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Best CBD Gummies For Pain 2023: Do These Edibles Actually Work?
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- Written by Kate Barrington, Health Expert
Medically reviewed by
Dr G. Michael DiLeo, MD
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When you’re in pain, even the most basic of daily tasks can become daunting. From headaches to chronic back pain, over 50 million[1] American adults suffer from pain regularly.
While prescription pain medications have their benefits, many people hesitate to take opioids or even over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. CBD offers an all-natural alternative. CBD and other cannabinoids have demonstrated analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties,[2] making them a potentially effective treatment for various pain conditions.
From gummies to CBD oils that relieve pain, there are many options to choose from. This article explains how CBD gummies may help people alleviate pain and reviews the best CBD brands on the market.
7 Best CBD Gummies For Pain Relief On The Market In (November. 2023)
- CBDfx Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies – Editor’s Choice
- Spruce CBD Gummies – Premium Pick
- Royal Full Spectrum CBD Gummies – Best Full-Spectrum
- Fab CBD Anytime Gummies – Best THC-Free
- Medterra True Full Spectrum Original CBD Gummies – Best Flavor
- CBDistillery Full Spectrum CBD Gummies – Best Vegan
- cbdMD Full Spectrum CBD Gummies – Best Value
Do CBD Gummies Relieve Pain?
Cannabidiol, or CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoid compounds found in the cannabis plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol, i.e., THC, is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is a non-impairing compound that has been studied as a potential treatment for everything from anxiety[3] to epilepsy.[4]
A 2022 literature review revealed that CBD has the potential for relieving pain, sleep dysfunction, and mood disturbances in patients suffering from rheumatic complaints.[5] CBD has also been studied — both with and without THC — for its benefits in relieving chronic neuropathic pain[6] and pain related to cancer treatments.[7]
Whether CBD works for you depends on the cause and severity of your pain as well as the dosage of CBD you take. There is no standard dosing recommendation for taking CBD gummies. It’s best to start with a low dose and increase your dosage as needed until you receive the desired benefit.
Who Should Take CBD Gummies For Pain?
According to the CDC, 10.7% of U.S. adults[8] over the age of 20 used one or more prescription pain medications between 2015 and 2018. Prescription pain medications offer stronger effects than over-the-counter options, but they come with a higher risk for dependence and side effects.
Experience headaches, back pain, or other forms of chronic pain and prefer not to take opioids or non-opioid prescription pain medications. CBD edibles might be a good option. Quality CBD gummies have a low risk for side effects[9] which are typically mild and may include diarrhea, weight changes, drowsiness, and changes in appetite.
7 Best CBD Gummies For Pain & Inflammation In 2023
CBDfx Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies
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Made with broad-spectrum CBD and other organic ingredients; these CBD candies offer a convenient alternative to traditional pain medication.
- Made with broad-spectrum CBD.
- Natural mixed berry flavor.
- Tested by independent third-party labs.
- Gummies contain added sugar.
- Gummies are higher in calories than some.
CBDfx is a California-based CBD company founded in 2014 by Ali Esmaili and Jameson Rodgers. Their CBD products are made with all-natural ingredients and tested by third-party labs, with test results readily available on the brand’s website.
Each jar of CBDfx Mixed Berry Gummies contains 1500 milligrams of hemp-based CBD. With 60 gummies per bottle, a single gummy contains 30 milligrams of broad-spectrum hemp extract and 25 milligrams of cannabidiol. The gummies are naturally colored and sweetened with organic tapioca syrup and organic cane sugar.
Because these gummies are made with broad-spectrum CBD extract, they are marketed as ND-THC (non-detectable) but may still contain trace amounts of THC.
Spruce CBD Gummies
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Enjoy the benefits of a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes with these full-spectrum premium CBD gummies from Spruce.
- Contains full-spectrum hemp extract.
- Three natural fruit flavors.
- Third-party tested for purity and potency.
- More expensive than other CBD companies.
- Contains added sugar.
Formulated with full-spectrum hemp extract, Spruce CBD gummies contain 25 milligrams of CBD per gummy along with the full complement of cannabinoids and terpenes the hemp plant has to offer. These compounds work together with cannabinoids to create a synergistic effect[10] which may yield higher benefits than CBD isolate.
Spruce gummies are made with organic ingredients in a vegan, gluten-free formula. Each jar contains 30 gummies in three flavors: mixed berry, orange, and strawberry. These organic CBD gummies are naturally flavored and sweetened with organic tapioca syrup and organic sugar.
Made in the USA, Spruce gummies are pesticide-free and third-party tested for purity and potency. They’re more expensive than some CBD gummy brands, but you can save 15% and receive free shipping when you start a subscription.
Royal Full Spectrum CBD Gummies
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Whether you’re looking for a CBD product that offers the full range of phytochemicals found in hemp or you want to buy in bulk and save, Royal CBD gummies are an option to consider.
- Contains the full range of phytochemicals from hemp.
- Tested by ISO-accredited labs.
- Save with a subscription or bundle.
- Contains up to 0.3% THC by weight.
- May cause a positive THC test result.
Established in 2018, Royal CBD is widely regarded as one of the best CBD oil brands on the market. Their products are made using sustainably grown organic hemp and 100% organic ingredients.
Since Royal CBD offers broad-spectrum CBD options, these full-spectrum CBD edibles are worth a look. Made with full-spectrum hemp extract, you’ll receive the full range of phytochemicals found in hemp — including THC. Each gummy contains 25 milligrams of CBD plus 2 milligrams of THC.
