CBD capsules and pills are alternative pre-measured methods of consuming cannabidiol. A range of brands on the market makes it possible to choose from various CBD formulations that may help to reduce pain and stress, as well as manage sleep.
When it comes to selecting the product specific to your needs, you may feel lost in the overwhelming number of CBD brands on the market.
Thus, we’ve researched the market to determine the 5 best CBD capsules and softgels to help you pick the one depending on your health needs.
Best CBD capsules and pills in 2023: shortlist
- NuLeaf — overall best CBD softgels
- R&R Medicals — best CBD softgels with potency options
- Endoca — best organic and vegan CBD hemp oil capsules
- Joy Organics — best CBD softgels for inflammation
- Lazarus Naturals — best full-spectrum CBD capsules for stress relief
How did we rank the best CBD capsules and pills on the market?
We considered several quality criteria to organize the best CBD capsules and pills.
| Criteria | Description |
| Manufacturing | cGMP-certified |
| Ingredients | Vegan and non-GMO |
| Price per serving | $1.60–$3.00 |
| Third-party testing | Certificate of Analysis (COA) for purity |
- Manufacturing. The brand should consider ISO or cGMP-certified facilities regulating safe production processes to ensure the final product is clean from contaminants.
- Ingredients. We selected the best CBD products made with non-GMO, USDA-certified, vegan, and clean ingredients.
- Price per serving. To help you better organize your budget, we calculated the approximate price per serving based on daily consumption.
- Third-party testing. Independent lab testing is essential to establish the exact amount of CBD and other cannabinoids reflecting the quality of the product. It is also a method to detect contaminants or heavy metals, if any.
Best CBD capsules and pills: an overview
The best CBD capsules and pills listed below are hand-picked from brands making no over-promising claims about the effects of their products.
The CBD capsules review below highlights the products’ benefits, prices, ingredients, and quality certificates.
1. NuLeaf — overall best brand for CBD softgels
NuLeaf is an established CBD brand providing high-quality products leading the CBD market since 2014. Their full-spectrum CBD softgels are produced in ISO and cGMP-certified and FDA-registered facilities.
One of the aspects we considered for nominating NuLeaf as the overall best CBD brand is the over 700 positive customer reviews. According to them, these CBD softgels helped with stress, anxiety, and sleep.
The provider recommends taking 2 softgels daily, offering 30 mg full-spectrum CBD and 436 mg organic virgin hemp seed oil. Bottle sizes are available with 300, 900, and 1800 mg total CBD content.
The manufacturer uses the CO2 extraction method to ensure its CBD product's highest efficacy. The third-party testing showing the exact CBD amounts, purity, and absence of toxins can be obtained on the website or by scanning the QR code on the ordered bottle.
The most cost-effective serving size for NuLeaf CBD softgels is a 900 mg bottle, sold at $49.00 ($1.63 per serving).
2. R&R Medicals — best CBD softgels offering potency options
R&R Medicals offers CBD softgels in 3 potency options — 30, 60, and 90 mg of CBD per serving. This enables selecting the most cost-effective option for individual needs.
The manufacturer uses nano-emulsified CBD in its softgels to enhance absorption. Using the supercritical CO2 extraction method, the provider aims to maintain the utmost CBD efficacy.
A single bottle of R&R Medicals contains 34 softgels of full-spectrum CBD, for the formulation of which the manufacturer uses gelatin. The provider recommends taking 1 pill daily.
The most popular potency option is 60 mg which may be preferred by experienced CBD users. With this option, you will receive 7.1 mg of minor cannabinoids for possible anti-inflammatory effects and immune support.
The reviewed option of R&R Medicals full-spectrum CBD softgels costs $75.00 ($2.20 per serving).
3. Endoca — best organic and vegan CBD capsules
Endoca produces the best organic and vegan CBD capsules sticking to sustainability principles, dietary needs, and harvesting non-GMO and clean ingredients. Endoca’s Raw Hemp Oil (strong) contains CBD and CBDa.
The scientists behind Endoca CBD capsules utilize the CO2 extraction method saving terpenes, flavonoids, and other natural molecules. They manufacture the supplements in cGMP-certified facilities under pharmaceutical control.
Each capsule of Endoca Raw Hemp Oil contains less than 0.2% THC and 50 mg of full-spectrum CBD oil. Notably, the capsule has no additives, only raw hemp extract. The manufacturer recommends taking 1 capsule daily.
A bottle packs 30 capsules and is sold at $129.00 ($4.30 per serving). These are the most expensive CBD capsules on our list, yet the composition and production processes may justify the pricing.
4. Joy Organics — best CBD softgels for inflammation and pain reduction
Joy Organics added NovaSOL® curcumin into its Joy Nutrition Premium CBD softgels to help you address pain and muscle stiffness. Curcumin is known for its inflammation-reducing properties.
For adults experiencing muscle stiffness pre or post-workout or chronic joint pain, Joy Nutrition offers 250 mg of curcumin and 25 mg of broad-spectrum CBD with one daily serving. Some customers report feeling relaxed and getting better sleep.The provider utilizes the supercritical CO2 extraction method for its CBD products to maintain the terpenes and other nutrients in the hemp plant. The nanoemulsion technology increases the absorption of these CBD pills.
