CBD continues to grow in popularity because of its safety and effectiveness in helping people deal with a multitude of wellness issues. For many reasons, CBD capsules and softgels have become one of the most preferred methods for taking CBD. It is one of the simplest and most precise ways to take CBD, so many people choose to take it this way. However, most still don’t know what to look for when choosing the best CBD capsules, which is why we have put this page together.
If you’re not certain about which CBD capsules to pick from the hundreds of options available in the market these days, we have done all the hard work for you. Let’s go through the top 10 CBD capsules based on our evaluation of their quality, safety, and reliability.
1. CBDistillery Full Spectrum CBD Softgels
Potency per Capsule: 30 mg of full-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 60 capsules
This product harnesses the power of the “entourage effect” that results from the combination of CBD, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), terpenes, and other minor compounds naturally found in the hemp plant. Because of this, several users have reported that these softgels work well in managing physical pain, anxiety, and stress.
Aside from full-spectrum CBD extract, each capsule contains fractionated coconut oil as the carrier, and gelatin to make it easier to swallow. CBDistillery recommends taking only 1 to 2 capsules each day but you may adjust the dosage as long as you have your doctor’s approval to do so.
Product Highlights
- To produce its full-spectrum CBD extract, CBDistillery uses the aerial parts of the hemp plant. Therefore, you may expect these CBD capsules to have higher efficacy because the hemp flower contains all cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds necessary to activate the entourage effect.
- Given its relaxing effects, some customers take a dose of Full Spectrum CBD Softgels at least 1 hour before bedtime.
- CBDistillery has made it easy for its customers to access the product COA (certificate of analysis) by printing a QR code right on the packaging. By scanning this QR code with your mobile device, you will be able to check out the latest COA without having to look for it on its official website.
2. cbdMD CBD Oil Softgel Capsules
Potency per Capsule: 16.5 mg of broad-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 60 capsules
The CBD softgels from cbdMD stand out from the crowd because of the brand’s effort to develop and standardize the formulation of its CBD extract. Through the so-called “Superior Broad Spectrum CBD”, you can rest assured that the amounts of CBD, CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), and terpenes have been standardized across all batches of this product. As a result, the calming and pain-relieving benefits will remain consistent with each capsule you ingest.
Moreover, the CBD extract used for these cbdMD capsules is free from THC. That means you can take the suggested dosage of 2 capsules every day, even if you have to undergo a drug test.
Product Highlights
- The added Vitamin E in this product enhances the natural oxidation-inhibiting properties of CBD.
- People with a gluten allergy can safely take the cbdMD Oil Softgel Capsules. Vegans, however, should look for other options because this product uses gelatin for its shell.
- Aside from the product COA, cbdMD exhibits its confidence in the potency and purity of its CBD capsules through a generous 60-day satisfaction guarantee for all customers.
3. Green Roads CBD Softgels
Potency per Capsule: 25 mg of CBD isolate
Count per Container: 30 capsules
If you want to avoid THC completely, Green Roads CBD Softgels may be the ideal choice for you. One of its primary ingredients is CBD isolate, the kind of CBD extract that has undergone rigorous processes until all the other cannabinoids and hemp compounds have been removed, leaving only the cannabidiol in its crystalline form.
Though CBD isolates tend to have muted effects compared to full-spectrum CBD extracts, several customers have attested that these capsules work better as an enhancer for their daily wellness routines, rather than as a remedy for pain or other illnesses. So, if you’re looking for a way to maintain your good health, consider taking 1 capsule of the Green Roads CBD softgels every day.
Product Highlights
- The formulation for these CBD Softgels has been developed by the in-house pharmacists led by Laura Fuentes, a co-founder and current CEO of the brand.
- In addition to CBD isolate, these softgels combine coconut MCT oil and hemp seed oil as the carriers.
- Those with a gluten allergy may take the Green Roads CBD Softgels without any worry. However, if you’re a vegan, note that one of the ingredients used for this product is gelatin.
4. Diamond CBD Chill Plus CBD Delta-8 THC Poppin Gel Capsules
Potency per Capsule: 10 mg of CBD isolate + 10 mg of Delta-8 THC
Count per Container: 100 capsules
When we talk about THC, more often than not, it refers to the Delta-9 variant. While both are considered psychoactive, Delta-8 is not currently being restricted by the FDA, and many users describe the “high” you’d get as milder but smoother compared to Delta-9.
