Introduction
When it comes to hemp-derived products, absorption is everything.
A premium extract doesn’t guarantee results unless it’s delivered efficiently into the body.
That’s where bioavailability — the measure of how much of an active ingredient is absorbed and used by the body — becomes a crucial differentiator in product performance.
Whether you’re developing tinctures, edibles, beverages, or topicals, understanding the delivery system behind your cannabinoids can significantly improve efficacy, consistency, and consumer satisfaction.
🧠 What Is Bioavailability?
Bioavailability refers to the percentage of a compound that successfully enters systemic circulation and exerts its intended effect.
Because cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN are lipophilic (fat-soluble), they don’t mix easily with water — which means traditional formulations can have low absorption rates (6–20%).
Enhancing bioavailability involves changing how cannabinoids are encapsulated, dispersed, or emulsified, making them more bioactive and predictable.
⚗️ The Main Delivery Systems for Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids
1️⃣ Oil-Based Delivery (Traditional)
How it works:
Cannabinoids dissolve in lipids such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil, which helps them enter the bloodstream via the digestive or sublingual route.
Advantages:
- Simple, stable, and scalable.
- Ideal for tinctures, capsules, and topicals.
- Cost-effective with long shelf life.
Limitations:
- Slower onset (30–90 minutes).
- Lower absorption (6–20%).
- Dependent on fat metabolism in the digestive process.
Pro tip:
Use medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) for improved solubility and quicker absorption compared to long-chain oils.
Explore Hemp-Derived Distillates & Isolates to begin with verified, oil-compatible bases for tinctures, softgels, and balms.
2️⃣ Nanoemulsion Delivery
How it works:
Nanoemulsions use ultrasonic or high-pressure homogenization to break oil droplets into nano-sized particles (typically 20–200 nm). These microdroplets dramatically increase the surface area of cannabinoids, enhancing absorption through mucosal or gastrointestinal pathways.
Advantages:
- 3–5× higher absorption efficiency.
- Faster onset (10–20 minutes for liquids).
- Stable dispersion in beverages and water-based systems.
Limitations:
- Requires specialized equipment and surfactants.
- Higher production cost.
- Must control pH and ionic strength for stability.
Best for:
Beverages, shots, oral sprays, and water-based skincare.
Learn more about emulsification techniques in our Education Guide: Oil-Soluble vs Water-Soluble Cannabinoids.
3️⃣ Liposomal Delivery
How it works:
Liposomes are phospholipid bilayer vesicles that encapsulate cannabinoids, mimicking cell membranes for direct delivery into the bloodstream.
Advantages:
- Excellent protection against oxidation and degradation.
- Extended release and improved stability.
- Can bypass first-pass metabolism.
Limitations:
- Complex manufacturing and higher costs.
- Limited shelf life unless stabilized.
- May require specialized packaging (opaque, airtight).
Best for:
Nutraceuticals, high-end supplements, and cosmeceutical formulations.
4️⃣ Transdermal Delivery (Topical Absorption)
How it works:
Cannabinoids penetrate the skin barrier via transdermal patches, gels, or creams, where they bind to local receptors without entering systemic circulation (unless formulated to do so).
Advantages:
- Localized relief and targeted delivery.
- Minimal systemic exposure (non-psychoactive).
- Useful for pain, inflammation, and recovery applications.
Limitations:
- Bioavailability depends on carrier penetration enhancers (e.g., menthol, DMSO).
- Slower onset, varying absorption across skin types.
See our Education Article: Storage & Handling SOP for Bulk Hemp Ingredients to maintain potency in topical formulations.
⚙️ Choosing the Right Delivery System
| Product Type | Recommended System | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tinctures & Capsules | Oil-based | Stability, scalability |
| Beverages | Nanoemulsion | Fast onset, clarity |
| Topicals | Transdermal or Liposomal | Targeted absorption |
| Premium Supplements | Liposomal | Enhanced efficiency, premium perception |
The right system depends on your target use case, desired onset, and budget for formulation.
For most commercial brands, combining oil-based and nanoemulsion SKUs (e.g., tincture + beverage) gives maximum portfolio coverage.
🧩 Key Takeaways for Manufacturers
- Optimize carrier oils and emulsifiers for consistent droplet size.
- Maintain controlled temperature (below 120°F) during mixing.
- Confirm droplet size (<200 nm) in nanoemulsions for stable clarity.
- Always test finished products for cannabinoid uniformity and stability.
Low Gravity Hemp provides high-purity, lab-verified distillates and isolates suitable for every delivery system — oil-based, water-soluble, and beyond.
🔗 Explore Hemp-Derived Ingredients
✍️ About Low Gravity Hemp
Low Gravity Hemp partners with manufacturers and white-label producers to supply verified, consistent hemp-derived ingredients. Whether you’re formulating tinctures, beverages, or advanced delivery systems, our team ensures quality and compliance from concept to production.
Start your next formulation:
👉 Contact us for water-compatible or nano-ready ingredient solutions
