There is a lot of interest in CBD oil. A lot of people are looking for information regarding how to use it, how much to take, and what product format will work best for them. But, the process of learning how to use CBD oil involves more than just learning how many drops to take. Product concentration, the ingredients in the product, the method of administration, individual health conditions, and drug interactions have to be taken into account as well.
If you are interested in learning how to use CBD oil, a good starting point would be to read the product label. There is no one appropriate dosage or method that will work for every CBD product, or for every individual person.
CBD is one of many compounds found in cannabis and hemp. It is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. There is ongoing research regarding potential health benefits of CBD, and while there is considerable data for some conditions, products containing CBD should not be assumed to address medical conditions.
This guide will help you understand how CBD oil drops and sprays are used, what you need to consider before first use, how to decipher product labeling to determine dosage, and what research says about CBD and different health conditions.
Important Notice: CBD can interact with other medications and has been associated with side effects including drowsiness and gastrointestinal issues and effects on the liver. Discuss the use of CBD with a health care practitioner if you have a medical condition or are taking medication. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a prescription CBD medicine for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, and that approval does not extend to other CBD oil products. The FDA has issued various consumer update and safety communications concerning CBD.
How to Use CBD Oil Drops
CBD oil is sold in a variety of liquid formulations and is dispensed in a bottle with a dropper. The method of use will vary based on the formulation and the instructions that accompany the product.
Use the steps below for products intended for oral or sublingual use.
1. Read the product label
Before using CBD oil, review the total CBD content, ingredients, serving size, instructions, and warnings. Do not assume that all CBD oils contain the same amount of CBD per drop.
2. Understand the concentration
CBD oil is sold in varying concentrations. Check the CBD content of the product to understand the total CBD in the oil.
3. Use the measuring device supplied with the product
The label may instruct using a specific number of milliliters. If so, use the measuring device supplied with the product. Do not attempt to measure the dose by counting drops.
An individual drop of CBD oil can contain a wide range of amounts, varying from less than 0.5mg up to 3.0mg or more.
4. Follow method of administration
Certain oils are meant to be taken by mouth, while some are for use by placing the oil under the tongue (sublingual).
If a product is intended to be used sublingually, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and contact time. Not all CBD oils are the same and can’t be used in the same manner.
5. Keep track of use
If your doctor or another health care professional has recommended the use of a particular CBD product, it is very important to keep track of the product and dose used, the time of day it is used, any effects, side effects, and/or interactions. This can be useful for the health care professional to determine tolerance and/or interactions.
It is very important not to increase the dose or use more of the CBD product because you do not feel an immediate effect. Use more only if your health care professional recommends it. Using too much CBD can result in unwanted side effects.
Before figuring out the dosage, take these into consideration:
- CBD concentration: How much CBD is in each mL or serving?
- Product formulation: Are the CBD products oral oils, oral sprays, sublingual products, or something else?
- Reason for use: Why do you want to use CBD?
- Health status: Do you have any medical conditions that could increase your risk when using CBD?
- Medication use: Can CBD interact with your prescription or over-the-counter medications?
- Product directions: What do the product labels say?
You should consult your health care professional if you have a medical condition, liver disease, or take any prescription medications. Do not use an online CBD dosage calculator to determine how much CBD you should take to treat your medical conditions, including epilepsy, cancer, asthma, or others.
How to determine CBD concentration
Let’s say you have a CBD product that has 600 mg of CBD in 30 mL.
The nominal concentration would be:
600 mg ÷ 30 mL = 20 mg/mL
Knowing the concentration of CBD in mL, does not determine how much you should take.
The amount in each individual drop cannot be determined because it depends on the dropper.
How to Use CBD Oil Spray
CBD oil sprays are made for a specific route of administration. It could be for use in the mouth, under the tongue, etc.
Look for how much CBD is delivered per spray, if provided.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of sprays and their placement.
