CBD has grown in popularity over the years, with people giving positive testimonies of how it has helped relieve pain, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in Cannabis (hemp plant). There are over 100 similar cannabinoids in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system and produce a variety of effects. We extract CBD from industrial hemp, which is cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC.
CBD is used to manufacture various CBD products, such as CBD tinctures, topicals, capsules, and others. Tinctures and oils were one of the first products to hit the market, but they are not always the most convenient option. CBD capsules, soft gels, or pills are a portable and discreet way to take CBD on the go.
Apart from being easy to use, they and can provide more consistent dosing than oils, as each dose is pre-measured. They are also an ideal choice if you dislike the taste or texture of CBD oil.
CBD Softgel/ capsule helps protect the CBD oil by sealing it. This prevents air and light from damaging the CBD oil. Many brands produce CBD oil in soft gel, as they are often easy for people to consume by swallowing. However, unlike CBD oils, CBD capsules and pills are subject to additional breakdown in your digestive tract, which may decrease the potency.
CBD is unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) therefore, the safety, effectiveness, or quality of over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products cannot be guaranteed. It is therefore important to do thorough research to find quality CBD products.
However, to protect public health, they can take action against CBD companies that make unfounded health claims. Since CBD capsules are a favorite option for many, we have reviewed seven of the best CBD capsules Brands on the market that provide some best CBD capsules for Sleep, Anxiety, and Pain.
Top 7 CBD Capsules, Pills & Softgels in the Market 2022
- CBDistillery
- Premium Jane
- Green Roads
- Joy Organics
- PlusCBD
- NuLeaf Naturals
- cbdMD
How We Choose These Products
We considered several factors based on safety, quality, and transparency in our selection of the best CBD capsules as follows:
Source of Hemp
Identifying the source of the hemp is an assurance of the quality and safety of the product. Other countries may not regulate hemp production as much as the United States or Europe and may cause you harmful side effects. The USA and Europe contain proper hemp regulation that ensures your safety. A hemp source in the United States ensures you are not getting any harmful chemicals or high levels of THC in your CBD capsules.
Potency Levels
We examined the Levels of potency that a brand offers. Depending on one’s condition, some people may require more potent CBD capsules, while others prefer milder ones. We, therefore, chose brands that offer different Levels of Potency for the benefit of first-time users who may need to experiment with different potencies to determine the most effective dose.
Ingredients
Knowing the components of the CBD capsules is beneficial because some brands manufacture with additional health-boosting molecules, like curcumin or essential oils. These are often more expensive, but they could be worth it for you if these ingredients also boost the effects of CBD. Other capsules are certified as organic or vegan friendly, which is a plus.
Does a Third-party Lab Test the CBD?
A reputable company should provide access to its lab tests as proof of the purity and potency of its products. Third-party lab testing is crucial when you are purchasing a product that has no formal regulations in place. A transparent company will have their lab tests posted on their product page on their website or a separate page or link.
Brand Reputation
The reputation of the brand and the customer reviews show the user’s trust in the brand and product. A brand with a good reputation should not have been subject to an FDA warning letter from making any unsupported health claims.
Extract Type
We considered the type of CBD extract that is used depending on the effect one is looking for. If you want to benefit from the entourage effect, full-spectrum is the best option because contains CBD and other cannabinoids, including THC. Cannabinoids work better together than they do alone. Others benefit more from broad-spectrum or CBD Isolate, especially if you’re worried about failing a drug test. Broad-spectrum formulas include CBD and some other cannabinoids extracted, excluding THC. CBD isolates contain only CBD and no additional cannabinoids therefore are THC Free. We should note that hemp products contain 0.3 percent THC, full-spectrum CBD products do not include enough THC to produce a classic “high.
Pricing
Price is an aspect that determines access to the product. This varies from one brand to another based on the production methods used to extract, produce, distribute and promote their products. Our selection of brands recognizes the value of giving back to society, therefore, strives to make their products affordable.
Customer Experience
An important factor we considered in our choice is customer experience. How effective was the product in addressing the customer’s needs and how it improved their wellbeing? The Customer service provided by the brand was also a consideration.
