A Guide to the Best CBD Softgels for Your Needs by Candace Osmond at CBD Origin

Are you interested in some old-fashioned relaxation? Want a not-so-old-fashioned way of getting some? CBD softgels are a thing of the future, and they’ve become massively popular. Today, I will describe what CBD softgels are and how different kinds of CBD softgels give you different effects. I’ll even recommend the 8 best CBD softgels based on their availability, degrees of use, and price points. Ready? Sit back, get comfortable, and relax… 

Bottom Line Upfront

With so many types to choose from, it’s hard to narrow down just one favorite. But I have to say, I do love the Tweed – CBD Softgels 10 MG Hybrid because I was a newbie to sofgels, and this was the perfect one to try first. It has a slow release and a low dosage, perfect for testing the waters.

Top Picks

These are the best CBD softgels you can find online. I’ve listed them by what makes them the best, and I go over each of these products in detail further in the article. Any of these will be a serious game changer if you have trouble sleeping, staying calm, or simply want a legal chemical to help you chill.

  • Editor’s Choice: Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels: This bottle of 40 CBD softgel capsules for $28-$38 has the best value for its price. These easy-to-swallow softgels have been lab-tested and made with organic, natural products.
  • Best for Beginners: Tweed – CBD Softgels 10 MG Hybrid: These CBD softgels are inexpensive, small, and contain the lowest dose of 10 mg per capsule. If you’re unsure how CBD will affect you, these contain the perfect amount.
  • Best Price: Bluebird Botanicals Classic CBD Oil Capsules: This is the least expensive bottle of CBD softgels on the list. Even though they’re priced the lowest, you’ll still get the usual 30 capsules per bottle.
  • Best for Sleeping: MEDTerra Isolate CBD Gel Capsules: These CBD softgels are made with CBD isolate, which is great for allergic people to hemp pollen. These softgels were made for relaxing you, which naturally helps you fall asleep.
  • Best for Anxiety: CBDistillery Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels: These CBD softgels contain 30 mg of broad spectrum CBD per capsule, so they have a higher dose than most others on the list. The CBD helps you relax, while the cannabinoids and terpenes help your body absorb the CBD.
  • Best for Creativity: Sunsoil CBD Oil Vegan Capsules: All-vegan CBD capsules help boost your creativity without putting you to sleep. You get 90 capsules in this bottle.
  • Best for Relaxing: Joy Nutrition Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels: If you have joint or muscle pain, these CBD softgels are my favorite to recommend. The 25 mg of CBD, terpenes, and other cannabinoids provide general relaxation and quick pain relief.
  • Best Hybrid: Daily Special – CBD Softgels Hybrid: These CBD softgels were made using a hybrid mix of CBD strains. At 9-12 mg of CBD per capsule, they’re safe for beginners to try. 

What are Softgels?

Have you ever taken an Omega-3 vitamin? You know how the capsules are squishy on the outside and filled with liquid on the inside? Omega-3 vitamins are an example of softgels.

Softgels have an inner filling of liquid protected by a gelatin-based shell. In the case of CBD softgels, the liquid inside the gelatin shell is what contains the CBD. The liquid is usually coconut oil or something similar.  

Softgels vs. Gummies

Let’s compare 2 very popular methods of ingesting CBD: softgel and gummy. There are advantages to both products, so I’ll list them below in a quick chart for reference.

CBD Softgels

  • CBD enters the bloodstream more quickly
  • Offers your body a consistent dose of CBD over time
  • Cheaper than gummies
  • Higher percentage of CBD than gummies

CBD Gummies 

  • Better taste than softgels
  • You don’t need to swallow like a pill

What’s in CBD Softgels?

With so much misinformation surrounding CBD, the inside of a CBD capsule remains a mystery to many. In truth, there are many different kinds of CBD softgels, and each type has its own unique chemical makeup. I’m going to dissect some CBD softgels right now so that you’ll know what’s actually going on with all these different varieties.

Broad Spectrum

Broad spectrum CBD contains more than just CBD-it contains other compounds and cannabinoids found in marijuana. The only compound it doesn’t include is THC, which is the part of the plant that gets you high.

