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Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
  • 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?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
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CBD oil contains cannabidiol (CBD), a therapeutic compound derived from the cannabis plant. Many companies manufacture CBD oils, and choosing the right product can be challenging.

This article describes CBD oil in detail, including how to use it and its advantages and disadvantages. We also explore alternatives and answer some frequently asked questions.

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.

For more information and resources on CBD and CBD products, please visit our dedicated hub.

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Below are some advantages and disadvantages of CBD oil:

Pros

Cons

  • CBD can be costly.
  • Products may not always have a pleasant taste or smell.
  • There may be side effects.
  • Products may not be available in all U.S. states.
  • Some CBD products can show up on drug tests.
  • Over-the-counter CBD products are not FDA-approved or regulated before sale.
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Medical News Today’s methodology

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

  • Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe, high quality, and 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.
  • Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a dosage.
  • Third-party labs: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
  • Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) after receiving its third-party lab results.
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Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best broad-spectrum: Joy Organics Tranquil Mint CBD Oil Tincture

This product contains hemp extract, extra-virgin olive oil, and peppermint essential oil, all of which are organic.

It comes in a 1-ounce (oz) bottle with 1,350 milligrams (mg) of CBD, equating to 45 mg per serving. This product contains 0.0% of THC.

Joy Organics sells this product in three other flavors:

  • summer lemon
  • orange bliss
  • unflavored

Learn more about Joy Organics.

Use code “healthcbd” for 15% off.

SHOP NOW AT JOY ORGANICS

Pros

  • carbon neutral-shipping
  • cruelty-free
  • contains organic ingredients

Cons

  • expensive
  • no reviews giving less than 5 stars featured on their website
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Best full-spectrum: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil

Charlotte’s Web CBD oil is a full-spectrum product that contains phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential fatty acids. The company states that it designed its oils to help people maintain calm and focus and have better quality sleep. It also says that its oils aid recovery from exercise-induced inflammation.

The oil provides 60 mg of CBD per milliliter (mL) of oil, and there are three flavors: mint chocolate, orange blossom, and lemon twist.

Learn about the best flavored CBD oils.

Use code “HEALTH20” for 20% off.

SHOP NOW AT CHARLOTTE’S WEB

Pros

  • may have more potent effects as a full-spectrum oil
  • higher dose may provide more noticeable benefits
  • certified organic

Cons

  • very expensive
  • dose may be too strong for beginners
  • may produce positive drug test results
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Best vegan: Spruce Lab Grade CBD Oil

Spruce Lab Grade CBD oil is available in 750 mg in a 30-mL bottle. This is a full-spectrum CBD product.

It has a peppermint flavor, and each full dropper contains 25 mg of CBD. The dropper is graduated to help ensure accurate servings.

This product is organic and suitable for vegans. It is also free from:

  • preservatives
  • sweeteners
  • gluten
SHOP NOW AT SPRUCE

Pros

  • suitable for beginners
  • gluten-free
  • suitable for vegans

Cons

  • one flavor available
  • some people may not find a 25 mg dose strong enough
  • high price for lower CBD dose than other products
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Best kosher: Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD RSO

  • Price: from $32
  • CBD content: 1,000 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • COA: available online

This product contains full-spectrum CBD. RSO is an abbreviation for Rick Simpson Oil.

The formula contains organic coconut medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and organic sunflower lecithin. It also has kosher certification.

The company suggests that a person consult their doctor before using this product if they have received medical advice against eating grapefruit.

Lazarus Naturals CBD RSO tincture comes in 10-mL or 50-mL containers. Both containers have applicators.

Learn more about Lazarus Naturals.

SHOP NOW AT CBD.CO

Pros

  • comes with an easy-to-use applicator
  • more affordable than other products
  • offers more control over serving sizes

Cons

  • unsuitable for those with a sunflower or coconut allergy
  • uses plastic packaging
  • no reviews online
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Best strength range: Green Roads CBD Oil

  • Price: from $109.99
  • CBD content: 1,500 mg
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • COA: available online

This Green Roads CBD oil comes in a 30-mL bottle with three strengths of CBD available. It is available as a full- or broad-spectrum product.

