Which Works Better, CBD Tincture or Capsules?

The most popular CBD formulations available today are tinctures and capsules. However, an individual's preferences play a huge role in which method one chooses. This article outlines the difference between CBD tincture and capsules and one that works better.

New or experienced users of CBD often confuse the choice of products due to the varieties. One may wonder what the best product to use under different circumstances is. There are different ways to use CBD, from tea, gummies, tincture, capsules, and balms. The most common methods of administering CBD are tinctures delivered by drops under the tongue or capsules. This article compares the two methods, outlining their benefits, pros and cons, and differences. This article will also guide on the best option for one's needs.

Brief on CBD

Commonly known as CBD, cannabidiol is the second most known compound of the cannabis plant. Primarily found in hemp, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound and was legalized following the 2018 Farm Bill. CBD is used for medicinal purposes as well as therapeutic. People are turning to CBD products to get relief from various benefits.

Fasinu et al. (2016) explained that CBD helps to support the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates processes such as memory, moods, fertility, sleep, awakeness, and digestion. A healthy ECS ensures a biological balance between different body organs and systems. Pisanti et al. (2017)showed that CBD could reduce pain, infections, sleep regulation, neurodegeneration, and inflammation. Since CBD products are not cheap, one may want to maximize their benefits in small doses. For general supplementation, CBD tinctures and capsules are excellent options. This can be a challenge to get the right product for specific use.

CBD Tincture

Also known as CBD oils or drops, tinctures contain cannabidiol extract infused into carrier oils. This helps in bioavailability and easy intake. CBD oil often comes in bottles that have droppers attached. One administers the oil by squeezing the desired or prescribed amount into the dropper and placing it under the tongue. Swish the tongue around the gums to increase the absorption surface area. Liu (2019) explained that CBD gets into the bloodstream through the blood vessels in the mouth when one consumes tinctures. CBD oil is available in different tastes and flavors for people who do not prefer its natural taste.

Pros of CBD Tinctures

High Bioavailability

Marchese et al. (2022) explained that CBD tinctures have higher bioavailability. They are quickly absorbed into the body through the sublingual gland offering immediate effect.

Adjustable Dosage

One can adjust the amount in the drops for a flexible dose depending on what they want.

Can be Added to Meals and Drinks

One can add tinctures to food and drinks. Moreover, one can easily incorporate CBD oil into different recipes though it may not be as effective as taking it sublingually.

Wide Range of Products

Tinctures are the most common form of CBD and are available in different potencies, formulations, sizes, and flavors. One has a wide range of choices based on their preferences and needs.

Cons of CBD Tinctures

Not Discrete

CBD tinctures may not offer the discreteness one may need, especially in public, since one has to take out the whole bottle to measure the oil using the dropper.

CBD Taste

Some people may not like the taste of hemp in CBD oil, especially if it is not flavored.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules contain the same components as tinctures. They are covered in a soft gel shell for easy swallowing. When swallowed, CBD capsules have a delayed onset period than oils because it is gradually released into the bloodstream. Potency is subjective to digestion. They, however, have an extended period of effectiveness.

Pros of CBD Capsules

Specific Dosage

Capsules offer a controlled dosage than tinctures. Each capsule contains a specific amount of CBD, making it more favorable when a precise dose is required.

Easy to Carry

Capsules are easier to carry and are mess-free when used. Therefore, one does not have to worry about spill incidents. This makes them a good option when traveling because they will not leak and can be easily carried.

Allows for Discreteness

Capsules are discreet. Therefore, one can be able to use them in public. Due to the gel shell, one cannot guess that they contain CBD. Moreover, they are easier to swallow.

No CBD Oil Taste

CBD capsules have little flavor or odor, and most people prefer them to avoid the flavors and tastes that come with the oils.

Cons of CBD Capsules

Less Bioavailability

 Capsules may take longer to be effective since they must be broken down in the digestive system to enter the bloodstream. This can make it less effective when one wants immediate and rapid results. Capsules also tend to lose their strength as they move along the digestive system.

Dosage Regulation

One can regulate the tinctures' dosage with a dropper. However, capsules come with a specific dosage and can be problematic when one wants a lower dosage than the serving.

Less Popular

CBD capsules are not famous as tinctures, which limits the product choice in other formulations.

Things to Consider when Choosing Between Tinctures and Capsules

Dosage

Tinctures and capsules offer different dosage options. One can go for capsules if one wants the specific dosage indicated. CBD tincture is a good option for lower dosages since it allows for adjustments.

Effect Desired

For general use of CBD, one can go for either option. CBD oil offers quick results when looking for faster relief for pain, migraine, and stress since it is quickly absorbed into the body.

Duration of Effects

CBD tinctures need less time to take effect but last for a short period. On the other hand, capsules may take time to show effects, but they last extended hours. Individuals can take capsules for sleep, anxiety, and insomnia since they offer long-lasting effects. Depending on how long one wants to feel the effects of CBD, both can be good options.

Taste Preference

If the CBD oil taste is too much to take, capsules can be an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of CBD without having to loathe it every time. Despite that, CBD tincture comes in different tastes and flavors one can choose from.

The Bottom Line

CBD oil is available in different formulations, such as tinctures and capsules. Choosing between the two depends on one's needs and preferences. Tinctures are taken sublingually, making them have more bioavailability and a good option for fast relief. On the other hand, capsules enter the bloodstream through digestion and have more prolonged effects through higher offset time. Capsules are better when taking a daily dose of CBD and are more discreet. However, CBD tincture takes the win when looking for an adjustable dosage, bioavailability, and quick onset.

References

Fasinu, P. S., Phillips, S., ElSohly, M. A., & Walker, L. A. (2016). Current status and prospects for cannabidiol preparations as new therapeutic agents. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, 36(7), 781-796.

Liu, T. (2019). What is CBD Oil? Learn the Facts: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects.

Marchese, F., Vari, M. S., Balagura, G., Riva, A., Salpietro, V., Verrotti, A., ... & Striano, P. (2022). An Open Retrospective Study of a Standardized Cannabidiol Based-Oil in Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 7(2), 199-206.

Pisanti, S., Malfitano, A. M., Ciaglia, E., Lamberti, A., Ranieri, R., Cuomo, G., ... & Bifulco, M. (2017). Cannabidiol: State of the art and new challenges for therapeutic applications. Pharmacology & therapeutics, 175, 133-150.