It’s no secret that CBD (and cannabis in general) comes in many forms. The CBD industry is booming, and to answer the demand, cannabis manufacturers are working hard to create new ways for customers to consume and enjoy CBD.

In the crowded field of CBD products, two options stand out for many: CBD oil and CBD capsules.

But, which CBD consumption is best for you? Let’s take a look at these two options and the pros and cons each has to offer.

A Look at CBD Oil

First, let’s learn about CBD oil. CBD oil is oil that is extracted from a hemp or marijuana plant. It is separated from other compounds, including THC, and then combined with a carrier oil. CBD oil is usually available in both unflavoured and flavoured options.

There are different ways consumers can ingest CBD oil, but the most common is by using it sublingually. This method involves putting a drop or two directly under the tongue. Often, the bottle will recommend that users hold the drop under their tongue for about five seconds before swallowing it.

But one of the benefits of CBD oil is that it can be quite versatile. Users can also apply it topically if their goal is to treat inflammation of the skin or soothe sore muscles. A drop or two can also be added to your morning coffee or favourite recipe.

Another benefit of CBD oil is that it is fast-acting when used sublingually. Most people will feel effects immediately, if not shortly after that. But effects typically only last about one to three hours.

Though CBD oil offers many benefits, it does have a few “cons” as well.

CBD oil is known for having an “earthy” flavour that most people find unappealing. Though flavoured versions are available, they may not completely mask the oil’s natural flavour. CBD oil is also quite slick, and even with flavouring, its texture cannot be disguised. Consumers with a sensitive gag reflex, who are picky about food, or who are sensitive to textures may find that oil is not the best option for them.

Pros and Cons of CBD Oil

As we discussed, CBD oil offers many benefits, including:

Easy to take
Fast-acting effects
Versatile
Dosage control
Can be used topically

The cons of CBD oil include:

Relatively short-lasting effects
Unappealing flavour and texture
Can spill easily

A Look at CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are another popular way for people to consume CBD. CBD capsules are similar to oil in that the CBD is extracted from the hemp or cannabis plant, then suspended in a capsule. You may be able to find both gel capsules and other forms of capsules.

These capsules are taken just like traditional medications: Simply choose your dosage, put it in your mouth, and swallow with a sip of water. Because capsules contain a set amount of CBD, capsules make it easy for people to manage their dosage and stay within their comfort level.

CBD capsules do take longer than oil to take effect, but they also last longer. Because they need to go through your digestive system, it can take about 30 to 45 minutes for you to feel the effects of CBD after you take a capsule. However, the wait is often worth it, as its effects last longer, usually four to six hours.

Unlike CBD oil, capsules do not have a taste. So, you don’t have to worry about the earthy flavour oil has. Plus, travelling with capsules is easier than with oil. You don’t need to worry about the bottle spilling and leaking oil onto everything. Instead, you can just toss your bottle into your bag and grab them when you are ready.

Though CBD capsules do offer many benefits, they are not ideal for people who struggle taking pills in general. You may also lose some of the capsule’s effectiveness, as some elements can be lost as your body processes the capsule.

Pros and Cons of CBD Capsules

In a nutshell, CBD capsules offer many benefits, such as:

Easy dosing
No taste
Easy to take
Long-lasting effects

But there are also some cons, including:

Slower onset of effects
May lose some bioavailability as it digests
Hard for people who can’t swallow pills

Which Is Best for You?

Now that you know more about CBD oil and capsules, which one is for you? There is no correct answer. The right option for you depends on a variety of different factors. When choosing between CBD oil and CBD capsules, you’ll need to make this choice based on your personal preferences and the reason you are choosing to use CBD as well.

For example, if someone uses CBD to help relieve sore muscles after a day of strenuous work, they may find CBD oil the better option since they can apply it right to their skin. But for those who are using CBD to improve their overall health and don’t like the taste of the oil, CBD capsules would likely be the better option.

Before you decide between CBD oil and CBD capsules, you’ll need to take a moment and think about why you are taking CBD and your general preferences when it comes to food and pills.

Here are some questions to help you decide whether CBD oil or capsules are best for you:

What are you using CBD for?
Do you have trouble swallowing pills?
Would you prefer flavour or no flavour when taking CBD?

Final Thoughts

CBD oil and CBD capsules are two of the most popular ways for people to ingest CBD. CBD oil offers fast-acting effects that may not last as long as capsules would. Both allow users to manage their dose, but capsules make it slightly easier, as they come with CBD in predetermined amounts.

Whether pills or oil are the better option for you depends on your personal preferences. You’ll need to decide which will work better for your needs. Don’t hesitate to ask your dispensary for advice if you aren’t sure which to try.

CBD

CBD Oil vs. CBD Capsules: Which Is Best for Your Needs?