Debatable. The taste of HCl is worse, and I feel 20 mg of freebase very well. In the end, it dissolves in saliva, probably due to enzymes or a slightly acidic reaction.
I mean, it definitely works great, the base helps with absorption too, which is why people use calcium lime when chewing coca leaves.
People use calcium hydroxide when chewing coca leaves to enhance the absorption of the active alkaloids, particularly cocaine. The lime raises the pH in the mouth, creating a more alkaline environment. This alkaline condition helps to free the cocaine alkaloid from its salt form, making it more readily absorbable through the mucous membranes in the mouth.
I believe harmala freebase is absorbed better.