Spraying CBD products onto the skin or using a spray on the eyes is not recommended unless the product is intended for that use.
Do not use a spray product more frequently than stated on the label or prescribed by your doctor.
Not all CBD sprays deliver the same amount of CBD per spray. For example, a spray that contains 5 mg of CBD per spray will deliver less CBD than a spray containing 20 mg of CBD per spray.
A CBD oil spray is different from a prescription cannabinoid spray and should not be used interchangeably.
The best way to take CBD will depend on the product and the intended route of administration.
Popular ways of taking CBD include:
CBD oil
CBD oil is intended for oral or sublingual use. Read the instructions carefully for the correct use.
CBD edibles
CBD edibles are designed to be swallowed and therefore should not be used if the packaging is broken or compromised.
CBD capsules and pills
Swallow and do not chew.
CBD topicals
Avoid ingesting if not intended for that use.
There is no one "best" format for CBD. The right comparison requires an understanding of the intended use, formulation, quality, other cannabinoid content and safety profile.
How to Use CBD Oil for Cancer
When considering how to use CBD oil for cancer, it’s important to understand the difference between research on cancer and established cancer treatments.
Currently, CBD oil has not been established as a treatment or a cure for cancer. It should not be used to substitute for prescribed cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, etc.
Research has focused on cannabinoids for the alleviation of symptoms of cancer treatments and side effects. Early studies do not mean CBD oil is definitely proven to shrink cancer tumors or block cancer from spreading.
The US National Cancer Institute states that research is ongoing to examine the role of cannabinoids in preventing and treating cancer. There is also evidence for the role of cannabinoids in symptom management. National Cancer Institute: Cannabis and Cannabinoids.
If you have cancer, the best course of action is to speak to your oncologist about CBD. It is possible CBD may interact with other cancer treatment medications and the potential for interactions is critical during cancer treatment.
Do not replace prescribed cancer treatments with CBD, based on information from a CBD product website.
How to Use CBD Oil for Acne
There are several potential impacts of CBD that may be beneficial for skin health, but research on CBD and acne is limited. Because of this, CBD should not be used to treat acne.
The way the product is used is important, too.
Oral CBD oil and CBD oil in a topical product cannot be used interchangeably. A product meant for swallowing can’t be used on the face, and a topical product can’t be swallowed.
- Look for a statement on the label indicating that the product can be used on the skin.
- Look at the list of ingredients.
- Always do a skin test first by following the instructions provided.
- Do not use the product if irritated or if an allergic reaction occurs.
- Do not use CBD oil on broken or severely inflamed skin.
- If you have scarring or persistent acne, see a dermatologist.
Established acne treatments are more effective and based on more research than CBD products.
How to Use CBD Oil for Allergies
Allergies are not the main condition CBD products are used for, and CBD oil is not an approved treatment for allergies. The use of CBD oil is not recommended in an allergic emergency.
There are many levels of allergy symptoms, including mild and life threatening. There is not sufficient evidence to recommend the use of CBD in the treatment of allergies or to replace traditional allergy medications.
If you take over the counter allergy medications, talk to a doctor or pharmacist about using CBD oil at the same time to improve your overall health and wellness.
How to Use CBD Oil for Back Pain
There are several potential reasons for back pain, including strain from overuse or injury to the muscles or tendons, irritation of the nerves, problems with the vertebral discs, or inflammatory conditions. The treatment for back pain depends on the cause.
There are limited studies on the use of cannabinoids for chronic pain, and the evidence is variable by condition and formulation. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) reviews some studies and suggests limitations to using cannabinoid-based medications for pain. Retail CBD oils have not been clinically studied for the treatment of back pain, and based on the research available through the NCCIH, it is difficult to confirm the efficacy of CBD oil for the treatment of back pain.
Do not make the assumption that CBD oil is an appropriate treatment for your back pain without understanding the cause of the pain.