Because of these, Diamond CBD did not hesitate to join the growing hype for Delta-8. Their Chill Plus Gel Capsules combine equal amounts of CBD isolate and Delta-8 to ensure customers will have an enjoyable experience without the risk of going overboard the limit. The brand’s dosage recommendation is 1 to 2 capsules each day—but remember, no matter how excited you are to feel the buzz, it’s best to start with 1 capsule per day especially if it’s your first time taking a Delta-8 product.
Product Highlights
- These CBD plus Delta-8 capsules do not contain gluten, soy, yeast, added sugars, and other artificial food additives.
- Every bottle features a QR code that serves as an access point to the latest product COA from a third-party laboratory.
- A single order of the 100-capsule Chill Plus Gel Capsules from the website will be shipped for free, given the express shipping policy of Diamond CBD.
5. CBDfx Delta-9 THC Capsules + CBD
Potency per Capsule: 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD + 2.5 mg of THC
Count per Container: 30 capsules
Those who want the calming effects of CBD and the mood-enhancing properties of THC should take a closer look at this CBDfx product. Each capsule contains full-spectrum CBD extract to unlock the entourage effect, and just a tiny bit of THC to give you a slight euphoric experience.
Because of its capsule form, the effects of this CBD product are time-released. That means you can take 1 capsule in the morning and feel a growing sense of relaxation and stability as the rest of the day goes by.
Product Highlights
- These THC+CBD capsules are made from organic and gluten-free ingredients. It’s not recommended for vegans though because of its gelatin content.
- CBDfx manufactures its Daily Chill Blend Capsules using cruelty-free methods.
- Don’t worry about the legality of this CBD product because CBDfx sources its THC from hemp—not marijuana—and the total amount per capsule does not exceed the 0.3% limit set by the federal government.
6. Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Liquid Capsules
Potency per Capsule: 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 30 capsules
Previously, Charlotte’s Web CBD capsules come in traditional powder-filled forms. However, to innovate one of their popular products, the brand has transformed it into liquid-filled capsules that do not only lower the cost per milligram of CBD but also made them more potent and faster to absorb.
Each CBD Oil Liquid Capsule contains 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD extract with organic extra virgin olive oil as its carrier. Unlike CBD softgels, it does not contain any gelatin, carrageenan, or other solidifying agents. Instead, the brand used hypromellose, a thin vegetable-based capsule that can be digested more quickly. Therefore, it’s one of the best CBD capsules for vegans in the market nowadays.
Product Highlights
- For every 25-mg CBD capsule, you will also get 40 mg of full-spectrum hemp extract. This extract includes all the natural cannabinoids, plant proteins, terpenes, and other compounds found in industrial hemp.
- Compared to softgels and powder capsules, the hypromellose capsule is able to withstand better certain environmental conditions. As such, it can be the perfect companion for you, if you live or travel to areas with higher temperatures or lower humidity.
- In addition to being vegan-friendly, Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Liquid Capsules are kosher, gluten-free, and allergen-free.
7. Green Gorilla CBD Capsules – Defense
Potency per Capsule: 10 mg of broad-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 30 capsules
As the first hemp brand to receive a “Certified Organic” recognition from USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), Green Gorilla has enhanced the therapeutic ability of organic CBD to modulate the immune system by blending it with other premium botanicals. For the CBD Capsules – Defense, the brand has blended broad-spectrum CBD oil with extra virgin olive oil, rosemary leaf extract, turmeric root extract, and sunflower oil to increase the amount of CBD you will absorb after swallowing the product. The capsules also include EpiCor elderberry and reishi mushroom to improve your body’s protection against illnesses and damage caused by negative free radicals.
Green Gorilla CBD Capsules – Defense is free from THC, but the brand did not specify that it is also gluten-free and allergen-free. The recommended dosage is 2 capsules each day, but it can go up to 4 depending on how well your body will respond to this CBD product.
Product Highlights
- Though the formulation of the capsules is mostly plant-based, Green Gorilla added Vitamin C and Zinc into the mix since they are essential for building a strong immune system.
- The casing for these capsules is made from vegetables, thus making it a viable option for vegan CBD fans.
- Every batch of Green Gorilla products undergoes strict product testing by laboratories that have the ISO/IEC 17025 certification.
