Best CBD Capsules for Pain, Sleep and Anxiety

Quick links: Best Overall  |  Best THC-Free  |  Best for Beginners  |  Most Natural  |  Best CBD Capsules for Sleep  |  Best CBD Capsules for Pain and Inflammation  |  Best Nootropic  |  Best High Potency  |  Best Value For Money  |  Best Product With Energy-Boosting Ingredients

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many cannabinoids that are found in cannabis and hemp plants. CBD is non-intoxicating — meaning it doesn’t make you feel high — and is instead used for health and wellness reasons.

Although more research is needed before we fully understand the effects of CBD, many people swear by it. Some promising research suggests that CBD can be used for pain, anxiety, and even seizure conditions. With that said, you should consult with a doctor before using any health product, including CBD products.

CBD comes in many different forms, including in the form of CBD oils, edibles, and pre-rolls. One popular delivery system is CBD capsules and softgels. These are used like any other capsule or softgel, which makes it a simple, convenient way to take CBD.

We compared a few CBD capsules and softgels and chose some of the best ones on the market. If you’re not sure which products to try, read on to see our top 10!

Our picks

Best Overall — R+R Medicinals Full-Spectrum CBD Softgels

The full-spectrum softgels from R+R Medicinals are the best CBD capsules we’ve reviewed. They provide 30 mg of full-spectrum CBD sourced from USDA-certified organic hemp and are also certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority.

Third-party tests verify the CBD strength and purity of these full-spectrum capsules.

R+R Medicinals is certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority and uses USDA-certified organic Colorado hemp to extract CBD.

These softgels contain full-spectrum hemp extract, which is considered more effective than pure CBD.

According to third-party tests, these capsules contain THC and minor cannabinoids that strengthen the beneficial effects of CBD.

With a low price of $0.05 per mg of CBD, these capsules are quite affordable.

Best THC-Free — Nanocraft Broad-Spectrum CBD Softgelse

If you need capsules without THC, we recommend Nanocraft CBD. Its broad-spectrum capsules are free of THC but still contain other beneficial hemp cannabinoids and terpenes.

Each vegan capsule contains 25 mg of THC-free CBD.

Third-party tests verify the CBD strength and purity of these capsules.

Nanocraft’s products are made from organic Colorado and Kentucky-grown hemp.

Nanocraft’s capsules are made with broad-spectrum hemp extract, which is free of THC but maintains other beneficial hemp cannabinoids.

Aside from CBD, these capsules contain multiple minor hemp cannabinoids and terpenes.

Nanocraft’s capsules cost $0.11 per mg of CBD, which is just about average.

Best for Beginners — PlusCBD Extra Strength CBD Softgels

People new to CBD should start with small strengths like 10-15 mg. We recommend going with PlusCBD, one of the oldest and most reputable CBD brands.

Its full-spectrum CBD softgels provide 15 mg of CBD, with 30, 60, or 90 capsules per bottle.

Third-party tests confirm the purity and potency of these vegan capsules.

PlusCBD uses hemp grown in Kentucky and the Netherlands to make its CBD products. It’s also certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority.

This product is made with full-spectrum CBD, which is considered superior to purified CBD.

Third-party tests show THC and beneficial minor cannabinoids that work in synergy with CBD.

These capsules cost $0.09 per mg of CBD, which is just about average.

Most Natural — Upstate Elevator Raw CBD Capsules

We recommend Upstate Elevator’s raw CBD capsules if you’re looking for the most natural product possible.

These USDA-certified organic capsules provide unprocessed full-spectrum hemp extract that’s rich in CBDA, the precursor to CBD. Each capsule has a high potency of 100 mg CBD and CBDA.

Third-party tests confirm the strength and purity of these vegan softgels.

Upstate Elevator grows its own cultivars of hemp on a USDA-certified organic farm in Vermont. In contrast, most CBD brands buy their hemp from other producers.

This product is made with full-spectrum CBD, which is considered superior to purified CBD.

Third-party tests show THC and many beneficial minor cannabinoids that work in synergy with CBD.

At $0.04 per mg of CBD, these capsules are significantly cheaper than average.