If you have severe back pain, especially if it is getting worse, or if you have back pain following an injury, or if you have numbness in your groin, leg weakness, or if you are having issues with bladder or bowel control, you should go see a doctor, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
If you want to use CBD instead of pain meds, talk to a doctor about possible interactions first.
How to Use CBD Oil for Arthritis
There are many different kinds of arthritis that can affect the joints in many different ways. How it affects you will help your doctor to determine your treatment.
Although cannabinoids are being studied to help with pain and other conditions, there is no evidence to show that regular use of CBD oil helps with arthritis or prevents joint damage.
If you have arthritis:
Keep taking your treatment as your doctor advises.
Talk to your doctor before taking CBD if you are also taking pain killers, anti-inflammatory drugs or other medicines.
If you are thinking of using a CBD topical product, make sure it can be applied on the skin.
Tell your doctor about any new or unusual joint pain or symptoms.
Using CBD oil will not replace your treatment for inflammatory arthritis.
How to Use CBD Oil for Asthma
CBD oil should not be used as a replacement for prescribed asthma treatment.
Symptoms of asthma may include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and trouble breathing. Prescribed treatments may include an inhaler and other medicine to lessen symptoms and the risk of an asthma attack.
There is not enough evidence to support that CBD oil is a treatment option for asthma. It should not be substituted for a prescribed preventer inhaler, reliever inhaler or asthma action plan.
If you have asthma and are looking into CBD for other reasons, you may want to discuss this with your doctor, especially if you’re also on other prescribed medicines.
If you are experiencing a severe asthma attack, you should follow your emergency action plan and call for medical help.
How to Use CBD Oil for Cancer Treatment
There is not an established way to use over-the-counter CBD oil for the treatment of cancer.
Research on CBD is currently being investigated in several areas of medical research, however, that doesn’t mean retail CBD oil has been proven to kill cancer cells and improve cancer survival.
It is unknown what the correct dose would be to treat cancer. Different cancers behave differently and require different treatment.
If you are going through cancer treatment, talk to your oncologist before using CBD and other cannabinoid products. Other medications may lessen the effects or increase the side effects of your treatment.
Do not postpone cancer diagnosis or treatment to try CBD oil.
How to use CBD Oil for Erectile Dysfunction
ED can occur for several reasons such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal changes, stress, anxiety and side effects of some medications.
There are no clinical studies that support the use of CBD oil in the treatment of ED. Therefore, we cannot recommend CBD oil as an option to increase erections or improve sexual performance.
Avoid products that promise immediate results or guaranteed improvement in sexual performance.
If you have persistent ED, a doctor may be able to help determine the cause and determine options based on evidence. In some cases, ED may indicate an underlying cardiovascular or metabolic concern.
Do not assume that a CBD honey oil or hemp oil product has been proven to improve sexual performance.
How to Use CBD Honey Oil
The term “CBD Honey Oil” refers to different products. Some of them are CBD oils, and others are products that contain honey or are marketed as “honey oils.”
Before you use a product, it is important to read the actual ingredients to understand what the product contains, rather than relying on the product name.
Look for:
- Amount of CBD per serving
- Complete list of ingredients
- Preferred route of administration
- Ingredients such as honey or carrier oils
- Allergens
- Lab testing
- Regulatory information and warnings
If product is to be swallowed, adhere to instructions on the label. Do not assume CBD product can be taken sublingually or topically unless stated by the manufacturer.
As noted, for the purposes of diabetes, check for added sugars. For other allergens check label thoroughly.
Those with anxiety are advised to consult a health professional on the available treatment options. There are psychological therapies, and medications that have been proven effective.
Blood Pressure
CBD oil is not officially recognized to help manage high blood pressure.
The reasons for high blood pressure can be many and treating it can mean making lifestyle changes, medication and ongoing medical supervision. The current data does not allow the use of retail CBD oil in the place of the aforementioned measures.
There is also the potential for CBD to interact with medication and some cannabinoid products can impact alertness and cause dizziness. These are important considerations for people on blood pressure medication.
