How Long Do the Effects of CBD Oil Last?

Although the usage of CBD is surging, there is still a lot of misinformation about it, and the majority of users are yet to understand how it works. 

The most important thing to note is that CBD does not work in our bodies the same way, and while its effects may last from 1-4 hours in some users, they can also last for 8 hours in other users. This timeline depends on several factors.

Regardless of why you are taking CBD, you deserve to know how long its effects will last in your body. This article aims to answer the commonly asked question, ‘how long do the effects of CBD oil last?’

How Does CBD Work In The Body?

First, you will need to understand how it affects the body. 

Generally, our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) produces two receptors; CB1 and CB2 receptors. While these receptors are expressed throughout our bodies, the CB1 receptors are mainly concentrated in the brain. They regulate mood, thinking, movement, emotions, and more. Comparably, CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system, and they mainly regulate pain sensation. 

When you consume CBD, it does not directly attach to these receptors like THC (the cannabinoid that gets you high) does. Instead, it activates the receptors and stimulates them to produce their own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. 

Our natural endocannabinoids, together with CBD, produce more pronounced soothing, relaxing, and calming effects without the intoxication of THC. 

How Long the Effects of CBD Oil Last?

Ideally, the effects will last in the system for roughly 2-8 hours. But numerous factors determine how fast CBD is absorbed into your body and how long it takes for the effects to wear off. 

This timeline varies considerably from one user to another depending on the following factors:  

1. Your Body

Our bodies are unique, and so is the ECS; hence, CBD affects every user differently. For instance, body weight greatly determines how long it lasts in your system. That’s because CBD is lipophilic, meaning that it is fat-soluble and is stored in our body fat cells. 

Therefore, if your body has more fat cells, CBD will last in your system longer, and you’ll feel its effects for much longer. Comparably, people with lower fat cells percentage do not store a lot of CBD in their systems. Instead, it is processed much faster, and the effects only last a short while. 

Additionally, people with lesser fat cells also have a high metabolic rate. Hence, CBD is processed more quickly, and the effects wear off much sooner than people with a low metabolic rate. 

2. Dosage

The more amount of CBD you consume, the longer it will stay in your system and the longer you’ll feel its effects. However, you’re advised to find your dose and stick to it as excessive amounts will not provide any extra benefits. 

3. Frequency

How often you consume CBD also determines how long its effects last. Frequent consumption allows it to build up in your system so that you continue to feel its effects for much longer. 

For people who consume single doses of CBD inconsistently, the cannabidiol will only last in your system for at most 8 hours after each consumption. The effects will also clear from your system in about 8 hours. 

Note that unlike with THC and other substances, your body does not build a tolerance to CBD. Therefore, CBD effects will not reduce over continued use. In fact, some people have reported a reverse tolerance, needing to consume smaller doses of CBD to experience the same effects. 

4. Consumption Method

You can consume CBD in numerous forms today. However, it’s important to note that each form delivers unique benefits. Additionally, the consumption method also determines the duration of the product. 

CBD Product Types

Tinctures are a popular way to consume CBD. They are easy to consume as all you have to do is place a few oil drops (2/3 drops) under your tongue and hold them there for 30-60 seconds before swallowing (sublingual). 

By consuming CBD sublingually, bypass digestion, and you’ll feel the effects after about 15-30 minutes. So how long do tinctures and oils last? You should feel the effects for 4-6 hours. 

1. CBD Edibles

CBD edibles are quite similar to capsules in terms of how they deliver effects. Like capsules, when you consume an edible, it must first pass through the digestive system and liver before being absorbed into the bloodstream and brain. 

When taken on an empty stomach, the effects may be experienced much faster. Generally, you can expect to feel edible effects after 60 minutes. How long do edibles last? You will experience edible effects for 4-6 hours. 

2. CBD Topicals

Athletes prefer topicals because they provide localized relief. They are applied directly to the skin and are available in numerous forms, including lotions, balms, ointments, and creams. 

When applied, the topical is absorbed via the skin pores, and you’ll feel the effects after about 15-30 minutes. How long does the cream last? You will feel the soothing benefits for at least 5-6 hours. Most notably, Cannacares offer an extremely long-lasting organic and vegan-friendly CBD balm that can be bought from their website. 

3. CBD Capsules

Capsules and pills are the simplest way to get CBD into your system. They come in pre-measured doses, so you’re sure of the amount you consume each time. 

When you consume a capsule, it must first pass through the gut and liver. Hence, the capsule effects are delayed, and you’ll feel them after about 60 minutes. They will last in your system for 6-8 hours.