Best CBD For IBS 2023 & Top 5 CBD Oil Product Review
Updated on
- Written by Gleb Oleinik, CBD Journalist, Former Writer
Medically reviewed by
Kimberly Langdon, MD
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Spruce CBD
- Family-run business
- Comprehensive third-party testing
- High-quality, unique strain of hemp
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CBDistillery
- U.S. Hemp Authority Certified
- Very high potencies available
- Comprehensive third-party testing
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Medterra
- Broad-spectrum CBD formula
- Exceptionally low prices
- U.S. Hemp Authority Certified
15% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL
Some IBS patients turn to alternative treatments such as CBD oil. We put together a list of the top 5 best CBD oil products for IBS and a guide to using CBD for this condition.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound found in cannabis that’s been making waves as a wellness product. CBD seems to offer many potential health benefits while lacking the intoxicating effects of its cousin THC.
Some people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) take CBD oil to help with symptom management. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of CBD oil products available, many of which have questionable quality. As a result, it’s not that easy to find the right CBD oil for IBS.
That’s why we spent many hours researching and comparing different CBD oil brands based on their formula, third-party test results, price, potency, and other factors.
Check out our top 5 recommendations for CBD oil for IBS below and an evidence-based guide to the potential benefits of CBD.
Best CBD Oils For IBS On The Market In (December. 2023)
- Spruce CBD – Editor’s Choice
- CBDistillery – Best Potency
- Medterra – Best THC-Free
- CBDPure – Most Natural
- Receptra Natural – Best Formula
CBD For IBS
Some people use CBD or cannabis for IBS abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms. Unfortunately, there aren’t any human studies examining the use of CBD in IBS patients.
Having said that, there is still some evidence that CBD can be beneficial:
- CBD may help with an endocannabinoid deficiency, which researchers theorize could be the exact cause of IBS and some other conditions
- CBD may improve symptoms of IBS indirectly by easing anxiety, stress, and other mental issues that are associated with IBS and seem to play a role in its development
- Multiple studies have shown that CBD and other cannabinoids have pain-relieving and anti-nausea properties
- CBD-rich cannabis has been shown to improve the symptoms of IBD, a more serious, related digestive tract disorder
Another reason many people with IBS are interested in CBD for IBS is that it’s a safe, natural substance with few and mild side effects, unlike prescription medications.
Top 5 Best CBD For IBS & Product Review 2023
Spruce CBD
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North Carolina’s Spruce CBD is a relatively new CBD company. Formed in 2018, this family-run business has quickly gained a reputation as a reputable source of CBD oil.
Spruce is unique for using a special, two-century-old strain of hemp to make its CBD products. This hemp is grown organically in Kentucky and North Carolina before undergoing alcohol extraction to create the whole-plant CBD extracts.
All of Spruce’s CBD products are comprehensively tested by a third-party lab.
Spruce offers full-spectrum CBD oil, which contains the complete range of hemp’s beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds. This peppermint-flavored oil comes in 30 ml bottles with two CBD strengths: 25 mg/ml (750 mg total) and 80 mg/ml (2400 mg total).
CBDistillery
25% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL25
Colorado’s CBDistillery is known for providing high-quality CBD products at low prices.
This transparent company sources CBD from non-GMO, organic Colorado hemp farms, and posts detailed third-party test results for all products.
CBDistillery also holds U.S. Hemp Authority Certification, which highlights its dedication to following hemp industry best practices.
CBDistillery is one of the best brands of CBD oil for IBS, anxiety, and other issues because it comes in multiple formulations and potencies. You can find full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, CBD isolate, and other types of CBD tinctures.
Better yet, the CBD oils are available in many strengths ranging from 17 mg per ml to as high as 167 mg/ml, with a total of 250-5000 mg of CBD per 30 ml bottle. This makes it easy to find the tincture that suits your needs.
Medterra
15% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL
If you’re looking for a THC-free CBD oil for IBS, Medterra’s ultra broad-spectrum CBD oil is a great choice.
- Broad-spectrum CBD formula
- Low prices
- U.S. Hemp Authority Certified
- Comprehensive third-party testing
- Multiple flavors and potencies
- Lacks very high potency options
Medterra is a reputable CBD brand with some of the lowest prices in the industry. Its CBD products are sourced from organic, non-GMO hemp cultivated in Kentucky and go through comprehensive third-party testing to verify their potency and safety.
Medterra is also certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority, whose seal signifies adherence to strict hemp manufacturing standards.
All of Medterra’s products contain zero THC, which is ideal for people who are sensitive to THC or have to pass employee drug tests.
For those who want an effective, THC-free CBD oil for IBS, Medterra’s ultra broad-spectrum cannabinoid tincture is an effective option. It contains multiple phytocannabinoids (except THC), terpenes, and other beneficial hemp phytochemicals that work in synergy with CBD.
