CBD Capsules vs CBD Oils: Which Is Right For You?

There are many different cannabinoids that can be extracted from cannabis sativa (hemp) and cannabis plants and are used as ingredients in wellness and healthcare products. The most well-known cannabinoids are Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (or THC for short) and Cannabidiol (commonly known as CBD), which we will refer to as a point of reference to help describe the effects of some lesser-known cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids have properties potentially beneficial to health and offer a wide range of wellness applications and therapeutic benefits. What's important when using cannabis-based products is that you choose a product that meets your personal requirements.

Product ranges are huge, and the options available to you can be rather confusing—that's why we're comparing the different cannabinoid-based products available today.

At ICE Headshop, we offer an impressive range of high-quality cannabinoids and CBD products in our online store, which are also available for wholesale purchase at competitive prices.

CBD capsules are oral supplements that contain cannabidiol (CBD) in a pre-measured dosage. They offer a convenient and consistent way to consume CBD, making them popular among users who want a simple and mess-free way to incorporate CBD into their routine. Each capsule typically contains a specified amount of CBD, allowing users to easily track and adjust their dosage as needed.

They are often made with CBD oil or isolate encased in a gelatin or vegan capsule. This method of consumption allows for controlled and gradual absorption through the digestive system, providing effects that usually last several hours. CBD capsules are available in a range of potencies to suit different needs and are used for various purposes, such as supporting relaxation, pain relief, and overall wellness.

There are three main kinds of CBD extract: full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate. To find out more about CBD extracts and how these types of extracts differ, visit our blog, where we discuss everything CBD.

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CBD oil, also known as cannabidiol oil, is a natural extract derived from the cannabis plant. It's made by extracting CBD, a non-psychoactive compound, from the hemp plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed oil.

CBD oil can be extracted using several different methods. Each method has its own benefits and downsides that can impact the quality of the end product. The CO2 extraction method is likely the most commonly used by producers of high-quality CBD products.

CBD oils come in a range of different concentrations and can be taken in a few different ways depending on the intended purpose of the individual product. Most are suitable for sublingual absorption which means they can be dropped under the tongue and held until absorbed. Taking CBD via sublingual absorption is quick, and simple and the effects can generally be felt within 15 to 30 minutes, which means it is an ideal product for those looking for relief as quickly as possible.

Other CBD oils can be dropped into food and water, also known as water-soluble CBD. This type of CBD oil is good for those who don't enjoy the flavour or the process of holding the oil under the tongue. Water-soluble CBD generally has a fast absorption rate, but when added to food and drink, the CBD must be metabolised—this process takes longer than sublingual absorption, and some CBD will be lost in the metabolisation process.

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While the products themselves differ in how they are taken, the contents of both CBD oil and CBD capsules can be much the same. The variations of contents within these products will depend on the extraction process, the strength of the formula, other included ingredients, the purification process, and finally, the lab analysis that comes with the product.

Let's take a closer look at some of the key differences in our CBD capsules vs oil comparison:

The difference in form between CBD capsules and CBD oil is rather simple: one is a solid, and one is a liquid.

CBD capsules look and feel similar to other health supplements, and the consumption method is similar. Capsules are available in a range of sizes and strengths, and some products include other botanicals or wellness supplements in the formula. CBD capsules are another way to consume CBD oils and are easily integrated into a daily wellness routine.

CBD oils mostly (if not all) come in dropper bottles containing a certain % of CBD per ml of oil. A standard strength and size bottle would be something like a 30ml bottle of oil containing 300mg of CBD. Of course, there are many strengths and sizes available and this gives you better options for finding the perfect product for you.

CBD oil generally has an earthy taste (that many do not find unpleasant), but some CBD manufacturers have created taste-free formulas or formulas with other ingredients that complement or mask the earthy flavours of CBD.

Generally, CBD oil held under the tongue will come on faster than a swallowed capsule, and this is just due to our own personal digestion and metabolisation rate. With oils taken sublingually, you can expect to feel relief of symptoms within 15-30 minutes, but it can take up to an hour. CBD capsules can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to over 2 hours before the effects are felt.

CBD capsules are mostly tasteless and odourless, which makes them an attractive option for those who may not enjoy the natural, earthy taste of CBD oil or find the distinctive hemp flavour unappealing. Swallowing capsules is not everybody's favourite activity; being odourless and flavourless helps make the process easier.

The rates of absorption for CBD capsules and oils will depend on the bioavailability of the oil itself, the strength and concentration of the CBD, the carrier oil used, the method of taking the CBD, and personal factors such as body weight and metabolisation rate. Some CBD oils are designed with bioavailability in mind and have undergone various processes to make them easier to absorb.

When it comes down to ease of use it really is about your personal preferences. How convenient is the product for you? Do you find it easy to use?

Both CBD capsules and CBD oils are very portable, both can be stored in a pocket or bag and easily transported. Even if you buy a large multipack, usually this can be divided for convenience.

CBD oil has a bit more risk of spillage, just be sure to do the lid up tight and be cautious when it is open. CBD capsules are unlikely to make a mess as they come either in a container or in blister packs.

