Researchers Develop New Formula That Increases CBD Bioavailability
The University of South Australia researchers have pioneered a groundbreaking CBD formula that significantly enhances CBD water solubility and, consequently, absorption in the digestive system. CBD, being fat soluble, is most effectively absorbed when consumed with fatty foods. The scientists have developed a nanoparticle blend that binds CBD to phosphorous-containing fat particles. In testing, the CBD-PLC delivery system demonstrated a remarkable 67.1% dissolution rate in water after three hours and a 32.7% increase in bioavailability in the digestive tract, indicating a higher absorption through the intestinal wall.
A significant barrier to higher efficacy is the fact CBD is not water-soluble, and the body is composed of approximately 60% water. Though eating high-fat foods when taking CBD may increase its bioavailability, it is an unhealthy option and not always possible.
The new nanoparticle mixture binds CBD to a phospholipid complex, fat particles containing phosphorus. Tests using the new CBD-PLC delivery system showed improved CBD water solubility and uptake in the digestive system.
Study author Thabata Muta said, “Improved bioavailability means that lower doses can achieve the same therapeutic effect, potentially reducing side effects and making treatment more cost-effective.”
Though there are CBD-based drugs that government agencies have approved, the researchers believe an improved formulation can increase the therapeutic value for current patients taking the approved drugs. They also believe the PLC-based method could potentially be applied in other drug formulations currently using compounds with poor water solubility.
An additional advantage of the CBD-PLC-based formulation is that it has a much longer shelf-stable status compared to traditional CBD. Traditional CBD formulations degrade when exposed to heat, light and oxygen. The new formulation was tested over 12 months, and it resisted degradation in various conditions and temperatures ranging from 39-104 degrees Fahrenheit.
A formula like the CBD-PLC formulation, once perfected, could become a significant factor in the future development of CBD-based drugs, offering many health benefits. The study authors believe their new formulation has a high potential to help epilepsy and MS patients by increasing CBD bioavailability, but there is a much broader need for CBD-based therapeutics for treating other health conditions. The fact that there are continuing global clinical trials involving CBD points to the fact that many researchers believe CBD has tremendous potential for addressing many different health issues.
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