Best CBD Capsules for Sleep — Receptra Serious Rest Capsules

If you’re looking to take capsules for sleep, our top pick is the serious rest capsules from Receptra Naturals. They’re formulated with full-spectrum CBD and a mix of natural, research-backed sleep ingredients, including chamomile, valerian root, and the terpene linalool.

Third-party tests verify the potency and purity of these gel caps.

Receptra grows its hemp on an organic farm in Colorado.

These capsules contain full-spectrum hemp extract, which is considered more effective than pure CBD.

Aside from CBD, these capsules contain other natural sleep-supporting botanicals: chamomile, valerian root, and linalool.

Receptra’s capsules cost $0.09 per mg of CBD, which is on the lower end of average for a multi-ingredient product.

Best CBD Capsules for Pain & Inflammation — Elixinol Body Comfort Capsules

If you’re taking CBD for inflammation, pain, exercise recovery, and related issues, you should go with the comfort capsules from Elixinol. They combine 15 mg of full-spectrum CBD with boswellia, a popular anti-inflammatory herb.

Third-party tests confirm that these capsules are free of contaminants and match the labeled CBD strength.

Elixinol’s CBD is sourced from organic American hemp. The company is also certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority.

These capsules are made with full-spectrum CBD, providing the full benefits of whole-plant hemp.

Third-party tests show that these capsules contain THC, minor cannabinoids, and boswellia serrata, an anti-inflammatory botanical.

These capsules cost slightly less than average ($0.07 per mg of CBD), especially since there’s another active ingredient.

Best Nootropic — Plant People Stay Sharp Capsules

Nootropic supplements support brain health and improve cognitive function. If you’re looking for a CBD product that helps you stay sharp, the capsules from Plant People are a great choice.

They combine 15 mg of pure CBD with five popular herbal nootropics: cordyceps, rhodiola, celastrus, bacopa, and ginkgo.

Third-party tests confirm the purity and potency of these nootropic capsules.

Plant People sources its products from organic Colorado hemp.

These capsules are made with purified CBD isolate.

Aside from CBD, you’ll find five evidence-based herbal nootropics that support optimal brain function: cordyceps, rhodiola, celastrus, bacopa, and ginkgo.

These capsules cost $0.11 per mg of CBD, which is a reasonable price for the unique nootropic blend you’re getting.

Best High Potency — Pure Hemp Botanicals 3000mg CBD Softgels

Organic and vegan, these CBD softgels from Pure Hemp Botanicals are very high in potency. These are ideal for someone who’s used to using CBD. If it’s your first time using CBD, we’d recommend a far lower dose.

Third-party lab reports show that the capsules contain the advertised amount of full-spectrum CBD. The test results are available on the website.

This product includes CBD derived from US-grown hemp. Pure Hemp Botanicals is a member of the National Hemp Association.

This product contains full-spectrum CBD.

The product only contains hemp extract and coconut oil. The softgel cover is plant-based, making this softgel vegan-friendly.

This product works out to around $0.04 per miligram of CBD, which is a very good price. They have a rewards program.

Best Value For Money — Lazarus Naturals

This product is great value for money, and it’s also one of Lazarus Naturals’ plant-based options. Each softgel contains 50mg of CBD, although there is also a 25mg option.

These products are tested by a third-party lab. The certificates of analysis show that this product contains the advertised amount of full-spectrum CBD. Their lab reports can be viewed on their website.

Lazarus Naturals uses pesticide-free, non-GMO, Oregon-grown hemp. Part of their farmland earned USDA Organic Certification in 2020, and they’re planning to have all of their products certified as organic in 2021.

This product contains full-spectrum CBD.

This product also contains d-Limonene, Myrcene, and β-Caryophyllene – all terpenes that are naturally found in hemp plants. It also contains flaxseed oil and coconut oil.

This product works out to between $0.02 and just over $0.03 per miligram of CBD, making it excellent value for money. Lazarus Naturals also offers an assistance program, giving a 60 percent discount to veterans, people on long-term disability, and low-income families.

Best Product With Energy-Boosting Ingredients — CBDfx CBD + CBG Morning Capsules

If you need a pick-me-up, you might want to opt for CBD capsules that contain energy-boosting ingredients. CBDfx’s Morning Capsules contain a number of beneficial ingredients, including added CBG, extended-release caffeine, vitamin B3, L-Tyrosine, Rhodiola, turmeric, and more. What’s more is that the capsule is fully plant-based and thus suitable for vegans.

