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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
- Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
- Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
Cannabidiol (CBD) products are becoming increasingly popular. As researchers understand more about the potential benefits, more manufacturers are infusing their products with CBD. However, it is important to ensure that people only use safe and high quality CBD products.
CBD is a compound that comes from the cannabis plant. Unlike other chemicals in cannabis, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it does not cause a high or any type of dependence. Many people tolerate it well, but it can interact with other drugs.
A quick look at the 9 best CBD products
- Best CBD oil: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil
- Best CBD gummies: CBDistillery CBD Gummies
- Best CBD softgels: Joy Organics CBD Softgels with Curcumin
- Best CBD salve: CBDistillery CBDol Topical Salve
- Best CBD oil: Social CBD Rest CBD Body Lotion
- Best CBD gumdrops: Lord Jones Old Fashioned Hep-Derived Gumdrops
- Best CBD recovery rub: Prima CBD R+R Cream
- Best CBD lotion: Cornbread Hemp
- Best pain relief cream: Medterra Pain relief cream
It is important to choose CBD products based on good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
For example, each product in this article:
- is from a company that provides proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory
- is made with hemp grown in the United States
- contains no more than 0.3% THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
- passes for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA
People can look for these qualities when shopping for their own CBD products. It is also important to consider:
- company certifications and manufacturing processes
- product potency
- overall ingredients
- indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
- customer reviews
- whether or not the manufacturer has received an
FDA warning letter - whether or not the manufacturer makes any unsupported health claims
Here are some common CBD terms that individuals may find helpful when researching product suitability.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CBD | A compound within the C. sativa plant that does not create the high sensation individuals commonly associate with cannabis use. |
| THC | A compound in the C. sativa plant. It is the psychoactive compound that creates the high sensation from cannabis use. |
| Full-spectrum | A full-spectrum product will contain all of the natural compounds in the cannabis plant, including THC. However, THC levels must be no more than 0.3% to comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on full-spectrum CBD products. |
| Broad-spectrum | Broad-spectrum products contain natural compounds of the cannabis plant. However, while manufacturers remove all or most of the THC in broad-spectrum CBD, it may still be present in trace amounts. |
| CBD isolate | This is the purest form of CBD and should contain 0% THC. |
| Cannabinoids | The compounds within the cannabis plant, of which there are |
| Terpenes | Another compound of the C. sativa plant, terpenes typically give plants their specific aromas. Some terpenes, such as limonene, may have specific health benefits. |
| Certificate of analysis (COA) | Reputable manufacturers of CBD products should ensure a COA is available for inspection. A COA provides information on the third-party testing that independent labs conduct on a particular product. Sometimes, products will have a scannable smartphone code that directs people to the COA online. |
Read more about terminology and other important CBD information here.
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: Products contain safe and high quality ingredients and state all ingredients clearly. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: Products contain or recommend a serving size of a safe CBD dosage. Dosage is clearly stated.
- Third-party labs: Products undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: The company demonstrates transparency and shares its product’s certificate of analysis (COA) following lab results.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried any of these products. All information presented here is purely research-based.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best CBD oil: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil
- Price: $59.99
- Form: oil
- CBD type: full-spectrum CBD
- Strength: 17 mg of CBD per 1 milliliter (ml)
- COA: available online
Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil is a formulation of full-spectrum hemp extract. As it is full-spectrum, it means that it contains all the other cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, including up to 0.3% THC, terpenes, and oils.
Learn more about CBD oil here.
The company claims that its CBD oil helps maintain calm, focus, healthy sleep, and recovery from exercise-induced inflammation.
The oil is available in 30 ml or 100 ml bottles.
The CBD oil comes in four flavors:
- lemon twist
- mint chocolate
- orange blossom
- olive oil
Pros
- subscription plan for regular buyers
- different flavors
- refunds within 30 days
- gift cards available
Cons
- reports of unhelpful customer care
- US-only shipping
- products are not certified organic
Learn more about Charlotte’s Web here.
Use code “HEALTH20” for 20% off.
Best CBD gummies: CBDistillery CBD Gummies
- Price: $65
- Form: gummies
- CBD type: broad spectrum
- Strength: 30 mg of CBD per gummy
- COA: available online
CBDistillery Gummies contain broad-spectrum CBD. This means that they do not contain any THC.
Learn more about CBD gummies here.
The gummies are vegan-friendly, and each one contains 30 mg of CBD. Every container has 30 gummies. The company recommends taking one gummy, once or twice per day. It also recommends that adults should not exceed 70 mg of CBD per day.
The website lists the gummies’ COA on the product page. It also states that they:
- are gluten-free
- contain naturally farmed ingredients
- contain natural fruit flavors
Pros
- THC-free
- the company offers a 60-day money-back guarantee
- the gummies are convenient for on-the-go use
Cons
- the company does not offer international shipping
- there are customer-reported difficulties with refunds
- some customers also reported shipping delays
Learn more about CBDistillery here.
Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.