Refund policy
We considered the refund policy of brands in case a consumer is not satisfied with a product or might want to return or exchange it. This factor helps ensure you get the security you need when buying the CBD capsules of your choice.
Best CBD Capsules, Pills & Softgels to buy in 2022
CBDistillery Capsules & Softgels
In-Depth Review
CBDistillery Softgels come in Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum (THC free) infused in a smooth gelatin shell an easy way to incorporate CBD in your day. Each easy-to-swallow soft gel contains 30 mg of CBD. CBD Softgels make it easy to access the therapeutic potential of CBD with you while you work, while you play, and while you travel since there is no mixing or prepping involved.
CBDistillery only sells the highest quality CBD capsules and pills that are derived from Non-GMO industrial hemp grown in the U.S. using natural farming practices. As a leader in the CBD industry, they were one of the very first companies to provide instant access to the third-party test results used to verify product purity and potency. You can access these results on their product page on their website or by scanning the QR code on your bottle.
A 2019 Survey carried out by the brand revealed that Softgels helps with mild anxiety, promotes calmness, improves sleep, and is great support for pain.
Ingredients: Fractionated Coconut Oil (MCT & Medium Chain Triglyceride), Full Spectrum Hemp Extract (Aerial Parts), Gelatin (Gelatin Capsules)
Consumer feedback: 4.5/5 Review Rating
Other CBD products: Oils, Gummies, Topical, CBD Powders
Highlights
- Colorado-grown hemp
- Available in two potency options
- They come in an easy-to-swallow soft gel form
- Lab-tested for potency and safety
- Fractionated coconut carrier oil for better absorption
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
Green Road Capsules & Softgels
In-Depth Review
Ranked as the #1 privately owned CBD Company in the U.S featured in many platforms notably in Forbes, produces some of the best CBD Capsules. All of Green Roads’ products are pharmacist-formulated, and the CBD in their capsules comes from hemp sourced from American facilities that use CO2 extraction, the industry gold standard.
Every batch of these calming, powerful capsules undergoes extensive third-party testing with results you can find either on Green Roads’ website or by scanning the QR code on your bottle. Green Roads have the best CBD Capsules for Sleep and the Best CBD Capsules for Anxiety, specially formulated in the three types of CBD capsules based on their function to support sleep, anxiety, and chronic pain. Even though they’re small and super easy to swallow, these capsules contain a substantial 25mg of Green Roads’ broad-spectrum CBD oil per serving.
Ingredients: Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Extract, Gelatin, Water, MCT Oil (Coconut Derived), and Hemp Seed Oil
Consumer feedback: 4.8 /5 Review rating
Other CBD products: Oils, Topical, Gummies, Pets, Chocolate & Coffee bars
Highlights
- American-grown hemp
- Non-GMO
- Pharmacist-formulated
- CO2 extraction
- Third-party lab-tested
- 30-day money-back guarantee for new and unopened products
- Isolate
- Gluten-Free
Premium Jane CBD Capsules
In-Depth Review
CBD capsules from Premium Jane are one of the best CBD capsules on the market! Extracted from the highest quality organic hemp grown in Kentucky using Hexane extraction, which is regarded as the best in the industry.
Premium Jane’s 1200mg CBD gel capsules contain high-quality ingredients. The full-spectrum hemp formula is encapsulated in a gluten-free casing, made from a glycerin and gelatin blend. The soft gel tablet format makes them easier to swallow than some other pills, ensuring that almost everybody can take these capsules.
Premium Jane creates the capsules using a solvent-less closed-loop extraction technique, ensuring a high-quality and effective hemp extract. The capsule dissolves in the stomach to leave the extract behind, allowing the user to benefit from the cannabinoids. A major advantage is that they are tasteless, perfect for anyone who dislikes the taste of hemp oil. These Capsules are a great support for Sleep, Stress, Pain, and Immunity.
Ingredients: Purified water, gelatin, glycerin, hempseed oil, hemp oil Extract
Consumer feedback: 5/5 Star Review
Other CBD products: Oils, Gummies, Topical, Bath Bombs, CBD Pets, Delta-8
Highlights
- Non-GMO hemp
- Grown Organically
- Third-party lab tested for chemical growth enhancers, solvents, and herbicides
- Unique full-spectrum hemp extract,
- Less than 0.3% THC
- 30 Day Satisfaction Guaranteed
Joy Organics CBD Softgels
In-Depth Review
Joy Organics CBD soft gel is in a class by itself, made with broad-spectrum oil, packed with phytonutrients. The combined benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant make these CBD Softgels synergistic.
