CBD Products Explained: Oils, Gummies, and Topicals—What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever walked into our shop (or scrolled our online store) and felt a little overwhelmed by all the CBD options—don’t worry, you’re not alone. Between oils, gummies, creams, and who-knows-what-else, it can be tricky to figure out what’s what and which one’s right for you. So let’s break it down.

CBD Oils (a.k.a. Tinctures)

These are the little dropper bottles you usually see behind the counter. They’re made by infusing CBD extract into a carrier oil—like MCT or hemp seed oil—and are designed to be taken under the tongue.

They’re great for:

• People who want control over their dose

• Fast-acting effects (since they absorb quickly)

• Adding to your own drinks or recipes

💡 Pro tip: Hold it under your tongue for 30–60 seconds before swallowing—it helps with absorption.

CBD Gummies (and Other Edibles)

Gummies, chocolates, mints, drinks—you name it. These are the tastiest (and often most convenient) way to take CBD.

They’re great for:

• Easy, consistent dosing

• Long-lasting effects

• People who prefer not to taste the oil

The trade-off is that edibles take longer to kick in since they’re digested first. So start slow, give it an hour or two, and see how you feel before taking more.

CBD Topicals

Lotions, balms, roll-ons, and salves all fall under this category. They’re applied directly to the skin—no need to ingest anything.

They’re great for:

• Targeted relief for specific areas

• Incorporating into self-care routines

• People who want the benefits of CBD without taking it internally

Topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin rather than entering the bloodstream, so you can use them anytime without worrying about internal effects.

So, Which One’s “Best”?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it really depends on what you’re using it for and how your body responds.

A lot of our customers find that a mix of methods works best: maybe an oil for daily support, gummies for travel or convenience, and a topical for muscle recovery or tension.

If you’re not sure where to start, stop by the shop and chat with us. We’re always happy to walk you through the options, help you figure out what fits your goals, and make sure you leave feeling confident (and chill).

Bottom Line

• Oils: flexible and fast

• Gummies: tasty and long-lasting

• Topicals: local and soothing

No matter your routine, there’s a CBD product that can fit into it. And as always—know what you’re buying, start low, and go slow.