The company states that the oil has a naturally sweet flavor.

The product is gluten-free and vegan. Green Roads supplies a measuring tool to ensure accurate servings.

Learn more about Green Roads CBD.

Use code “MNT20” for 20% off your order

SHOP NOW AT GREEN ROADS

Pros

  • comes in a range of strengths
  • measuring tool included in the package
  • it is gluten-free and vegan

Cons

  • very expensive
  • unsuitable for those with a coconut allergy
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Best organic: Absolute Nature CBD Oil Drops

This full-spectrum oil from Absolute Nature has organic certification from the Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Learn about organic skin care.

A 30-mL bottle contains 1,000 mg of CBD, equating to 33 mg of CBD per 1-mL serving.

The product is vegan and free from gluten and pesticides.

The company says this organic formula has only two ingredients: whole-plant, full-spectrum CBD extract, and fractionated coconut oil to improve absorption.

SHOP NOW AT ABSOLUTE NATURE

Pros

  • certified organic
  • provides a wide range of cannabinoids for extra benefits
  • reportedly produces quick results
  • made in a cGMP-certified facility

Cons

  • full-spectrum CBD may be too potent for beginners
  • unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
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Best GMP-compliant oil: Zatural Full Spectrum CBD Oil

Zatural’s full-spectrum CBD oil is available in both natural and peppermint flavors.

The company claims that this product is GMP compliant, made in the United States, and free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

This product contains less than 0.3% of THC, there are several different fluid-ounce sizes and concentrations to choose from.

Learn more about Zaturals.

Use code “HEALTH20” for 20% off.

SHOP NOW AT ZATURAL

Pros

  • more affordable than many options
  • comes in a range of strengths
  • CO2 CBD extraction method reportedly improves potency and purity

Cons

  • THC content may be unsuitable for some
  • limited flavor range
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Best pesticide-free oil: FAB CBD Oil

FAB CBD writes that it uses organic hemp from Colorado. It claims its CBD oils can support people with everyday stress, recovery from exercise, and promote a sense of calm.

The oil is GMO- and pesticide-free and also features MCT oil. It is unsuitable for people with a coconut or sunflower allergy.

The company recommends people take 1–2 servings day or night.

SHOP NOW AT FAB CBD

Pros

  • available in multiple flavors and strengths
  • can help manage stress
  • may also aid in exercise recovery

Cons

  • contains allergens such as sunflower
  • free shipping only applies to orders over $99
  • THC is not suitable for everyone
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Best CBD tincture: Kanibi Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

Kanibi writes that it sources its CBD from organic Oregon hemp. It uses premium coconut MCT oil as the carrier component, and Kanibi describes it as a light and refreshing tincture.

The tincture comes in five flavors, plus an unflavored option. Flavors include skittles, peppermint, lemon lime, choco mint, and cinnamon.

The brand uses CO2 extraction methods to produce this tincture.

This tincture reportedly goes through double lab testing for safety and potency. Kanibi makes the lab results available directly on the product page and its dedicated COA lookup page.

SHOP NOW AT KANIBI

Pros

  • no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • a more affordable option
  • comes in a range of flavors
  • double lab tested for safety

Cons

  • unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
  • free shipping only applies to orders over $100
  • the company does not specify which natural flavors it uses
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Best for relaxation: Cornbread Hemp Whole Flower CBD Oil

Cornbread states that this full-spectrum oil is vegan and free from flavoring, preservatives, gluten, and GMOs.

It contains 750 mg of active CBD oil per bottle, equating to 30 servings of 25 mg. It contains 2 mg of THC per serving. This product is also available in 300 mg and 1,500 mg strengths.

The company states that this product may help promote calm, better sleep, and recovery from aches and pains.

Use code MNT for 25% off your first order.

SHOP NOW AT CORNBREAD HEMP

Pros

  • clear measurements on the dropper
  • certified organic
  • does not include preservatives

Cons

  • no flavored options available
  • higher THC content will not be suitable for everyone
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Best fast-acting oil: 3Chi Natural CBD Oil

  • Price: $99.99
  • CBD content: 1,500 mg per bottle
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • COA: available online

Each 1 mL dose contains 50 mg of CBD and up to 0.3% THC. This is a more potent dose of CBD that 3Chi says provides fast relief.

