Are You Supposed to Swallow CBD Oil?

Are You Supposed to Swallow CBD Oil?

CBD oils and tinctures are some of the most popular products on the market. Yet, not everyone knows how to use them properly. This guide provides you with all the information you need on whether or not you're supposed to swallow CBD oil.

Paul James January 8, 2024 Affiliate Disclosure Some links are specifically formatted for which we may receive a commission on resulting sales or clicks from affiliate partners (“Affiliate Links”).

When consuming cannabidiol (CBD), you want to hold the oil under your tongue for 45 to 60 seconds for the best results. This is because the liquid will absorb sublingually in the mucus membranes in your mouth. In turn, you’re increasing the absorption rate (or bioavailability) of the CBD oil.

But what do you do after you hold CBD under your tongue for 45 to 60 seconds? Are you supposed to swallow CBD oil? Are you supposed to spit it out? We invite you to follow along as we answer these questions and more.

It’s Better to Swallow CBD Oil Than Spit It Out

When you keep a tincture under your tongue for 45 to 60 seconds, most of the CBD oil will be absorbed. However, even though this method does increase bioavailability, it still leaves traces of the substance behind. Therefore, it’s better to swallow the remaining CBD oil rather than spit it out. By swallowing, you ensure that all remaining liquid will be processed through your body.

Admittedly, the CBD oil you swallow will not have as much bioavailability as what you hold under your tongue. Still, swallowing is preferred as you won’t be wasting any product.

Still, if you can’t stand the taste of CBD, you do have the option to spit it out. Just keep in mind that you will be losing some of the product by doing so.

Can You Swallow CBD Oil Immediately?

While you can swallow CBD oil the moment it enters your mouth, you will not garner nearly as much bioavailability from the tincture. To offer some perspective, those who hold the liquid under their tongue will garner 20% to 30% of the product. Those who swallow it only garner around 5%. As a result, by swallowing, you may need to use more of a product to gain the effects you’re looking for.

If you don’t enjoy holding CBD oil under your tongue, you can consider adding it to a milk-based smoothie or coffee with heavy cream. The dairy in these beverages is filled with fat molecules which increase the bioavailability of the CBD.

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Other Options

If you struggle with holding CBD oil under your tongue or swallowing it, there are some other options to consider.

Most people can’t swallow CBD oil due to the flavoring. That said, it can help to buy a flavored tincture, with most companies offering flavor options. Still, if you don’t have a flavored oil at your disposal, you can always opt for adding flavored mint, peppermint extract, or honey.

If this doesn’t help, tinctures just might not be your thing. Instead, you can always choose between other products that are easier to swallow, such as CBD gummies or CBD capsules. Admittedly, such products don’t have as much bioavailability, but they will be easier to consume.

If you want to stick with tinctures but still have trouble swallowing, we recommend going with higher-potency options. The stronger a CBD oil is, the fewer drops you’ll need to consume to garner the effects. For example, if you have a 1000mg bottle of CBD oil, you’ll only need half the amount in comparison to a 500mg bottle of the same size.


Paul James

Paul James is a seasoned cannabis and CBD writer and expert. He is a mental health blogger who advocates CBD as a natural alternative to prescription medications. You can read more about this and other natural alternatives on his blog: https://bedlamite.co/."

Frequently Asked Questions

When you swallow CBD oil, it enters your digestive system and your body starts to break it down. Unfortunately, this will garner you less bioavailability in comparison to holding it under your tongue.