These 30 ml tinctures come in two CBD strengths: 33 mg and 66 mg per ml, with 1000-2000 mg of CBD per bottle. They’re also available in three flavors: unflavored, citrus, and strawberry mint.
CBDPure
15% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL
We recommend CBDPure for people looking for a straightforward, low-strength, full-spectrum CBD oil without any additives.
- Full-spectrum formula rich in minor cannabinoids
- Comprehensive third-party testing
- Unflavored and mixed with hemp seed oil
- Basic website that lacks detailed info
- Low CBD potency
Founded in Washington in 2016, CBDpure focuses on whole-plant CBD products that are as close to natural as possible.
That’s why the company’s lineup includes only four, full-spectrum CBD products: tinctures, capsules, cream, and a CBD oil for pets. Its CBD is derived from organic hemp cultivated in Colorado and Washington.
CBDPure offers 60 ml CBD oil in three strengths:
- 5 mg/ml (300 mg total)
- 10 mg/ml (600 mg total)
- 17 mg/ml (1000 mg total)
It’s formulated with full-spectrum hemp extract made with all of the plant’s beneficial compounds. Third-party tests confirm that CBDPure’s tinctures are rich in minor cannabinoids that boost the beneficial impact of CBD, such as CBC, CBG, and CBDa.
CBDPure’s full-spectrum CBD hemp oil also contains hemp seed oil, which is arguably the most fitting carrier oil for CBD tinctures. It has no flavoring or any other additives.
Receptra Naturals
Receptra Naturals is one of the only companies offering CBD oil infused with turmeric, another ingredient that may help relieve the symptoms of IBS.
- Contains turmeric
- Multiple strengths and bottle sizes
- Comprehensive third-party testing
- Free shipping
- Third-party test results only available after purchase
Founded in 2015, Receptra Naturals is another high-quality CBD brand based out of Colorado. It has all the signs of a great brand, including an organic Colorado hemp source, comprehensive third-party lab testing, and specialized formulations.
Receptra Naturals also grows its own organic hemp, keeping the company in control of the whole manufacturing process.
Receptra Naturals’ serious relief CBD tincture is an excellent choice for IBS because it contains an additional active ingredient: turmeric.
Early research suggests that turmeric’s main active ingredient curcumin may help relieve the symptoms of IBS[1], making it an excellent addition to CBD.
On top of that, Receptra’s CBD oil contains full-spectrum hemp extract providing the full range of phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds that boost the effects of CBD.
This berry-flavored tincture is available in strengths of 33 and 66 mg of CBD per ml and three bottle sizes: 15 ml, 30 ml, and 60 ml, with 500-4000 mg of CBD in total.
What Is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal tract condition that causes abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, issues with your bowel movements, and other digestive symptoms.
IBS affects your large intestine but doesn’t cause any tissue damage, which makes it different from the related inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
There are two main kinds of IBS, diarrhea-dominant (IBS-D) when bowel movements are mostly associated with diarrhea, and constipation-dominant (IBS-C), although it can also be mixed-type. According to research, an estimated 10-15% of people worldwide[2] suffer from IBS.
The cause of IBS[3] is not 100% clear but it seems to be related to issues with:
- Intestinal motility (digestive tract muscle contractions)
- The gut-brain connection
- Psychological stress, particularly during early life and adulthood
- Serotonin levels[4]
- The immune system[5]
There is no cure for IBS. Standard treatments for IBS usually focus on dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and stress management, in addition to fiber supplements and prescription medications.
How Does CBD Work For IBS Symptoms?
Researchers have uncovered multiple ways that CBD can relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
First and foremost, there’s growing evidence that IBS, migraines, and many other conditions are caused by what’s called clinical endocannabinoid deficiency[6](CED): insufficient levels of endocannabinoids produced by the human body.
Endocannabinoids are the central component of your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which also includes cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) and special enzymes. This system[7] regulates gut health and most other vital processes.
Since CBD can reduce the breakdown of the endocannabinoid anandamide[8], it may have a positive effect on IBS.
On top of that, CBD may help relieve IBS by alleviating anxiety[9], depression, and stress.
As we noted earlier, psychological stress plays a major role in the development of IBS[10]. We also know that people with IBS have higher rates of anxiety and depression[11], which suggests they may also be involved.
Together, these issues highlight the impaired connection between the central nervous system and the digestive system — the so-called brain-gut axis[12] — that’s involved in IBS.
Furthermore, studies suggest that CBD and other cannabinoid compounds have pain[13] and nausea-relieving effects that may help with symptoms of abdominal pain and nausea.
Last but not least, several human studies[13] have reported that CBD-rich cannabis[14] improved symptoms and quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, a condition that’s similar to IBS.
