As you may know, cannabinoids and terpenes are oil-soluble, which is why all of our tinctures, topicals, and vapes are oil-based. What you may have not known is that research has shown significant bioavailability increase when CBD/THC are ingested with lipids/fats/oils. International research headed by a team of scientists at the School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, U.K., conducted on rats, came to the conclusion: “co-administration of dietary lipids or pharmaceutical lipid excipients may substantially increase the systemic exposure to orally administered cannabis or cannabis-based medicines.”
The study showed astounding results: “The absolute bioavailability of CBD was increased by almost 3-fold following oral administration in lipid-based formulation compared to lipid-free vehicle.”
Chart Reference: American Journal of Translational Research
Remember, our oil-based tinctures are meant for sublingual use, and when taken correctly only a minimal amount of cannabinoids makes it to the stomach. However, the above referenced study makes the most significant difference for the consumption of capsules, softgels and edibles; since those are activated within the digestive tract, where bioavailability (your body’s absorption rate) is a lot lower than it is with a sublingual tincture.
In other words, if capsules or edibles are your preferred method of cannabinoid consumption, you may increase their efficacy by taking the following two steps:
- Asking your physician which type of fat is healthy for your body (ex: Coconut Oil, Hemp Oil, Avocado Oil, etc.)
- Take a teaspoon of the doctor-recommended oil along with your capsule/softgel or edible.
This tip could be helpful in getting the most value and effect when consuming your ingestible cannabinoid product.