Note that the softgels may not be suitable for vegans as they contain bovine-derived gelatin. People already taking curcumin supplements or having gallbladder issues, hormone-sensitive conditions, diabetes, and bleeding disorders should consult their doctor before curcumin consumption.
One bottle of Joy Nutrition Premium CBD softgels contains 30 servings and costs $79.95 ($2.66 per serving).
5. Lazarus Naturals — best CBD capsules for stress relief and better sleep
Lazarus Naturals offers Relax CBD capsules with chamomile, L-theanine, and ashwagandha. These 3 ingredients are known for their stress-reducing and relaxing effects.
With two Relax CBD capsules, you will receive 200 mg of ashwagandha, 150 mg of each chamomile and L-theanine, and 50 mg of full-spectrum CBD. The provider mentions vitamin B6 in the formula, yet the amounts are not indicated.
The manufacturer utilizes an ethanol extraction method which is considered less effective, yielding less terpenes and flavonoids. Instead of using CBD oil in the capsules, the powdered form of the hemp plant is used.
The potency and purity of these capsules are established by third-party testing. The capsules of Lazarus Naturals are vegan. The provider recommends taking 2 capsules daily.
You can choose from the currently available bottle sizes containing 40 and 200 capsules. A bottle of Relax CBD containing 40 capsules is sold at $32.00 ($1.60 per serving).
Comparison of the best CBD capsules
| Brand | Price per bottle* | Price per serving | CBD type | CBD form | Potency (per serving) | Additional ingredients | Certificate of analysis | Review |
| NuLeaf | $49.00 | $1.63 | Softgels | Full-spectrum | 30 mg | - | Available online | NuLeaf review |
| R&R Medicals | $75.00 | $2.20 | Softgels | Full-spectrum | 60 mg | - | Available online | - |
| Endoca | $129.00 | $4.30 | Capsules | Full-spectrum | 50 mg | - | Available online | - |
| Joy Organics | $79.95 | $2.66 | Softgels | Broad-spectrum | 25 mg | NovaSOL® curcumin | Available online | Joy Organics review |
| Lazarus Naturals | $32.00 | $1.60 | Capsules | Full-spectrum | 25 mg | Ashwagandha, L-theanine, chamomile | Available online | - |
* — prices vary depending on the total CBD and capsule content in a bottle.
CBD capsules: what are they used for?
CBD capsules are pre-measured pills designed for people who want to enjoy the benefits of hemp extract without the bitter or earthy taste. Capsules contain either CBD oil or powder in full, broad-spectrum, or isolate extracts.
Both CBD capsules and oils may bring the following benefits:
- Stress relief. CBD has been suggested to have stress-reducing effects in some studies. According to the research, CBD may also reduce the risk of stress-related conditions, such as anxiety.
- Pain reduction. CBD supplements have shown significant effectiveness during studies for people who prefer over-the-counter pain management means.
- Weight management. A recent research study suggests CBD may have appetite-suppressing effects and help manage weight. However, further research is needed to clarify the effects of cannabidiol on appetite and feeding.
- Sleep aid. By reducing stress and anxiety, CBD capsules and oils may benefit a good night’s sleep. Some evidence suggests that CBD may help in the management of insomnia symptoms.
Differences of CBD capsules and other forms
CBD comes in different forms, such as capsules, softgels, oils, and gummies. These forms can bring health effects depending on the dosage and composition.
However, the primary deviations of these forms are the ease of use and the absorption rate of the cannabinoids.
CBD capsules vs. oil
While oral CBD administration, such as CBD oils administered under your tongue, is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, capsules may take a bit longer until the coating dissolves in the gastrointestinal tract.
You can easily add CBD oils to your drinks or food. CBD capsules are easy to carry and consume as any other supplement.Also, for people who do not like the CBD test, capsules may be an ideal way to conceal the bitterness.
CBD capsules vs. gummies
For people who have a hard time swallowing CBD oral capsules or softgels, chewable gummies may be an ideal way to consume cannabidiol. Moreover, CBD gummies may be infused with flavors making the intake more palatable.
Although you can choose the flavor and CBD content, gummies may contain added sugar and gelatin — the latter may not be suitable for vegans.
CBD capsules vs. cream
CBD capsules are for oral intake, while creams are used topically. CBD capsules may work systematically in the body, while creams are for targeted localized pain management.
People use CBD creams for a specific skin area for targeted pain and inflammation reduction. A disadvantage over capsules is that with topicals, dosage may be inconsistent.
CBD capsules ingredients
Depending on the intended use and suggested benefits, CBD capsules may have various formulations, such as other botanicals in the ingredient list. To make the capsule or the softgel, the providers may use additives or anti-caking agents.
