CBD or cannabidiol is a component of the hemp, or cannabis, plant. Unlike weed, it doesn’t contain any THC, so won’t make you high, but will give you lots of other benefits, such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep and greater feelings of balance and focus. Because of all of these amazing effects, many people swear by CBD and use it in their daily wellness routines - including us!
But, with so many different forms of CBD on the market, it can be difficult to decide the best option for your needs. In this blog post we’re going to break down two of the most commonly used forms of CBD - CBD Oil and CBD Drinks - so you can confidently make the right decision for you.
It’s important that you find the right form of CBD for your body and your needs as each products works a little differently. If you’re looking for fast-acting relief, then a highly absorbable tincture or inhalable form might be best. For a slower, long term impact, a capsule or edible might meet your needs. It also depends on what you are using CBD for. If it’s for localised treatment, like muscle pain, then a topical gel could be best, whereas if it’s for a general feeling of calm, an oral product might be more effective.
What are CBD drinks?
CBD drinks are beverages that are infused with CBD, the non-psychoactive component of the hemp plant. CBD drinks can include waters, teas and coffees, energy and soft drinks or alcoholic beverages. In most cases they use CBD that has been made water-soluable, which is exactly how we make ours!
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant using a solvent, such a carbon dioxide, and then mixing it with a carrier oil such as coconut or hemp. Like CBD drinks, in most countries CBD oil is legally required to contain no more than 0.2-0.3% THC.
The benefits of CBD: Drinks vs Oil
CBD drinks are a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. They’re particularly popular with people who do not enjoy the traditional taste of CBD products, as the flavours of the additional ingredients can help mask this. The benefits of CBD drinks depend on the quantity of CBD in each serving. Each of our INTUNE CBD Drinks contains a carefully balanced lifestyle dose of 10mg, which we believe is an ideal amount to consumer throughout the day.
Specific research around CBD Drinks is limited, however a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 2019 found that a single dose of CBD consumed in a beverage reduced feelings of anxiety and improved feelings of calm in individuals with social anxiety disorder. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research in 2021 reported that CBD infused with tea reduced the chronic symptoms of patients with osteoarthritis.
Our founder, Hannah, created INTUNE after discovering the powerful benefits of CBD during treatment for breast cancer. CBD drinks helped her feel more focussed, balanced and in the moment.
“We love the drinks both at home and have a secret stash at work…very moreish and calming and I have tried a lot of CBD…proper lifesaving liquid!” - Rob da Bank.
CBD Oil are the form of CBD that most people start their ‘journey’ with. It’s a convenient form of CBD that can be used in a variety of ways, such as added to your morning coffee, applied to the skin, or taken orally under the tongue. It also allows for a customisable dose, so you’re totally in control of how much or little you need in one dose. Absorption through the mucus membranes under the tongue also makes for rapid effects in this form.
More research is needed to pinpoint the specific benefits of taking CBD in oil form in addition to the above, as the dosage, condition being treated or form of consumption have big effects. That being said, research has found that CBD in general can contribute positive impacts to chronic pain relief, anxiety and depression, anti-seizure properties and acne recovery. In some of these cases, such as acne treatment, CBD oil is an easy way to administer CBD to the affected area.
Comparison between CBD Drinks and CBD Oil
|
Composition |
Method of consumption |
Dosage |
Absorption speed |
Effects |
|
|
CBD Drinks |
Beverages are infused with water-soluable CBD extract |
CBD drinks are typically consumed as a tea or coffee, soft drinks, energy drinks or alcoholic beverages. |
This greatly depends on the product, but INTUNE CBD Drinks contain 10mg per serving. |
Consuming CBD in the form of a drink provides a slower, longer term impact for overall feelings of well-being. |
The effects of CBD differ depending on your individual system and needs. Read our blog about the general effects of CBD to see if it’s right for you. https://intunedrinks.com/blogs/news/what-does-cbd-make-you-feel |
|
CBD Oil |
CBD extract is mixed with a carrier oil such as hemp or coconut |
CBD oil is most often taken as drops under the tongue or mixed into food and beverages. |
This greatly depends on the individual users needs. |
Taking CBD oil through the mucus membranes under the tongue is a quick absorption method. |
How to choose the right form of CBD for you
There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right CBD product for you:
- Quality and purity - Look for a CBD brand that is certified and uses a high-quality CBD extract that is free from contamination.
- Type of CBD extract - There are three types of CBD extract: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and CBD isolate. Read our blog that breaks them down here (https://intunedrinks.com/blogs/news/does-cbd-get-you-high).
- Concentration of CBD - This varies per product, so consider what you need per serving.
- Method of consumption - Again, consider your needs and preferences when choosing the right form of CBD for you.
- Price - Keep in mind that higher-priced products might not be better, so make sure you out quality first!
- Speak to your healthcare advisor - We always advise speaking to your doctor before trying CBD for a specific ailment, if you’re not sure how or how much to take.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are pros and cons for taking CBD in both drinks and oil form, most of which comes down to personal preference and requirements. CBD Oil may provide a faster absorption for acute CBD impact, whereas the slower absorption of CBD Drinks can provide an overall sense of well-being. Research is still limited in general when it comes to the effectiveness of each form, especially as benefits vary widely from brand to brand and body to body. We therefore advise to keep the factors listed above in mind when choosing your CBD product.
But, to make things easier for you, why not try our commitment-free Taster Pack and see if CBD Drinks are the right fit for you - it only costs a fiver!