Full Spectrum

Full Spectrum CBD is like broad spectrum because it also contains other compounds and cannabinoids found in cannabis besides CBD. Unlike broad spectrum, full spectrum CBD does contain THC in levels up to .3%.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is exactly what it sounds like. The CBD chemical has been isolated from all other compounds and cannabinoids found in the marijuana plant. With CBD isolate capsules, you’re getting pure CBD and nothing else.

This creates an incredibly low-risk softgel to try. CBD isolate softgels are great for people who don’t want to or can’t ingest any THC or other compounds (and all the other types of CBD capsules contain at least trace amounts of THC.)

Terpenes

Terpenes are a naturally-occurring compound in marijuana plants. These compounds help you absorb CBD through your bloodstream faster and more effectively. Most CBD softgels contain some terpenes to enhance the effects of the chemical.  

Cannabinoids

The term “cannabinoid” is the chemical compounds found in marijuana plants. For example, CBD and THC are both cannabinoids. Before buying capsules, you can check the cannabinoid percentages (how potent the CBD softgel will be) to ensure you’re getting the dose you want.

How to Take CBD Softgels

Taking CBD softgels is super easy! Seriously, it’s just like swallowing a pill. Here’s a quick guide.

  1. Start with a CBD softgel containing a low amount of CBD if you’re a beginner.
  2. Get a glass of water.
  3. Swallow the CBD softgel with water like any other pill. Voila!

Pros and Cons to CBD Softgels

Just like with any chemical substance out there, there are pros, and there are cons. This chart can help you weigh your options if you’re on the fence about whether CBD softgels are for you.

Pros

  • Can help with ailments like anxiety and insomnia
  • Some varieties help inspire creativity
  • Doesn’t impair your judgment or make you high
  • You can’t overdose on CBD
  • Incredibly few risks associated with CBD
  • CBD capsules are easy to take
  • Softgels give you a steady dose of CBD over time
  • CBD softgels are readily available

Cons

  • Might make you sleepy
  • Doesn’t work on everyone
  • Some softgels are pricey
  • Some people are allergic to hemp pollen and can only have CBD isolate 

Benefits of Using CBD Softgels

Many of us have turned to CBD softgels to help with everyday ailments we just can’t shake. Some of us simply enjoy the calming effects. In truth, there are a ton of mental and even physical benefits to taking CBD softgels, like:

  • Getting to choose from lots of different CBD percentages, options, and strains
  • Helping people with anxiety from feeling anxious
  • Helping people with insomnia to get to sleep
  • Inspiring creativity
  • Creating a relaxed feeling that can last for hours
  • Enjoying a non-harmful substance that doesn’t impair judgment
  • Treating patients with epilepsy symptoms
  • Relieving stress, depression, and physical symptoms from chronic pains

What to Look for in CBD Softgels

Not every CBD softgel is the same. That’s why I’ve come up with these helpful pointers for determining if a CBD capsule is worth your time and hard-earned money or should be left on the shelf. You’ll be an expert in about 2 minutes.   

Potency

The bottle, box, or product description of a CBD softgel brand should list the potency of each softgel. I recommend starting with a softgel containing 10-30 mg if you’re just getting started to see how your body reacts to the substance. Typically, CBD comes in these percentages for capsules:

  • 10 mg
  • 15 mg
  • 20 mg
  • 25 mg
  • 30 mg
  • 35 mg
  • 40 mg
  • 45 mg
  • 50 mg
  • 100 mg
  • 200 mg

CBD Type

Remember how we talked about broad spectrum, full spectrum, CBD isolate, etc.? Different CBD softgels will contain different CBD types like those. As a quick refresher:

  • The full spectrum contains all cannabinoids found in marijuana, including some THC
  • The broad spectrum contains other cannabinoids found in marijuana, except for THC
  • CBD isolate only contains CBD and none of the other cannabinoids found in marijuana

Other Ingredients

What other ingredients are commonly in CBD softgels besides the cannabinoids and terpenes? Here’s what you commonly find:

  • Water
  • Gelatin
  • Polysorbate emulsifiers

These ingredients are safe, though CBD capsules usually contain more ingredients than this. Each brand has its own mixture, so check the ingredients first to ensure you aren’t allergic to anything.