The company uses low carbon MCT oil to make it easier to absorb and also includes vitamin E in the formula.

People can measure their dose accurately with the dropper.

SHOP NOW AT 3CHI

Pros

  • designed to be easy to absorb
  • may provide fast results
  • measurements included on the dropper

Cons

  • the company recommends it is refrigerated, making it less convenient on-the-go
  • limited range of online reviews
  • larger doses are very expensive
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Best unflavored: Lord Jones Royal Oil

This broad-spectrum product contains two ingredients: grape seed oil and CBD from broad-spectrum hemp extract. Grape seed oil means people with a coconut allergy can use this oil.

Lord Jones writes that it can help people unwind after a long day.

The company recommends people place half a dropper, which contains 20 mg of CBD, in their mouth once per day.

SHOP NOW AT LORD JONES

Pros

  • may help relaxation
  • the medium-strength dose may suit beginners and experienced buyers
  • additive-free
  • suitable for vegans

Cons

  • grape seed oil is an allergen for some people
  • may contain THC
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Best high potency: FOCL Premium CBD Drops

This broad-spectrum oil contains organic ingredients. It uses coconut MCT oil, so it is unsuitable for those with a coconut allergy.

The Premium CBD Drops are available in three strengths: 1,000 mg, 2,000 mg, and 3,000 mg. Additionally, it is available unflavored or with mint, orange cream, cherry, and strawberry lemonade flavors.

The company recommends people take one dropper in the morning and evening for the first week and gradually increase the amount to reach the desired effects during the first month.

Learn about the strongest CBD oils.

SHOP NOW AT FOCL

Pros

  • available in multiple strengths and flavors
  • may help relieve pain, stress, and promote sleep
  • vegan, cruelty-free, and non-GMO

Cons

  • unsuitable for those looking for a low potency product
  • unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
  • usage directions imply it may take 2 months for consistent, full results
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The following table compares the CBD oils in this article.

PriceCBD ContentCBD TypeCOABest oil for
Joy Organics$69.951,350 mgbroad-spectrumavailable onlinebroad-spectrum CBD
Charlotte’s Web$119.996,000 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinefull-spectrum CBD
Spruce$89750 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinevegan formula
Lazarus Naturalsfrom $321,000 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinekosher formula
Green Roadsfrom $69.991,500 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinestrength range
Absolute Nature$99.991,000 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlineorganic ingredients
Zaturalfrom $27.50300 mgfull-spectrumavailable on product pageGMP-compliance
FAB CBDfrom $391,200 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinepesticide-free formula
Kanibifrom $59750 mgCBD isolateavailable onlineCBD isolate
Cornbread$64.99750 mgfull-spectrumavailable onlinerelaxation
3Chi$99.991,500 mgbroad-spectrumavailable onlinefast results
Lord Jones$601,000 mgbroad-spectrumavailable onlineunflavored formula
FOCLfrom $591,000 mgbroad-spectrumavailable on product pagehigh potency

Knowing what the information on CBD product labels means is important when researching products.

The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any OTC CBD products and some brands make unfounded health claims about their products.

Learn more about the results from FDA testing on CBD products.

Below, we cover some CBD basics and the main terms and features CBD labels can include.

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil consists of CBD extract from the cannabis plant and carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil. CBD is one of many compounds in the cannabis or industrial hemp plant.

Another well-known compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is responsible for the “high” from the strong psychoactive properties of cannabis.

CBD, on the other hand, is nonimpairing. This means that it does not cause a high, euphoria, or impairment that people associate with cannabis use. It has other properties that have contributed to its rise in popularity as an alternative remedy. These include pain-relieving properties and anti-inflammatory, antianxiety, and antipsychotic effects.

Types of CBD

There are three different forms of CBD. Manufacturers will state which type of CBD a product uses.

