CBD oil vs. gummies: Which is the best for you?
Discover key information on CBD oil and gummies, including how to decide between the two.
Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Caley Scott, ND
The world of CBD is always changing. With groundbreaking research in full swing, there are new product types and delivery methods around every corner. But no matter how much we learn about the compound and its effects, oil and gummies remain the two most popular ways to supplement with CBD.
Thanks to the convenience and consistency of CBD oil and gummy products, these formats are here to stay. But for newcomers to the CBD landscape, which one is best to begin your journey, and how can you make the right call?
In this article, we’re looking at these two CBD delivery methods and examining their pros and cons from top to bottom. You might find that each type has its unique use cases, and there’s a time and place for each product. We’ll touch on all the key points to help you make your decision, so let’s get started.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the two main cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant. Unlike its psychoactive counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD doesn’t produce intoxicating effects.
While CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system similarly to THC, the compound does not bind directly with receptors in the brain and body. This means the effects of CBD are more subtle and therapeutic, with a wide range of practical applications for daily life and well-being support.
CBD is also legal throughout the United States and many countries in the world, making it far more accessible and obtainable. With so many forms — ranging from ingestible oils to CBD edibles and soothing topicals — CBD is one of the most versatile and groundbreaking supplement options.
It’s also worth noting that CBD is one of hundreds of cannabinoids discovered in the hemp plant. When these compounds and terpenes interact with one another, they produce synergistic properties and more benefits for the user, known as the entourage effect. New research on CBD and its potential benefits is emerging all the time. With promising studies and minimal side effects, it’s clear that CBD is here to stay.
What are the benefits of CBD?
The health benefits of CBD are best understood by first learning about the endocannabinoid system. The ECS is a network of transmitters branching throughout the human body, with high concentrations in the brain and vital organs. As CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors across the ECS, it supports and balances a broad range of functions and processes.
Digging into the practical benefits of CBD, users often report reduced feelings of physical tension and alleviated feelings of discomfort. These can help with aspects of recovery from exercise and increase our tolerance for stressful situations, both physical and psychological.
Additionally, CBD can help regulate mood and provide greater mental resilience in the face of life’s challenges. It can also promote deeper sleep and reduce the time it takes to get to sleep each night. Whether you’re in the midst of a hard training regimen or simply trying to pay back some sleep debt, CBD can help get you there.
Finally, CBD’s wellness benefits are highly personalized, based on the current condition of your ECS and other biological processes. This means that no two people will experience the exact same effects from CBD. This is why we suggest starting slow with low amounts of CBD as you lean into the CBD lifestyle.
How is CBD oil typically consumed?
With a basic understanding of the ECS and what CBD does, it’s time to look at how CBD is taken and the best practices you should apply.
CBD oil is typically consumed sublingually, meaning you apply your desired amount to the area beneath the tongue behind your bottom row of teeth. CBD oils and tinctures are required to include a dropper that allows you to carefully measure the amount you administer.
The oil contains cannabinoids and terpenes, which absorb easily and quickly into this area. The sublingual delivery method allowing you to experience a CBD boost more quickly than with other formats. Once swallowed, the oil will continue to absorb and balance the endocannabinoid system.
As we explore the benefits of CBD oil tinctures, remember that your serving size and timing always factor into your overall experience. As you’re starting out, measure your servings carefully and take note of how you feel.
What are the pros and cons of CBD oil?
CBD oil is the tried-and-true delivery method for this amazing cannabinoid. But like any type of CBD, this format comes with its pros and cons.
Pros
Off the bat, CBD oil is renowned for its rapid rate of absorption. The process is quick and simple, and the effects kick in fast thanks to direct application onto sublingual membranes and blood vessels. As a result, you might feel the effects of CBD oil in less than 30 minutes, and they can last for anywhere from six to eight hours, depending on concentration and tolerance levels.*
CBD oil may even be more bioavailable than other ingestible formats like gummies or baked goods.* Bioavailability is a measure of the degree to which active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream and how effective they are. In other words, you may get more from your cannabinoids by taking oil, ensuring you maximize your investment and overall experience.
CBD oil is also highly versatile, meaning there are many ways to incorporate it into your daily routine.* Sublingual delivery is just one approach—you can also mix the substance into salad dressings or other oil-based foods to further maximize your CBD lifestyle.
Cons
The upsides of CBD oil are well documented, but are there any downsides to know about?
The first noteworthy point is the taste of some products. Some CBD oil products have a strong earthy, musky taste that can be hard to mask with your favorite beverage or snack.
Using CBD oil also requires a more technical method of administration that not everyone is ready to follow. You need to know the exact formulation of your oil and crunch some quick numbers to pinpoint the amount of CBD you want to take. While this precision is appealing for some users, others might want a simpler way to consume CBD without the extra thought.
CBD oils can also vary widely in concentration, quality, and formulation. This principle applies to all CBD formats, but with so many oils available on the market, product quality and ingredient breakdown are always worth noting.