The ingredients you may encounter often are mentioned in the table below.
| Ingredient | Suggested benefits | Possible side effects |
| Ashwagandha | Stress and anxiety reduction, sleep improvement | Digestive discomfort |
| L-theanine | Stress relief, better mood, and cognitive function, sleep improvement | Sleepiness |
| MCT oil | Higher CBD absorption | Digestive discomfort |
| Curcumin | Anti-inflammatory and immune system support | Skin rash and digestive discomfort |
| Chamomile | Pain and stress relief, improved immune system, lower inflammation, digestive support | Allergic reaction (especially in people with asthma) |
| Other cannabinoids (CBN, CBG, CBC, CBDa) | May work synergistically with other ingredients contributing positive benefits | Dry mouth, digestive discomfort, and drowsiness |
Potential risks and side effects of CBD capsules
CBD capsules, pills, and softgels are generally safe for most people. When used in accordance with the amounts recommended by the provider or as suggested by a healthcare provider, they should not pose side effects.
Remember that CBD may be contraindicated for people with known medical conditions and taking prescription medications. Individuals intolerant to CBD and other ingredients in a capsule, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, should consult a doctor before consumption.
In some cases, CBD capsules may cause the following adverse effects:
- Digestive discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Reduced appetite
Although the FDA doesn’t regulate the CBD market, it warns about possible liver or reproductive damage due to CBD overdosing in any form.
How many CBD capsules should you take?
Depending on the CBD amount in a capsule, manufacturers may recommend different amounts for daily intake. Check the product label to determine how many capsules you should take daily.
If in doubt, consult your doctor. While several clinical trials included higher than 100 mg of CBD, official health institutions recommend not exceeding the 70 mg daily dose.
Some providers may also suggest the titration technique — observing your body’s reaction to CBD and gradually increasing or decreasing the dosage. However, it is best to consult your doctor for dosage adjustments.
How long does it take CBD capsules to work?
CBD capsules may start to work in 2–4 hours. The capsules travel to the stomach, where, after the absorption, the active molecules reach the liver to be metabolized.
Nevertheless, the time CBD capsules take to work depends on the metabolism, body weight, and individual sensitivity. If you don’t feel any effects, consult your doctor to choose the best CBD capsules and pills in doses suitable for you.
Can I travel with CBD capsules internationally?
Generally, yes. You can travel with your CBD pills internationally, yet you should consider that they may be illegal in some countries. So, check the cannabidiol regulations in the intended country of visit.
Remember that while CBD products may be legal in a particular country, the amount of THC may be a concern. For instance, lower than 1% THC is legal in Switzerland, while Norway and Sweden only allow CBD with 0.00% THC.
Our conclusion of the best CBD capsules and pills
Summarizing the CBD capsules review above, the capsules and softgels offer more convenient pre-measured CBD doses with 1–2 capsules. We think one of the important aspects one should consider when buying supplements is their convenience of use. This is why we would choose CBD capsules, softgels, and pills over oils or gummies.
Remember that the products on our list are based on individual opinion and reviewed according to the available research. If you want to buy any of these products, consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.
Discover how and when you can use CBD capsules
Best CBD gummies for pain management to help with neuropathic pain relief.
Best CBD cream for back pain provides targeted pain decrease.
Best CBD oil for cats may be a healthy treat for your four-legged friend.
Best CBD for sleep may help you wind down before bed.
Best CBD gummies for stress and anxiety can help you better withstand anxiety.
Best CBD for nausea might help alleviate anxiety that often causes nausea
Best CBD-infused drinks provide refreshing properties along with the calming CBD benefits
FAQ
Where to buy CBD capsules?
You can buy CBD capsules from the online stores of reputable CBD brands. You may find CBD products in retail stores, yet check the eligibility of these products and stores with the original manufacturer. For your convenience, follow the links we provided in our reviews to order your CBD capsules safely.
Can you take CBD capsules every day?
It depends. Some people prefer using CBD products daily to manage certain health conditions. However, prolonged consumption of CBD is not well-researched. Thus, consult your healthcare provider for professional advice to avoid adverse effects.
Can I take CBD capsules with other medications?
No. CBD can interact with prescription medications, particularly with blood thinners, antidepressants, and any other drugs that are metabolized in the liver. If you are consuming any prescription medication, consult with your doctor before CBD intake to avoid adverse events.
Can I take CBD capsules while pregnant or breastfeeding?
FDA advises against CBD use in breastfeeding or pregnant women. CBD may harm the fetus or cause stillbirth. As CBD and THC can remain in the breast milk for up to 6 days, this may lead to consequential consumption of cannabinoids by a newborn, creating a risk of adverse effects.
- FDA. What You Need to Know (And What We’re Working to Find Out) About Products Containing Cannabis or Cannabis-derived Compounds, Including CBD.
- StatPearls Publishing. Cannabidiol (CBD).
- Journal of Clinical Medicine. Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol.
- Cureus. Efficacy, Safety, and Regulation of Cannabidiol on Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review.
- Clinical Drug Investigation. Effects of Cannabidiol on Appetite and Body Weight: A Systematic Review.
Show all references
- Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. Use of Cannabidiol in the Management of Insomnia: A Systematic Review.
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