Paul JamesUpdated on December 5, 2024
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One of the reasons CBD pills have grown so popular among cannabis users is due to their convenience.
As cannabidiol grows in popularity, many are finding relief in capsules (also referred to as soft gels or pills). As capsule competition increases, more brands are finding unique ways to craft these pills for optimum relief.
These capsules are often mixed with a variety of all-natural ingredients that may help with varying ailments. Additionally, capsules provide a familiar and discreet way to consume CBD.
Throughout this article, we’ll explore our summary of the best cannabidiol capsules to help you decide which is right for you.
What Are CBD Capsules / Softgels / Pills?
CBD capsules are all the same as other pills – the only difference is they contain cannabidiol and, potentially, other ingredients. Typically, you’ll find these pills either in a hard capsule or a soft gel.
One of the reasons capsules have grown so popular among frequent users is their convenience. Once you’ve swallowed a capsule, CBD will metabolize in your digestive system and make its way through the body for you to begin to feel the benefits.
Capsules are commonly made using a carrier oil. Carrier oils help with the digestion of the extract as well as enhance its dispersion throughout your body. Carrier oils widely used include MCT coconut oil and hemp seed oil.
Once inside your body, CBD will begin to interact with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). While the science isn’t 100% clear, it’s believed that this compound can balance out your ECS. In turn, providing you with the numerous benefits it’s known for.
Top 12 CBD Capsules Review
OUR TOP PICK
CBDfx
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total Range
200mg - 750mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
25mg per gel capsule
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$19.99 - $59.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.07 - $0.09 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Only uses two ingredients - full-spectrum oil and organic MCT oil
Very positive online customer reviews
Cons
No potency or flavor variations
CBDfx offers what appears to be one of the simplest CBD capsules on our list, and they use this simplicity to provide a quality product. Through using only two all-natural ingredients – full-spectrum oil and organic MCT oil – CBDfx has developed a capsule that’s certain to leave you feeling more at ease.
You can purchase CBDfx’s hemp capsules in two sizes – an 8-count or a 30-count. At a price tag of $19.99, the 8-count is perfectly priced to be within reach for new users simply looking to give these capsules a try. For your subsequent purchases, you may wish to consider the 30-count which gets you a better deal on a per milligram basis. These CBD capsules are entirely gluten-free, vegan, and made using non-GMO’s.
BEST EXTRACTS
CBDistillery
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum
Total Range
900mg - 1800mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
30mg per softgel
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$75.00 - $145.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.08 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3% (full-spectrum) and 0.0% (broad-spectrum)
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Only available through QR code
Flavor Variations
Number of flavors offered by the product or brand.
2
Potency Variations
Number of potency variations offered by the product or brand.
Offers softgels in both a full-spectrum and broad-spectrum extract
60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
Certificate of analysis can only be viewed through a QR code on already-purchased products
CBDistillery offers its CBD softgels in two varieties – a full-spectrum and broad-spectrum blend. While a full-spectrum blend will offer all the beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes found in the hemp plant, a broad-spectrum blend is nearly as effective and contains zero THC within it. This is a great option for those who prefer to avoid consuming THC, whether that’s due to sensitivity to THC or are worried their dosing use may be reflected on a drug test.
Each of CBDistillery’s CBD capsules can be purchased in either a 30-count or 60-count. Considering that each capsule comes with 30mg of potency, these capsules are some of the more potent on our list. While we probably wouldn’t recommend such potency to new users (it’s advisable that you start your journey around 15mg), this potency is popular among those who’ve been taking cannabidiol for some time.
If you’re interested in trying these capsules, we invite you to use our CBDistillery coupon.
BEST FULL-SPECTRUM
NuLeaf Naturals
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
300mg - 1800mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
30mg per capsule
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$29.99 - $149.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.08 - $0.10 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Total CBD range indicates size difference, not potency difference
NuLeaf Naturals has developed a reputation for its high-quality full-spectrum extractions and these CBD capsules are no exception. Each is made with a potency of 30mg and virgin hemp seed oil to ensure you’re getting all the phytonutrients the hemp plant has to offer.