8. Five CBD Full Spectrum CBD+THC Liquid Capsules
Potency per Capsule: 50 mg of full-spectrum CBD + 2 mg of THC
Count per Container: 60 capsules
Five CBD sets their liquid capsules apart from the offers of other brands through their commitment to the 5:1 ratio between CBD and the minor cannabinoids in the hemp plant. Through this, you’d be getting more CBD per capsule than the current average in the market nowadays.
Aside from the full-spectrum CBD and THC, Five’s liquid capsules include organic MCT oil as the carrier. Even though there are no other botanicals or chemicals added among the ingredients, the brand suggests taking a capsule along with a meal since doing so will prevent stomach upset, especially for those who are sensitive to capsule-type supplements.
Product Highlights
- Five’s blend of CBD and THC includes other lesser-known cannabinoids, such as CBN and CBC (cannabichromene).
- These liquid capsules are made in a manufacturing facility that follows cGMP (current good manufacturing practices) standards.
- Because the Full Spectrum CBD+THC Liquid Capsules have high potency per serving, the brand recommends taking only 1 capsule each day. However, users with greater needs may take up to 3 capsules in a day.
9. Try the CBD CBD Softgels
Potency per Capsule: 30 mg of full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 30 or 60 capsules
Try the CBD offers two types of CBD softgels that we have found to be equally good. The full-spectrum variant contains hemp extract with all the helpful cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds. Meanwhile, the broad-spectrum type is best for those who don’t want to risk feeling high after taking the capsules.
Regardless of your preference, both versions of the CBD softgels have fractionated coconut oil as the carrier. It also uses a combination of carrageenan, glycerin, lecithin, modified food starch, water, and caramel to achieve its smooth, dark brown shell.
Product Highlights
- Though the broad-spectrum CBD softgels are free from THC, the brand did not remove the trace amounts of CBC, CBG, and CBN from the extract. That means you can still enjoy the entourage effect by taking this type of CBD capsule.
- Both the full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD softgels are made from non-GMO hemp, and they do not contain any allergens or gluten, too.
- Many customer reviews about these CBD capsules praise them for being effective as a pain reliever, stress reliever, or sleep enhancer.
10. Premium Jane 1200mg CBD Capsules
Potency per Capsule: 40 mg of full-spectrum CBD
Count per Container: 30 capsules
Premium Jane lives up to its name through the 1200mg CBD Capsules. Using full-spectrum extract derived from domestic and non-GMO hemp, these capsules work efficaciously as a stress reliever and anxiety relief.
The brand also listed hemp seed oil as one of the main ingredients. This increases the potential benefits that you may enjoy from these CBD capsules. For example, hemp seed oil may improve the health of your cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune systems, among others.
Product Highlights
- Many customers have highlighted how Premium Jan CBD Capsules are easier to swallow than similar products. This is due to the brand’s decision to combine gelatin with glycerin for the capsule’s casing.
- The brand suggests taking 1 to 2 capsules each day while your stomach is relatively empty to hasten the absorption rate of the product.
- Because of Premium Jane’s dedication to producing high-quality and effective CBD capsules, any customer who is not satisfied with this product may return what’s left of it and get a refund, provided that the packaging is fairly intact and untampered.
What We Looked for When Determining the Best CBD Capsules
To come up with our list of the top 10 CBD capsules in the market today, we have based our evaluation on the following hallmarks of an excellent wellness product:
Quality of Ingredients Used
The best CBD capsules contain high-quality CBD extract derived from domestically grown, organic, and non-GMO hemp plants.
Because of the limitations imposed by the FDA on cannabis-derived products, we prefer brands that source their hemp from US-based farms. This will significantly lower the risk of consuming CBD that has more than a 0.3% THC concentration level.
Organic and non-GMO farming practices, on the other hand, minimize the potential health risks involved when we consume plant-based products. Though these methods make the capsules pricier, the added peace of mind is usually worth the extra dollars we would have to spend.
Transparency
When we browsed through the online catalogs of various CBD brands, we would always look for the product COA to check if it’s reliable and up-to-date.
The COA must be from a reputable and independent testing laboratory that specializes in cannabis-derived products. We didn’t consider including in our list the CBD brands that only get their products tested once and never again. Since the manufacturing processes could affect the overall quality of the final product, there must be a COA per batch produced.
We have also read through the content of the product COA. Most brands provide essential information about the cannabinoid profile, potency, and presence of harmful substances, such as pesticides, heavy metals, or residual solvents. If the COA of the brand didn’t disclose the said information, we take that as a sign that they might have made false claims about their CBD products.