  • CBD isolate: This is a pure form of CBD. In a CBD isolate oil, the only active ingredient is CBD. It does not contain other cannabinoids or THC.
  • Broad-spectrum CBD: This contains all the phytochemicals in the cannabis plant. Depending on the product, it may contain trace amounts of THC or none at all.
  • Full-spectrum CBD: This contains all the phytochemicals in the cannabis plant, including various other cannabinoids, terpenes, and oils. It also contains trace amounts of THC, the compound that produces a high.

However, a person should note that the CBD industry has not clearly defined these terms. Companies may use them interchangeably to an extent.

In the United States, the products must contain less than 0.3% THC to comply with legislation. Still, a broad-spectrum CBD product, for example, may contain enough THC to lead to a failed drug test.

CBD oils are also available in various strengths and flavors.

Learn more about CBD oils.

Oils vs. tinctures

A CBD oil infuses cannabis in a carrier oil, such as MCT, coconut, or sunflower seed oil. Some products use other carrier oils like grapeseed oil. Buyers should be aware of the type of carrier oil a company uses as they can be allergens to some people.

Learn more about the difference between MCT and coconut oil.

Companies make CBD tinctures by soaking cannabis in alcohol and glycerin.

Learn more about CBD tinctures.

Third-party testing

Medical News Today only features products that undergo third-party testing. Companies also have to provide easy access to the results of these tests.

While the FDA cannot regulate CBD products before they go on sale, third-party tests show exactly what a product contains. This is a necessary safety measure to consider when buying CBD products, as some companies mislabel their products or exclude ingredients from labeling. They may also make extreme or unfounded health claims about their products.

People should avoid products that promise to cure any illness and be aware that CBD will have different effects on different people.

CBD sources

Many companies grow organic hemp in the U.S. These crops must comply with agricultural regulations. If a product holds USDA Organic certification, it means the crop is grown to federal guidelines that concern:

  • soil quality
  • pest and weed control
  • additive use

Those offering USDA Organic hemp must have grown the crop in soil that has not had prohibited substances applied to it for 3 years. These substances include synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

As such, organic hemp may be less likely to expose people to chemicals and pesticides from the growing process.

Other ingredients

Hemp, hemp extract, and hemp oil are typically the main ingredient in CBD oil. This is where the CBD content comes from.

However, companies may add other ingredients to their formulas, such as flavorings or essential oils. Flavorings can be artificial or natural.

Buyers should read ingredient lists carefully to ensure they do not contain allergens or ingredients people may wish to avoid, such as nonvegan items or gluten.

Hemp oil comes from the plant’s seeds, while CBD oil comes from its flowers, stems, and leaves.

Hemp seed oil can contain high amounts of polyunsaturated fats and fatty acids, which some research suggests may benefit cardiovascular health. It also contains some antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and tocopherols.

Learn more about the benefits of hemp seed oil.

CBD oil is often marketed as a tool to reduce anxiety, ease pain and inflammation, and improve sleep. Some research supports this.

For instance, a 2020 study from New Zealand reported that CBD helped improve anxiety symptoms after 3 weeks of treatment.

Another 2020 study looking into the benefits of full-spectrum CBD on pain and inflammation concluded that CBD was a promising option for this therapeutic purpose. The authors write this may be due to CBD’s ability to suppress receptors like TRPA1, which senses pain.

However, many more scientific studies are needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of hemp and CBD oil.

Learn more about the difference between hemp and CBD oil.

A person should do some research before trying a CBD product. It can also be a good idea to consult a doctor, particularly for people who take medication regularly.

In addition, it is important to check the local regulations regarding CBD. Different U.S. states, for example, have different legislation about CBD.

It is also worth considering the possible benefits of certain CBD forms. People with some health concerns may benefit from CBD oil, whereas others may benefit from a CBD cream, for example. CBD products are also available as gummies, gel capsules, and pills.

Finally, CBD products are available in different dosages, which can vary depending on the manufacturer and the product. A person using CBD for the first time may find a product with a lower dosage more suitable.

Learn more about how to shop for CBD.

Anyone considering using CBD oil for the first time should discuss it with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.