If you’ve been interested in trying other cannabinoids, such as cannabigerol (CBG) or cannabinol (CBN), NuLeaf Naturals also offers capsules with these concentrations. The only downside to NuLeaf is the fact that all capsules come in one potency, 30mg. So, if you’re looking for a higher or lower dosage, you may want to opt for their CBD oils instead.
BEST FORMULAS
Elixinol
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total Range
900mg - 2700mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
15mg - 45mg per capsules
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$59.99 - $119.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.04 - $0.07 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Can be purchased in 6 variations for different conditions
All variations incorporate all-natural ingredients
Elixinol's website hosts lots of positive reviews
Cons
Capsules are a fairly low potency (15mg for all except the Extra Strength)
Free shipping only available on orders of $50 or more
If you’re looking for unique formulas with your capsule, look no further than Elixinol! Each capsule type is made using a blend of all-natural ingredients that can help promote wellness alongside the full-spectrum CBD extract.
For example, Elixinol offers Calm Stress Support Capsules that include 15mg of cannabidiol and 300mg of ashwagandha. Or you can opt for Immune Gut Health Capsules that are made with a potency of 15mg and 200mg of concentrated ginger in each.
Admittedly, all these capsules come with a fairly low serving (only 15mg). However, Elixinol does offer an Extra Strength capsule containing 45mg per serving, if you’re looking for an extra kick!
BEST THC-FREE
FOCL
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total Range
300mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
10mg per capsule (20mg for FOCL Night)
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$59.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.19 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping on orders over $50 or on subscriptions
60-day money back guarantee
Cons
Low dosage in FOCL Day
FOCL is a rather unique brand as their focus goes beyond CBD. Instead, FOCL seeks to make use of a variety of all-natural ingredients to help users with specific ailments, and they do this through two versatile products.
Their first CBD capsule is FOCL Day Stack – a daytime pill that promotes energy and focus. It does so through combining Rhodiola Rosea with Lion’s Mane, L-Theanine (Green Tea), Vitamin B6, and Bacopa Monnieri.
The other option they offer is FOCL Night Stack – a nighttime pill that helps ease the body and allows the brain to get to sleep faster. It does so through a mixture of Valerian Root, Hops Flower, Ashwagandha, Purple Passion Flower, and Griffonia simplicifolia (5-HTP). This is some of the best CBD for sleep, if that’s what you’re looking for.
The only downside we’ve found to FOCL’s products is that their FOCL Day Stack contains a lower dosage of hemp extract in comparison to other capsules on this list. Nonetheless, we still highly recommend these products to those who are looking to make use of a number of all-natural remedies rather than just the cannabidiol compound.
BEST VALUE
FIVE CBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total Range
1500mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
50mg per serving
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$59.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.04 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Vegan-friendly and made using all-natural ingredients
High potency
Cons
No potency options
No free shipping
FIVE CBD liquid capsules stand out for two reasons: 1.) they offer some of the best full-spectrum extracts on the market and 2.) they’re one of the best values you’ll come across (on a per milligram basis). Not to mention, these capsules are vegan-friendly and go great alongside FIVE CBD’s other high-quality products.
Each capsule contains 50mg of potency which is quite a good amount. If you’re new to the industry, you may want to opt for a smaller dose from another company. However, if you’ve tried cannabidiol before and know what to expect, this stronger potency is likely welcoming.
Medterra
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate
Total Range
750mg - 3000mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
25mg to 100mg per capsule
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$49.99 - $109.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.03 - $0.07 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3% (full-spectrum) or 0.0% (broad-spectrum and isolate)
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Can be purchased in a nighttime formula for better sleep
Made using high-quality hemp extract
Cons
Only one potency for full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products
Full-spectrum product much pricier than isolate (on a per milligram basis)
Medterra is one of the only companies out there that offer their capsules in all three extract types: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate. If you’re looking to garner the most out of what the hemp plant has to offer, we definitely recommend going with the full spectrum. However, if you’re looking for a THC-free product, then either broad-spectrum or isolate works.
The biggest downside to Medterra’s selection is that you can only purchase isolate capsules in three different potencies (ranging from 25mg to 100mg per capsule). All other capsules come in a standard 50mg per serving.
