The 7 Best CBD Capsules of 2024

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you
buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
Here’s our process
Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
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?
Read more about our vetting process.
Cannabidiol (CBD) capsules deliver CBD through the digestive system and can be an easier way to dose. The best capsules are easy to swallow, containing natural ingredients and few allergens.
Share on Pinterest
A quick look at the best CBD capsules
Best overall: Joy Organics Premium Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels | Skip to review
Joy Organics Premium Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels
Skip to review
Best full-spectrum CBD: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Capsules | Skip to review
Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Capsules
Skip to review
Best lower-dose full-spectrum CBD: Bluebird Botanicals Classic Full-Spectrum Softgels | Skip to review
Bluebird Botanicals Classic Full-Spectrum Softgels
Skip to review
Best CBD isolate: Medterra Daily Relief Capsules | Skip to review
Medterra Daily Relief Capsules
Skip to review
Best for vegans: Sunsoil Full Spectrum CBD Oil Vegan Capsules | Skip to review
Sunsoil Full Spectrum CBD Oil Vegan Capsules
Skip to review
Best for the entourage effect: NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Capsules | Skip to review
NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Capsules
Skip to review
Best high dose: Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels | Skip to review
Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels
Skip to review
How we chose
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high quality, clearly labeled ingredients. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the CBD dosage and THC content.
Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a dosage and how to take it.
Third-party labs: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
ISO 17025-compliant
Available certificate of analysis (COA): MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s COA after receiving its third-party lab results.
COA
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
The best CBD capsules

Joy Organics Premium Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 10 mg per softgel, 25 mg per softgel
COA: available online
available online
Count: 30 softgels per bottle
Use code “healthcbd” for 20% off.
$39.95 AT JOY ORGANICS
*Price may vary.
Joy Organics offers these broad-spectrum CBD capsules in two potency options: 10 and 25 milligrams (mg). The 10 mg per serving product may be a good way for CBD novices to try it, while the 25-mg capsules may be better suited to experienced users.
The capsules, or softgels, are made with gelatin, so they are not suitable for vegans.
Customer reviews for this product are very positive. Many say the capsules are effective.
do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
two options for potencies available
the nanoemulsion technology may help with faster absorption
the capsules contain gelatin and are not suitable for vegans
only one container size available
do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
two options for potencies available
the nanoemulsion technology may help with faster absorption
the capsules contain gelatin and are not suitable for vegans
only one container size available
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50

Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Capsules

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 25 mg per capsule
COA: available online with batch number
available online with batch number
Count: 30 capsules per bottle, 60 capsules per bottle
$74.99 AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.

Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Liquid Capsules come in doses of 25 mg of full-spectrum CBD in bottles of 30 and 60 capsules.

The manufacturer notes that it uses Charlotte’s Web hemp, which is naturally high in CBD, delivering a full-spectrum hemp extract. This means the product includes other terpenes and cannabinoids found naturally in hemp.
terpenes
Charlotte’s Web writes that it can promote calm and focus, help people manage stress, and encourage good sleep cycles.

the only other ingredient is organic extra-virgin olive oil
the capsule contains vegetable cellulose, making it suitable for vegans
if the 25-mg dose is too strong, the company also offers a 15 mg oil liquid capsule
unsuitable for people who want to avoid THC
some reviewers note the capsules leave an aftertaste
the only other ingredient is organic extra-virgin olive oil
the capsule contains vegetable cellulose, making it suitable for vegans
if the 25-mg dose is too strong, the company also offers a 15 mg oil liquid capsule
unsuitable for people who want to avoid THC
some reviewers note the capsules leave an aftertaste
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: calculated at checkout

Bluebird Botanicals Classic Full-Spectrum Softgels

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 15 mg per softgel
COA: available online
available online
Count: 30 softgels per bottle, 60 softgels per bottle, 120 softgels per bottle
$29.95 AT BLUEBIRD BOTANICALS
*Price may vary.
Bluebird Botanicals offers a concentrated hemp CBD softgel consisting of United States-grown hemp.
This is a full-spectrum product, which means the capsule contains other compounds in the plant, such as terpenes and flavonoids. These pills may also contain trace amounts of THC.
The ingredients include full-spectrum hemp, organic fractionated medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) coconut oil, and broad-spectrum hemp distillate.
People can take a maximum of 4 softgels a day.
has a lower dose that may reduce any potential side effects
it is an affordable option
available in a range of sizes
contains bovine gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans
contains fractionated coconut oil
has a lower dose that may reduce any potential side effects
it is an affordable option
available in a range of sizes
contains bovine gelatin, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans
contains fractionated coconut oil
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75

Medterra Daily Relief Capsules

CBD type: isolate
isolate
CBD Potency: 25 mg per capsule, 50 mg per capsule
COA: available online
available online
Number of servings: 30 per container
Use code “health20” for 20% off.
$49.99 AT MEDTERRA
*Price may vary.