Feedback from Actual CBD Users and Experts
Any brand may declare that their CBD capsules can do this and that, so we didn’t just focus on what the product description says. Instead, we went through the recent reviews from those who have verified purchases of the given CBD product.
Through customer feedback, we gained plenty of insights into the effectiveness of CBD capsules. We have also taken note of any recurring issues raised by the customers since those indicate that the source of the problem is likely the formulation or procedure used by the brand for their CBD products.
Moreover, our research involved looking for any lawsuits or FDA warnings that the brand may have received for their CBD capsules. Those are massive red flags, so remember to check for those too when you go shopping for CBD.
Why You Can Trust Our Recommendations
Our team wants more people to recognize CBD as a natural, safe, and effective wellness solution. Therefore, we spend countless hours researching and evaluating every CBD product out there, just so we can come up with recommendations that will be helpful for both first-time users and existing CBD fans.
Given these, we make it a point to provide CBD recommendations that are:
Objective
Did you know that the members of our team started as skeptics when the CBD hype was just gaining traction?
However, upon realizing how incredible CBD is at improving the different aspects of daily living, we jumped on board and committed to bringing more attention to high-quality CBD products from brands that have earned our trust and respect.
Moreover, TheCBDGuru.org is not affiliated with any CBD brand or wellness company. We don’t accept paid reviews because we stand by our belief that the effectiveness of the individual CBD product should be the main basis of our recommendation.
Comprehensive
We go through all the current and newest CBD product selections to find out which ones will meet or exceed our quality standards. We also try our best to include a diverse set of products so that you’d have a higher chance of stumbling upon something that could satisfy your health and wellness needs.
For example, a member of the team might prefer full-spectrum CBD products because of the entourage effect, but that does not mean we will ignore the excellent CBD products that use broad-spectrum extract or CBD isolate. The CBD community continues to grow day by day, and even though our reasons for being here might not be the same, we will do our best to help you find the ideal CBD product for you.
Informative
Research on CBD is still at the preliminary stage despite its massive popularity. However, the limited scientific knowledge we have now is worth sharing, so our reviews feature links to scientific studies and reputable sources of information about CBD and other related topics.
Go on and click those links to learn more about CBD and its great potential as a natural wellness alternative.
Questions from Users About CBD Capsules
We have answered below some of the frequently asked questions about CBD capsules in case you’re wondering about them, too.
- Are CBD Capsules Safe to Use?
Yes!
According to the review conducted by WHO (World Health Organization), consuming CBD does not lead to any health complications. Though some have reported feeling adverse effects, those tend to be caused by the interaction of cannabidiol with the other medications that the person is taking at the same time.
Still, it’s good practice to check the COA of any CBD capsule before proceeding with your order because the farming practices or manufacturing processes used by the company could introduce harmful substances to the final product. - Will CBD Capsules Get Me High?
It depends on the kind of CBD extract used for the capsules.
CBD, on its own, will not get you high because of its molecular makeup. However, its close cousin THC is widely known for its psychoactive properties.
Full-spectrum CBD extract combines CBD and THC, so there is a chance that you will be slightly euphoric if you have taken a large dose of a full-spectrum CBD product with high potency. And even though such products observe the 0.3% limit on THC, you might want to skip them if you would undergo drug testing because there have been some reports of it showing up on the results.
On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD only has trace amounts of THC in it. That means the concentration level is so low that it’s non-detectable. As such, there is no risk at all of getting stoned if you had consumed a broad-spectrum CBD capsule. - How Should I Take CBD Capsules?
All you have to do is swallow the CBD capsule with a sip of water to make the process easier.
If it’s your first time taking CBD, we recommend starting with only 1 capsule at a time. That will allow you to assess how you will react to CBD. In case you’re not getting the results you expect, gradually increase your dosage or consider going for CBD capsules with higher potency. - Can I Take CBD Capsules While Taking Other Supplements?
We recommend checking in with your doctor first before purchasing any CBD capsules.
A 2021 article from Harvard Health Publishing states that the interaction of CBD with other supplements and medications may lead to unwanted side effects, such as drowsiness, fatigue, or diarrhea. CBD may also alter the intended effects of certain medications, which could then lead to some serious health complications. - How Quickly Will I Feel the Effects of a CBD Capsule?
In general, CBD capsules will take effect within 45 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion.
Due to the so-called “first pass effect”, your body needs to absorb first the capsule you have swallowed before you can feel the supposed benefits of the product.