Maximizing CBD Benefits: The Role of Bioavailability
Time to read 4 min
What is Bioavailability?
In general, bioavailability refers to the amount of a drug or supplement that enters the bloodstream and produces a therapeutic effect, compared to the total amount of the drug or supplement that was administered.
To understand how drugs work in the body, let's review their path. There are four main stages: absorption into the bloodstream; distribution to tissues and cells where they bind to receptors; metabolization or time it takes to pass through your body; and elimination of what the body determines to be unneeded. This process is medically known as ADME.
It is rare for any drug to be 100% absorbed and distributed as intended. That's why doctors consider how much of the drug your body will eliminate when determining the appropriate dosage. The percentage of the drug your body keeps and distributes through the bloodstream is known as bioavailability.
What is the Bioavailability of Different Methods of Drug Delivery?
Within the medical community, there are various ways to take drugs —they are listed below and ranked by bioavailability:
- IV Injection: 100% absorption. Bioavailability: nearly 100%.
- Suppository: inserted into rectum/vagina for a longer duration. Bioavailability: 93%.
- Inhalation: rapid absorption through the lungs. Bioavailability: 60%.
- Sublingual: quick absorption through mucous membranes. Bioavailability: 30%.
- Oral: swallowed and metabolized by the liver. Bioavailability: 5-20%.
- Topical: limited absorption through the skin. Bioavailability: <5%
Optimizing bioavailability is essential for maximizing the effectiveness and efficiency of CBD, which is why it's important to choose a CBD company that understands its significance. At Mello, we are dedicated to ensuring our products have high bioavailability, so you get the most out of your CBD experience. We use cutting-edge technology and high-quality ingredients to enhance bioavailability and deliver consistent, reliable results.
Why is Bioavailabity Important to Consider when Buying CBD?
To maximize the bioavailability of CBD, we need to consider how it is absorbed, distributed, and metabolized in the body. To achieve these goals, we need to understand the various methods of delivery and how they affect our body's natural processes.
- For faster absorption, we need to choose a delivery method that allows CBD to enter the bloodstream quickly.
- To increase distribution, we need a delivery method that ensures CBD is evenly spread throughout the body and reaches its target receptors.
- To prolong the effects, we need a delivery method that allows CBD to be metabolized slowly, so it stays in the body for a longer time.
- To save money, we need a delivery method that eliminates the least amount of CBD.
What are the Ways to Take CBD and Their Bioavailability?
CBD Suppositories
- Suppositories have the highest bioavailability (~93%) but are not commonly used due to convenience and comfort factors.
- CBD suppositories are absorbed quickly and directly into the bloodstream through the veins in the rectum or vagina, bypassing the digestive system and liver metabolism.
- CBD Suppositories can last about 9 hours, if combined with a fatty substance like MCT Oil, and will remain in your bloodstream longer and take longer to metabolize.
CBD Vaping
- Vaping has a bioavailability of around ~60%, but some CBD may be lost through exhalation.
- It provides immediate relief as it is absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream, but should not be the main method of administration as it can be unhealthy.
- Vaping metabolizes very quickly, and so will only last for a short period: 30-60 minutes.
CBD Topicals
- The bioavailability of topicals is highly variable and dependent on the skin's thickness, age, and fatty tissue.
- These should be used primarily for skin surface concerns and applied directly to the issue: Excema, Itchy Bites, or Rashes. Or for inflammation and redness on your face.
CBD Sublingual
- Sublingual administration involves placing CBD oil drops under the tongue, allowing for quick absorption through the mucous membranes and bypassing the digestive system.
- The bioavailability ranges from 20-30%, making it an effective method for fast-acting relief and all day relief.
CBD Edibles
- Edibles have the lowest and most varied bioavailability, ranging from 5-30%.
- They can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect. And can last anywhere from 1-8 hours.
- They must pass through the digestive tract, and absorption, distribution, and metabolism can vary among individuals. Everyone has had an edible experience that was somewhat surprising and unknown.
- Gummies, capsules, concentrates, or powders are all examples of edibles.
Why Does Mello Consider CBD Suppositories The Most Effective?
At Mello, we believe that CBD suppositories offer the most effective method of delivery due to their fast onset, long-lasting effects, and high bioavailability. This view is widely supported by the medical community, which recognizes suppositories as one of the most effective ways to deliver drugs.
A medical trial demonstrated that rectal administration of paracetamol had a bioavailability of 93%, compared to only 37% when administered orally.
At Mello, we offer two types of CBD suppositories: Mello Bottoms and Mello Flo. Both are formulated with high-quality, organic ingredients to ensure the best possible experience. Mello Bottoms, our intimacy suppository, have been designed to support sexual function and enhance orgasms. Meanwhile, Mello Flo, our relief suppository, has been created to help with symptoms related to hormonal imbalances such as PMS and endometriosis. With both options, you can trust in the quality and effectiveness of our CBD suppositories, knowing that you are receiving the best possible benefits for your health.
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