CBD pills (aka CBD capsules, softgels or tablets) carry many cannabis compounds, particularly when they contain broad or full-spectrum hemp extracts. Not as easily absorbed as CBD oils but equal to edibles in terms of convenience when on-the-go. Used consistently, your mind and body will feel a sense of calm, healing, and rejuvenation.
Cannabis contains beneficial and effective compounds for a wide variety of ailments. Cannabinoids and terpenes are the most abundant and work together. CBD and THC are the most famous cannabinoids of them. CBD relaxes you without a high.
Many use CBD pills to relax, feel less anxious and stressed, sleep better, relieve muscle and joint pain, reduce inflammation, and generally improve physiological balance.
Hemp-derived CBD capsules and softgels with <0.3% THC are federally legal (47 states allow some form of CBD). Very easy to find and purchase online and in-store.
12 Best CBD Pills for Maximum Pain Relief
Check out our favorite CBD pills, capsules, and softgels below. Most options are full-spectrum with <0.3% THC which are more effective for pain relief and mild stress. We've included a few broad-spectrum and isolate options as well if you want to go completely THC-free.
Dosing matters here. An experienced CBD user takes 2-3 CBD oil capsules (30-40mg each) per night to remedy pain or inflammation, as well as aid sleep and boost relaxation. Beginners should go steady, 1-2 capsules (15-20mg each) per night is sufficient.
1. Papa & Barkley CBD Capsules
Available for $59.99 at Papa & Barkley
- CBD/bottle: 900mg
- CBD/capsule: 30mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: Whole-Plant
- Gluten-free, soy-free, vegan
- Great for: sleep and relaxing
2. Care By Design Relief CBD Soft Gels
Available for $65 at Care By Design
- CBD/bottle: 800mg
- CBD/capsule: 27mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: Whole-Plant
- Terpene highlights: Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Eucalyptol
- Great for: aches and pains
3. NuLeaf Naturals CBD Capsules
Available for $29.99 at NuLeaf Naturals
- CBD/bottle: 300mg (20 count)
- CBD/capsule: 30mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: Whole Plant
4. Lazarus Naturals 50mg CBD Capsules
Available for $50 at Lazarus Naturals
- CBD/bottle: 2000mg (40 count)
- CBD/capsule: 50mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Terpene highlights: Limonene, Caryophyllene
- Great for: sleep, aches, and pains
5. CBDistillery CBD Softgels
Available for $60 at CBDistillery
Use code “ECREVIEWED” for 15% off
- CBD/bottle: 900mg
- CBD/capsule: 30mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Non-GMO
- Great for: mild anxiety, post-workout recovery, sleep
6. Populum CBD Softgels
Available for $79 at Populum
- CBD/bottle: 750mg
- CBD/capsule: 25mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Terpene highlights: Limonene, Humulene, Ocimene, Myrcene
- Great for: mild anxiety, stress, pain, winding down, sleep
7. Neurogan CBD Softgels
Available for $59.95 at Neurogan
- CBD/bottle: 2400mg
- CBD/capsule: 40mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free
- Great for: calm focus, joint pain, sleep, mild inflammation
8. Farmacy Bliss CBD Softgels
Available for $65.99 at Farmacy Bliss
- CBD/bottle: 900mg
- CBD/capsule: 30mg
- THC: <0.3%
- Extract: Full-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- USDA organic, kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free
- Great for: mild pain relief, sense of calm
9. Medterra CBD Capsules
Available for $66.99 at Medterra
- CBD/bottle: 1500mg
- CBD/capsule: 50mg
- THC: 0%
- Extract: Broad-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Non-GMO
- Great for: muscle aches, joint pains, post-workout recovery
10. Foria Wellness CBD Gel Capsules
Available for $72 at Foria
- CBD/bottle: 750mg
- CBD/capsule: 25mg
- THC: 0%
- Extract: Broad-Spectrum
- Extraction method: CO2
- Great for: day-time use, mild stress, muscle aches, relaxing
11. cbdMD CBD Oil Capsules
Available for $99.99 at cbdMD
- CBD/bottle: 1500mg
- CBD/capsule: 50mg
- THC: 0%
- Extract: Broad-Spectrum
- Extraction method: Whole-Plant
- Vegan, gluten-free
- Great for: daily stress, post-workout recovery, mild joint pain
12. Green Roads Relax CBD Capsules
Available for $49.99 at Green Roads
- CBD/bottle: 750mg
- CBD/capsule: 25mg
- THC: 0%
- Extract: Isolate
- Extraction method: CO2
- Soy-free, gluten-free, vegan
- Great for: beginners, relaxing, day-time use
How we pick the best CBD pills
- Hemp extraction method
Advanced Supercritical CO2 extraction is preferred for CBD pills. These extraction processes are environmentally-friendly, efficient, and produce uncontaminated extracts designed for purity and safety. Cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds remain intact, though small amounts will be lost in the process. CO2 extract is a great choice for high-quality full-spectrum CBD capsules.