Engineered with Nano Emulsion technology Joy Organic’s Softgels are tiny because they use nanoencapsulation. This is a very advanced technology that reduces the size of CBD molecules so that they’re easier for your body to absorb. It also makes the capsules much smaller, making them perfect for those who struggle with swallowing pills.
Joy Organics softgel comes in three unique blends, Curcumin, which is enriched with curcuminoids and works to provide healthy heart, joint, and muscle support. Joy Organics’ CBD softgel is one of the best CBD capsules for Sleep, made with Melatonin is excellent for those who have trouble sleeping. This formula contains melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating your sleep patterns, so you can wake up focused and less stressed.
The capsules are made from bovine gelatin, meaning they are not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Joy Organic CBD oil soft gel is specially crafted for everyday health, muscle, and joint health, and sleep support.
Ingredients: Phytocannabinoid-Rich Hemp Extract, Polysorbate Emulsifiers, Medium-Chain Triglycerides, Beta-Caryophyllene, Bovine-Derived Gelatin, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Water, Sulfur Dioxide, Tree Nuts (Coconut)
Consumer feedback: 4.9/5 Star Review Rating
Other CBD products: Oil tinctures, Gummies, topical, Energy Drink, Pet Products
Highlights
- Premium Broad Spectrum
- Third-Party Lab Tested
- High potency
- Nanoemulsion technology, Small-sized capsules easy to swallow, and absorption
- Contains Curcumin
- 30-day, money-back satisfaction guarantee
PLUSCBD Softgel Capsules
In-Depth Review
Plus CBD Award-winning CBD oil capsules and Softgels are produced from full-spectrum hemp. Available in all of our formulations and various sizes and strengths for your convenience: Raw Formula, Original Formula, Extra Strength Formula, Maximum Strength Formula.
To formulate its CBD oil capsules, PlusCBD uses what it calls a “Total Plant Complex,” which provides naturally fatty acids, plant sterols, terpenes, vitamin E, and full-spectrum hemp cannabinoids. PlusCBD Oil’s CBD Oil Capsules, are third-party tested and non-GMO, gluten-free, and 100 percent vegetarian.
These very highly reviewed CBD capsules have generated a dedicated following of consumers who attest to their effectiveness for pain, anxiety, and, specifically, for sleep. Plus, CBD oil softgel reviews also show that the body absorbs Softgels faster than it absorbs capsules and Softgels, therefore give faster relief to those who use them.
Ingredients: Hemp Extract (aerial plant parts), extra virgin olive oil, vegetarian softgel (modified corn starch, glycerin, carrageenan, sorbitol, & purified water), chlorophyllin.*
Consumer feedback: 5/5 Star Review
Other CBD products: Gummies, Balms, Sprays, CBD Drops, Roll-Ons, Creams & Skin Care, Pet CBD Oil, Immune System
Highlights
- Third-Party Tested
- Total Plant Complex
- Non-GMO
- Vegan and Gluten-Free
- Four Formulas
- High Potency
NuLeaf Naturals Capsules
In-Depth Review
NuLeaf Naturals is obtained from a whole plant that contains Full-spectrum cannabinoids and terpenes. The hemp used is sourced from organic farms in Colorado. It is a good replacement for synthetic drugs and medicines.
- The hemp is privately grown on large farms.
- To ensure safety and quality the brand monitors from seed to sell.
- The hemp seed extract is processed using a CO2 extraction.
- The capsules are easy to swallow and a convenient way for consuming CBD.
- Each soft gel contains 15 mg CBD and is verified and tested twice for purity and safety.
The capsules are free of alloys, traces of lead, nickel, and other toxins. These capsules are tested in batches, both in the local lab and by a third-party lab. The ingredients are plant-based. It contains non-GMO verified mixings.
