Colorado State University researchers examined the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol (CBD) and its impact on liver function. They found that water soluble CBD offers more efficient bioavailability than other kinds of CBD tinctures or oils. The study was published in the journal Nutrients. The study also found that water soluble CBD was most effectively absorbed when consumed with food.
Water soluble CBD is translucent, tasteless, and easily dissolvable in any liquid (juice, water, tea, etc.). It is absorbed very quickly once consumed. The human body consists of up to 60% water, so some medical professionals believe water soluble CBD has significantly higher bioavailability than oil-based CBD. Water soluble CBD products are cannabinoid nanoemulsions that consist of a carrier oil (usually a triglyceride), a bioactive (cannabinoids), a surfactant (emulsifier) and preservatives. Nanoemulsions have many benefits including providing fast-acting relief and a discreet and easy way of consuming CBD.
The CSU study compared the absorption of five different CBD formulations including CBD diluted in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) coconut oil, CBD isolate, and three different water-soluble CBD ingredients when administered to 14 male participants. Researchers documented the rate at which the various CBD products entered and left the bloodstream, absorption rates, and how the formulations interacted with liver functionality. The study showed that within 30 minutes after eating a meal, CBD appeared to lower participants’ insulin and triglyceride levels. The researchers believe CBD may have a favorable effect on how fats and sugars are metabolized after a meal.
The study is significant, because it is one of the first few studies to focus on the effectiveness of water-soluble CBD. According to CEO NextEvo Naturals John McDonagh, “While the potential health benefits of CBD have been widely publicized, this new data suggests consumers should be very aware of the pharmacokinetic differences between commercial CBD formulations, for example, how the CBD you are taking gets absorbed into the body.” Water soluble CBD products that enter the bloodstream quickly and efficiently have positive implications for alleviating acute pain, nausea and other symptoms.
This study has implications for drug development and helping patients get the most out of CBD products. Researchers do not anticipate significant sex differences even though the study included only male participants. They also believe that CBD consumption does not harm liver function.