Cold-press or Whole-Plant hemp extracts are also very good. This method retains all plant compounds, and very few are lost. The most environmentally-friendly method of extraction. Very useful for CBD hardshell capsules with hemp flower in them.
- Third-party testing
All CBD pills must be third-party tested. Without third-party testing, you’ll never know what’s actually in your product. Testing should be conducted by accredited, independent laboratories specializing in cannabis and cannabis-related analysis. Once the analysis is complete, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) is produced by the laboratory.
A COA shows the cannabinoid profile, terpene profile, heavy metals testing, mycotoxin testing, and residual solvents testing.
- Hemp extract type
Full-spectrum hemp extract is preferred. You get a full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other essential plant compounds. Each plant compound works synergistically in your body, enhancing each other’s benefits. The inclusion of trace THC (<0.3%) is crucial here. THC provides additional benefits not found in broad-spectrum CBD hemp extracts.
Certain cannabinoid and terpenoid combos are good for various physiological ailments: CBD + THC + cannabinol (CBN) + cannabigerol (CBG) + cannabichromene (CBC) is a great combo for general health and wellness. Pair with terpenes such as linalool, pinene, myrcene, and limonene. Soothing, calming, balancing, and rejuvenating.
- Dietary requirements
Not all CBD capsules are made for all dietary requirements. Some capsules use ingredients derived from animals, while others contain gluten. Be aware of this.
Gelatin, for example, is derived from animal fat and commonly used to create CBD softgels. Not suitable for vegans. Keep an eye out for plant-based alternative ingredients (vegetable glycerin).
- Additional ingredients used
Additional ingredients are often used in CBD capsules and pills to enhance the experience. Some pills include melatonin for enhanced sleep and relaxation benefits. Others include turmeric and black pepper for better absorption. You just need to know which ingredients suit your requirements.
Other additional ingredients used in CBD pills include:
- Curcumin — effective anti-inflammatory
- Boswellia — anti-inflammatory & pain-relieving
- Ashwagandha — anti-anxiety & stress
- Vitamin B — enhanced relaxation and calm
- L-theanine — relaxation (good in combination with melatonin)
- Cannabidiol content
The absorption rate and bioavailability of CBD capsules are lower than other CBD delivery methods. CBD content is lost through the digestive system. Low-strength capsules (5-15mg of CBD) aren’t very effective here, even for beginners. We recommend high to ultra-strength CBD capsules — 25-50mg of CBD per capsule is optimal.
- How many CBD pills do you get in a container?
Most CBD pills come in 30 or 60-count containers (sometimes 100-count). The 30-count containers usually last 2-4 weeks depending on how many you consume in a day. The 60-count containers typically last 4-8 weeks. We recommend getting 60+ pill containers. Though the price is higher than 30-count containers, there’s more bang for your buck.
- Storing CBD capsules
Once purchased, CBD capsules must be stored properly. CBD softgels made out of soft gelatin or vegetable glycerin can degrade over time if exposed to air, heat, and oxygen. Keep them in cool, dry environments away from high temperatures and moisture.
What are CBD pills?
CBD pills, capsules, softgels, or tablets are a flavorless and odorless way of consuming CBD (and other cannabinoids and terpenes).
They are exactly the same as regular medicinal pills with CBD hemp extract infused in them. Perfect if you’re on-the-go and require a steady, consistent dose of CBD throughout the day.
Why take CBD pills?
CBD pills are naturally odorless and flavorless. A far better alternative to the often bitter and earth flavor of natural tasting CBD oils. They’re also very easy to consume. You don’t need any fancy expensive equipment or devices (CBD vape kits, etc) to consume them. All you need is a glass of water or your favorite soda, 1-2 capsules, and swallow. Perfect for beginners.
Practicality aside, CBD pills are also slow-absorbing. You can take the capsules in the morning and feel physiological relief for up to eight hours. Great if you’re busy and on-the-go. Also perfect for stressful days.
How to use CBD pills
Depends entirely on your CBD regimen. 1-2 pills in the morning and night are optimal. Swallow with water, fruit juice, or your favorite soda. Offer perfect CBD measurements for strict dosing regimens. Check your CBD dosing guideline.
