CBD oil and gummies are the two most popular ways to enjoy CBD’s health benefits. Some people love using CBD oil, while others prefer gummies. These products have many similarities, such as both being for oral use. However, there are few significant differences between the two.
I generally prefer CBD oil; however, gummies might be an excellent option for some. Moreover, gummies mean better compliance and ease of use. So, let’s explore their pros and cons.
CBD oil is generally made by mixing CBD extract with carrier oils or terpenes. CBD oil comes in various forms, including full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD oil contains a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant, providing what is known as the “entourage effect,” where these compounds work synergistically to enhance the therapeutic effects of CBD. Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but is THC-free, making it suitable for individuals who want to avoid THC entirely. CBD isolate, on the other hand, contains pure CBD with no other cannabinoids or terpenes.(1)
CBD gummies are edible candies infused with CBD oil, offering a convenient and delicious way to consume CBD. These gummies come in various Flavors, shapes, and concentrations, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a discreet and enjoyable method of CBD consumption. CBD gummies typically contain a combination of CBD oil, gelatine (or a vegan alternative), sweeteners, flavourings, and sometimes additional ingredients such as vitamins or natural extracts for added health benefits.
The ingredients in CBD oil and gummies play a significant role in determining their quality, efficacy, and overall health benefits. Generally, as one can guess, CBD oil has fewer additives and may be more potent. However, gummies might be more convenient to use, and they are also a more flavourful way to enjoy CBD.
Though they do share similarities, there are also differences when it comes to CBD gummies vs. oil. Next, this article will explore the differences between the two.
Although CBD oil might appear superior, that is not always the case. CBD oil has one significant benefit over gummies: it has fewer ingredients and, most likely, fewer excipients. It is also quite likely that CBD oil may have higher potency.
However, in reality, that is not always the case. When it comes to the potency, gummies can be equally potent. Potency ultimately depends on how much CBD any product contains. Further, it also depends on the kind of CBD that is present in any product. So, looking at CBD’s dosage in each gummy is always better than assuming that the oil is always more potent.
Gummies might have more additives like gelatine and flavour, but that is not essentially its downside. It is better to see gummies as a different kind of product. Gummies are generally more convenient to carry and use. Moreover, they are a flavourful way of enjoying CBD. Additionally, one should not forget that people are more likely to take gummies regularly, resulting in greater compliance, which may translate to higher health benefits.
However, CBD oil does have a few benefits, like ease of dose titration. When using CBD oil, one can readily adjust the number of drops a day, which provides greater control. Additionally, CBD oil can be added to different foods.
One more thing that is important to understand is that CBD oil is taken sublingually. However, gummies are edibles. Therefore, CBD oil has a higher bioavailability.
Yet, another benefit of CBD oil is that there is a greater choice of products. Gummies are more likely to use CBD isolate. However, CBD oil comes in different strengths and has varying composition. So, there is broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD oil readily available.
Overall, CBD gummies would perhaps be an excellent choice for beginners or those who dislike the earthy taste of CBD oil. However, for experienced users, CBD oil might be a great choice. But, then, gummies do have the benefit of better compliance. Hence, much also depends on individual preferences.
Do gummies and CBD oil have different health effects?
Well, not. Both contain CBD, and health benefits depend on their total CBD content and the presence of minor cannabinoids and terpenes. Hence, both products can be used for various health conditions.
People want to know about CBD oil vs gummies for anxiety. Well, remember that both are equally good for managing anxiety in the long run. CBD oil may be slightly superior for panic attacks. However, if one uses CBD daily, then there won’t be much of a difference between the two.(2)
When it comes to pain and sleep issues, both would work well. However, full-spectrum CBD oil may be a better choice for severe and acute pains. On the other hand, CBD gummies might be better for chronic pains. So, despite some differences, one can use any of these products for health benefits.
For those looking to enjoy the health benefits of CBD, both the oil and gummies are good options, with each having its pros and cons. Benefits of CBD gummies include ease of use and wonderful flavour. On the other hand, the benefits of CBD oil include an ability to dose CBD more precisely, a greater choice of products, and often higher potency.
However, generally, these benefits are minor. If you are a beginner and want something safe, easy to use, and enjoyable, then we recommend buying gummies. Gummies generally have such a remarkable flavour that you may not even feel as if you are taking CBD.
On the other hand, some individuals like CBD oil’s earthy flavour, and they also like to use full-spectrum CBD. For such people, it is better to buy CBD oil.
However, remember that there is yet another way of enjoying CBD, which is vaping. CBD vapes come in many flavours, and they are potent and act fast. However, we do not recommend that people start vaping. If you smoke or already vape, then a CBD vape pen is a good choice.
Finally, remember that you can always experiment a bit. It is fine to use different CBD products alternatively. This way, you will also know what works better for you and what does not. Moreover, it is also a good idea to buy high-quality products. Many low-quality products fail to help as they contain very low CBD.
This article was authored by: Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
Disclaimer: All of our products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. It is recommended to check with doctor before starting a new dietary supplement program. All CBD products sold have less than 0.2% THC content and abide by both EU an UK law.