What are CBD gummies?
CBD gummies refer to a broad range of sweet gummy products containing CBD. They can be found in broad spectrum and full spectrum varieties, with numerous other ingredients and formulations to consider.
CBD products in gummy format are among the most convenient and popular in this category, offering an easy entry point to enjoy CBD's benefits.
What are the pros and cons of CBD gummies?
CBD gummies are attractive for many reasons, but they also come with cons to think about. Here’s a closer look at the ups and downs of CBD gummies.
Pros
The main appeal of CBD gummies is based on convenience. While oils are typically contained in glass bottles and require serving size precision, gummies are easy to transport and consume no matter when or where you need them.
Similarly, you always know the exact amount of cannabinoids contained in each CBD gummy, and no additional calculations or measurements are needed. If you know that a single gummy contains 20 mg of CBD, you never have to second-guess when it comes time to take your serving.* This simplicity is attractive for newcomers to CBD who don’t feel comfortable with oil droppers and the risk of taking too much or too little accidentally.
In addition to fixed dosage and predictability, CBD gummies are designed to be more palatable and enjoyable to consume. The gummy format is familiar and leaves room for the addition of sugar and natural flavors. While some of the earthy hemp flavor might still be noticeable, most users report that taking CBD gummies is more manageable for consistent consumption.*
Cons
Gummies with hemp extract are best sellers across the board, but they come with some cons worth noting.
The first consideration is the longer time it takes to feel the effects of CBD gummies compared to oils and tinctures. It can take up to an hour before you notice the effects of CBD gummies, as the compounds must be digested and absorbed through the digestive tract, rather than the sublingual membranes.*
Next, the bioavailability of CBD gummies may be lower compared to hemp extracts in oil or tincture format. The digestive system is often not able to absorb all of the CBD, and less of the compound will make its way to the bloodstream as a result. While you’ll still definitely feel the effects of a potent CBD gummy, it could be argued you get less bang for your buck with each mg of CBD you consume.*
Finally, you always need to watch out for the extra ingredients manufacturers include in their CBD gummies. Sunmed aims to minimize the amount of sugar and additives we put in our gummies, but other companies may not be so discerning.* Be sure to read labels and understand exactly what goes into each CBD gummy you consume to avoid excess sugars and unnatural ingredients.*
How can you decide which is best for you?
You have a good idea of how CBD oil and CBD gummies stack up, but how do you make your choice when it comes time to live the CBD lifestyle? Even with the pros and cons in mind, we’re here to help you make the right call and get the most from your investment in CBD.
Preference
Like all things related to wellness and supplementation, personal preference is a prime factor. You’re going to get the benefits of CBD whether you choose oils or gummies, so your comfort level and enjoyability can’t be overlooked.
With this in mind, many users start out with CBD gummies as a reasonable entry point for CBD use. Gummies are familiar, better tasting, and discreet compared to oils. However, we suggest CBD oil is you are trying to find the right daily CBD milligram amount, which can be easily done with its customizable dropper. Try both delivery methods and compare the benefits for yourself.
Desired onset of effects
Depending on your needs and how you structure your day, the onset of effects makes a difference. You may want more immediate effects from CBD if you’re dealing with feelings of tension and discomfort, or you might not mind waiting an hour before the effects kick in.
Remember that oils take effect more quickly than gummies, especially when taken sublingually. Visualize when and why you want to use CBD, and remember to consider the onset of effects when making your final choice.
Daily routine
The CBD lifestyle is all about finding your daily routine and sticking with it. You may find that your morning routine benefits from a serving of CBD oil for quick effects, while a Full Spectrum Anytime Gummy could give you the afternoon boost you need after lunch or before the gym.*
Keep in mind that CBD products have many cannabinoid variations depending on your desired effects and the time of day. Morning CBD oils may contain CBG, while evening supplements might have larger concentrations of CBN to promote restful sleep. Build your ideal daily routine and let CBD support everything you do from morning to night.*
The bottom line
The debate between CBD oil and gummies will continue for the foreseeable future, though a clear winner may never emerge. In truth, there are pros and cons to each method of delivery, and your choice comes down to personal preference and your desired effects.
After all, the best way to consume CBD is the way you want to take it! Don’t hesitate to expand your CBD comfort zone and test out product types you might not be familiar with. The journey is one of discovery — finding your sweet spot for the life you want to live.
Remember, Sunmed is here to help guide the way with education, insight, and all the hemp products you need to thrive. From classic oils and tinctures to gummies, topicals, and more, there’s something to suit every CBD lifestyle and experience level.*
Sources:
Towards Better Delivery of Cannabidiol (CBD) | NIH
How to Safely Use CBD: Should You Inhale, Spray, Apply, or Eat It? | Consumer Reports
Dosage, Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol Administration in Adults | NIH
Mechanisms of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis | Permanente Journal