A new study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that a powdered formulation of THC and CBD more than doubles cannabinoid bioavailability compared to traditional oil-based drops.
THC powder (photo credit: Nano Hemp Tech Labs).
The study involved 14 healthy adults who received two different oral formulations containing 8 mg of THC and 8 mg of CBD: one as standard oil drops, and the other as a self-emulsifying powder designed to enhance absorption. Blood samples were collected after each dose to measure plasma concentrations and absorption rates.
Results showed that the powder formulation significantly increased the maximum concentration of THC in the bloodstream—reaching 32.79 ng/mL on average compared to just 10.17 ng/mL with oil drops. Its active metabolite, 11-OH-THC, also saw a marked increase. Additionally, key metabolites like 7-OH-CBD reached higher concentrations more quickly when administered in powder form, with time to peak effect reduced from roughly 4.7 hours to just over 1 hour.
“THC/CBD-SE Powder significantly improves cannabinoid bioavailability and absorption rates compared to oil-based drops, offering a promising oral delivery method for enhanced therapeutic potential”, concludes the study.
The full study can be found here.
