What does CBD oil taste like?
Here are some ways to enhance your experience of taking CBD oil - some of which you may already know and others that may surprise you.
CBD oil: How does it taste?
CBD oil can clearly be described as being derived from a process, and there is certainly nothing wrong with that! For many things in life, it is the same (beer for example!). But why does CBD oil taste the way it does? It's largely because of the natural ingredients extracted from the stems, flowers and leaves of the plant that impart the characteristic earthy, nutty and grassy flavours associated with CBD oil.
Terpenes also play a role. These aromatic molecules are found in the trichomal glands of the cannabis plant and vary depending on the variety. Terpenes such as limonene produce more citrus notes, while terpinolene has a fruity flavour and myrcene provides an herbal taste. They all add their own specific flavors to the equation, which in turn affects the final taste of the CBD oil.
CBD and carrier oil
In addition to the phytochemicals coming from the hemp itself, the carrier also plays an important role in the taste of CBD oil. To increase bioavailability and ease of dosing, CBD extract is mixed with a carrier oil before bottling. The two most commonly used carrier oils are those from hemp seed and olive oil.
What is a better carrier for CBD, hemp or olive oil?
CBD combined with hemp oil is often described as having a nutty flavour similar to that seen in many dietary supplements and health food products. Olive oil, on the other hand, has a saltier and more peppery taste that complements the flavours affected by the terpenes from CBD. Another oil that has seen a rise in popularity is MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil derived from coconut oil or palm oil, which has various benefits for human health.
Full spectrum CBD vs. CBD isolate
When buying CBD products, you will often come across the terms "full spectrum CBD" and "CBD isolate". Full spectrum CBD contains all the natural terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids found in the cannabis plant. This is responsible for the full-bodied flavors that consumers both like and dislike.
CBD isolate, on the other hand, is almost exactly what you'd say by its name. CBD is extracted on its own and the final product contains none of the terpenes or flavonoids associated with full-spectrum CBD. The result is a product with a much milder flavor, preferred by those who want to benefit from taking CBD without any strong flavor.
CBD isolate in crystal form
While full-spectrum CBD oils even contain low levels of THC, CBD isolate contains absolutely no THC, making it a viable alternative for those looking to avoid the psychotropic cannabinoid.
Don't like the taste of CBD oil? No problem!
Those who don't like the taste of CBD oil need not worry! There are plenty of options to cater to all preferences. Below, we'll discuss a few ways you can enhance the taste of CBD oil yourself or mask it completely.
Mix CBD oil with the drink
Although the most common way to consume CBD oil is by sublingual administration (under the tongue), this method gives the oil a full-bodied taste. If this doesn't suit you, you can add CBD oil to juice, smoothies or even yogurt. Simply add a few drops to it and you're done. The fruity flavors will mask any trace of CBD taste.
Keep a snack handy
If you find the taste of CBD oil unpleasant, you can have something to eat after consuming it. Whether you choose fruit, salty snacks or chocolate, the taste of CBD oil will disappear as soon as you take a bite. While CBD oil is not meant to be cooked with, as heat can have an adverse effect on the carefully processed CBD, some users add a few drops to salad dressings or hot dishes.
Take CBD capsules
Another way to consume CBD without feeling the taste of the oil is to partially bypass it! CBD oil can be easily purchased in capsule form. All you have to do is swallow it with water and you can benefit from the same high quality CBD oil without the flavor. These capsules, which can be part of your morning vitamin supplementation routine or dietary supplements, are highly popular for their ease and discretion of use, and also for their lack of taste and smell. The consistent doses in each capsule make them ideal for those who want to keep their daily CBD intake under precise control.
Take CBD isolate
As mentioned, CBD isolate completely removes all the terpenes that give CBD oil its unique flavors. Those who actively want to avoid the taste of the oil can use CBD isolate, because while it too has a hint of flavor in it, it is not nearly as rich as that of full-spectrum oil. CBD isolate, which is usually available in powdered form, is ideal for adding to smoothies and other food products to further mask the taste.
Eat CBD foods
This last method should come as no surprise to anyone. Consumption of hemp foods is a well-documented option for ingestion, and this is no different for CBD-rich products. With plenty of tasty options such as gummy bears, gummies, and flavored tablets, they are all a way to remove the taste of CBD oil and replace it with something much more palatable.
Enjoy CBD oil without the strong taste!
As you can see, there are many different options when it comes to enhancing the taste of CBD oil or masking it. So if you're going for CBD but aren't happy with the taste, you're not alone. But there are plenty of ways you can still enjoy it!