Browse CBD Products by Type

Ultimate Guide to CBD Products

CBD Products Guide - Types of CBD Products

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in cannabis plants and is usually extracted from Industrial Hemp — a non-psychoactive variation of the cannabis sativa plant that’s legal to produce and sell at the federal level in the United States. CBD doesn’t make you feel intoxicated. Many people use it to alleviate physical discomfort, and studies have shown CBD may hold benefits for alleviating anxiety, improving sleep, and more.

There are many different types of CBD products, which lets consumers choose the delivery method that works best for their needs. For example, topical products, which are absorbed through the skin, can be effective for localized discomfort and inflammation, while ingested products, such as CBD Gummies, Capsules, and Oils, are able to reach your central nervous system to help soothe stress and anxiety.

Read on to learn more about the different types of CBD products, and find out which one might be right for you.

CBD Edibles

CBD edibles are ingestible products that contain CBD extract. When consumed, they bring the compound into your body through your digestive system. CBD edibles include:

  • Gummies
  • Capsules
  • Oils
  • Syrups
  • Prepared foods, such as baked goods

The greatest benefit of taking CBD orally is that it allows the extract to enter your bloodstream, interact with your central and peripheral nervous systems, and have lasting effects. In contrast, applying CBD topicals to your skin only allows it to work in that specific area.

The second advantage of taking CBD in edibles is that it can make smaller servings of the compound more effective. Studies have shown that consuming food along with your CBD, especially fats, helps your body absorb more of the compound. Another reason why people buy CBD in edible forms, especially Oils and Syrups, is that they’re easily combined with other foods. CBD Syrups can be added to ginger or turmeric tea to provide additional anti-inflammatory effects, and CBD Oils can be baked into foods with lavender or citrus rind, which have their own compounds that aid in anxiety relief.

The versatility of edible CBD products is appealing to many users, but the downside is that it can be difficult to gauge the amount of CBD in the final product. The processes of cooking, packaging and storage can deteriorate CBD molecules, so the amount of CBD in the initial extract may not equate to what you receive in the final product. That’s why it’s important to research the CBD company you purchase from to verify their manufacturing and lab testing processes are consistent and high quality.

CBD Gummies

CBD Gummies are soft, chewy edibles that contain a predetermined amount of cannabidiol. They’ve become a popular way to consume CBD because they tend to be convenient and have a long shelf life. CBD-infused gummies come in a wide range of flavors and can be a convenient way to take your supplement. Some people use CBD Gummies daily, while others pack one in their pocket or bag to eat after a workout or before a stressful event.

However, if you prefer to control the amount of CBD in each serving, an oil could be a better option.

CBD Oil

CBD Oil typically contains a concentrated CBD extract mixed with a carrier oil. This mixture makes it easier to measure, digest and absorb. Common carrier oils include MCT oil (usually derived from coconut), as well as grapeseed or olive oils. To take CBD Oil, you can either swallow it, mix it with food or drink or hold it for up to 1 minute under your tongue before swallowing. The sublingual method of consuming CBD Oil also enables a higher proportion of CBD to get into your bloodstream quickly through the thin membranes of your mouth. This is due to CBD Oil’s higher bioavailability and quicker onset time when consumed sublingually.

Because of its ability to be adjusted to your desired serving, taken alone or mixed with foods, CBD Oil is extremely versatile. Many people use it as a supplement in drinks and foods. One limitation to CBD Oil is that you cannot apply it topically to your skin. Topical products require special formulations to help the CBD molecules penetrate the outer dermis layers.

In terms of price, CBD Oils are one of the most affordable types of CBD products, and often the preferred format for people who take CBD frequently or in large amounts.

Alternatively, consumers who want flavors or on-the-go convenience can choose CBD Syrups, Gummies or Capsules.

CBD Capsules

CBD Capsules are gelatin pills with pre-measured servings of CBD extract that you ingest like any oral supplement. Sometimes they contain other supplements as well, such as calcium, magnesium or vitamins. Like other edible forms of CBD, capsules allow your body to absorb the compound through your bloodstream where it can interact with your Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The biggest perks of purchasing CBD in capsules are convenience and longevity. They can last a year or more if protected from heat, light and humidity, and unlike oils and syrups, the serving size is pre-measured.

If you need to adjust your CBD intake from time to time, a liquid or syrup that you measure out yourself can be another option.

CBD Syrups

CBD Syrups are sugar-based liquids infused with CBD extract that sometimes contain additional supplements. Compared to oils, some consumers find that syrups have a different and more palatable taste and texture. Syrups are also easy to mix into warm or cold drinks. Taking your CBD in a syrup allows you to adjust your serving size each time you take it, which can be helpful if you're in the process of finding your ideal serving size.

If you will be taking large amounts of CBD, then an oil, which can have a higher concentration of CBD than a syrup, could be a more affordable choice.

CBD Topicals

CBD topicals are products that you apply to your skin. They include CBD-infused lotions, gels, patches, rubs, and sprays. There are also CBD-infused skin care lines, bath products and lip balms.

CBD topicals do not get into your bloodstream. Instead, they work with nearby receptors to provide anti-inflammatory effects. Topical CBD is commonly applied to muscles and joints to promote recovery and alleviate soreness and inflammation. Some people find that CBD skin-care products help with their skin irritations. Many topicals contain additional ingredients, such as arnica, menthol or essential oils. It’s important to find a product that doesn’t contain harsh ingredients if you have allergies or sensitivities. It’s advisable to consult with your doctor or dermatologist before adding a new product to your skin care regimen.

Because they don’t enter your bloodstream, CBD topicals are better for targeting a specific area. If you would rather help your whole body, ingestible CBD products are a more appropriate option.

How to Choose the Right CBD Product: A Summary

Which CBD product is right for you? The answer often depends on the effects you’re looking for, the amount of CBD you’ll be taking, your budget and your personal preferences for taste and administration. Below are some of the takeaways from our product reviews.

  • For comprehensive benefits, edible CBD products like gummies, capsules, oils and syrups may be the most effective options.
  • If your main concern is muscle soreness, joint pain or skin irritation, topical CBD products can be a good choice. Look for a format that suits the area you’re trying to help, like a lip balm, lotion, bath bomb or gel.
  • If you know how much CBD your body needs, capsules and gummies can be a quick and easy way to reach your desired intake.
  • If you’re trying to find your ideal serving of CBD, an oil or syrup lets you adjust your serving size each day until you find your “sweet spot.”
  • If you’ll be taking CBD frequently or in large amounts, CBD Oil is the most affordable option.
  • If you’d like to take your CBD on the go, capsules and gummies are the most portable and convenient.

When you buy CBD online, look for third-party lab testing and certificates to confirm the product’s content. These lab results should also confirm that your CBD product doesn’t contain any harmful substances such as pesticides or heavy metals.

Getting Started with CBD

If you’re ready to begin your journey with CBD, start with a company that requires high safety standards and transparency in its finished products.

Nature’s Script™ produces all of our CBD products in a state-of-the-art facility, maintaining the highest cGMP standards from harvest to processing to ensure that every item is potent and safe. Our ISO-approved third-party testing certificates are always available on our website so you can see for yourself how much CBD is in your product and confirm that it contains no pesticides or heavy metals.

With a complete range of consumption formats, potency options and flavors, there’s a Nature’s Script CBD product that’s right for you. Explore our selection of CBD products today!