If you have high or low blood pressure, it's best you speak with your doctor before considering using CBD.
If you have a very high blood pressure reading and you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness, or confusion, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Breast Cancer
CBD oil is not officially recognized to help manage breast cancer.
Although certain cannabinoids are being researched for their potential use in cancer, the results from laboratory research do not show that ‘ordinary’ CBD oil can help manage breast cancer.
If you have breast cancer, are undergoing treatment, or are on hormone therapy, chemotherapy or other prescription medications and want to try CBD, it is best you discuss it with your oncology team first.
This is important because CBD may interact with medicines which are processed by certain liver enzymes. The potential impact of the interaction will depend on the medication and the CBD product.
Do not use CBD oil in the place of conventional breast cancer treatment and care.
How to Use CBD Oil for Epilepsy
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a substance with recognized medical functions in certain epilepsy subtypes, but this should be differentiated from the use of common retail CBD oil.
CBD oil can be purchased almost anywhere and considered safe for a broad range of uses. In the United States, a CBD medicine was approved for use for seizures associated with two rare and specific epilepsy syndromes. This does not mean that other CBD products are approved or safe for epilepsy. NCCIH: Cannabis and Cannabinoids.
When prescribed, the medicine is provided by a health care professional, given with medical supervision and safety monitoring. CBD can interact with other antiseizure medicines and require monitoring.
CBD should not be used to replace prescribed antiseizure medicines. Speak to a neurologist prior to considering cannabinoid therapy.
How to Use CBD Oil for Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are growths in or around the uterus. Fibroids can sometimes cause heavy periods, pressure and pain in the pelvis, and fertility issues, but some people are asymptomatic.
Currently, there is no scientific evidence that CBD is effective in treating uterine fibroids. Furthermore, there is not enough evidence to recommend CBD for controlling the growth of fibroids.
If you have heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pressure or pain, you should see a gynecologist. Treatment is based on symptoms and may also include the location, size, and other health factors.
Fibroid-related symptoms can also indicate other conditions, so a medical assessment is always recommended. Do not replace prescribed treatment with CBD oil.
- Using CBD Oil for Hair Loss
- Causes of Hair Loss
- Genetics, hormones, poor diet, medications, illnesses, and other conditions can lead to hair loss.
- Evidence is Lacking
The FDA has not recognized CBD oil for the treatment of hair loss, and there is not enough evidence to support the use of CBD oil to treat hair loss to stimulate hair growth.
CBD Oil and the Scalp
Oral CBD oils should not be applied to the scalp, as they may cause irritation. A CBD oil product should be formulated to be applied to the skin or scalp in order to be used on these areas.
When to See a Doctor
If you have patchy hair loss, dermatologists can help uncover the reason for the hair loss and help provide treatment. If you have persistent or severe hair loss, dermatologists can help as well.
Be Wary of Products
There are many products that claim to regrow hair and reverse hair loss. Be wary of these products and promises, as there may not be sufficient evidence to support the claims.
CBD Oil and Parkinson's Disease
About Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease affects the brain, causing poor movement control, tremors, and stiffness.
The Research for CBD and Parkinson's
There are ongoing studies to help understand the effects CBD may have in the treatment of Parkinson's, but there is a lack of research to support routine use of CBD oil to treat, reverse, or slow Parkinson's.
Interactions
As people with Parkinson's tend to be on multiple medications, it is important to take CBD and other medications into account for potential negative drug interactions. CBD has been known to cause drowsiness or other effects that could affect one's day to day activities.
If you are on medication for Parkinson's, consider speaking to your doctor or pharmacist before starting CBD.
CBD Oil and Seizures
Studies have been done on the effect of CBD on certain types of seizure disorders, and a prescription form of CBD is available for these disorders under medical supervision.
Just because CBD has been studied on a seizure disorder, does not mean every seizure disorder is the same and responds to CBD in the same way.