Swallowing CBD capsules is a very plain experience, you will (most likely) experience no flavour or rush of endorphins. Swallowing CBD capsules is fast, easy and great for those who want to avoid the taste of CBD oil in the mouth.

CBD oil comes in many different strengths, formulas, and flavours, with the strength of the concentration and the formula for the individual product affecting how the product tastes. CBD oils mostly taste earthy but not in an unpleasant way. Some would liken it to a grassy or herbal flavour. Some CBD oils are flavoured for the user's enjoyment or contain added botanicals and herbs to give not only potential health benefits but also a flavour boost.

CBD capsules are a great option for anybody seeking the benefits of CBD who is looking for a fast, familiar, and simple way to get a CBD dose. CBD capsules come in a variety of strengths and formulas, so it will be easy to choose a product that matches your individual needs.

When you choose CBD capsules (that have been made by a professional manufacturer) you can easily monitor your dosage and adjust your routine so that you get the most out of it.

If you have taken supplements or tablets before, the process is relatively stress-free and quick.

CBD oils are also fast and simple to use, they can be taken in seconds and can sometimes simply be added to drink or food. CBD oils would best suit someone looking for faster relief than capsules, or someone who is not into swallowing capsules or supplements.

Although most CBD oils have a little flavour, you can find ones that are flavour-free, or ones that have additional ingredients that mask the CBD taste.

CBD oils are perfect for those looking for substantial and fast relief from unwanted symptoms.

The cannabinoid industry is going through a huge boom and now you can find more products than ever before. Although it can be tricky to look through products trying to understand what is best for your own needs, it's likely you'll find something just right for you.

At ICE Headshop we have decades of experience in the CBD industry. Our experts have scoured the globe to find the top manufacturers of CBD and cannabinoid products so that we can provide a store full of high-quality CBD that you can count on.

We always recommend shopping with a trusted retailer and selecting products that offer a third-party lab analysis of the contents - this is the first step to ensure that you get the most out of your CBD product.

Here are some of our top CBD capsules and CBD oils available today:

This power-pack of 60 capsules contains a whopping 900mg of CBD, as well as a boost of caffeine and CBG. Start your day with 15mg of 100% natural, non-GM, vegan, and lab-tested CBD and a hit of slow-release caffeine. Recommended as a one-a-day capsule, this CBD capsule will help set you up for the day.

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If you're seeking organic, naturally flavoured, and powerful CBD oil, look no further. Orange County is among the best manufacturers in the US and continues to create powerful CBD products that keep customers coming back time and time again. This 10ml bottle comes in three strength choices—500mg, 1000mg, and 2000mg—perfect for monitoring and optimising your dose.

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This powerful oil contains a 50/50 mix of CBD and CBG. Combined, these cannabinoids can offer powerful relief from unwanted symptoms, and the top strengths are some of the most effective oils on the market. Choose from 300mg, 600mg, 1200mg, 2500mg and 5000mg. Made with MCT oil, CBGX comes in flavourless, lemon, or peppermint flavours.

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When you're starting with CBD it is good to keep in mind that you will need to do some experimenting with your dosage, and you may want to increase or reduce your dose to suit your needs.

Always start with a low dosage regardless of the product strength you have chosen, and increase your dose gradually to reach your desired results, staying within the manufacturer's instructions.

When considering CBD capsules vs. oil, you should pick a CBD oil or capsule that fits easily into your routine so that you get more from your product. If capsules are familiar to you, then it will be a simple introduction. If opting for CBD oil, be prepared to try sublingual dosing. It could be the best method for you and is very fast and easy.

Remember that CBD products are designed to accompany a healthy lifestyle or wellness routine. When it comes to CBD, it is important to assess your own wellness goals and needs. If you need gentle relief, a strong CBD oil might be too much, and you could instead try a low-dose capsule. Whichever CBD products you try, do not exceed the daily recommended dose.

CBD products have very few side effects. The most common side effects are generally considered minor and do not pose severe risks to healthy individuals. CBD oils and capsules are essentially like for like, just packaged in a different form.

The most common side effects from CBD can include dry mouth, changes in appetite, sleep cycle and weight, as well as some negative interactions with some other medications.

If you're starting out with CBD then be sure to check with your medical professional, GP, or doctor, especially if you're breastfeeding, pregnant, have a history of mental illness, or are taking other medications.

Get in touch with ICE Headshop

If you have any questions regarding our CBD capsules or CBD oils, don't hesitate to get in touch. Our experts are on hand 24/7/365, and our team is ready to help with any queries you have about our CBD product ranges or about our delivery options and packaging.

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Disclaimer: Please note that you must be 18 years or older to purchase CBD products. All claims and effects of CBD have been regulated by the MHRA since 2016 and distributors require a licence from the MHRA to make any medical claims. Claims are opinion based and non-scientific, and while we may discuss the opinions people share, they are not our own. Our CBD is not intended to treat, cure or prevent disease. Although we can advocate its calming & healthy properties it is in no way intended for medicinal use.