Best CBD softgels: Joy Organics CBD Softgels
- Price: $69.95
- Form: softgels
- CBD type: broad-spectrum
- Strength: 10 mg or 25 mg per softgel
- COA: available online
These softgels contain 10 mg or 25 mg of CBD per serving, with 30 softgels in each bottle.
Learn more about CBD softgels here.
Joy Organics states that these softgels have a faster absorption rate due to the nanoemulsion technology in the product.
The capsules contain bovine gelatin, so they are not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Moreover, according to Joy Organics’ website, the CBD softgels come with these features:
- third-party tested
- not tested on animals
- broad-spectrum formulation
- 18-month shelf life
Shipping is also free on orders over $50.
Pros
- products are cruelty-free
- the company offers a 90-day satisfaction guarantee
- products ship in carbon-neutral packaging
- individuals have the option to sign up for a subscription
Cons
- unsuitable for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet
- international shipping is unavailable
Learn more about Joy Organics here.
Use code “healthcbd” for 15% off.
Best CBD salve: CBDistillery CBDol Topical Salve
- Price: $60
- Form: salve
- CBD type: full-spectrum
- Strength: 500 mg of CBD per jar
- COA: available online
This product combines 500 mg of full-spectrum CBD, essential oils, and botanical extracts.
Learn about CBD topicals here.
The manufacturers of this hemp-derived CBD salve suggest that it may benefit localized muscle pain. The company recommends that individuals apply a liberal amount to the area they wish to treat.
According to its website, CBDistillery sources its products from natural, non-GMO farming practices.
The product is third-party tested.
Pros
- the company offers a subscription service
- the company offers a 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- customers may experience difficulties obtaining refunds
- the company does not ship internationally
- some customers also report shipping delays
Best CBD lotion: Social CBD Rest CBD Body Lotion
- Price: $18.99
- Form: lotion
- CBD type: THC-free
- Strength: 300 mg of CBD per bottle
- COA: available online
This body lotion contains 300 mg of CBD and essential oils, such as chamomile and bergamot, to offer a calming sensation.
The manufacturer claims the lotion is non-greasy, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing.
Learn about other CBD lotions here.
The CBD body lotion also contains:
- magnesium
- arnica
- shea butter
- coconut oil
- argan oil
Social CBD states that individuals can use this lotion as often as needed on external areas.
Pros
- Social CBD offers free shipping
- individuals can opt to subscribe and save
- the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- may not suit those who have oily skin
- not everyone who uses the product reports it is effective
- the products may not relieve itching or dry skin
Learn more about Social CBD here.
Individuals can receive 30% off their purchase by using code HEALTH30
Best CBD gumdrops: Lord Jones Old Fashioned Hemp-Derived Gumdrops
- Price: $35
- Form: gumdrops
- CBD type: broad-spectrum
- Strength: 20 mg of CBD per gumdrop
- COA: available online
Each pack contains nine gumdrops, each containing 20 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. There are two flavors: strawberry and lemon.
Learn about hemp CDB vs. cannabis CBD here.
The gumdrops claim to help promote calmness and relaxation.
Some key ingredients include cane sugar, citric acid, gelatin, and glycerin.
The company states that individuals can take up to three gumdrops per day and should not exceed a 60 mg dose.
Pros
- the company offers free shipping with its subscription service
- customers state the gumdrops have pleasant flavors
Cons
- the company does not offer returns
Best CBD recovery rub: Prima CBD R+R Cream
- Price: $38
- Form: cream
- CBD type: broad-spectrum
- Strength: 750 mg of CBD per bottle
- COA: available online
This cooling recovery cream contains 750 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. Other ingredients include eucalyptus, menthol, and lavender.
Learn more about CBD creams here.
It is hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and suitable for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet.
A person can massage the cream directly into the areas they wish to treat.
Pros
- suitable for vegans and those who are gluten-free
- does not test products on animals
- the formula does not contain petroleum
- the company offers a 30-day returns policy
Cons
- some customers find the odor too strong
- some customers say that product’s effects are not long lasting
Best full-spectrum lotion: Cornbread Hemp CBD Lotion For Skin
- Price: $49.99
- Form: lotion
- CBD type:
- Strength: 500 mg of CBD per jar
- COA: available online
This jar contains 500 mg of CBD and 20 mg of THC. The company states that it contains approximately 60 servings of 8 mg of CBD.
Cornbread Hemp states that it only uses the flower of the hemp plant, which it claims ensures a higher standard of quality of CBD.
Additional ingredients include organic essential oils and vitamin E.
Pros
- uses organic ingredients
- reportedly does not leave an oily residue
- offers a subscribe and save option
Cons
- essential oils may irritate the skin
Learn more about Cornbread Hemp here.
Best pain relief cream: Medterra Pain Relief Cream
- Price: from $39.99
- Form: cream
- CBD type: THC-free
- Strength: 500 mg or 1,000 mg of CBD per bottle
- COA: available online
People can choose to purchase a bottle containing 500 mg or 1,000 mg of CBD. Each ml of lotion contains either 10 mg or 20 mg of CBD.