Allergies

This brings us to allergies. CBD comes from hemp, which is, of course, a plant. Some people are allergic to hemp (such as trace amounts of pollen from the plant) that might find their way into full spectrum or even broad spectrum CBD.

Try a CBD isolate that only contains the CBD compound to avoid hemp pollen allergies. In most cases, people aren’t allergic to CBD isolate.

Size

No one wants to swallow a horse pill, but no one wants a teeny-weeny capsule that will not do anything, either. Capsule sizes are measured by a system of numbers that I’ll explain here:

  • 3 = Too small
  • 1 = Too small
  • 0 = Standard
  • 00 = Standard
  • 000 = Enormous

Most softgels will have a capsule size of 0 or 00, which is what you want to look for. Size 0 holds 500 mg, and size 00 holds 735 mg.

Proper Certification from Passing Tests

I can’t tell you how many frauds are trying to push their homemade CBD softgels on the masses. For your safety, please only buy CBD from brands that have proven their products to pass all the safety tests and have the CBD Certificate of Analysis. The certificate lets you know that a product has been tested for quality in a laboratory.

No Pesticides

GMOs can be such a pest. In the last ten years especially, many of us have become very aware of the harmful effects that pesticides and GMOs cause. Check the product label of the CBD softgels you want to make sure they’re made without damaging pesticides.

The Best CBD Softgels You Can Get

The results are in, everyone! These are the best CBD softgels available online. In this section, I’ll give a brief guide to 8 different CBD softgels and tell which brand is best for which result.

MEDTerra Isolate CBD Gel Capsules  

MEDTerra Isolate CBD Gel Capsules  

Best For: Relaxing

About

These CBD softgels contain organic MCT coconut oil to suspend the CBD compounds. They were tested, certified, and made with non-GMO hemp. 

  • Price Range: $45-$55
  • CBD Type: CBD Isolate
  • Potency: 25 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

If you really like the MEDTerra brand but want a higher dose, they sell these same CBD isolate capsules at 50mg and 100mg for a higher price.

Pros

  • Only contains CBD
  • Easy-to-swallow
  • Made from non-GMO hemp

Cons

  • Won’t give you the well-rounded effects of full spectrum CBD

Daily Special – CBD Softgels Hybrid

Best For: Best Hybrid

About

These CBD softgels hybrids contain 9-12 mg per capsule, making them a beginner-friendly choice. 

  • Price Range: $25-$35
  • CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 9-12 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

These small, easy-to-swallow softgels are made with full spectrum cannabinoids and a blend of terpenes. Given their low price, they’re a very popular choice.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Full spectrum CBD gives well-rounded effects
  • Long-lasting effects

Cons

  • The potency in each capsule is estimated at 9-12 mg, but not exact

CBDistillery Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels

Best For: Anxiety

About

Though these CBD softgels are a bit more expensive than the 2 listed above, these capsules contain more CBD. 

  • Price Range: $55-$65
  • CBD Type: Broad spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 30 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

Since these are made with broad spectrum CBD, CBDistillery gives you the “entourage effect.” You’ll get a custom blend of terpenes and cannabinoids to enjoy along with the CBD compound without any traces of marijuana.

Pros

  • Non-GMO hemp
  • Reputable brand with tested products
  • Gives full effects of the cannabinoids

Cons

  • Could bother people with hemp allergies

Joy Nutrition Broad Spectrum CBD Softgels

Best For: Relaxing

About

These broad spectrum CBD tablets are great for beginners and experienced users. Joy Nutrition created officially-tested and certified softgels that were made conscientiously. 

  • Price Range: $65-$75
  • CBD Type: Broad spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 25 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

With carbon-neutral shipping and cruelty-free testing, you can feel good about this purchase (and relax after you’ve made it with this custom blend of terpenes and cannabinoids.)  

Pros

  • Relaxing blend of terpenes and cannabinoids without THC
  • Lab-tested and cruelty-free
  • Created for high absorption

Cons

  • Expensive

Tweed – CBD Softgels 10 MG Hybrid

Best For: Beginners

About

Suppose you’re a beginner interested in trying full spectrum CBD softgels with a low dosage. In that case, these CBD softgels made by Tweed are perfect. 