If you or your loved one has seizures, do the following:
- Ask your doctor about what treatment plan is best for your situation.
- Never discontinue or adjust your antiseizure medications on your own.
- Do not consider CBD until you’ve consulted with a neurologist.
- Discuss with your doctor CBD and how it will affect your other medications, if at all.
- Only take CBD and follow a treatment and dosage plan that your doctor has approved.
If your doctor has approved CBD, ensure you have a plan and know what to do if your loved one has a long, repeated, or first seizure.
CBD Oil and Smoking Cessation
Many believe that CBD oil can be used to quit smoking, but this has not been scientifically proven.
Smoking creates withdrawal and psychological symptoms, and leaving smoking can affect your routine. Quitting smoking can be very difficult, and numerous strategies should be used to assist in cessation. These include behavioral therapy, planned quitting and approved medications and nicotine-replacement therapies.
If you’re looking to quit smoking, contact your healthcare professional for assistance to create a plan, and identify strategies and symptoms to help you quit.
Assume that CBD will get rid of nicotine cravings or prevent a relapse. If you are interested in using CBD while using medication to quit smoking, ask your pharmacist or doctor about possible medication interactions.
CBD Oil Safety: What You Need to Know Before Using It
There are possible risks and side effects from using CBD, and these will vary depending on the product, how much and how often it's used, your health condition and other medications that you may be using.
Some of the possible adverse side effects of CBD may include:
- Drowsiness or reduction in alertness
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in mood
- Interactions with other medications
- Unresolved safety issues with the liver
If while using CBD you experience any of the above side effects, particularly if they are severe, stop using it and seek medical attention.
Who should see their doctor first?
CBD may interact with other prescription and over-the-counter medications. Extra caution should be taken if you:
- Have liver disease
- Have a neurological or mental health condition
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are using CBD for a child
- Are having cancer treatment
- Have a chronic health condition
- Are using CBD for a long-term period
- Have had a bad reaction to CBD previously
Just because a product is marketed as a “wellness” product or is plant-derived, doesn't mean it's entirely safe.
How to pick the right CBD product?
Check if the product has information on the CBD concentration, ingredients, the manufacturer, cannabinoid profile, applicable laws and regulations, and testing information.
Certain tests of contaminants and cannabinoid content can be found on a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis. While these can help confirm cannabinoid content, a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis does not confirm that a product would help with a patient’s medical condition.
Products that guarantee to treat or cure serious conditions or motivate consumers to stop taking their prescription medication should be avoided.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CBD oil be used daily?
Assuming daily use is safe for everyone has not been established. CBD oil can interact with other medication and has been known to cause side effects including liver issues. You should consult a healthcare professional if you are considering regular use and especially if you take other medication. Follow the guidelines and applicable laws.
What should you not do when taking CBD?
Do not use CBD oil if you feel drowsy or impaired to operate any vehicle, do not take CBD oil with other medication or sedating substances without consulting a healthcare professional first, do not stop taking your prescribed medication and do not use CBD oil as a replacement, do not use products with unclear or unvalidated ingredients and claims. Consult a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on other medication or suffering from a chronic condition.
Is one drop of CBD oil enough?
There is no universal dose for CBD oil. The amount of CBD in one drop varies depending on the concentration of CBD in the oil. To determine the amount of CBD in a serving, consult the label.
Is it ok to apply CBD oil on my skin?
It depends. CBD oil is not always safe to apply on the skin. Products that are meant to be ingested should not be applied on skin. You should only use a CBD product on the skin if it is explicitly labeled for topical use. Irritated skin is a sign to discontinue use.
How long does it take for CBD oil to work?
Each product is different. Various factors, such as how much is used or if it is taken on an empty stomach, can change how long it takes for it to work. There is no set time CBD oil takes to work. You should not take a higher dose of a CBD product if you do not feel the effects of a lower dose.
When is the best time to take CBD oil?