Taking CBD oil is relatively straightforward, but a person should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, it will involve these steps:

  1. Shake the bottle before use.
  2. Use the dropper to place a specific number of drops under the tongue. Do not let the dropper touch the mouth, as this may contaminate the oil.
  3. Hold the oil under the tongue for 1–2 minutes before swallowing.

It is also possible to mix CBD oil into food and drinks, such as yogurts and juices. However, this may affect the potency.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, people taking CBD oil for arthritis pain should notice the effects within 15–45 minutes. Long-term results may become apparent within a few weeks or months.

A person should always begin with a small CBD oil dosage and, if necessary, increase the dosage and frequency over time. People can also take CBD at any time. For better sleep, it is best to take it before bed.

Learn more about CBD dosing.

In general, CBD oil is a relatively low risk product. Common side effects, which may be dependent on dosages, include:

As CBD can cause drowsiness, driving or operating heavy machinery while taking it is not advisable.

In addition, CBD can interact with some medications and dietary supplements, making these less effective.

A person should avoid CBD if any medication or supplement they take has a warning about interactions with grapefruit. One example would be cholesterol drugs, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor).

Speaking with a qualified health professional before using CBD or other cannabis products is always advisable. This is especially true for people who take medications or supplements regularly. A doctor should ensure that there are no risks of interactions.

It is also worth noting that a 2019 study in mice suggested that taking significant quantities of CBD may increase the risk of liver toxicity.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently regulate CBD products. For this reason, it is a good idea to choose products that third parties have tested. This means that an independent laboratory has verified the purity and potency.

A person should always talk with a healthcare professional before taking CBD products. The FDA warns that CBD may interact with medications, causing adverse effects.

Additionally, people should not use CBD products as an alternative to medical treatment. The FDA has not approved these products as treatments for any health conditions, with the exception of the FDA-approved drug Epidiolex for seizures.

Below are some of the most common questions about CBD:

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

Although these are both compounds in the Cannabis sativa plant, they have different effects on the body. THC may cause a person to experience the high sensation that people associate with cannabis use, while CBD does not have this effect.

Who should use CBD?

People who experience certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, may benefit from using CBD. In fact, the only FDA-approved CBD product is Epidiolex, which is for severe and rare forms of epilepsy.

There is limited evidence on whether CBD can benefit other conditions, such as high blood pressure and anxiety. People should research and consult a doctor to determine if CBD is right for them.

Does CBD have FDA approval?

The FDA has only approved Epidiolex, a CBD product that treats rare types of seizures.

Is CBD safe?

Generally, most people have a good tolerance for CBD.

However, some may experience side effects, such as nausea and fatigue. In some individuals, CBD may also affect liver function.

A person should speak with a qualified health professional before using CBD. This is particularly important for people who take medication.

What company sells the purest CBD oil?

Pure CBD oil can refer to full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. While full-spectrum CBD contains all of its compounds, such as cannabidiol, terpenes, and flavonoids, isolate only contains CBD.

People can consider Charlotte’s Web or CBDistillery for full-spectrum CBD. Kanibi and Medterra both sell pure isolate CBD oil.

Which strength of CBD oil is Best?

CBD oils come in a variety of strengths. The best strength depends on a person’s tolerance for CBD and the desired effects, for example, pain relief.

Most companies consider oils with 300 mg of CBD low potency. Higher potency oils may have between 2,000–12,000 mg of CBD per product.

Learn about the strongest CBD oils.

People should always start with low potency oils and increase the amount gradually until they reach the desired effects.

What is the difference between CBD oil and CBD tinctures?

Two types of products fall under the oils category: CBD oils and CBD tinctures. The difference lies in the manufacturing process.

For CBD oil, manufacturers infuse carrier oil with CBD to create the product.

For a CBD tincture, manufacturers soak cannabis in alcohol and glycerin to produce the product.

A wide variety of CBD oils are on the market. High quality CBD oil may benefit people looking to reduce stress, improve sleep, and ease pain and inflammation.

As the FDA does not approve over-the-counter CBD products, people should research the product that best suits their needs and ensure it has undergone third-party testing.