  • Price Range: $30-$40
  • CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 10 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

These capsules are tiny but mighty because the effects can last for over 12 hours despite the small amount of CBD in each. Start with only 1 capsule to see how your body reacts to it. 

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Non-GMO coconut MCT oil
  • The effects can linger for 12 hours or more

Cons

  • Contains little to no THC, but this isn’t exact

Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels

Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Softgels

Best For: Editor’s Choice 

About

These CBD softgels made by Lazarus Naturals contain a full spectrum of CBD, terpenes, and other cannabinoids. 

  • Price Range: $28-$38
  • CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 25 mg
  • Quantity: 40 capsules

These softgels are made with organic flaxseed oil, coconut oil, and other clean ingredients if you want an all-natural option. I appreciate that Lazarus Naturals lists out the terpenes they added into these capsules: d-limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene beta natural.

Pros

  • Comes with 40 capsules instead of the usual 30
  • Lists which specific terpenes have been added
  • All-natural ingredients

Cons

  • People with hemp allergies may have a reaction since the CBD isn’t isolated

Bluebird Botanicals Classic CBD Oil Capsules

Best For: Best Price

About

These CBD softgels from Bluebird Botanicals deliver 15 mg of CBD blended with terpenes and cannabinoids in every capsule. 

  • Price Range: $20-$30
  • CBD Type: Full spectrum CBD
  • Potency: 15 mg
  • Quantity: 30 capsules

Unlike other brands, Bluebird Botanicals includes organic flaxseed oil along with organic coconut oil to suspend the CBD. These softgels have been tested, certified, and made without any pesticides or other contaminants.  

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • No pesticides or harmful contaminants
  • Other cannabinoids and terpenes give a well-rounded experience

Cons

  • This low of dosage may not work for seasoned CBD users

Sunsoil CBD Oil Vegan Capsules

Best For: Creativity

About

These Sunsoil CBD capsules are the brand’s vegan alternative to the usual softgels. 

  • Price Range: $85-$95
  • CBD Type: Full spectrum
  • Potency: 20 mg
  • Quantity: 90 capsules

These capsules are bigger than average, but the calming full spectrum effects are worth it. You’ll get a whopping 90 capsules in this bottle, which makes it three times the size of an average CBD softgels bottle.

Pros

  • Comes with 3 times the usual amount of capsules
  • Completely vegan and lab tested
  • Full spectrum CBD allows you to feel the terpenes and other cannabinoids

Cons

  • Expensive

FAQ

This last section will answer your most frequently asked questions about CBD softgels. CBD softgels are a relatively new phenomenon, so there is a lot of misunderstanding surrounding them. If you’ve got more questions about CBD softgels that I don’t answer here, please ask me your question in the comment section!

Question: Are CBD Softgels Effective?

Answer: CBD softgels are effective. When your stomach acid disintegrates the thin gelatin capsule the CBD is stored in, the CBD will begin to enter your bloodstream through your stomach lining. Once this happens, you’ll begin to feel the calming effects.

Question: What are the Best CBD Capsules on the Market?

Answer: I’ve listed some of the best CBD capsules available above. Each has its own unique blend and effects that are great for different experiences.

Question: Which is More Effective, CBD Oil or CBD Capsules?

Answer: In terms of effectiveness, CBD oil is better than CBD capsules. This is because CBD oil enters your bloodstream immediately, so none of the CBD’s full potency is lost. Some don’t like CBD oil’s taste or odd texture, which is one reason softgel capsules are popular.

Question: Can You Get High from CBD Capsules?

Answer: No, you can’t get high from CBD capsules. CBD capsules only contain trace amounts of THC. THC is the chemical in marijuana that makes you high. CBD will make you feel relaxed, but it won’t impair you in any way. Some people claim they feel tired from taking CBD.

Let the Relaxation Begin

Deep breath in… and then a deep breath out… Do you feel better now that you’ve learned about all the ways CBD softgels can help you relax? I got to share how CBD softgels work and what to look for when you buy them.

After being shown the 8 best CBD softgels, do you feel ready to try one yourself? Let me know your experience with CBD capsules in the comments below. For more great content about CBD products, come check out our website! 

CBD Origin is the premier source for CBD knowledge and information. Find informative articles, helpful guides, the latest news, and more at CBDOrigin.com


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