CBD products have become quite popular in recent years. They are known for their natural healing properties, and they come in a variety of flavors. From CBD topicals for skin-related issues to oils or gummies for anxiety relief, there’s plenty of choice for people to choose from.
Still, Oils and capsules are the most preferred choices because of the convenience they provide.CBD products are mainly made with three types of hemp extract. These are full-spectrum, broad-spectrum sofgets, and isolated.
Full-spectrum products remain in much higher demand because they have a complete set of cannabinoid, terpene, and phytonutrient compounds. These natural compounds of hemp plants complement each other and work in synergy on the endocannabinoid system to create an entourage effect for consumers.
Both full-spectrum CBD oils and softgels have their pros and cons, and this article will expand on each in detail. So giddy up and read on to find out which one is a better choice between full-spectrum CBD oil and softgels.
All about Full Spectrum CBD Oil
A full-spectrum oil is made by mixing whole hemp plant extract with a coconut-based medium-chain triglyceride oil. The MCT oil helps stop the complete breakdown of CBD molecules when they pass through the body’s metabolic system before getting mixed in the bloodstream. MCT oils also enhance the absorption of CBD molecules in the body because CBD is a fat-soluble compound and mixes well with saturated fat carrier oils.
Full spectrum means there are many other cannabinoids present in oil other than CBD. It includes CBG, CBD, CBN, CBC, and even trace amounts of THC. These trace THC levels are capped at 0.3% so that people don’t get affected by THC’s intoxicating effects and can still experience the full range of potent health benefits offered by hemp plants. The presence of terpenes and phytonutrients also helps in improving the overall efficacy of the oil.
What makes CBD oil stand out from other products is its convenience factor and faster onset times. They come with a dropper, which allows you to take a precise dosage as per your needs and the potency of the effects you want to experience.
All you have to do is fill the dropper with the desired amount, press the squishy top to release the droplets under your tongue and hold it there for 10–15 seconds. There are thousands of blood capillaries under your tongue that directly absorb and release the CBD into your bloodstream within that short time frame.
Because of CBD oil’s higher bioavailability, its calming and healing effects start to kick in within 20–30 minutes of consumption for most people. But its taste is not everyone’s cup of tea. Most full-spectrum CBD oils have a very earthy and odd taste due to the presence of all the terpenes and other hemp components. Also, there’s a risk of spillage during travel if not packed properly.
All about Full Spectrum CBD Softgels
Full-spectrum CBD can be presented as a more advanced and convenient version of oils. It’s nothing but a full-spectrum CBD oil locked between edible softgel coverings or capsules. In earlier days, the shells were usually made with gelatin, which is a flavorless and odorless edible compound made using collagen extracted from animal body parts.
This makes it difficult for people who have vegetarian preferences or a vegan lifestyle. Hence, reputed brands like Colorado Botanicals make their CBD softgel capsules with plant-based compounds like agar agar, which is derived from seaweed, or other clean alternatives like tapioca starch made from cassava root. These softgels are completely vegan, non-GMO, and nature-friendly.
Softgels provide a more consistent and accurately measured dosage as compared to oils. Each capsule is filled with a precise amount of CBD oil, so you can plan how many to take without worrying about accidentally exceeding the desired limit.
Just pop a capsule or two before starting your day, and it’ll keep you focused, energized, less anxious, and in an uplifted mood throughout the day. You can also take them a few hours before bed to slide into a restful sleep after a long, hectic, and stressful day. “Hours,” now this might be a con for some people.
Since it’s an edible form, the bioavailability is lower when compared to taking full-spectrum CBD oil sublingually. The softgels have to travel through your digestive tract first, so CBD metabolization takes time, and overall, it takes between 1-2 hours until the effects start to kick in.
So if you are okay with slow but more sustained effects, CBD softgels are perfect for you. Also, softgels don’t have any taste or odor, which makes them a great option for people who don’t like the earthy hemp taste of CBD oils.
Which one is better? Are there any side effects?
In terms of effects, both are equally effective because the main component, full-spectrum CBD extract, is the same in both. So it all boils down to your personal preferences. If you are okay with the earthy hemp taste and want quick effects, full-spectrum CBD oils are a better choice.
Whereas if you find CBD oil’s taste revolting and are okay with slow but longer-sustaining effects, then CBD softgels are a better choice. Another advantage of softgels is that there’s no chance of accidental spilling or accidental overdosing.
As for side effects, CBD is generally well tolerated in humans. On some odd days, if you do end up taking more than recommended, you just might feel fatigued, drowsy, and dehydrated.
Some people may also feel a slight nausea and headache, but that is easily manageable by resting up and increasing their water intake. Just try to start with a low dose, say 10–15 mg per day, note the effects over time, and then gradually increase or decrease as per your requirements.
The End Note
To sum it up, both full-spectrum CBD oil and softgels are convenient and effective ways of incorporating CBD into your daily wellness routine. The full-spectrum formulation is the same in both; hence, you’ll feel the same healing and therapeutic effects with both forms. The only differentiating factors are the overall onset time and taste preferences. So choose the one that suits your budget and preferences best.
You can even try both oils and softgels. Like when preparing for a public speaking event or going to large crowds, a few drops of CBD oil can make you relaxed and less anxious quickly.
For an after-work relaxation and sleep routine, maybe pop some softgels, and the gradual release formula will put you at ease slowly. But the quality of products can make a huge difference. Hence, you should only buy CBD softgels and oils from trusted and rigorously tested brands like Colorado Botanicals.