How To Treat IBS With CBD
Many people turn to CBD and marijuana for IBS because they’re relatively safe, natural substances. As we highlighted above, there isn’t any conclusive evidence that CBD can treat IBS. However, the current findings suggest that it can have a positive effect.
If you want to use CBD for IBS, your best option is to go with a full-spectrum or at least a broad-spectrum CBD oil.
Full-spectrum hemp extracts contain not only CBD but all of the phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant. By working in synergy, these compounds create what’s called the cannabis “entourage effect.”
That’s why whole-plant cannabis preparations[15] seem to have greater effects than pure CBD by itself.
It’s best to take CBD oil regularly not only for consistent IBS symptom relief but also because many people find that its effects build up over time.
CBD Dosage For IBS
Another factor to consider is the amount of CBD you should take.
There isn’t enough research to suggest the ideal dosage of CBD for IBS, especially because it depends on how much you weigh, your individual body chemistry, symptom severity, and the type of CBD product you’re taking.
Having said that, the approach recommended by health experts is to “start low and go slow[16].” You can start with a 10-15 mg dose of CBD oil and wait about two hours to see the effects.
If you don’t notice any difference, incr
Frequently Asked Questions
CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of many phytocannabinoids present in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD doesn’t make you high and appears to have many potential health benefits. It works by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system and many other cell receptors.
CBD oil is a supplement made up of CBD-rich extract dissolved in a plant carrier oil like coconut MCT oil. When you apply a few drops under your tongue, the CBD can be absorbed directly into the blood vessels, which is faster and more effective than simply swallowing it.
Research suggests that CBD can help relieve IBS in many different ways, such as reducing abdominal pain and nausea. There are also many anecdotal reports of people using CBD oil to relieve the symptoms of IBS. However, clinical studies — the gold standard of medical research — are lacking.
CBD is considered a safe substance with a small chance of minor side effects, such as sleepiness.
+ 16 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- Qin Xiang Ng, Alex Yu Sen Soh, Wayren Loke, Nandini Venkatanarayanan, Donovan Yutong Lim, Wee-Song Yeo. (2018). A Meta-Analysis of the Clinical Use of Curcumin for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6210149/
- Kaitlin Occhipinti and James W. Smith. (2012). Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review and Update. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3348735/
- Nicolas Patel, Karen Shackelford. (2020). Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534810/
- Susanta Kumar Padhy, Swapnajeet Sahoo, Sonali Mahajan, and Saroj Kumar Sinha. (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: Is it “irritable brain” or “irritable bowel”?. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4692018/
- Giovanni Barbara, Cesare Cremon, Giovanni Carini, Lara Bellacosa, Lisa Zecchi, Roberto De Giorgio, Roberto Corinaldesi, and Vincenzo Stanghellini. (2011). The Immune System in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3228974/
- Ethan B. Russo. (2016). Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency Reconsidered: Current Research Supports the Theory in Migraine, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowel, and Other Treatment-Resistant Syndromes. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576607/
- Nicholas V. DiPatrizio. (2016). Endocannabinoids in the Gut. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4940133/
- F M Leweke, D Piomelli, F Pahlisch, D Muhl, C W Gerth, C Hoyer. (2012). Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3316151/
- Esther M. Blessing, Maria M. Steenkamp, Jorge Manzanares, and Charles R. Marmar. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
- Hong-Yan Qin, Chung-Wah Cheng, Xu-Dong Tang, and Zhao-Xiang Bian. (2014). Impact of psychological stress on irritable bowel syndrome. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4202343/
- Changhyun Lee, Eunyoung Doo, Ji Min Choi, Seung-ho Jang, Han-Seung Ryu, Ju Yup Lee, Jung Hwan Oh, Jung Ho Park, Yong Sung Kim, Brain-Gut Axis Research Group of Korean Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility. (2017). The Increased Level of Depression and Anxiety in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients Compared with Healthy Controls: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5503284/
- Keith A. Sharkey and John W. Wiley. (2017). The role of the endocannabinoid system in the brain-gut axis. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4961581/
- Peter M Irving , Tariq Iqbal , Chuka Nwokolo , Sreedhar Subramanian , Stuart Bloom , Neeraj Prasad . (2018). A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel-group, Pilot Study of Cannabidiol-rich Botanical Extract in the Symptomatic Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29538683/
- Tahir S Kafil, Tran M Nguyen, John K MacDonald, and Nilesh Chande. (2018). Cannabis for the treatment of Crohn’s disease. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6517156/
- Ethan B. Russo. (2018). The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6334252/
- Catherine J Lucas, Peter Galettis, Jennifer Schneider. (2018). The pharmacokinetics and the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30001569/
Written by:
Gleb Oleinik, CBD Journalist, Former Writer
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