This product may be beneficial for people who experience pain. Ingredients include menthol and arnica which, the company states, may be good for providing fast relief for neck, back, and arthritis pain.
Pros
- does not contain THC
- contains arnica and menthol, which may relieve pain
Cons
- menthol may irritate sensitive skin
The table below provides a comparison of the CBD products in this article:
| Price | Form | CBD type | Strength | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte’s Web | $59.99 | oil | full-spectrum | 17 mg of CBD per ml |
| CBDistillery Gummies | $65 | gummies | broad-spectrum | 30 mg of CBD per gummy |
| Joy Organics | $69.95 | softgels | broad-spectrum | • 10 mg of CBD per softgel • 25 mg of CBD per softgel |
| CBDistillery Salve | $60 | salve | full-spectrum | 500 mg of CBD per jar |
| Social CBD | $18.99 | lotion | THC-free | 300 mg of CBD per bottle |
| Lord Jones | $35 | gumdrops | broad-spectrum | 20 mg of CBD per gumdrop |
| Prima | $38 | cream | broad-spectrum | 750 mg of CBD per bottle |
| Cornbread Hemp | $49.99 | lotion | full-spectrum | 500 mg of CBD per jar |
| Medterra | from $39.99 | cream | THC-free | • 500 mg of CBD per bottle • 1,000 mg of CBD per bottle |
There is growing evidence to suggest that CBD may be useful for the following.
Pain relief
Some people use CBD to help manage different types of chronic pain. One
A
Learn more about CBD for pain relief here.
Anxiety relief
A
A
Learn more about CBD for anxiety here.
Cancer-related side effects
CBD may help reduce cancer-related side effects, such as nausea and vomiting. A
Learn more about CBD for cancer here.
Epilepsy
In 2018, the
Learn more about CBD for seizures here.
Neurodegenerative conditions
One
However, the review concludes that further research is necessary as the quality of evidence is not yet substantial to confirm the benefits of CBD for neurodegenerative conditions.
Acne
CBD has also shown promise in treating acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce sebum production.
CBD is generally safe, and many people tolerate it well. However, anyone who is looking to use CBD should first consult a healthcare professional, as it is possible for CBD to interact with some prescription medications or supplements.
Some common side effects of CBD, which may be dose-dependent,
High amounts of CBD
Learn more about the effects and side effects of CBD here.
How a person uses CBD depends on the type of product they purchase. People using CBD oil can place drops under their tongue, swallow it, or vape it. Always follow the instructions on the product label.
People can massage topical products, such as skin creams and lotions, into their skin. There may be information on the label about how much to use and how often. People can take gummies or supplements orally.
Always speak with a doctor before trying a new supplement or natural remedy, as they are not suitable for everyone.
Learn about 6 of the best CBD topicals here.
CBD does not cause a high, so it does not cause significant changes to a person’s behavior or sense of risk in the same way recreational drugs can.
However, if a person taking CBD experiences drowsiness, they may need to avoid certain activities until this side effect wears off. For example, they may need to avoid operating machinery or driving.
This effect may be
Learn more about cannabis and alcohol here.
The following are common questions and answers about CBD products.
What types of CBD products are available?
There are various ways of administering CBD. Depending on the goal, the condition a person wishes to treat, and the necessary dosage, people can choose which delivery method suits them best.
Some common forms of CBD products include:
- Oils and tinctures: People can administer these directly into their mouth or choose to add them to a food item or beverage.
- Gummies: CBD gummies can provide a convenient and discreet way of taking CBD.
- Capsules: Capsules are another convenient form of CBD. They usually come in the form of pills or softgels infused with CBD.
- Topicals: People typically use topical CBD products for localized pain and skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.
What do CBD product labels mean?
CBD product labels may mention the following:
- Full-spectrum CBD: These products contain all compounds of the cannabis plant, including THC, which is the psychoactive associated with the high of cannabis.
- Broad-spectrum CBD: These products contain all compounds apart from THC.
- CBD isolate: These products contain isolated CBD with no other compounds.
Learn about the differences between full-spectrum CBD and isolate here.
Where should a person buy CBD?
Since the CBD industry is currently unregulated, there is a chance of unethical CBD manufacturers being dishonest about the cannabinoid content in their products. This is where third-party testing comes in. It is important because:
- the FDA does not regulate CBD products
- it verifies the quality of CBD products
- it provides a neutral, unbiased source of information
People looking for CBD products should only purchase from brands that use third-party testing.
What are the best CBD products for beginners?
People should start using CBD products at the lowest possible dose and increase the dose gradually until they reach their desired effects.
Gummies may be a better option for beginners as they offer an easy way to track how much CBD a person ingests.
Does CBD show up on a drug test?
Drug tests screen for THC. While CBD can only contain up to 0.3% THC, it is possible that drug tests will return a positive result.
Many CBD or CBD-infused products are currently available for people to try. CBD may have several potential benefits, such as relieving pain and anxiety.
With so many products available, it is important for people to choose safe, high-quality products. Therefore, it is essential to select products that have undergone third-party testing.
It is also advisable to talk with a doctor before using any CBD product.