Bioavailability and absorption rate of CBD pills
Absorption rate and bioavailability of CBD pills are lower than vaping CBD e-juice and smoking CBD flower (or pre-rolls), as well as the sublingual application of CBD oils.
CBD softgels and capsules travel through the digestive system. There’s no avoiding this. They get absorbed through the digestive tract and a percentage gets broken down by the liver, resulting in decreased absorption and elimination of entire cannabidiol molecules.
How to boost CBD absorption and bioavailability of pills
Turmeric and black pepper are known to promote better absorption and bioavailability. Black pepper contains piperine. Piperine is a very effective bio-enhancer. It helps absorb turmeric, which, in turn, helps absorb cannabidiol.
Taken with CBD pills produces great results. Combine both with fatty foods such as salmon, eggs, cheese, and avocados. Salmon curry, for example, is a perfect meal with CBD pills. Turmeric and black pepper-infused hemp pills are also available.
Types of CBD pills
1. CBD capsules
What are CBD capsules?
CBD capsules (sometimes known as CBD hardshell capsules) are miniature two-piece, cylindrical containers filled with CBD oil or CBD powder — CBD hemp flower is sometimes placed in them as well. Larger than softgels. Lower permeability too. Still effective but not the most popular choice.
Manufacturers and brands prefer capsules because they can be made in-house with relative ease. Softgels, on the other hand, often require external, third-party help producing them.
CBD capsule uses & benefits
CBD capsules work very much the same as CBD softgels. Absorption rate isn’t as high as softgels. The hard shell makes it harder for the body to digest. We recommend capsules to anyone wanting loose-fill hemp flower in their product. In general, we believe capsules are simply preferred by brands because they’re less expensive to produce.
2. CBD softgels
What are CBD softgels?
CBD softgels are different from CBD capsules. Amber or yellow-colored. Made with gelatin or vegetable glycerin. Better absorption in your body. Airtight design. Can trap vital ingredients and nutrients inside better than capsules. More expensive for manufacturers and brands to create. Maybe a little more expensive than traditional capsules.
CBD softgel uses & benefits
CBD softgels have a slightly better absorption rate thanks to the gelatin/vegetable glycerin. Superior choice if you’re consuming capsules with CBD oil that isn’t water-soluble or created using nano-technology. Similar to capsules, softgels can be used all throughout the day. Slightly quicker results but not by much.
Advantages and disadvantages of CBD pills
Advantages of CBD pills
- Very convenient — can be taken whenever, wherever you like
- Slow-releasing — perfect for a gradual dose of CBD throughout the day
- Flavorless and odorless — good alternative to naturally-flavored CBD oils (bitter, earthy tasting)
- Consistent dosing — perfect if you’re on a strict CBD regimen
- Large range of options — variety of strengths and bottles sizes
Disadvantages of CBD pills
- Decreased absorption and bioavailability — less effective than CBD oils (sublingual), CBD pens, and CBD hemp flower
- Slower time to work in your body — won’t produce immediate effects and benefits
CBD pill side-effects
CBD pills can cause short-term, temporary, and non-life-threatening side-effects such as:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Stomach complaints
- Appetite changes
- Nausea & vomiting (rare)
CBD can interact with certain medications too. Use blood-thinners such as warfarin and ibuprofen with caution. Consult with your physician if you notice any side effects.
Can you give CBD pills to your pets?
Yes. You can purchase CBD pills for pets. Good for regular dosing throughout the day. Can mix with food. Good alternative to naturally-flavored CBD oils — especially if your dog or cat dislikes the bitter, earthy taste. Many pet CBD capsules carry vegan ingredients. No gelatin, no dairy. All non-GMO and organic. Be on the lookout for those. Others do contain ingredients sourced from animals.
Are CBD pills for pets safe?
Yes. CBD pills designed for pets are safe. Make sure you stick to the dosing guidelines found on the packaging. As a general rule of thumb, 0.2-0.3 mg of CBD per lb of body weight. Isolate CBD extracts are the safest but least effective (no synergistic entourage effect). Broad-spectrum is a good alternative. No THC but combines various other cannabinoids and terpenes.
Can you give regular human CBD pills to pets?
Yes, you can. But be careful. CBD pills made for humans are generally stronger than pet CBD capsules. They may also contain ingredients such as alcohol or artificial sweeteners. These ingredients are often toxic to animals. Be aware of the extract type as well. A large number of CBD pills for humans carry full-spectrum CBD hemp extracts with <0.3% THC. Not suitable if you don’t like the idea of your pet consuming an intoxicating compound no matter how small the percentage.