Third-party lab reports confirm that the capsules contain the advertised amount of CBD. These test results are easily available on the website.

CBDfx uses hemp grown on US-based farms that use organic practices.

This product includes full-spectrum CBD extract.

In addition to CBD isolate, these capsules contain caffeine, vitamin B3, and rhodiola. Rhodiola is an adaptogen, which means that it’s a herb used to help the body adapt to stress (and some research suggests it could indeed reduce the symptoms of fatigue and stress). It also includes added CBG. The capsule shell is vegan-friendly.

The price works out to $0.07 per miligram of CBD – a fair price, especially when you consider the added ingredients. They also have a subscribe-and-save option.

How we chose the best CBD capsules

We chose these products from a list of more than 3000 of different products, spanning over 150 of the most well-known CBD brands. We assessed these products based on price, lab results, hemp quality, transparency, customer service, brand reputation, and other criteria. From here, we chose the top ten CBD capsules and softgels.

For more information on how we choose our products, check out this page. We have also implemented an unbiased ranking system for rating brands and products out of 100 points.

Our articles are written and reviewed by a team of experienced cannabis journalists, doctors, nutritionists, and other health experts.

How to choose the best CBD capsules and softgels

Before purchasing CBD capsules and softgels, there are a few things you should consider. This includes:

• Third-party testing: Only purchase CBD products that have been tested by an independent lab. The lab report, also known as a certificate of analysis (COA), should be accessible on their website. The COA should confirm the amount of CBD in each product, and it should verify that the product contains no harmful contaminants such as molds, pesticides, or heavy metals.
• Type of CBD: There are three kinds of CBD: isolate, broad spectrum, and full spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids and terpenes that are found in the plant, and it’s considered more effective. However, if you want to avoid THC, opt for CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD capsules.
• Added ingredients: Sometimes, you just want a simple CBD product with no bells and whistles. At other times, added ingredients like melatonin (for sleep) or curcumin (for inflammation) might be a bonus.
• Plant-based: Many CBD capsules and softgels are not vegan or vegetarian as they contain animal-derived gelatin. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, please be aware of this and look specifically for plant-based capsules.
• Price: Last but not least, it’s important to consider price. Bear in mind that CBD is usually taken as a daily supplement. It’s a good idea to look at the price in relation to the miligrams of CBD in the product – this helps you figure out whether you’re getting value for money.
• Dosage: The amount of CBD you take may depend on factors like your weight and metabolism. We recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it until you find your ideal dosage. Your dosage will also depend on the severity of your symptoms – so for example, you’ll need more CBD to deal with severe pain than a mild headache.

If you’d like more information on choosing the best CBD products, our detailed guide explains how to find high-quality CBD products from reputable brands.

Safety and side effects

At the moment, research tells us that CBD is safe for human consumption. It’s also not an addictive substance. With that said, some people experience side effects, such as:

• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

CBD may interact with certain medications, especially those with a “grapefruit warning.” This is because CBD and grapefruit both affect the liver in such a way that it changes the way your body processes some medications.

Before using CBD, it’s a great idea to talk to a CBD-friendly clinician. Be sure to tell them about your medical history and the medication you’re currently using. They can advise you on using CBD safely and effectively.

Legality

Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and hemp-derived CBD products are legal to buy and use throughout the United States. This is defined as a product with 0.3% or less THC.

It’s legal to use CBD while driving. However, if you use a full-spectrum product, you may have a detectable amount of THC in your body, which means that you could test positive for cannabis use if you’re pulled over. This is especially important to keep in mind if you’re tested for THC at work and if you live in a state with restrictive cannabis laws.

What the experts say

“While CBD may help address a multitude of symptoms, there are two things to look out for when obtaining a CBD product: It is critical to utilize a reputable brand and identify correct dosing.” says Rebecca Abraham, RN BSN, a Certified Cannabis Nurse and the founder of Acute on Chronic.

Abraham notes that many companies claim that their products contain CBD when they do not. “Only purchase products that provide third-party lab testing results in batches on their final products and are open and transparent about both their ingredients and extraction methods.”

“Those especially new to CBD should consider a cannabis nurse or cannabis support clinician to help determine the right dose and check for drug interactions,” Abrahams adds.