CBD oil has been one of the biggest health crazes to hit the global wellness scene over the last few years. Since it is so new, many people are mystified by CBD, and they are left with dozens of unanswered questions. If you’re wondering, how long does CBD oil last? Rest assured, you’re not alone! Even experienced CBD users may not be aware of CBD’s actual shelf life.
CBD is often touted for its medicinal and therapeutic benefits, so it’s important for users to remain knowledgeable about its shelf life to maintain the desired effect. If you’ve held onto a bottle of CBD oil for a few years and you’re wondering if it’s still good, read on. We will clarify the shelf life of CBD oil and how long this cannabidiol lasts in the body after it’s been consumed.
How Long Does the Effect of CBD Last in the Body?
The duration of CBD’s effects is determined based on a variety of factors. Chief among these factors is the quality of the cannabidiol extract. High-quality products with high-quality cannabidiol will have the best effect on the body. In essence, the better the quality of initial CBD concentrate used in a product, the longer it will last within the body.
Also, the type of CBD product used has major implications for the length of time that the cannabidiol is felt. For example, a consumable product will most likely last much longer than a vape oil gummy. To make your search simpler, here are some simple rules of thumb that can help every CBD user determine which supplement type will work best for them:
- Sublingual tinctures – These products are dropped under the tongue for quick absorption into the bloodstream through sensitive blood vessels located in that region. The effects are felt within 30 minutes and can last for one to three hours.
- Topical lotions – These creams usually take up to 30 to 45 minutes to be felt, and their effects can last two to four hours.
- Consumables and beverages – CBD products ingested orally take about 45 minutes to an hour to be absorbed since they must traverse the digestive system and liver before the CBD hits the bloodstream. Consumable and beverage effects can usually be felt for four to six hours.
It should be noted that most of the CBD supplements that have very short-lived effects also happen to be felt much more rapidly upon initial ingestion.
What Is the Shelf Life of CBD?
While it is unlikely that you will go to use your beloved CBD oil or concentrate and find it rancid or foul-smelling, CBD will eventually expire. In this case, it’s best to think about the expiration date as a best-by date. In other words, if you want to achieve the desired effects of a product, especially a CBD product, it’s important to use it before it’s past the date its ingredients are most effective.
Generally, CBD products are considered most effective within 1 to 2 years of the production date. Yes, this means your vile of CBD oil can sit on the shelf for that long, but that’s not recommended. The best personal care regimens become a habit before you even have to think about them. Whether you are taking advantage of the many benefits of CBD skincare or CBD gummies for inflammation, it’s important that you make this a regular part of your routine.
Does CBD oil go bad?
Cannabidiol oil supplements do indeed have a shelf life. However, that doesn’t mean old CBD products will become toxic or dangerous or “go bad” if kept for too long. Instead, these types of items may lose efficacy when the cannabidiol, terpenes, and other minor cannabinoids found in them degrade and lose their potency. Most people will notice this type of degradation, primarily by a change in taste or the consistency/color of the oil.
Factors that determine the shelf life of CBD
There are several factors that determine the shelf life of your product. Remember that the above estimate of 1 to 2 years is an average — not an absolute. The factors that can determine the exact shelf life of CBD products include:
- Quality: As mentioned above, higher quality products will last longer in general.
- Ingredients: CBD products are rarely single ingredients. For this reason, the shelf life of other ingredients used in products must also be considered.
- Extraction Process: The extraction process is integral to the shelf life of the product. High-quality products are made with an extraction process designed for the highest quality result. Carbon dioxide extraction is the gold standard of CBD extraction.
- Packaging: Like wine, CBD products are best contained in amber and dark-colored bottles to limit the amount of light that enters the bottle. It’s important to choose a product with durable packaging to limit its interaction with light, air, and other elements that may accelerate the expiration.
- Storage: The way you store your products matters, too! Avoid storing your products in heavily lit locations or locations that may have frequent temperature fluctuations.
For more information about the benefits of CBD products, browse our CBD oils, CBD gummies, pet supplements, and more at our online store, or reach out to our team today!