CBD Bioavailability: A UK Guide to Getting the Most From Your Oil | Valley CBD

Understanding CBD Bioavailability: Are You Wasting Your CBD?
When you invest in a premium CBD oil, you want to get the absolute most out of every drop. But did you know that the way you take your CBD has a massive impact on how much of it your body can actually use?
This is all down to a scientific concept called **bioavailability**. Understanding this one simple idea is the key to unlocking the full potential of your CBD and ensuring you're not wasting your money.
What is Bioavailability?
In simple terms, bioavailability is the percentage of a substance (in this case, CBD) that successfully enters your bloodstream after you take it. A higher bioavailability means more of the compound gets to work in your body, leading to better effects.
Different consumption methods have dramatically different bioavailability rates. Let's compare them.
Bioavailability of Different CBD Methods
- Swallowing (Capsules/Edibles): Very Low (6-15%). When you swallow CBD, it goes through your digestive system, where much of it is destroyed before it reaches the bloodstream. This is the least efficient method.
- Topicals (Balms/Creams): Low (Not systemic). Topicals are great for localised relief on skin or muscles, but very little CBD enters the bloodstream. Their bioavailability for systemic effects is close to zero.
- Sublingual (Under the Tongue): High (20-35%). Holding CBD oil under your tongue allows it to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the membranes in your mouth. This bypasses the digestive system, making it one of the most effective methods.
As you can see, the sublingual method with a high-quality oil offers a huge advantage in getting an effective dose of CBD into your system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which method of taking CBD has the highest bioavailability?
A: Inhalation (vaping) technically has the highest bioavailability. However, for a safe, simple, and non-invasive method, sublingual (holding CBD oil under the tongue) offers the next best rate, making it the most popular and effective choice for most users.
Q: Why is the bioavailability of CBD edibles so low?
A: When you eat or swallow CBD (like in a capsule or gummy), it has to pass through your digestive system and liver. This is called the 'first-pass effect', where a significant portion of the CBD is broken down before it ever reaches your bloodstream. This greatly reduces the amount your body can actually use.
Q: How can I increase the bioavailability of my CBD oil?
A: The best way is to take it sublingually. Hold the oil under your tongue for at least 60-90 seconds before swallowing. This allows the mucous membranes in your mouth to absorb the CBD directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and maximising the amount your body gets.
Don't Just Use CBD—Absorb It
Choosing a method with high bioavailability means you get more of the benefits you paid for. Using CBD oil sublingually is the clear winner for an effective, efficient, and simple wellness routine.
Maximise your results with our premium, high-bioavailability Valley CBD Oils.
About the Author: David Smith
David is the Head of Wellness at Valley CBD and a passionate advocate for natural health solutions. With years of experience researching the benefits of cannabinoids, he is dedicated to educating consumers on the safe and effective use of CBD.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes. Bioavailability rates can vary based on individual factors. The information provided is based on current scientific understanding.