In recent years, CBD products have grown in popularity. People seek out products containing CBD as a way to alleviate symptoms of pain, anxiety and sleeplessness, amongst other benefits that CBD may offer.
While CBD oil is one of the most common forms of CBD – and likely the one that most will think of when CBD is mentioned – it isn’t the only way of taking this supplement.
Here, we take a look at the ways CBD can be used with different types of products. We will explore the differences between the products and explain which one could work best for you!
CBD Oil as Oral Drops
CBD as an oil that you take via the mouth is one of the most common ways of using CBD in the UK. If you’ve not tried CBD before, then this is probably what you think of when hearing the word ‘CBD’.
Oil taken orally can either be consumed as a drop under your tongue, swallowed, or enjoyed in a drink, depending on what the product packaging states.
Pros of CBD Oils
Taking CBD oil orally is quick and convenient, and it gives you more control over the precise dosage you are giving yourself. It is one of the easiest ways of taking CBD, as you simply drop the oil into your mouth.
Another major pro point for CBD oil is how fast it works. By taking CBD via the mouth, it can enter the bloodstream quickly, meaning it takes less time for you to start seeing the effects of the CBD oil.
As well as this, it is an efficient way of taking CBD. CBD oil taken orally is absorbed well by the body into the bloodstream.
Cons of CBD Oils
While CBD oil is one of the best ways of taking CBD, there are a couple of potential drawbacks.
The taste of CBD oil can be quite strong, and this can be offputting for some, especially as the oil is taken orally. If you do not enjoy the taste or feel of CBD oil in your mouth, then a different method of taking CBD could be better for you.
Another drawback of CBD oils is that the use of a dropper or syringe to put drops of CBD into your mouth may not be accessible to all who want to use it. For example, if you have a condition which affects your movement or hand control, such as arthritis or Parkinson’s, then it may be challenging to apply the drops correctly. As such, an alternative option may be better, such as capsules or balms.
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are soft gel capsules that contain CBD. The capsules are simply swallowed, usually with a glass of water. They then break down in the stomach, where the CBD is then released into the bloodstream.
Pros of CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are one of the most convenient ways of taking CBD. As they are small capsules, they can be taken discreetly while out and about. You just need to swallow a capsule to get your dose of CBD, so it is an incredibly easy method of taking CBD.
Another benefit is that they do not have a taste. You swallow the capsule whole, so you don’t have to taste the CBD itself. If you have tried CBD oil before and did not enjoy the taste, or want to avoid the stronger flavour of oral CBD oil, then capsules are a great choice.
When using capsules, it is also very easy to adjust your dosage. You simply take more or less capsules depending on how much CBD you want to take.
Cons of CBD Capsules
One of the downsides of CBD capsules is that they can take longer to work. This is because they have to be passed through your stomach and liver before they reach your bloodstream.
This means it could take up to an hour before you begin to notice the effects. The slow-acting nature of capsules could be a disadvantage for those who want to use CBD as an immediate remedy for feelings of pain or anxiety.
However, taking CBD products regularly can help to maintain constant effectiveness, rather than taking smaller amounts as and when quickly needed. As such, if you take a dosage of CBD each day, then it does not matter too much how quickly it takes for the CBD capsules to break down in your stomach.
Another potential drawback of CBD capsules is that not all capsules are vegan, as they can be made with gelatine. Luckily, ElleVance’s capsules are suitable for vegans. If you are vegetarian or vegan, then be sure to check the packaging of your CBD capsules to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
Topical CBD
Topical CBD, such as skincare products with CBD in, allow you to absorb CBD via the skin. This is a good option for those who want to avoid swallowing oils or capsules.
Pros of Topical CBD
Topical CBD products, such as balms and creams, are very easy to use, as they are simply rubbed into the skin. This can be particularly useful for easing joint pain, as it can be applied directly to the area that hurts.
Our ElleVance Muscle & Joint Recovery CBD balm is applied to affected joints and muscles, where it is absorbed rapidly for deep-penetrating relief throughout the day. The balm also contains menthol for an immediate warming effect that can help ease pain while the CBD is absorbed and gets to work.
As for skincare products, many CBD balms and lotions also have additional benefits, such as helping to improve your skin.
Cons of Topical CBD
Topical CBD is more for relieving aches and pains, so if you’re looking for a CBD product to help with symptoms of stress, anxiety or sleeplessness, then you would be better suited to oils or capsules.
There are also some situations in which having to apply a cream may be more inconvenient than simply swallowing a CBD capsule. Perhaps work, clothing choices or your ability to reach the sore spot mean that applying a balm isn’t always possible.
Which CBD Product is Best?
As you can see, there are many pros and cons of each type of CBD product. Ultimately, the decision of which type is best is a personal choice that depends on the reasons you want to try CBD and your preferences on how it is consumed.
If you are using CBD for physical pain, then oil, capsules or balms can work well for you. However, if the CBD is being used to treat sleeplessness or anxiety, then you would be better off using oils or capsules.
The other thing to consider is the taste. CBD oil can taste strong, so if you want to avoid this, then you may want to choose capsules. However, if you want the fastest-acting CBD product, then the oil may be your best bet.
It can be worthwhile trying a few different types of CBD products to discover which kind works best for you. If you have tried CBD in the past and not got on with it, then it may be beneficial to try a different type of product to see if you enjoy using it more.
Want to try CBD products for yourself? Check out our full range of CBD products, including CBD oil, CBD capsules and CBD balms online.
