How Long After Taking CBD Oil Can I Drink Water

CBD (cannabidiol) oil is growing in popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits. Many new users have questions about taking CBD oil, including when it’s safe to drink water afterwards. This article will provide clear guidelines on timing water consumption when taking CBD oil.

What is CBD Oil?

• CBD is a compound derived from cannabis plants, including hemp
• It does not contain THC, the psychoactive component that creates a “high” feeling
• Available in various products like oils, edibles, topicals and soft gels
• Generally very safe and non-intoxicating. (1)

Benefits and Uses of CBD Oil

People use CBD oil as a supplement to support overall health and address various conditions. Some potential benefits include:

• Alleviating anxiety and depression symptoms
• Reducing seizures in epilepsy
• Easing pain and inflammation
• Slowing growth and spread of cancer cells
• Improving sleep issues like insomnia
• Lowering blood pressure

CBD is a versatile supplement, but correct usage is important to maximize effectiveness. So when can you drink water after taking it?

When Can You Drink Water Before or After CBD Oil

Hydration is crucial for health, regardless if using CBD oil or not. Follow these recommendations on timing water intake with CBD (2) :

Before Taking CBD Oil

• Drink 16 oz water 30 minutes prior
• Gets digestive system activated
• Allows better absorption of oil

Immediately After Taking CBD Oil

• Wait 15 minutes before drinking water
• Prevents the water from prematurely diluting the oil
• Gives body time to process and transport oil to cells

Throughout the Day While Taking CBD Oil

• Consume the recommended daily 64+ oz of water per day
• Supports endocannabinoid system health
• Prevents dehydration which degrades effects

With Food After Taking CBD Oil

• Have a small snack with water 30 minutes after oil dose
• Improves bioavailability since food has fat and water content
• Allows steady absorption and water integration

Avoid Gulping Lots of Water Right After

• Can move the oil through digestive tract too quick
• Minimizes how much your body can use as it passes through
• Follow 15 minute rule instead for best potency

Benefits of Hydration with CBD

• Enhancing CBD Effects. Staying hydrated may enhance the effects of CBD by supporting overall bodily functions and the health of the mucous membranes.
• Alleviating Dry Mouth. CBD can cause dry mouth. Drinking water not only alleviates this discomfort but also promotes salivation, which is beneficial for oral health.

Tips for When to Drink Water With CBD Oil

Keep these tips in mind:

• Have water 30 minutes prior as prep,
• Wait 15 minutes after oil dose before drinking water,
• Steadily hydrate as usual through your day,
• Take oil doses consistently with food for better effects,
• Avoid gulping water right after taking the oil.

Proper timing with water improves absorption and maximizes CBD oil effects. As with starting any new supplement, consult your doctor before using CBD oil. Evaluate after 2-4 weeks if the dosage helps meet your health goals.

What About Drinking Other Beverages?

Along with timing water intake correctly, you may wonder whether popular drinks like coffee, tea, soda, alcohol, or juice impact CBD absorption or effects. Here are some tips:

• Coffee/Tea: Having your morning CBD dose with your coffee or tea is fine and convenient. The small amount of caffeine does not cause issues or overstimulation for most people when combined.
• Soda: The high sugar and acidity of soda is not ideal for maximizing CBD benefits. Either avoid soda around the time you take CBD or switch to healthier carbonated flavored waters without sugar instead.
• Alcohol: Both CBD and alcohol metabolize through the body’s cytochrome P450 pathway so they can compound each other’s effects. (3) Start slow if combining them, and avoid ingesting CBD and drinking at the same time.
• Juice: The acidity of fruit juice can degrade compounds in CBD extracts. Wait at least 15 minutes after taking your oil before drinking citrus or other acidic juices to preserve potency.

Staying hydrated with pure, neutral pH water is optimal around dosing time, while drinks like coffee or tea during your CBD routine are fine. Soda, alcohol and fruit juice can diminish or alter CBD’s effects so consume those at separate times from your supplement schedule for best results.

FAQ:

Does taking it on an empty stomach matter?

A small percent of users may experience some GI discomfort when taking CBD oil on an especially empty stomach. Taking it with a little food can help minimize adverse effects.

Is sublingual always best? 

While it allows very fast absorption, for extended release medications oral ingestion can be preferred. Discontinue sublingual use if it causes mouth irritation. 

How does CBD oil interact with other medications?

CBD oil can interact with certain medications by affecting how your body processes these drugs. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting CBD oil if you’re taking any medications, especially those with a “grapefruit warning.”

Is there a risk of addiction or dependency on CBD oil?

Current research suggests that CBD does not have addictive properties and is not likely to cause dependency (4).  However, always use CBD products responsibly and as directed.

Conclusion

It’s important to recognize that the interplay between CBD oil consumption and water intake can potentially influence the effectiveness of CBD. However, it’s essential to understand that these are general guidelines and not definitive rules. Individual responses to CBD oil can differ significantly. While it is crucial to maintain proper hydration for overall health, it is equally important to be attentive to your body’s unique reactions and needs. Remember, this information should not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen, especially when it involves substances like CBD oil.

Sources:

• Kicman, A., & Toczek, M. (2020). The Effects of Cannabidiol, a Non-Intoxicating Compound of Cannabis, on the Cardiovascular System in Health and Disease. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(18), 6740. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21186740
• Harvard University “The importance of hydration“
• Balachandran, P., Elsohly, M., & Hill, K. P. (2021). Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: a Comprehensive Review. Journal of general internal medicine, 36(7), 2074–2084. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8
• World Health Organization 2018 “CANNABIDIOL (CBD) Critical Review Report“

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