CBD Softgels vs. CBD Capsules: What's the Difference and Which Is Best? | NuLeaf Naturals Blog

CBD Softgels vs. CBD Capsules: What’s the Difference and Which Is Best?

There are dozens of CBD products on the market. From drinks to topicals to oil and everything between, there’s a CBD product out there for everyone. Finding the right type of CBD to take makes it easier to use at home, at work, or on the go. Softgels and capsules are a popular way to take CBD with more companies, like NuLeaf Naturals, offering them to give consumers more choice in how they use CBD daily.

Few consumers know the difference between CBD softgels and CBD capsules. They’re used to popping pills. There are subtle differences between softgels, capsules, and CBD pills – enough differences that you should be aware of when choosing a CBD product to add to your daily regime. Let’s compare the differences between softgels and capsules, so you understand how they impact the efficacy of your CBD routine.

CBD Softgels vs. CBD Capsules

What is a CBD Softgel?

CBD capsules vs. CBD softgelsA softgel refers to a one-piece capsule which is made from gelatin mixed with glycerin or sorbitol. The gelatin used may be vegan or not, depending on the company’s policies and manufacturing methods. NuLeaf Naturals uses vegetable glycerin to create its softgel products.

Some common over the counter medicines that use softgels are gas relief products such as Phazyme or Gas-X, and fish oil supplements and omega oil softgels. Softgels themselves usually have a neutral flavor. They are more expensive to manufacture when compared to capsules or tinctures.

What is a CBD Capsule?

The word capsule refers to any kind of small container, especially one that is round or cylindrical. Capsules consist of two pieces that fit together to contain either a powder, jelly, or liquid inside. The two external pieces may be the same color or contrasting colors.

Capsules usually have a neutral flavor and may or may not be sealed at the edges. Probiotics are one common supplement you’ll often find in capsule form. Omeprazole is a well-known capsule on the market.

What is the Difference Between CBD Softgels and CBD Capsules?

Besides the composition, there are a few other differences between softgels and capsules:

  • Softgels have a smoother shape and contour as compared to regular capsules.
  • Capsules are less expensive to manufacture.
  • Many individuals find softgels to be easier to swallow as compared to capsules.
  • Since softgels are sealed, they are airtight and have a longer shelf life than capsules.
  • Softgels are the preferred choice for oils such as CBD as they provide better vitamin retention over capsules.
  • Consumers tend to prefer softgels over capsules as they are easier to take and mask any odor or strong taste of what’s inside.
  • Softgels are better for non-water-soluble oils, such as CBD.

What is the Best Way to Take CBD?

Consumers who use CBD regularly prefer to use a tincture. A tincture is a concentrated herbal extract. Many consumers take CBD tincture. It’s easy to digest and has the benefit of high bioavailability. Full spectrum CBD oil in tincture form can be ingested directly, added to foods or beverages (like your morning smoothie or latte), or taken under the tongue. It is believed that taking CBD under the tongue provides the fastest absorption rate with ingestion as a close second.

Softgels provide a viable alternative to those sensitive to tastes and prefer to mask the fresh, green taste of hemp oil. They offer convenient, consistent, no-mess, and are easier to take with you when traveling or on the go. They’re less messy than oil and give more accurate dosing compared to CBD tinctures. They also will get you fewer looks from those who don’t understand what you’re doing when you take CBD oil with a dropper.

It may take longer to feel the beneficial effects of CBD when taken as a softgel than taking it under the tongue. CBD softgels and capsules take extra time to breakdown in your digestive tract. This is called the first-pass effect. This often decreases the potency of CBD absorption in the human body.

What Do We Recommend When It Comes to CBD Softgels vs. CBD Capsules?

Since each individual is different, we recommend taking CBD oil in the most suited method for you. Some individuals find softgels to be better for their bodies as compared to tinctures. We encourage you to stick with the method that is best for you. It may take you trying a handful of different CBD products to find the right fit and dosage for your body.

Where to Buy CBD Capsules or CBD Softgels

Shop CBD softgels at NuLeafNaturals.com and see how easy it is to add CBD to your daily routine.