Medterra CBD Gel Capsules are suitable for people looking for a purer CBD product. Each softgel contains CBD isolate, which does not contain any THC. The only other ingredients are MCT coconut oil and bovine gelatin.

They come in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, with 30 capsules in each bottle.
Medterra writes it has developed this product with doctors and recommends the capsules for people wanting to use CBD morning or night.

contain 99.6% CBD and no THC
suitable for those having regular drug tests
available in a range of strengths
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy due to MCT coconut oil
contains bovine gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians
contain 99.6% CBD and no THC
suitable for those having regular drug tests
available in a range of strengths
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy due to MCT coconut oil
contains bovine gelatin, making them unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75 in the United States
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75 in the United States

Sunsoil Full Spectrum CBD Oil Vegan Capsules

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 20 mg per capsule
COA: available online
available online
Count: 30 capsules per bottle
$30.00 AT SUNSOIL
*Price may vary.
Sunsoil states that these full-spectrum capsules are a suitable vegan alternative to softgels.

Each capsule contains 20 mg of CBD. Each bottle contains 30 capsules.
The company recommends people take this product with water every 4–6 hours, especially as it says the capsules are larger in size than softgels.
They contain organic hemp and coconut oil and are gluten-free.

vegan-friendly
the company states all of the ingredients in this product are organic
a larger size than many softgels, which may make them harder to swallow
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy
vegan-friendly
the company states all of the ingredients in this product are organic
a larger size than many softgels, which may make them harder to swallow
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75

NuLeaf Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Capsules

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 15 mg per capsule
COA: available online with batch number
available online with batch number
Count: 60 or 120 capsules per bottle
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$49.00 AT NULEAF
*Price may vary.
NuLeaf uses a full-spectrum CBD oil from whole-plant extract. The capsules contain additional cannabinoids, including cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol (CBN), which the company claims can enhance and amplify the benefits of CBD through the “entourage effect.”

The company uses the carbon dioxide (CO2) process to extract the CBD from organic hemp grown from company-owned farms. Other ingredients include organic virgin hempseed oil, cassava root extract, purified water, and vegetable glycerin.

NuLeaf works with independent labs to check levels of cannabinoids and terpenes and make sure its products do not contain contaminants. A 30-mg dose consists of 2 capsules.

“I took these NuLeaf Naturals CBD capsules before stressful speaking situations, and my partner has been taking them before bed to help him sleep. They don’t have a taste or scent, and as they’re plant-based, they’re particularly squishy.
Full-spectrum CBD tends to make me feel sleepy, so I don’t think I benefitted from it in the way I wanted to (more focused, less snoozy). But my partner is really digging them for sleep and says he really thinks they’re helping him sleep through the night.
I don’t think I’ve really benefitted from these softgels, although I do appreciate how easy they are to take — especially if you’re not into tinctures or anything with a taste. My partner is a big fan and says they’ve been helping him fall and stay asleep at night, which is a good review from him.”
— Jamey Powell, former Healthline senior editor
“I took these NuLeaf Naturals CBD capsules before stressful speaking situations, and my partner has been taking them before bed to help him sleep. They don’t have a taste or scent, and as they’re plant-based, they’re particularly squishy.
Full-spectrum CBD tends to make me feel sleepy, so I don’t think I benefitted from it in the way I wanted to (more focused, less snoozy). But my partner is really digging them for sleep and says he really thinks they’re helping him sleep through the night.
I don’t think I’ve really benefitted from these softgels, although I do appreciate how easy they are to take — especially if you’re not into tinctures or anything with a taste. My partner is a big fan and says they’ve been helping him fall and stay asleep at night, which is a good review from him.”
— Jamey Powell, former Healthline senior editor
plant-based softgel, making them suitable for vegans and vegetarians
the smallest bottle size is very affordable
may produce the entourage effect
contains organic ingredients
contains THC, which may not be suitable for people who want to avoid this compound
has a higher dose
plant-based softgel, making them suitable for vegans and vegetarians
the smallest bottle size is very affordable
may produce the entourage effect
contains organic ingredients
contains THC, which may not be suitable for people who want to avoid this compound
has a higher dose
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74

Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 100 mg per softgel
COA: available online with batch number
available online with batch number
Count: 40 or 100 softgels per bottle
$79.99 AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.
These full-spectrum softgels have some of the highest doses of CBD per serving, with each softgel containing 100 mg of CBD.