The mixings are free of synthetic additives, sweeteners, and pesticides. The CBD soft gels of NuLeaf Naturals contain extra virgin Hemp Extract, hemp seed oil, Cassava Root, Vegetable Glycerin, and Purified Water.
The CBD extract in the product is highly concentrated. The cannabis plant contains CBC, CBN, and CBG as well. However, CBD is the most effective of all. The strength of CBD is high. Cassava root is high in calories and is vegan.
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Capsules helps to elevate mood, improve sleep patterns, and manage appetite. As reported in an Article NuLeaf Naturals CBD Capsules are also good for reducing the probability of cancer and tumor growth cells.
Ingredients: Full Spectrum Hemp Extract, Organic Virgin Hemp Seed Oil, Cassava Root Extract, Purified Water, Vegetable Glycerin
Consumer feedback: 5/5 Star Reviews
Other CBD products: CBD Oil, CBD Topical, CBD Pet
Highlights
- Organic & Natural
- Green Extraction Method
- Independent Lab Verified
- USA Colorado Grown Hemp
cbdMD Softgel Capsules
In-Depth Review
cbdMD Capsules are a convenient way to add Superior broad Spectrum CBD to your day that is batch-tested for quality, purity, and potency. cbdMd softgel capsules are affordable, sustainable, and contain no animal products (making them both vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, a relative rarity for capsules).
As per an Article by The CBD Encyclopedia, cbdMD capsules are an effective CBD dose used in the treatment array of medical symptoms and conditions ranging from chronic pain, autoimmune disease, neurological conditions, and mood disorders.
Ingredients: Hemp Extract (Cannabidiol, Cannabigerol, Cannabinol), Guar Gum, MCT Oil, and Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.
Consumer feedback: 4.5/5 Star Review Rating.
Return Policy: 60-day money-back guarantee.
Other CBD products: Oils, CBD Gummies, Topical, CBD for Pets, Skin Care, Bath Products, Cleaning Spray
Highlights
- Products feature cbdMD’s Superior Broad Spectrum Formula
- Free shipping on all U.S. orders over $79.95
- The product range is third-party lab-tested
- All products come from high-grade American hemp
- Offers 60-day money-back guarantee on all items
- Utilizes a gentle, proprietary hybrid process to remove THC
- Vegan
CBD capsules vs. Pills vs. Softgels: What are the Differences?
Softgels and capsules are popular ways to take CBD, however, few consumers know the difference between CBD Softgels and CBD capsules. They’re often confused with popping pills. Softgel refers to a one-piece capsule that is made from gelatin mixed with glycerin or sorbitol. The gelatin used may be vegan or not, depending on the company’s policies and manufacturing methods.
Softgels themselves usually have a neutral flavor and are more expensive to manufacture when compared to capsules or tinctures. Capsule refers to any kind of small container, especially one that is round or cylindrical. Capsules consist of two pieces that fit together to contain either a powder, jelly or liquid inside. The two external pieces may be the same color or contrasting colors.
Capsules usually have a neutral flavor and may or may not be sealed at the edges. For both CBD softgel and capsules, the cannabinoids are extracted in the same way.
Besides the composition, there are a few other differences between Softgels and capsules: Softgels have a smoother shape and contour as compared to regular capsules. Many individuals find Softgels to be easier to swallow as compared to capsules.
Since Softgels are sealed, they are airtight and have a longer shelf life than capsules. Softgels are the preferred choice for oils such as CBD as they provide better vitamin retention over capsules. Consumers tend to prefer Softgels over capsules as they are easier to take and mask any odor or strong taste of what’s inside. Softgels and Capsules experience a breakdown in the digestive tract, making them feel less potent.
How Do They Differ Between CBD Oil & Other CBD Products?
The most apparent difference between capsules and other options is the method of administration. All you need to do with a capsule is swallow it down with water — and wait for the effects. However, there are also advantages to capsules and other options depending on individual preferences. With CBD oil, there are a lot more options in flavors and ingredients.
CBD capsules are simpler, therefore, easier to use. You know precisely how much you are taking, which makes it ideal to figure out the dose that works for you. They’re discreet and easy to carry around in your pillbox. Typically, the reason many people choose to take them, you can’t taste the strong herbal taste of CBD oil many people struggle to get accustomed to. If this is your case, then CBD capsules are a better option than CBD oil.
