Posted On:
April 9, 2024
CBD Syrup Vs. CBD Oil: What’s the Difference?
CBD syrups and oil are both popular forms of CBD and offer various therapeutic benefits to its users. You would love CBD syrups if you’re looking for diverse flavors and sweet tastes. CBD oil, on the other hand, has a hempy, earthy, bitter taste. Some people who do not like a lingering grass-like herbal taste in their mouth can try CBD-infused syrup.
You will find CBD syrups and oil in both CBD online stores and CBD dispensaries. In a situation like this where you need to choose one over another, you might be in a dilemma. That’s why knowing the difference between CBD syrup and CBD oil can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Today, we will discuss the major differences between CBD syrup, their composition and form, pros, and cons, and guide you to pick the right one.
Let’s Understand CBD
As the name suggests, both CBD syrup and oil are made of cannabidiol (CBD) extracts. In case you don’t know what cannabidiol is, let us help you.
Cannabidiol is one of the major cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis plants. If you’re familiar with recreational marijuana, it would be easy for you to understand this. In marijuana, the most dominating cannabinoid is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The euphoric and high sensation people get from smoking marijuana is caused by THC.
However, in the case of CBD, you won’t get any psychoactive or “high” feelings. Its main purpose is to serve various therapeutic benefits without causing any high sensation. It’s because the CBD used in products like CBD oil, syrups, tinctures, gummies, or creams are derived from hemp plants. Hemp is defined under the Farm Bill 2018 as any cannabis plant that contains no more than 0.3 percent THC on its dry weight basis. This trace amount of THC is not enough to induce psychoactive effects.
What Are CBD Oil and CBD Syrup?
CBD oil is a concentrated extract of CBD mixed with an oil base such as coconut or hemp seed oil. It has many bright sides regardless of its consumption method. It’s good for the skin and may help you with stress and anxiety symptoms. Plus, people use it to get relief from various physical pains as well.
CBD syrups are liquids infused with CBD. Manufacturers often add additional flavors and sweeteners for taste. You can consume syrups orally like a medicine. Besides, some people prefer to mix CBD syrup with food or beverages such as smoothies, teas, or other liquids to mask the taste or integrate it into their routine.
CBD Syrup Vs. CBD Oil: Key Differences
CBD syrup is less potent and takes longer to take effect. But it can have longer-lasting effects compared to CBD oil. CBD oil, on the other hand, can be taken orally, or sublingually, and has a faster onset, and higher potency but a shorter duration.
Both these CBD products offer distinct consumption experiences. Also, their effects are not the same. Let’s explore the key differences between CBD syrup and CBD oil based on their composition, method of consumption, potency and dosage, consistency, and duration of effects.
#1: Composition
CBD syrup is made by infusing CBD extracts. It may typically contain food additives (e.g., propylene Glycol), food-grade ingredients to enhance the syrup’s texture (e.g., Vegetable Glycerin), and an artificial sweetener (e.g., Sucraloses). Generally, CBD syrup is a thick, sweet liquid with a syrup-like consistency.
CBD oil is generally made by diluting CBD extracts with carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. It doesn’t contain any added flavorings or sweeteners. That’s why it appears as thin, and oily liquid.
#2: Method of Consumption
You can consume CBD syrup orally, either by measuring a dose with a spoon or dropper. If you would like to take it as raw as possible, swallow it directly. You may also add it to food or beverages. The onset effects of CBD syrup may vary based on the type of administration method you choose. Generally, syrup takes longer to take effect as it is metabolized through the digestive system.
CBD oil can be taken both orally and sublingually (under the tongue) method. Sublingual administration of CBD oil produces a faster onset compared to other methods. You just need to place a few drops of oil under your tongue and hold it there for a minute or two before you swallow it. This way, it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream which leads to a faster onset of effects compared to edible CBD syrup.
#3: Potency and Dosage
Generally, CBD syrups are less potent than CBD oil due to dilution in syrup. In the case of dosage, it’s easier to adjust the dosage of CBD syrup due to its liquid form and sweet taste, which may encourage regular use. Your recommended serving size of CBD syrup is determined by the total content of CBD concentration in the container. You can consume 20 to 30mg of CBD per serving twice a day without worrying about overconsumption.
