Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, is a compound found in Cannabis sativa. CBD has made its way to the masses in the form of capsules, softgels, oils and tinctures. Owing to its several important benefits, roughly 7% of the Americans areregular consumers of CBD.
CBD is mainly used as pain relief. But many consumers use it for restoring the health of their skin and promoting better sleep. Besides, people with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression also consume CBD as a proven aid.
Before you delve into the CBD softgels vs tinctures debate, let’s first answer the question that’s been irking you ever since you got to this article. The answer is no. You won’t get high if you consume the softgels or tinctures. In fact, you won’t feel even mildlysedated.
Now that we’re on the same page, here’s everything you need to know about CBD softgels and tinctures.
What are CBD softgels?
CBD softgels are gelatin capsules that are similar to over-the-counter drugs. They are chewable, which is also why they are widely preferred over the relatively harder capsules.
Softgels digest easily because the human body is familiar with its properties. The gel-based packaging also maintains its bioavailability, so you can get maximum benefits out of your doses.
Simply put, it’s easier for your body and your digestive system to accept a foreign but gelatin-based medicine. Moreover, softgels can be administered without any hassles. So, it’s no wonder that theconsumers opt for softgels more than the tinctures.
What are CBD tinctures?
Contrary to popular belief, CBD oil and tinctures are not the same. CBD tincture is a liquid extracted from hemp and is mixed with alcohol. And while the tincture also consists of cinnamon oil and glycerine, nearly 70% of the solution is dominated by distilled alcohol.
Although the tincture isn’t technically as pure as the oil, it has a higher bioavailability than the latter. The alcohol does not dilute the extract. Instead, it acts as a preservative and provides you with a more potent CBD formula.
Softgels: Pros and cons
- Hermetically sealed
Softgels allow you to enjoy the full potency of the hemp seed oil. They are completely insulated and airtight. They are neither exposed to any other chemicals nor the air.
This helps preserve the bioavailability of the CBD and you don’t have to compromise with trace amounts of phytocannabinoids.
- No unpleasant aftertaste
Since they are sealed, you don’t have to worry about the pill accidentally touching your palate. This is especially helpful if you are taste-sensitive. You can gulp down your softgels without letting them leave a bitter taste at the back of your tongue.
- Easy on your pocket
Because they are constantly in high demand, softgels cost less to be produced. As a result, they are much more affordable than CBD tinctures.
Furthermore, softgels are low on maintenance. You can take them anywhere and travel with them without worrying about breaking the bottle. The gelatin-exterior also helps confine the phytocannabinoids within the shell.
- You have to consume the gel capsule all at once
This is one of the most notable drawbacks of CBD softgels. Softgels don’t offer you complete control of your dosage.
Every softgel contains the same amount of CBD. So, you can’t decide the quantity as per your liking. It’s kind of an ‘all or nothing’ deal. Either you consume the entire softgel or don’t take it at all.
Tincture: Pros and cons
- You can decide the serving size
As a beginner, you tend to want to be more comfortable with the amount of cannabis you consume. CBD tincture allows you to administer each dose drop by drop. So, you are always in control of your intake.
- Not easily palatable
A tincture is taken directly under the tongue. Given its strong flavour, most users aren’t fond of the solution’s aftertaste. Since the hemp extract is bottled up right away, you end up enjoying a rich formula that comes with its baggage.
- Bottle isn’t travel-friendly
CBD tincture is packaged in glass bottles, which don’t offer great mobility. If you are planning to travel with your CBD extract, you have to ensure to pack them properly to avoid damaging the bottle.
- May work better
Research suggests CBD tinctures take longer than softgels to show their effect. But once they do, the influence stays for up to five hours, which is much higher than that of the softgels’. Besides, tinctures are also available in various fragrances. So, you can take your pick.
Consider your diet when choosing your CBD
If you are finding it difficult to make a choice, your food preferences can actually help you decide. Softgels may be more favoured than capsules, but they may not be such an obvious choice for people who follow a plant-based diet.
Softgels can be animal-based. And unless the manufacturer mentions it on the label, you can’t be too sure about what you are eating. So, vegans usually opt for CBD tinctures.
As a vegan or vegetarian, you can consume CBD tinctures as they are organic, and plant-based. That said, you can alwaysfind 100% vegan CBD gummies on our website without settling for something you don’t prefer.
The bottom line: It all comes down to what you can give up
When it comes to CBD softgels vs tinctures, you can’t go wrong with either of them. The softgels may be easy to consume but the tinctures have a higher bioavailability. However, the gel capsules don’t leave as bad a taste as the tinctures do. So, it all depends on where you are willing to compromise; taste or effect?
CBD tinctures also enjoy a longer shelf life. You can use them in your cooking and decide your own dosage. Alternatively, softgels contain more vitamins and aren’t soluble. They are great for anyone who has a sensitive palate and would do anything to avoid a bad aftertaste.
Whatever you decide, make sure that you get your CBD products from a reputable and reliable source to get the best value for your money.Here’s a good start.