This product contains additional compounds from the cannabis plant, such as other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Lazarus Naturals recommends starting with a 100-mg dose. People then need to wait 2 hours and adjust the dose as necessary. The company also states that this product is best suited for those already familiar with CBD.

a suitable choice for those who require a higher dose to reach their desired effects
may produce the entourage effect
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy
people who cannot eat grapefruit must speak with a healthcare professional before ordering
a suitable choice for those who require a higher dose to reach their desired effects
may produce the entourage effect
unsuitable for those with a tree nut allergy
people who cannot eat grapefruit must speak with a healthcare professional before ordering
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Comparing the best CBD capsules
The following table compares the softgels and capsules in this article on price, dosage, and more.
Joy Organics
Charlotte’s Web
Bluebird Botanicals
Medterra
Sunsoil
NuLeaf
Lazarus Naturals
CBD capsules vs. softgels
Capsules and softgels are pills that people take in supplement or medication form. Capsules can contain either dry or liquid ingredients, while softgels only contain liquid.
Capsules can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian. Some softgels may be vegetarian or vegan, but most contain animal gelatin.
Softgels are more flexible than capsules, which may make them easier for some people to swallow.
CBD capsules vs. oils
CBD capsules and oils have their benefits and drawbacks, so which one someone chooses depends on their preferences and priorities.
CBD capsules
CBD capsules can provide a more precise dose of CBD. They are also more convenient for use on the go.
However, taking CBD in this form means it will pass through the digestive tract. This will lengthen the time it takes a person to feel the effects of CBD, and it may dilute its potency.
dilute its potency
People place CBD oil under the tongue or add it to food and drink. Placing the oil underneath the tongue may result in a more rapid and less diluted dose of CBD.
However, some find it difficult to get an accurate dose of CBD with this method, while others do not like the taste of CBD oil.
Why use CBD capsules instead of alternatives?
Many people use CBD products for various conditions, including stress and anxiety, physical pain, and inflammation.
stress
anxiety
inflammation
People can consume CBD in many ways, including:
applying it to the skin
skin
eating CBD gummies
gummies
dropping a CBD tincture under the tongue
CBD tincture
taking CBD pills or capsules
Some methods, such as placing a tincture under the tongue, may deliver CBD to the brain more rapidly than CBD pills. However, the amount of CBD an individual consumes can vary using all methods.
Some people may find CBD capsules more convenient to use than other methods. However, there is no particular advantage to using CBD pills over CBD in other forms.
How to shop for CBD capsules
Before purchasing CBD capsules, a person may wish to consider their reason for using CBD, the types of CBD, such as full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, or CBD isolate, and the amount of CBD the capsules contain.
full-spectrum CBD
broad-spectrum CBD
CBD isolate
The majority of CBD products do not undergo regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means companies could make false claims about their goods. As such, third-party testing is a high priority to help inform and protect people in choosing CBD products. However, the FDA does regulate Epidiolex, an oral prescription CBD product for rare and severe forms of epilepsy.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
does regulate
To ensure that CBD products contain the amount of CBD the manufacturers claim they do, a person can look for a COA.
A COA should:
come from an independent, accredited lab
detail the amount of CBD and other cannabinoids the product contains
reveal the product’s levels of pesticides or microbes
list any chemicals and heavy metals the product may contain
Learn more about buying CBD.
about buying CBD
Risks and side effects
CBD may be unsuitable for some people. It is important to know the risks before using any CBD products.
Side effects may occur with CBD use, particularly in higher doses. They include:
include
sleepiness
drowsiness
mood changes
diarrhea
diarrhea
appetite changes
appetite
These side effects may vary in people and may resolve with continued use. Those sensitive to these effects should not drive or operate machinery when taking CBD.
CBD may also interact with some drugs or medications. Anyone who wishes to take these products needs to speak with a doctor or healthcare professional first about drug interactions.
interact with some drugs or medications
Other potential ingredients in CBD products, such as THC, may show up in drug tests. While a pure CBD isolate should not contain THC, full-spectrum products may contain enough to register in a drug screening.
Learn more about CBD and drug testing.
CBD and drug testing
Because the FDA does not regulate CBD products, there is a risk they may contain contaminants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, or other compounds. A certified independent lab test can help ensure the product is pure and safe to use.
All CBD products in this article have undergone third-party tests and a strict vetting process.
How to use CBD capsules
Research into helping people get the most out of their CBD capsules is ongoing.
It is important to note that CBD dosages can differ depending on which manufacturer and products a person chooses. Some manufacturers sell capsules containing 25–50 mg of CBD each, while others sell capsules containing 100–200 mg each.
One 2020 study found that taking CBD with food significantly increased its bioavailability — the body’s ability to absorb and use nutrients — compared with taking CBD on an empty stomach. The researchers concluded that further research into taking CBD with food is necessary.