CBD-infused oil is usually more potent than CBD syrup as it contains a higher concentration of CBD extract. Due to its higher potency, you’ll require more precise measurements for accurate dosing. Generally, you can take three doses of 6 mg to 20 mg of CBD oil each day. For both CBD syrups and CBD oil, the best practice is to start low and gradually increase the dose until you get the desired effects.
#4: Consistency and Duration of Effects
You will experience the effects of CBD syrup steadily due to slower absorption through digestion. However, regardless of the slow onset of action, the syrup effects will last longer compared to CBD oil. Typically, the CBD syrup effects last for six hours or more.
In contrast, CBD oil may not last long like syrup, but it can have a faster onset of action. Especially, when taken sublingually, cannabidiol oil can be absorbed into your bloodstream within 15 minutes.
Pros and Cons of CBD Syrup and CBD Oil
Whether you want to take CBD syrup or oil is absolutely up to your preference, lifestyle, and desired effects. Yet you should consider some of the pros and cons of CBD syrup and oil before you regularly use them in your daily life.
CBD Syrup Pros:
- It is metabolized differently which leads to longer-lasting effects,
- Oral consumption of CBD syrup provides more consistent effects.
- You can just simply take it orally. This makes it easy to combine into your daily routine.
- Diverse consumption method
CBD Syrup Cons:
- You have to wait longer to feel the effects of CBD syrup.
- Generally, less potent compared to CBD oil.
Pros of CBD Oil:
- CBD oil can be absorbed quickly which results in faster onset of effects.
- Typically, more potent than CBD syrup.
Cons of CBD Oil:
- Some of you may find the taste of CBD oil unpleasant.
- Needs to be stored in a cool, dark place.
- You may not like the feeling of oils on the skin or in your mouth.
How to Choose the Right Option for You?
When it comes to choosing between CBD syrup and CBD oil, consider the following factors to determine which option is best for you:
- Goals
- Administration Preference
- Ingredients
Goals
First of all, identify your health goals or make a list of reasons for using CBD. If you need general wellness, both CBD oil and syrup can help you out. However, for targeted concerns like sleep improvement, you should select CBD syrup with melatonin or CBD syrup with CBN.
Administration Preference
So how do you prefer to take CBD? CBD syrups offer oral consumption or can be added to food and drinks. In the case of CBD oil, it is typically taken sublingually or topically. Choose the method that suits your liking and convenience.
Ingredients
Do you prefer CBD products with additional ingredients like herbs or sweeteners? If yes, you can pick CBD syrups. Many brands formulated syrups with sweeteners and other natural compounds to mask the bitter taste of CBD and offer added benefits. However, CBD oil is better suited for those who can tolerate the raw and natural earthy taste of CBD.
In short, the right choice between CBD oil and CBD syrup depends on your needs, likings, and desired outcomes. Before choosing one over another, consider the factors sensibly to select the product that best suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some relevant questions and answers related to CBD Syrup and CBD Oil.
Is CBD a drug or supplement?
CBD is used for various diseases in its prescription form. However, it is not allowed to be included in meals or dietary supplements. If you still find CBD products in the market marked as dietary supplements, be cautious that the quantity of CBD as stated on the label does not always conform to its original amount.
What’s the difference between CBD Syrup and CBD Oil?
CBD syrup is a thick, and sweet liquid infused with CBD. It’s taken orally or added to drinks. Conversely, CBD oil is a thin, oily liquid, typically consumed sublingually to get faster onset effects. Although both these products contain CBD extracts, their texture, consumption method, and onset time differ.
How Long Does It Take for CBD Syrup to Work Compared to CBD Oil?
CBD syrup generally takes up to 1 hour to work. CBD oil, on the other hand, can deliver its effects within 15 minutes if taken sublingually. Syrups take longer time to work because it has to go through your first-pass metabolism.
Are There Any Side Effects Associated with CBD Syrups and CBD Oil?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD is well-tolerated with a good safety profile. In general, it shouldn’t cause any severe side effects. However, since CBD doesn’t affect everyone similarly, you might experience some mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or changes in appetite or mood.
The Bottom Line
CBD syrup and CBD oil offer many similar benefits but differ in texture, administration, and potency. The syrup is sweet and taken orally, providing longer-lasting effects. While CBD oil is administered sublingually for quicker absorption. So, choose based on liking, considering taste, convenience, and desired potency.