This includes their Good Night Capsules which come in a proprietary blend of liposomal and melatonin. Furthermore, this blend incorporates chamomile, passionflower, and GABA to further ease stress and anxiety before promoting better sleep.
R+R Medicinals
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum and Broad-spectrum
Total Range
1020mg - 3060mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
30mg - 90mg per capsule
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$55.00 - $100.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.03 - $0.05 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3% (full-spectrum) or 0.0% (broad-spectrum)
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping only available on orders of $60.00 or more
R+R Medicinals capsules stand out for one reason: they can be purchased in two extract types. The first is a full-spectrum, allowing for the entourage effect. The second is a broad-spectrum, a better option for those looking to avoid THC.
Admittedly, the full spectrum is where our highest interests lie. You can find 3 different potency options here, including 30mg, 60mg, or 90mg (all per serving). The broad-spectrum CBD capsules can only be purchased in 30mg and, therefore, are a better option for those just starting off in cannabidiol.
Still, regardless of your choice, we highly recommend R+R Medicinals due to the fact that they incorporate nanoemulsified technology. In simple terms, this allows for nano-sized emulsions of cannabinoids to enter your body – giving you the opportunity for quicker and more effective delivery.
Lazarus Naturals
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum and isolate
Total Range
250mg - 10,000mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
25mg - 50mg per serving
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$10.00 - $200.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.02 - $0.04 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3% (full-spectrum) or 0.0% (isolate)
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Different formulas to help with varying daily needs
Comes in two extract types
Cons
Large collection may be overwhelming to newcomers
Free shipping only available on orders of $50 or more
Lazarus Naturals’ collection of CBD capsules is more than most bargain for. Besides the fact that they come in either a full-spectrum or isolate blend, there are a number of different formulas here that may help with varying necessities.
For example, Lazarus Naturals offers Energy Capsules that incorporate isolate, cordyceps mushrooms, vitamin B6, rhodiola rosea, L-theanine, vitamin B12, and caffeine from green coffee beans. This combination of ingredients is bound to not only wake you up, but also help with cognitive functions for daily tasks.
If you’re looking for the opposite effects, Lazarus Naturals also offers sleep capsules that are infused with CBD, cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), passionflower extract, and lemon balm extract. These ingredients will not only alleviate stress and anxiety but also promote better sleep in the process.
All told, there’s a lot to look at here. Each capsule blend can be purchased in different counts (ranging from 10 capsules to 40 capsules). Prices vary depending on this count, the formula you choose, and overall potency.
Joy Organics
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total Range
300mg - 750mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
10mg - 25mg per softgel
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$39.95 - $74.95
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.09 - $0.13 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Uses water-soluble nanoemulsion technology which increases bioavailability
Two potency varieties for users with a range of experiences
Free shipping on all orders
Cons
Uses non-vegan ingredients
Joy Organics’ Premium softgels are developed using a formula to help with day-to-day stress. These pills can be purchased in either a 10mg or 25mg 30-pack which gives a lot of variety to users, depending on their experience.
When it comes to lists of the best CBD capsules, Joy Organics is almost always featured.
However, what makes Joy Organics capsules more unique than others on this list is the fact that they use water-soluble nanoemulsion extraction technology. This provides consumers with up to 200% more of bioavailability in comparison to other capsules.
The benefit of purchasing capsules is there are a wide variety on the market with different ingredients and potencies.
How to Take CBD Capsules / Softgels / Pills
Taking CBD capsules simply involves swallowing them as you would any other pill. Preferably, with a full glass of water. However, the time of day you take these capsules will likely play a significant role in the effects they have on you.
As you can see with our cannabidiol capsule list, some are designed for daytime use and others for nighttime. Not to mention, some capsules can be taken any time of the day. Since CBD doesn’t produce psychoactivity, it’s safe to take whenever. Still, you may wish to consider a few things before taking these pills.
The first is the dosage amount. It has been reported that high doses of cannabidiol can cause fatigue. With that said, you may want to keep a low dosage during the day. While you may not feel the effects as intensely, it’s less likely that low amounts will make you feel tired. Furthermore, lower doses in combination with caffeine may have benefits that enhance one’s ability to focus.