Why Use Them
CBD capsules are cannabidiol (CBD) in the form of pills. They contain an accurate and concentrated dose of hemp-derived CBD. Softgels are a great product to use for precision dosing for more serious illnesses and chronic pain because the amount of CBD in each product is exact. Those with conditions that require consistently accurate dosing, such as epilepsy, cancer, or chronic pain, will likely benefit from this aspect of Softgels.
CBD capsules offer all the known benefits of CBD, and as they’re more discreet than CBD oils and CBD vape juices, you can take them anywhere. While CBD products are legal on a federal level and in most states, many people are still not comfortable taking them in public.
CBD capsules and Softgels are convenient because they are discreet. Additionally, both Softgels and capsules are a great support for Anxiety, sleep, and chronic pain. Softgels are a good solution for those who can’t tolerate the taste of tinctures and oils. Helpful for people who struggle to swallow pills, the smooth, gelatin coating of Softgels makes them easier to swallow than regular pills.
Are They Safe?
CBD used to produce CBD capsules or Softgels contains a THC level of 0.3% therefore will not get you high. Presently, the only CBD product approved by the Food and Drug Administration is a prescription oil called Epidiolex. It’s approved to treat two types of epilepsy. Aside from Epidiolex, state laws on the use of CBD vary.
Though CBD is often well tolerated it can cause side effects, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you’re taking, such as blood thinners.
Another cause for concern is the unreliability of the purity and dosage of CBD in the Capsules/Softgels. As reported in one article by Mayo Clinic, a recent study of 84 CBD products bought online showed that more than a quarter of the products contained less CBD than labeled. In addition, THC was found in 18 products. If you plan to use any products containing CBD, it is advisable to consult with your doctor.
How to Use It?
CBD softgel and capsules are consumed orally with water, and since it doesn’t cause stomach irritation they can also be taken on an empty stomach. It is also recommended for best results to take CBD capsules or Softgels at the same time every day to establish a consistent level of CBD.
CBD capsules are made of vegetable cellulose or gelatin so if you are a vegan or just trying to avoid consuming animal products, consider looking for brands that offer plant-based capsules. CBD Capsules with coconut oil as a carrier is a better option because it helps the CBD oil work faster.
How Many Should I take?
There’s no one “correct” CBD dosage, the amount needed varies from one person to another depending on their needs. If you are new to CBD, it’s best to start at a low dosage (one capsule/softgel at a time) and steadily work your way up to the ideal dose. In most cases, the brand indicates on the product packaging the recommended dosage levels as a guideline.
It is also advisable to speak to your doctor/physician, along with product packaging and lab reports, to learn more about the potency of a product to ensure appropriate dosing. Ensure to be consistent with your intake of CBD capsules to aid the Endocannabinoid system or take advantage of the “entourage effect”, especially with a full-spectrum CBD oil capsule.
Where to Buy It?
CBD can be purchased at different sell points depending on your preference or convenience needs. If you live in a state where CBD products are legal, you can buy from your local dispensary and CBD shops. Online purchase is a more convenient option if you don’t enjoy waiting for your products or you want to do a physical check before purchasing. If you cannot purchase it physically or perhaps because of other limitations like no local dispensary, then order online.
Since the CBD industry is still unregulated extra caution is needed while purchasing online. It is advisable to purchase only from an authorized seller or directly from the brand’s website to safeguard against false claims displayed by some brands. While this will guarantee the authenticity of the capsules but you will also have access to discount codes which you will save money.
If you choose to purchase directly from the brand, check for batch test results available on their website. Access to this batch results confirms the purity, potency, and safety, ensuring the products contain nothing that might be harmful to you.
Final Thoughts
CBD Capsules or Softgels are a preferred option for many people because they are convenient. They are easy to swallow and portable. While they may experience a breakdown in the digestive tract, making them feel less potent, they are a good solution for those who can’t tolerate the taste of tinctures and oils. You’ll need to experiment until you find your “just right” CBD dose, but be sure to consult a doctor before trying CBD. When you’re ready to give CBD oil capsules a try for yourself, we recommend the brands we have reviewed based on quality, safety, and effectiveness.