2020 study
When to contact a doctor
People need to contact a doctor before purchasing and using CBD products. There is a risk of drug interactions with CBD and some medications. To avoid adverse effects, individuals need to speak with a healthcare professional before using any products containing CBD.
risk
Additionally, CBD is not a proper substitute for medical care. A person needs to contact a doctor for advice on whether CBD is the right product for them to use.
CBD glossary
The following table defines the most common CBD terms.
over 120
limonene
Read more about terminology and other important CBD information here.
terminology and other important CBD information here
Visit our dedicated hub for more research-backed information and in-depth resources on CBD.
CBD
Frequently asked questions about CBD capsules
CBD gummies and capsules may suit different people. Those who do not like swallowing pills whole may prefer a chewable gummy. However, it may be more difficult to absorb all of the CBD in gummies.
This is because companies sometimes infuse the inside of the gummy with CBD, and other times, they will put CBD on the outside. If a person chews or swallows the gummy too quickly, they may not get the full effects of the CBD.
Capsules, on the other hand, always contain CBD on the inside. Swallowing the capsules whole ensures a person gets the full CBD dose. That said, capsules are often unsuitable for vegans and contain ingredients unsuitable for people with a tree nut allergy.
CBD gummies and capsules may suit different people. Those who do not like swallowing pills whole may prefer a chewable gummy. However, it may be more difficult to absorb all of the CBD in gummies.
This is because companies sometimes infuse the inside of the gummy with CBD, and other times, they will put CBD on the outside. If a person chews or swallows the gummy too quickly, they may not get the full effects of the CBD.
Capsules, on the other hand, always contain CBD on the inside. Swallowing the capsules whole ensures a person gets the full CBD dose. That said, capsules are often unsuitable for vegans and contain ingredients unsuitable for people with a tree nut allergy.
A person takes CBD oil sublingually, or under the tongue, while they swallow capsules. CBD oil enters the bloodstream faster than capsules, so people may find that oil provides quicker results.
However, those who do not have difficulty swallowing tablets may find capsules more convenient to take. Additionally, it may be more difficult to measure the CBD dose accurately with oils.
A person takes CBD oil sublingually, or under the tongue, while they swallow capsules. CBD oil enters the bloodstream faster than capsules, so people may find that oil provides quicker results.
However, those who do not have difficulty swallowing tablets may find capsules more convenient to take. Additionally, it may be more difficult to measure the CBD dose accurately with oils.
While there are a lot of CBD capsules available to buy online, people should only consider ones with a current and easily accessible Certificate of Analysis from an independent third party to verify that the labeling is accurate.
Then, people should consider whether full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate is best for their needs. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD have other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, whereas CBD isolate is pure CBD.
Finally, people should always start with the lowest possible dose of CBD. It is best to start low and build up doses gradually than to start with one that is too high.
While there are a lot of CBD capsules available to buy online, people should only consider ones with a current and easily accessible Certificate of Analysis from an independent third party to verify that the labeling is accurate.
Then, people should consider whether full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate is best for their needs. Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD have other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, whereas CBD isolate is pure CBD.
Finally, people should always start with the lowest possible dose of CBD. It is best to start low and build up doses gradually than to start with one that is too high.
There is not yet a consensus about which form of CBD is most effective. CBD, which includes other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, may contribute to the “entourage effect,” a theory where the compounds in the cannabis plant interact with the body for greater efficacy.
There is not yet a consensus about which form of CBD is most effective. CBD, which includes other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, may contribute to the “entourage effect,” a theory where the compounds in the cannabis plant interact with the body for greater efficacy.
While there are many anecdotal accounts and manufacturer estimates of how long CBD capsules take to work, there is limited scientific data to support these claims.
That said, researchers have found CBD in a person’s bloodstream roughly 1–2 hours after oral administration.
1–2 hours
While there are many anecdotal accounts and manufacturer estimates of how long CBD capsules take to work, there is limited scientific data to support these claims.
That said, researchers have found CBD in a person’s bloodstream roughly 1–2 hours after oral administration.
1–2 hours
Summary
Capsules offer a simple and convenient way to take CBD. However, a few things to consider before a person chooses a product, such as dosage, any additional ingredients, and the reason for use.
It is important to choose quality CBD products, as not all manufacturers follow best practices.
Anyone who wishes to use CBD can consult a doctor or healthcare professional to check for any possible drug interactions and adverse effects.
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.
state laws