There is not a best time for everyone. The best time depends on the product, how it is used, and what a healthcare professional says. Because CBD can make you feel sleepy, consider how it will affect you and others if you take it at a time where you can get hurt or put others in danger (like driving).
What is the age limit for CBD oil?
There is not a strict age limit for CBD oil, since rules are different for every jurisdiction. Generally, children and teens should not be given CBD oil if it is sold over the counter. Prescription CBD oil, which is for children and teens, has strict supervision guidelines.
What is the best way to take CBD?
This is dependent on the formulation. CBD is found in various forms including oils, capsules, gummies and sprays. Follow the instructions for the formulation you are using. Don’t assume that all CBD products and formulations have the same effects.
What is the correct way to use CBD oil?
Read the product label, consider possible interactions with your prescribed medicines and follow the route of administration advised for that particular CBD oil. Check the CBD concentration and use the measuring device supplied. If you are using CBD oil for a health concern, consult a healthcare professional and do not rely on general online advice for dosing.
What happens when you take CBD oil for the first time?
There are various reports for first time use of CBD oil, ranging from no noticeable effect, to effects such as feeling drowsy, having diarrhea, and changes in appetite. Product composition varies, as do individual factors, and the effect felt by a person may not necessarily be the effect felt by others. It is a myth to believe that a lack of felt effect means you should take more.
What do you use CBD oil for?
CBD oil is used for a number of wellness purposes, and researchers are looking into the effects of CBD oil in multiple medical domains. However, for the many conditions that CBD oil is promoted for in the marketplace, there is either no or insufficient evidence to support use of retail CBD oil for those conditions. In some jurisdictions, CBD oil in purified form is prescribed for specific severe epileptic disorders. Consult a healthcare professional for a medical concern before you self-prescribe CBD oil.
Can I mix CBD oil with water?
CBD oil doesn't mix with water. Many people report CBD oil not being absorbed well when taken with water, and in fact causing some abdominal discomfort. Oil and water do not naturally mix and they tend to separate over time. Some products may be formulated to improve dispersion in liquids. Follow the instructions to see if your CBD oil can be mixed in liquids.
Can CBD oil be taken with other medicines?
CBD oil may affect other medicines. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines. It may speed up the breakdown of other medicines and cause them to be less effective. It may also increase side effects of other medicines. Speak with a doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking CBD with other medicines.
Can CBD oil be used to treat cancer, asthma, or other diseases?
CBD oil is not established to treat cancer, asthma, or other diseases covered in this article. Using CBD oil instead of standard medical treatment is not advised. Before taking CBD along with standard treatment, discuss it with your doctor or other health care professional to review evidence and safety, and consider potential interactions.
Final Thoughts
To use CBD oil, you must become familiar with the product, its concentration, the route of administration, and its safety. CBD oil drops, oral sprays, and gummies are not interchangeable, and there is no one dose or method that works for all. Topical CBD products also will not work the same way for all.
A CBD product will not be effective for every medical condition. There is a strong need for more research on CBD products. There is currently very little research to support using retail CBD products for any medical condition. CBD products should not be used to replace any treatments or medications for conditions such as cancer, asthma, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, or any other medical conditions.
If using CBD products for wellness, be sure the product is made with quality ingredients and has been tested. Be responsible when using products and be sure to know the appropriate dosage. If you are currently taking medications or have a medical condition, consult your health care professional before adding any CBD products to your regimen.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. CBD products may affect individuals differently and may interact with prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and other substances. The safety and effectiveness of CBD can vary according to the product, formulation, amount used and individual circumstances. Do not use CBD oil as a substitute for prescribed treatment for cancer, asthma, epilepsy or any other medical condition. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using CBD, especially if you take medication, have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are considering CBD for a child. Always read the product label and verify the applicable regulatory requirements before purchasing or using any CBD or hemp-derived product. Blunt Essential does not claim that its products diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.