While CBD comes in various forms, pills (or capsules) and gummies remain the best-sellers among users. The stats back this up; in a 2022 U.S. study, 58% of respondents used gummies and other edibles, followed by pills at 55%.
Both forms of CBD products can be highly beneficial, but the question is, how do CBD gummies and CBD capsules compare? In this guide, we will explore how they work, their pros and cons, differences, and factors to consider when deciding which is the best fit for your CBD routine.
What are CBD Pills?
CBD pills (or capsules) are a familiar way to consume CBD. They can be made in different ways, but one common option is using CBD-infused oil as the filling. For example, coconut oil is often used because it solidifies at room temperature, which helps keep the pills stable during storage and transport. And because the oil is high in saturated fats, it helps your body absorb CBD more effectively.
Pros of CBD pills
Here's an overview of some potential health benefits of CBD pills:
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Tasteless and odorless. CBD capsules or pills have no noticeable taste or smell. This makes them a good option for people who want to avoid the strong, earthy flavor often associated with CBD oils.
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Easy to integrate into routine. Capsules and pills fit naturally into daily health routines because most people already take vitamins and minerals in this form.
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Great for on-the-go use. They are a convenient and discreet way to take CBD as they won't spill or leak, and all you need is a glass or bottle of water.
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Pre-measured doses of CBD. Pills give you exact dosage control, and you don't have to bother about measurements. They make it easy to track the amount of CBD consumed.
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Long-lasting. The effects of CBD can remain in your system for hours, lasting longer than many other CBD products. This extended duration makes them ideal for those who want to enjoy the benefits of CBD and stay relaxed throughout the day or night.
Cons of CBD pills
CBD pills aren't ideal for everyone. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider:
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Slow onset of effects. It can take between 45 and 60 minutes for CBD capsules or pills to take effect, which is significantly slower than other forms, like taking oil under the tongue or smoking and vaping.
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Lower bioavailability. Because pills must go through the digestive system, enzymes and stomach acid break down some of the CBD before it reaches your bloodstream. This means you may need higher doses of CBD pills to get the same effect as faster-absorbing alternatives like oils or vaping.
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Not customizable. Pills come in pre-measured doses, which makes it harder to adjust your CBD dosage based on how you feel.
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Swallowing difficulties and personal preference. Some people experience difficulty swallowing pills, which can make this form less appealing.
What are CBD Gummies?
CBD gummies are a kind of "sweet-treat" way of taking CBD. These edibles come in a candy-like form, which makes them feel more like a snack than a supplement. Each gummy is made with CBD extract combined with a flavored base, usually using gelatin or pectin, along with sweeteners and natural or artificial flavors.
CBD gummies undergo the same digestive process as pills: they also pass through the digestive system and are absorbed into the blood. This means both formats share similar advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of CBD gummies
CBD gummies provide various benefits that make them popular:
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Great taste. CBD gummies are flavored, which helps mask the taste of hemp.
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Easy and enjoyable to take. Because they are chewable, gummies feel more like a treat than a supplement. This can make daily use feel easier and more consistent, especially for beginners.
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Pre-measured doses. Each gummy contains a set amount of CBD, making it simple to know how much you are taking without measuring or guessing.
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Long-lasting effects once absorbed. Once the CBD enters the bloodstream, the effects tend to last for several hours, making them suitable for extended support.
Cons of CBD gummies
CBD gummies share some drawbacks with pills, including low bioavailability and a slow onset of effects. Having said that, gummies have some unique disadvantages.
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Added sugars or sweeteners. Many CBD gummies contain sugar or other sweeteners, which may not be ideal for people avoiding sugar.
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Less discreet in some settings. Chewing gummies may feel less discreet than swallowing a pill, especially in professional environments.
Take a look at our dedicated [Guide to CBD gummies] for more details about this form of CBD product.
CBD Capsules vs CBD Gummies: Their Differences
Several important differences distinguish CBD pills from gummies:
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Taste and texture. CBD capsules and pills are tasteless and odorless, while gummies are flavored and chewy, making them more enjoyable for those who dislike the hemp taste.
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CBD intake experience. Pills are swallowed whole like a traditional supplement, while gummies are chewed like candy.
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Additional ingredients. Gummies often contain sugars, flavorings, and other additives, whereas pills usually contain only CBD oil and a gelatin or vegetable-based outer shell.
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Portability and discretion. Pills are more discreet and easier to take in public, while gummies can be less subtle due to their candy-like appearance.
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Beginner-friendliness. Gummies feel more approachable and enjoyable, making them easier for beginners to incorporate into their daily routines.
CBD Gummies vs CBD Pills: Which Should You Choose?
Here are some scenarios to help you decide which option may fit your needs better.
Try CBD pills if:
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You want a tasteless and odorless option.
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You prefer a simple, supplement-style format that fits easily into a daily routine.
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You're looking for discretion and portability.
Choose CBD gummies if:
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You prefer a flavored, chewable option.
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You have difficulty swallowing pills.
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You want a more enjoyable and beginner-friendly way to take CBD.
Whichever option you choose, it's important to find a daily dose that suits you and monitor the effects. And if you have a pre-existing medical condition, speak to a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine.
Conclusion
Whether you need pain relief, an energy boost, or a more niche experience, CBD gummies and capsules are the easiest way to consume CBD. With a precise dosage and responsible use, either option is a great choice. And unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive effects, so you don't have to worry about getting high, as long as it's pure CBD.
Ready to take your CBD consumption to the next level? Shop our wide collection of CBD pills and gummies.
FAQs
How do CBD pills and gummies work?
CBD capsules and gummies both pass through the digestive system. The pills are swallowed, while the gummies are chewed and then swallowed. Once digested, the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream and interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in processes such as mood, stress response, sleep, pain perception, and immune function.
Depending on your metabolism and other factors, it can take from 30 mins to a few hours for the CBD to kick in. Taking CBD gummies or capsules with a meal can be helpful because when CBD mixes with fatty foods during digestion, it becomes more bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb it more efficiently.
What is the right CBD dose for pills and gummies?
The precise dosing to follow depends on the product’s concentration, your body, and your goals. The application also matters. For example, someone who needs chronic pain relief may require a higher dose than someone who wants mild relaxation or daily wellness support.
What are the types of CBD pills?
These are the main types of CBD pills:
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CBD isolate contains only CBD with no other cannabinoids or THC.
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Broad-spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabinoids but no detectable THC.
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Full-spectrum CBD contains CBD along with other cannabinoids and trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%).