CBD (cannabidiol) is an amazing and extremely diverse natural compound – and yet a lot of confusion remains surround this cannabinoid.
Not only can CBD be used to treat a wide variety of ailments, it can also be consumed in a number of different ways. Most people are familiar with vaping, edibles, and even CBD flowers are growing in popularity, but have you ever heard of CBD softgels? Just like standard softgels, they’re discreet, easy to swallow and readily absorbed by the body.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s also the second most prominent cannabinoid, after the intoxicating tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD can be extracted from both regular cannabis plants (those with all cannabinoids including THC, typically found in medical and recreational dispensaries) and hemp plants (classified as having less than 0.3 percent THC and often used for more industrial purposes).
Over the last decade, many studies have surfaced that exhibit the healing potential of CBD. Initially, it was used to treat a rare form of childhood epilepsy, but now it’s believed to help people with numerous conditions including chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and more. The reason CBD can impact so many different physiological functions is because of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors that can be found throughout the bodies of all mammals.
We naturally create cannabinoids which bond with these receptors to regulate different processes in our bodies and maintain homeostasis. The ECS helps manage things such as immune function, appetite, sleep wake cycles, pain response, and so on. Some medical cannabis researchers believe that when we are ‘cannabinoid deficient’ our bodies become destabilized and no longer function optimally. This is where supplementing with plant-based cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) comes into play.
How do CBD softgels work?
Just like standard softgels, those of the CBD variety also consist of a thick, outer layer made of gelatin and other ingredients that help maintain the medication’s stability during storage. Inside the softgel is the active ingredient in liquid extract form – in this case, CBD. Most softgels don’t contain as many inactive ingredients as tablets, so they’re believed to be better for people with food allergies and sensitivities.
The softgel is taken via oral route and metabolized somewhat like an edible. There is a variant, however. Because the CBD is liquid form, it’s absorbed by the stomach lining; meaning it enters the system quicker than a food product would. The effects of liquid-filled softgels are typically felt within the hour.
Why CBD Softgels Might Be Beneficial For You
Softgels are made for people who need long-lasting, consistent relief from chronic symptoms. Examples include, ongoing back pain or frequent nausea. In these situations, one might want something discreet to help manage their symptoms, and CBD softgels is certainly the way to go.
Some of the benefits of using softgels include: Fast-acting and targeted delivery, no bitter taste like with powder tablets, they’re easier to swallow than pills and tablets, they can be taken on a full or empty stomach, with or without water, and they have an exterior that protects the medicine from oxidation, degradation, and light
Additionally, CBD softgels are an ideal option for for people who are concerned with discretion, because even though hemp-derived CBD is technically legal, it still bears some stigma and unnecessary complications.
Another reason one might also choose CBD softgels is simply for convenience. Aside from being extremely discreet, they’re also very user friendly being already pre-dosed. No more fumbling around with a dropper trying to get the right amount of tincture, just take a softgel and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
By now, I imagine you’re clamoring to get some CBD softgels to try for yourself. If that’s the case, I urge you to check out our Best CBD Softgels Page, where you can learn about a few safe and legitimate brands.