Cannabidiol is the cannabis compound better known as CBD. It comes from a group of compounds known as cannabinoids. Unlike the infamous tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-intoxicating and may boast some desirable benefits, such as alleviating symptoms of anxiety, physical discomfort, and sleep issues.
This article will introduce you to the types of CBD and the pros and cons of each. It’s time to discover which CBD is your perfect match.
Choosing the Type of CBD that Suits You Best
CBD comes in many forms, from liquids and foods to pills. Each one delivers the compound differently, affecting the volume entering your system and how quickly it takes effect. What’s more, your experience of CBD products may differ depending on which you choose. As you browse this list of popular forms, you may consider what you require from a supplement and your wellness goals.
CBD Liquid
Consuming CBD as a liquid is one of the more popular methods. You can buy CBD oil and CBD tinctures, which, although they look similar, differ because of their manufacturing processes. Nonetheless, CBD liquids can be taken under the tongue, bypassing the digestive system and directly entering the bloodstream.
Pros:
- Fast-acting delivery method.
- Versatile – oils mix well into topical creams, and tinctures pair well with food and beverages.
Cons:
- Measuring a dose can be messy and inconsistent.
- Not as easy to use on the go compared to other methods.
- Its distinctive earthy flavor is a required taste that may not suit everyone. (Although flavored options are available, they can sometimes leave a bitter aftertaste).
CBD Edibles
CBD-infused edibles are available in a vast range of options, from gummies and brownies to protein balls and smoothies. Simply eat or drink the treat, and wait for your body to digest it and for the CBD to kick in.
Pros:
- Lots of options to choose from, so it’s easy to find a flavor that suits you.
- They are fun and shouldn’t draw too much attention to you.
Cons:
- Can take up to 2 hours to kick in.
- Not as potent as direct methods (some CBD is lost as the food gets metabolized).
CBD Capsules
This familiar form may be desirable to many as it does not require you to adapt to a new way of consuming supplements. Simply take a pill or capsule the same way you’d swallow a vitamin with water. Capsules pass through your digestive tract and liver before the CBD enters your bloodstream to take effect.
Pros:
- Pre-measured dose for convenience and consistency.
- No smell, flavor, or scent.
- Discreet and easy to take on the go.
Cons:
- Can take up to 2 hours to start working.
- Capsules don’t offer versatility as they cannot be added to recipes.
CBD Pouches
This form of CBD is relatively new to the market. Designed in a soft pouch, a CBD dip sits between your lip and gum, absorbing directly into your bloodstream. Although ingredients differ between brands, cannabis chew dip typically contains a filler and CBD.
Pros:
- Super fast-acting delivery method.
- Pre-measured dose for convenient and consistent administration.
- Discreet design means it’s easy to take on the go.
- Some brands offer CBD dips with pleasant flavors.
Cons:
- Don’t offer versatility in the same ways liquids do.
CBD Vape
Vape users will know that you can buy CBD vape pens and CBD-infused e-liquid. This is another direct method that skips the digestive tract, meaning it works quicker than some forms and offers an absorption rate of up to 56%.
Pros:
- Starts working quickly.
- Straightforward administration.
- Higher bioavailability.
- Usually available in pleasant flavors.
Cons:
- Might wear off quicker than other methods.
- Vape clouds and scents may draw unwanted attention to you.
- It may not deliver a consistent dose.
CBD Topicals
CBD has become a popular ingredient in the skincare and sporting industries because of its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Apply the topical product to the affected area, taking time to massage it for a better effect.
Pros:
- Offers localized relief for physical discomfort.
- Familiar application and easy to use.
Cons:
- Might not be as effective as ingestible CBD because topicals may not interact with the internal systems as well.
- Lacks versatility.
Closing Thoughts
There isn’t one type of CBD that experts regard as the best because it depends on your wellness goals and lifestyle. If you’re looking for something discreet, pouches, capsules, and edibles may be worth looking into. On the other hand, if fast-acting relief is your priority, then oils, vapes, and pouches take precedence. If you’re unsure where to start, CBD dips strike a balance between these two popular requirements. Although, keep in mind dips aren’t as versatile as other options, like liquids that may mix well with food and topicals.