How to Figure Out the Right Dosage for CBD Capsules
In order to understand your dosage, you must pay attention to how many milligrams (mg) of CBD are in a single capsule.
While the right milligram count will vary from person to person, an extract containing anywhere from 5mg to 20mg is typically good to take during the day. Whereas higher doses (25mg to 50mg) are better taken at night.
Of course, this rule doesn’t apply to everyone, as it affects each of us differently. Some people may find it more beneficial to take higher doses during the daytime. If you’re new to dosing with cannabidiol and want to find the right dosage, we advise you to take the suggested dosage on the label. This is especially true for the products we featured as our best CBD capsules as they tend to work for most people.
If you don’t experience the effects you’re looking for by starting with a low dose, gradually increase your dose from there.
Luckily, measuring out a dosage with CBD gel capsules is easier than other consumption methods, such as tinctures or smoking hemp flowers.
Keep in mind, if you’re currently on medication, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking CBD. While it is rare, CBD could potentially cause negative interactions with certain medications.
Our Criteria for the Best CBD Capsules
CBD products currently aren’t regulated nor approved for medical use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – with the exception of Epidiolex. As a result, many disreputable brands have entered the marketplace and are selling unsafe and low-quality products.
For this reason, it’s vital to have certain criteria when purchasing cannabis products online. When determining the best CBD capsules, we’ve examined and evaluated the products through the following lens:
Hemp Source
CBD is a phytocannabinoid extracted from the hemp plant. We leaned towards brands that ensure all their hemp plants are grown organically and locally sourced.
Ingredients
Products can be made with a variety of ingredients. Look at these ingredients and make sure they meet your dietary specifications. Most of the companies we review have high standards for the ingredients they use and tend to only use all-natural elements in their CBD capsules.
Extract Type
As you shop, you’re going to come across 3 different extract types of CBD. It’s important to understand these as they’ll allow you to know what kind of cannabinoid and terpene blend is in the capsule. Extract types include:
Full Spectrum – Makes use of all of organic hemp’s cannabinoids. Can also produce the entourage effect.
Broad Spectrum – Makes use of all of hemp’s cannabinoids except for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBD Isolate – Pure CBD and no other cannabinoids.
Potency
On the label of your capsule, you will find a milligram (mg) count. This informs you of the potency of the product. The higher the mg-count, the more potent a product is.
Certificate of Analysis
Since CBD isn’t certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), one way companies assure the quality is by sending batches of product through a third-party test. These tests measure the exact makeup of the product, including the amounts of each cannabinoid. You’ll want to make sure the brand you purchase from offers access to these lab reports.
Pricing
The price shouldn’t be the primary decider of whether you choose to buy a certain product or not. However, it may give you some insight as to the quality of CBD. Admittedly, more expensive products tend to be safer and more potent.
POTENTIAL Side Effects of CBD CAPSULES
While CBD side effects are rare, they can happen. These side effects are typically mild, but may negatively interact with certain medications and cause further adverse effects.
CBD consumption may also cause:
Diarrhea
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Fatigue
Reduced Appetite
Furthermore, the long-term effects of CBD in pregnant women remain unknown. Until they are better understood, the FDA recommends caution when CBD is used by pregnant or lactating women. In fact, it may be safer to avoid CBD entirely if you happen to be in this category.
Paul James is a seasoned cannabis and CBD writer and expert. He is a mental health blogger who advocates CBD as a natural alternative to prescription medications. You can read more about this and other natural alternatives on his blog: https://bedlamite.co/."
CBD CAPSULES FAQ
CBD pills can carry a variety of effects for the user. Many report that CBD capsules have helped them improve sleep, alleviate pain, better control muscle spasticity (related to multiple sclerosis), and helped reduce anxiety levels.
The time of day you take a CBD capsule all depends on the dosage and what the other ingredients found within that product are. As previously mentioned, higher doses tend to be better for nighttime use whereas lower doses are optimal for daytime use. Some CBD capsules come with additional ingredients, such as melatonin, which will also factor into when you should take them.
You can purchase CBD pills just about anywhere right now, from gas stations to the internet. However, in order to ensure you’re receiving a safe and high-quality product, we suggest buying CBD capsules from sources that meet our above criteria.