A Beginner's Guide to Exploring What to Put in Empty Capsules

After the COVID-19 pandemic, more people become aware of how important it is to improve health. So, they started to eat healthy and do physical activities. Beyond that, taking dietary supplements is increasingly popular. Though buying pre-made vitamins is convenient, there are still many people turning to make their own supplements.

Curious about how to create your own supplements? All you need is some empty capsules and a handy tool. But what kind of supplements can we make on our own? This guide covers everything you need to know as a beginner. By the end of reading, you will know what to put in empty capsules and how to get started!

Why Do People Use Empty Capsules?

People choose to use empty capsules for their supplements for several straightforward reasons:

1. Simple to Make: Compared to making tablets and softgels, using empty capsules is a simpler method. You can even fill them with your desired nutrients without needing any tools. Just separate the capsule and hold either its cap or body to scoop in powders.

2. Customizing Supplements: You can create exactly what you need. There are many different types of capsule supplements that you can make on your own. Let's dive deeper later. Plus, you can adjust doses to match your personal health goals.

3. Avoiding Additives: Store-bought supplements often have unnecessary fillers or preservatives. Making your own allows you to stick to pure, clean formulations.

4. Easier to Take: Some powdered supplements are gritty and taste bad. Filling them into empty capsules is easier to take and can mask unpleasant flavors.

5. Saving Money: In the long run, buying ingredients in bulk and filling your own capsules can be much cheaper than buying commercial supplements. You only need to spend money on ingredients and empty capsules. This helps save you quite a lot on fancy branding or packaging.

How to Choose the Right Empty Capsule?

If you're a first-timer, it can be tricky to pick the right empty capsule. No worries. This section will tell you what to look for. Here are three things to consider:

Understand Different Types of Capsules

There are a few main types of capsules to choose from. The right one depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs.

‐ Gelatin Capsules: These are made from animal products. They're the most common and affordable type. But if you follow a plant-based diet, they're not suitable options for you.

‐ Vegetarian Capsules: These are made from a plant-based,semi-synthetic material (HPMC). They're a good alternative to gelatin capsules for vegetarians and vegans.

‐ Vegan Capsules: These are completely natural. Pullulan capsules are a typical example. They are similar to vegetarian ones but more expensive. They're non-GMO and free from any animal-derived ingredients.

Select Capsule Sizes

Capsules come in different sizes. The most common options range from #000 (the largest) to #5 (the smallest). The right size closely relates to ease of use and getting the right dose.

‐ #000-#00: They hold more powder and can combine multiple supplements into one capsule. The downside is they can be a bit harder to swallow.

‐ #1-#5: They're easier to swallow but hold less powder. They're great for smaller doses. However, taking multiple capsules at a time or several times a day can be a hassle.

‐ Most people find that sizes 0 and 00 work well for everyday use. These sizes are large enough to hold a sufficient amount of ingredients. And they're still easy to swallow.

Know Where to Buy Empty Capsules

Here's a couple of solid options:

‐ Online Retailers: This is often the most convenient way to source empty capsules. Websites like Amazon, eBay, or iHerb often have a wide range of types and sizes. Plus, you can check prices and read reviews to find a reliable brand.

‐ Physical Retail Locations: If you prefer shopping in person, physical locations like health food stores, pharmacies, and herbalist shops are good places to go. Though the selection might not be as extensive as online, you'll also find empty capsules there. And there's another plus - you can have advice from staff.

‐ Bulk Suppliers and Manufacturer Websites: If you plan to make a large number of supplements, directly sourcing from bulk suppliers or manufacturers like CapsulCN is also a good idea. You may get a wider selection and lower prices than local stores.

What to Put in Empty Capsules?

Now, let's take a look at what to put in empty capsules to make your own supplement. Here are some types of ingredients popular among DIYers:

Vitamins and Minerals

These are the top choices. Many vitamins and minerals are easily available in powdered forms. Commercial supplements often contain ingredients that we don't want. So, you can make your own vitamin and mineral capsules. It's also easier to create custom blends as you like.

Herbs and Plant Extracts

Herbal powders are another popular option for DIY capsules. Whether you're using turmeric for inflammation, ashwagandha for stress, or ginseng for energy, filling them in capsules makes it easy to take. Raw powders sometimes have a strong odor or taste. Encapsulating them can effectively mask the unpleasant odor and taste.

Superfood Powders

Superfood powders are made from vegetables and fruit. They are high in nutrients. Popular options include spirulina, chlorella, and maca. The common way to consume these powders is to mix them into food or smoothies. But I think putting them in capsules is much more convenient.

Probiotics

Probiotic powders are great for boosting gut health. However, probiotics are delicate. So, putting them in capsules can make sure they stay fresh and potent. Plus, commercial probiotic supplements sometimes have added sugars or fillers. Making your own probiotic capsules can avoid these unwanted ingredients.

Custom Blends

This is a big plus when creating your own capsule supplements. You don't have to buy several bottles of different supplements. Just combine your powdered vitamins, herbs, and superfoods into one capsule. Multiple health goals might be achieved all in one convenient dose.

Supplements That Taste Bad

Certain amino acids, greens powders, or medicinal mushrooms might have an unpleasant taste. Even if you mix them into drinks, the bad flavor might not be completely covered. So, putting them in empty capsules is a good alternative.

Do's and Don'ts When Selecting Ingredients to Be Put in Empty Capsules

Looking to create effective and safe capsule supplements but not sure where to start? The following table of do's and don'ts can help you out.

How to Fill Empty Capsules?

Filling empty capsules is not complicated. It can be done by hand or using tools. Below are three straightforward yet effective methods:

1. Scoop and Push (Filling by Hand)

Step 1: Pour powders into a bowl.

Step 2: Separate an empty capsule.

Step 3: Dip the longer part (body) into the bowl to scoop powders.

Step 4: Avoid overfilling the capsule. Leave some space to close it.

Step 5: Press the capsule cap and body together to seal the capsule.

2. Scoop, Paper, or Funnel (Filling by Hand with Tools)

Step 1: Pour powders into a bowl.

Step 2: Separate an empty capsule and hold the body in one hand.

Step 3: Use a scoop or a piece of folded paper to pick up some powders and guide them into the body. A small funnel also works.

Step 4: Pack the powders inside tightly.

Step 5: Close the capsule.

3. Using a Capsule Filling Machine

Want to see how to use a manual capsule filler to fill your empty capsules? Check out the video below—it's super helpful!

The Bottom Line

Creating your own supplements is a simple and rewarding way to support your health. What to put in empty capsules? It's all about finding what's good for you. Most importantly, be sure to talk to your doctor before making any move. Ready to get started? Start small, take a few tries, and enjoy the benefits of personalized wellness!