CBD oil vs. CBD capsules
CBD and CBD capsules are a great way to take your daily CBD. What’s more, you don’t have to choose between the two. You can easily mix and match CBD products according to the time of the day and your body’s needs. So, there is a time and place for both CBD oil and CBD capsules. As more CBD manufacturers are developing new products, it’s easy to find the one that fits your health expectations.
The main difference between them is that CBD oil can be taken either in your food or sublingually, under the tongue. CBD capsules are great on the go, as they are discreet and easy to take.
In our mind, it’s not a case of one or the other. You can equally well pick both and choose the right time for each one. So, let’s begin with the basics and look at how each method of consumption fits your routine.
Both CBD oil and CBD capsules contain CBD
Made from industrial hemp
CBD oil and CBD capsules contain CBD. CBD is produced from the flowers of industrial hemp, which are harvested and processed to extract CBD. Unlike its marijuana sibling, industrial hemp contains minimal traces of THC. This means that all products made from industrial hemp contain only minute quantities of THC, if any, and are non-hallucinogenic. With either CBD oil or CBD capsules, you can’t get a high.
Type of CBD
You will find plenty of CBD products in the market, which can get a bit confusing. You will see full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate products. Both CBD oil and CBD capsules come in these categories.
Full-spectrum CBD products contain all the wholesome cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids contained in hemp. That includes mainly CBD, but also other helpful cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, CBDA, and CBC. It is thought that cannabinoids work together to boost each other’s potential, so full-spectrum CBD oil or CBD capsules contain all the wellness of hemp. Full-spectrum CBD products contain minute traces of THC, naturally found in hemp. These should always be less than 0.2% of dry weight, which means they are barely quantifiable.
Broad-spectrum CBD products contain the same wholesome compounds as full-spectrum but with all traces of THC removed. People who want to make sure their CBD oil or CBD capsule contains no THC whatsoever opt for broad-spectrum CBD.
As for CBD isolate, it contains 100% CBD and no other compounds found in hemp. It’s pure CBD and usually comes in crystalline form, which you can take either under the tongue or mix with an oil.
Let’s now look at the differences between CBD oil and CBD capsules.
CBD Oil: the basics
When cannabinoids and other natural compounds are extracted from hemp, they are mixed with an oil such as coconut oil, olive oil, hemp oil, or even avocado oil.
Absorption and Speed of Effects
There are two ways to take CBD oil. You can place it under the tongue, for what’s called sublingual consumption. When placed under the tongue, the oil is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the sublingual glands and bypasses the digestive system. The digestive system slows things down because ingredients have to be digested and then processed through the liver. Sublingual consumption thus leads to faster results, which is helpful for more time-sensitive relief.
The good thing about CBD oil is that you can also include it in your cooking. You can mix it in smoothies, with yogurt, or blend it in foods if you don’t like the earthy taste of CBD.
Dosage Flexibility
It’s easy to adjust dosage with CBD oil, thanks to the dropper that’s usually part of the bottle it comes in. You can customize your intake and add or reduce the number of drops to match your needs. You can take fewer drops in the morning for an instant boost and more in the evening if you want to relax and ensure a good night’s sleep.
Taste Sensitivity
The natural taste of CBD oil can be earthy. Some people find it overpowering when they first try CBD. There are flavoured options available to offset the taste, if you don’t like it. Alternatively, some people put their CBD in their food, so that the aroma dissipates.
CBD Capsules: the basics
Convenience and Discretion
CBD capsules are discreet and an easy-to-use alternative to oils. They come in a pre-measured dose, so you don’t have to measure each serving. This is helpful for busy lifestyles or if you are constantly on the go and want to take your CBD quickly and discreetly.
Digestion and Delayed Effects
Unlike CBD oil, capsules must be swallowed and pass through the digestive system, which means their effects are typically slower to show. This delayed onset can be a drawback for those who require immediate relief. But for chronic usage that requires a steady, prolonged effect, capsules can be highly effective.
Bioavailability and Efficiency
The bioavailability of CBD in capsule form is generally lower than that of sublingual oils. This means that a portion of CBD may be lost during the digestion process before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. To compensate, you could take a higher dose, which would increase the cost per dose.
Both forms of CBD have their merits, and the choice between CBD oil and capsules largely depends on personal needs and lifestyle considerations. For instance, those requiring quick relief might lean towards the oil, while those valuing convenience and subtlety might prefer capsules.
So, CBD oil vs. CBD capsules: what’s the verdict?
To choose the right CBD product for you, simply answer the following questions:
I want quick relief
If you want quick relief, CBD oil acts faster in the body, so you might have better results with it.
I don’t like droppers
If you find droppers complicated, then CBD capsules are easier to handle, as you pop one in your mouth and you are done.
I don’t like to swallow pills
If you don’t like to swallow pills, then you should definitely opt for CBD oil. It’s much easier to take and swallow.
I don’t like the taste of CBD
CBD has a powerful taste that’s earthy and musky. If you can pick it even in meals and dishes, then perhaps you should choose CBD capsules. They are tasteless so you won’t notice the grassy taste.
I want a consistent quantity of CBD in my body
If you want to maintain a steady CBD stream in your body, then CBD capsules are easier to manage. You can pick low-dosage capsules and take them regularly throughout the day. You won’t experience the ups and downs of taking one large CBD dosage.
I have a complicated routine
Who said that it must be CBD oil or CBD capsules? You can pick low-dosage oils and capsules and mix and match according to your needs.
After a strenuous workout, for example, take some CBD oil sublingually to help your joints and muscles relax after the effort.
Early in the morning, take a CBD capsule and let the CBD work in your body to give you mental clarity and an energy boost.
If you are experiencing stress or anxiety ahead of a meeting, take some CBD oil under the tongue to calm your nerves and boost your self-esteem.
General tips for both methods
How to take CBD oil sublingually
Place the drop of CBD oil under the tongue using the dropper. Hold the oil in place for about 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth and boosts its effectiveness and onset.
Adjust your dosage
Start with a low dose, especially if you are new to CBD or uncertain of its effects on your body. Gradually increase the dosage over several days or weeks until you achieve your health expectations. This method helps mitigate any potential side effects and helps you find the most effective dose for your needs.
Frequency of Use
Depending on the reason for using CBD, you might take it once a day for general wellness or multiple times a day for managing symptoms like pain or anxiety. You can mix and match oils and capsules to reach your goals.
Be consistent
Capsules have a slower onset and a more prolonged effect: they are best used when consistent and steady dosing is required. They are particularly handy for long-term management of conditions such as chronic pain or ongoing anxiety. General Tips for Both Methods:
Product quality
Always choose high-quality CBD products from reputable manufacturers. Look for products that provide third-party lab results (also known as a Certificate of Analysis, COA) that confirm the CBD content and show that the product is free from contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals.
Consult Healthcare Providers
If you have pre-existing health conditions or you are taking other medications, talk to your GP before you take CBD to avoid potential drug interactions and side effects.
CBD oil vs. CBD capsules: both can be helpful
There are plenty of ways to take in CBD, but the most common are CBD oils and CBD capsules.
If you are very particular about a feature, for example, and you really don’t like the taste of CBD, then CBD capsules are perfect for you. If you don’t have any specific requirements, then you can take CBD oil sometimes while some other times CBD capsules can better fit your needs.
Whatever your expectations and goals, make sure you take high-quality CBD from trusted manufacturers and make sure you have confirmed with your GP that CBD won’t interfere with any other medicines you are taking.
No matter which one you wish to try for yourself, check out CBD oil reviews and our list of the best UK CBD stores to be sure that the CBD you purchase is as pure and effective as possible!
