bioavailability
Bioavailability by delivery method:
| Delivery Method | Bioavailability (%) | Onset Time | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking/Vaping | 34% – 56% | Rapid (Minutes) | Quick Absorption, Easy Dosing | Potential Respiratory Irritation |
| Edibles | 6% – 20% | Delayed (30 min – 2 hrs) | Longer-lasting Effects, Discreet Consumption | Variable Absorption, Unpredictable Onset |
| Tinctures (Under the Tongue) | 20% – 30% | Moderate (15-30 min) | Bypasses First-pass Metabolism, Faster Onset | Limited Product Availability |
| Topicals | <5% | Variable | Targeted Relief, No Psychoactive Effects | Limited Systemic Absorption |
| Transdermal Patches | 10% – 35% | Gradual (over hours) | Controlled Release, Long-lasting Effects | Limited Availability, Slower Onset |
| Beverages | 4% – 12% | Variable | Convenient, Discreet | Variable Absorption, Unpredictable Onset |
Cannabinoid types:
| Cannabinoid | Found in Cannabis | Primary Effects | Medical Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) | Marijuana, some strains of hemp | Euphoria, relaxation, altered senses | Pain relief, nausea suppression, appetite stimulation |
| CBD (Cannabidiol) | Both marijuana and hemp | Relaxation, reduced anxiety, mild sedation | Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, anti-seizure |
| CBN (Cannabinol) | Develops as THC ages | Mild psychoactive effects, sedation | Sleep aid, anti-convulsant, appetite stimulant |
| CBG (Cannabigerol) | Found in low concentrations in most cannabis strains | Stimulation, mood elevation, anti-inflammatory | Neuroprotective, anti-bacterial, promotes bone growth |
Cannabis types:
| Type | Primary Species | THC:CBD Ratio | Common Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indica | Cannabis indica | Higher THC | Relaxation, sedation, body high |
| Sativa | Cannabis sativa | Varies, often higher in THC | Euphoria, creativity, cerebral effects |
| Hybrid | Combination of indica and sativa | Varies, balanced or THC/CBD dominant | Varies based on specific strain genetics |
Product type:
| Product Type | Main Ingredients | Common Uses | Onset Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking/Vaping | Cannabis flower or concentrates for inhalation | Rapid onset, easy dosing | Minutes | 1 – 3 hours |
| Edibles | Cannabis-infused food or drink | Long-lasting relief, discreet consumption | 30 minutes – 2 hours | 4 – 12 hours |
| Tinctures | Cannabis extract in alcohol or oil | Sublingual administration for fast onset | 15 – 30 minutes | 2 – 4 hours |
| Topicals | Cannabis-infused lotions, balms, creams | Localized pain relief, skincare | Variable | Variable |
| Vapes | Cannabis extract or oil for inhalation | Rapid onset, discreet consumption | Minutes | 1 – 3 hours |
| Beverages | Cannabis-infused beverages | Convenient, discreet | Variable | Variable |