to prevent any minor leakage and make the experience a bit more comfortable.

If lying down is inconvenient, vaginal suppositories can be inserted sitting down or as you would normally insert a non-applicator tampon.

How to Use CBD Edibles

Edibles are by far the easiest way to take in CBD, and the pre-measured serving size makes for accurate, hassle-free usage. Concentrations can vary, and as with most CBD products, it’s always best to start low and slow if you’re not already familiar with CBD.

Why Take Suppositories Over Edibles?

The biggest advantages that suppositories have over edibles are the time it takes for the CBD to kick in (efficiency) and the total amount of CBD absorbed (bioavailability).

Efficiency

The efficiency of suppositories comes down to the fact that edibles have to go through your entire digestive process, during which your body has to break that edible down into all of its component parts. Depending on your metabolic rate, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours before you feel the effects of the CBD.

By comparison, the mucous membranes of your rectum and vagina are much more sensitive and much more porous. With a suppository, the CBD can enter your bloodstream and spread through your body within a half-hour, offering much faster results.

Bioavailability

Bioavailability essentially refers to the amount of a substance that gets absorbed into your circulatory system. During digestion, an edible has to deal with stomach acids and other elements that are designed to break down food.This metabolic process results in the breakdown of some of the CBD in the edible, which ultimately leaves you with less CBD than what you started with.

Suppositories have a more direct route to your bloodstream and don’t have to undergo any of the digestive breakdown.

The Case for CBD Edibles Over Suppositories

That said, edibles are still an effective means of taking CBD, and for many, they are the preferred method thanks to their general convenience and variety.

Other benefits of edibles:

  • They are easy to ingest and offer long-lasting effects.
  • Some people may not be comfortable with using suppositories. Suppositories also require some preparation and private space for insertion. By comparison, edibles are discreet, easy to store and can be used almost any time, anywhere.
  • Great for people who are new to CBD.

CBD suppositories and edibles have their own use cases, but don’t feel pressured to try one over the other. CBD comes in so many forms, giving you plenty of options to find the optimal method of administration for your personal needs and preferences. Healthy Hemp Oil offers a variety of CBD products to suit your specific needs, as well as a variety of resources to learn more about CBD. Take a look through our store to find edibles, suppositories, and other CBD products.

 

Sources:

https://www.cbdschool.com/cbd-suppositories/

https://www.leafly.com/news/health/how-cannabis-helps-relieve-menopause-symptoms

https://merryjane.com/health/what-you-need-to-know-about-using-cannabis-suppositories

https://www.leafly.com/news/health/dont-laugh-rectal-suppositories-future-medicinal-cannabis

 

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products sold by Healthy Hemp Oil are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on our website is intended to provide general information regarding our products and is not to be construed as medical advice or instruction. Read more