As interest in CBD continues to grow, so does the choice of how to take it. Oils, gummies, drinks – each format offers a different experience, depending on how and when you use it. There's no one-size-fits-all approach; the best way to take CBD depends on your routine, your goals and how you'd like it to support your day-to-day wellbeing.
Why CBD delivery method matters
Not all CBD is absorbed in the same way. The format you choose – whether it's an oil, drink, gummy – affects how quickly it takes effect, how long it lasts, and how much of it your body uses.
This comes down to how your body absorbs CBD. Some methods – like drops held under the tongue – allow CBD to enter the system more quickly. Others, like gummies, take a little longer as they're processed through the digestive system. Topical products, such as creams or balms, don't enter the bloodstream at all; they work directly where they're applied. That doesn't mean one method is better than another; it's about finding what fits with your needs and routine. Some people prefer fast-acting support at specific moments in the day, while others are looking for a slower, longer-lasting effect. The best delivery method is the one that works for you.
Popular CBD products
CBD comes in a variety of forms and choosing the right one depends on what you'd like it to support. You might be looking for better mental clarity during the day or need support winding down in the evening; either way, three of the most popular ways to take CBD can easily fit into different lifestyles.
CBD oils (Tinctures)
CBD oils are taken under the tongue using a dropper. Holding the oil there for 30 to 60 seconds allows it to absorb more directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This makes oils one of the quickest ways to feel the effects of CBD (usually within 20 to 30 minutes).
CBD oils offer flexibility. You can tailor the dose to suit how you're feeling day to day and they're easy to build into a regular routine, whether that's part of your morning set-up or your wind-down at night. They're particularly useful if you're looking for targeted support with anxiety, focus or sleep.
CBD gummies
CBD gummies are taken just like any supplement – chew, swallow and carry on with your day. Because they're absorbed through the digestive system, they take a little longer to work than oils, usually around 45 minutes to an hour. But once they kick in, the effects are steady and long-lasting.
Gummies are all about ease. Each one contains a consistent dose of CBD, so you know exactly what you're getting every time. They're portable and taste great, making them ideal for taking on the go or keeping in your desk drawer. For those new to CBD, gummies are a reassuring, accessible starting point.
CBD drinks
CBD drinks are a refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of CBD; they are calm in a can. Each drink contains 30mg of high-quality CBD along with added vitamin D and natural ingredients, designed to support balance and wellbeing throughout the day.
Like gummies, drinks are absorbed through the digestive system and they typically take between 30 minutes to an hour to have an effect. They're best enjoyed as part of your everyday routine, whether that's post-exercise, after work or during moments when you want to slow things down. If you're looking for a more mindful alternative to your usual beverage, CBD drinks offer a naturally calming option. They fit easily into routines and provide a sense of pause, without alcohol or synthetic ingredients.
How to choose the right CBD product for you
There's no single 'best' way to take CBD – it's about finding what works for you. The right format often comes down to your personal goals, daily routine and the format in which you prefer to take it.
Start by thinking about what you'd like CBD to support. If you're looking to manage everyday pressure or stay focused during a busy workday, something fast-acting like a CBD oil would suit you. If sleep is your focus, a calming evening routine that includes a CBD drink or gummy could help you ease into rest. For general wellbeing or background support, all three formats can fit into your day at different moments.
Lifestyle matters too. If you're often on the go, gummies offer a portable option. If you like the structure of a morning or evening ritual, oils or drinks can be a calming addition to those quieter moments. Taste, texture and convenience all play a part – and there's no harm in trying more than one format to see what feels right. In fact, many people find that combining formats works best. A CBD oil in the morning, a gummy for steady support during the day and a drink in the evening to unwind; it's all about building a routine that feels natural and supportive.
As with anything new, start simple. Give it time, pay attention to how you feel and adjust as needed. Finding your ideal approach is part of the process – and there's no rush.
Start low, go slow: CBD dosing tips
Everyone responds slightly differently to CBD, which is why finding the right dose is a gradual process. A good approach is to start low and go slow – begin with a moderate amount (typically around 25–35mg per day) and give your body time to adjust. Stick with this for a few days, then gently increase if needed. This process is known as titration and it helps you find the amount that works best for your body, without taking more than you need.
It's also worth noting that CBD works best when taken regularly. Like any wellbeing habit, consistency is key. A single dose might offer a sense of calm in the moment, but the longer-term benefits – improved sleep, reduced anxiety or steadier focus – often come with daily use.
If you're not sure where to begin, choose one format (like an oil or gummy), track how you feel over a week and adjust from there. Small steps, taken regularly, tend to bring the best results.
When's the best time to take CBD?
There's no single best time to take CBD – it depends on what you'd like it to support. Some people prefer to take it first thing, others build it into their evening wind-down and many use it at different points throughout the day. If your focus is daytime calm or stress management, taking CBD in the morning can help you feel more balanced as you head into the day. CBD oil or a gummy before work – and a CBD drink mid-morning – can help you feel more balanced and ready to take on the day.
For those looking to improve sleep or simply switch off more easily in the evening, CBD can be a helpful part of a wind-down routine. Taking it an hour or so before bed – whether as a drink, oil or gummy – can help signal to the body that it's time to slow down.
The key is to work with your natural rhythm. Think about when you need support most and build CBD into that moment. That could be a part of your morning coffee ritual, your post-gym reset or your quiet time before bed – consistency and timing go hand in hand.
CBD routine: The 'best way' is what works for you
There's no single best way to take CBD – just the way that fits your lifestyle, your needs and your rhythm. What works for one person might not feel quite right for another and that's entirely normal. Exploring different formats can be part of the process. CBD oils offer flexibility, gummies bring ease and drinks fit naturally into everyday moments. You might find that one method meets your needs or that a mix works best, depending on the time of day or the kind of support you're looking for.
The key is to approach CBD use with curiosity and consistency. Take your time, pay attention to how you feel and give each format a fair chance to settle into your routine. The goal isn't perfection – it's balance.