All Royal CBD products are tested by International Organization for Standardization or ISO-accredited labs with test results available on the website. These gummies come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and you can save 15% with a subscription. Save even more by purchasing a bundle of two or four bottles.
Fab CBD Anytime Gummies
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Made with premium hemp extract, you can enjoy THC-free pain relief with these Fab CBD anytime gummies.
- Made with pure CBD isolate.
- Naturally colored and flavored.
- Tested by independent third-party labs.
- Has a sleep formulation product.
- Processed in the same facility as wheat, peanuts, and tree nuts.
- Contains added sugar.
When it comes to taking CBD edibles for pain management, it’s important to look out for unnecessary ingredients. It’s wise to avoid artificial flavors and synthetic colors, but even other active ingredients might change your experience. These Anytime gummies from Fab CBD are made simply with 25 milligrams of CBD isolate per gummy.
If chronic pain keeps you from falling asleep, you may be interested in Fab CBD’s Nighttime formula. In addition to 12.5 milligrams of broad-spectrum CBD distillate, each gummy contains an assortment of sleep-supporting supplements like L-theanine[11] and melatonin.[12]
All Fab CBD gummies are made with organically grown hemp farmed in Colorado. Their products are tested by third-party labs and are sold with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Medterra True Full Spectrum Original CBD Gummies
15% Off Coupon: HEALTHCANAL
If you don’t like the flavor of CBD oil, these Medterra gummies might be more suitable. They have a tasty citrus flavor, and they are naturally sweetened.
- Natural citrus flavor and no artificial colors.
- Contains 30 milligrams of full-spectrum hemp extract per gummy.
- Save 30% plus free shipping with a subscription.
- May cause a positive THC test result.
Medterra CBD gummies are made with full-spectrum hemp extract and other natural ingredients in a potent, citrus-flavored blend. Each gummy contains 30 milligrams of full-spectrum hemp extract, which includes 25 milligrams of CBD per gummy, 2 milligrams of THC, and 3 milligrams of additional minor cannabinoids.
Not only are these potent CBD gummies delicious, but they’re priced in a way that makes them more accessible than other products. Choose from a 30-count or 60-count bottle and save 30% plus free shipping when you start a subscription.
Medterra markets their gummies as some of the strongest CBD gummies on the market because they contain an industry-leading 2 milligrams of THC and a 5:1 ratio of CBD to other minor cannabinoids.
CBDistillery CBD Gummies
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If you’re looking specifically for vegan CBD gummies, CBDistillery is a CBD gummy brand you’ll want to check out. Their gummies are made with all-natural ingredients in a delicious strawberry flavor.
- Contains full-spectrum hemp extract.
- Vegan-friendly and naturally flavored.
- Third-party lab results available via QR code.
- Contains up to 0.3% THC by weight.
- May cause a positive THC test result.
When it comes to vegan CBD products, the ingredients really matter. Not only are CBDistillery gummies vegan-friendly but they’re made with industrial hemp grown in the United States using natural farming practices. All products are third-party tested, with test results available on the website or by scanning the QR code on each product.
These CBD-infused gummies are lightly sugar-coated and flavored with strawberry. Each gummy contains 38 milligrams of full-spectrum hemp extract and 30 milligrams of CBD. Because this is a full-spectrum product, you’ll also enjoy the benefits of terpenes and the synergistic effects of an array of other natural cannabinoid compounds.
All CBDistillery products come with a 60-day money-back guarantee, and orders over $75 ship free. You can make a one-time purchase, but starting a subscription will save you 30%.
cbdMD Full Spectrum CBD Gummies
High-quality CBD gummies aren’t cheap, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on them. cbdMD offers gummies in several different concentrations so you can get the best value.
- Available in three concentrations.
- Natural tropical fruit flavor.
- Made with US-grown hemp extract.
- May cause a positive THC test result.
Once you’ve determined your ideal CBD dosage, finding a product that suits your needs can save you money. With cbdMD gummies, you can choose the desired dosage ranging from an advertised 50 milligrams to 200 milligrams of CBD per serving.
These full-spectrum gummies from cbdMD are made with full-spectrum hemp extract, so they contain CBD, THC, and a range of other cannabinoid compounds. They’re sold in three concentrations of 1500, 3000, or 6000 milligrams of CBD per bottle.
cbdMD always uses US-grown hemp and strictly natural flavors and colors. These gummies are Tropical Twist flavor, and they’re sweetened with tapioca syrup as a low-calorie, low-carb alternative to sugar.
How To Choose The Best CBD Gummies For Pain
Though you can find CBD gummies marketed for specific benefits like anxiety relief or improved sleep, most formulas are pretty general when it comes to pain. For example, if you’re looking for the best CBD gummies for stomach pain, any gummy marketed for pain relief should work. In fact, a standard CBD gummy may work just as well.
When purchasing CBD gummies, there are several factors on which you should base your choice.
Type And Quality Of CBD
CBD gummy products are typically made with either full-spectrum or broad-spectrum hemp extract, though some THC-free products are made with CBD isolate. CBD isolate is simply an extract in which the CBD has been isolated from other cannabinoids — it is typically over 99% THC-free.
Broad-spectrum CBD has had the THC removed but may contain other cannabinoids. In contrast, full-spectrum extract contains a full range of beneficial phytochemicals, including terpenes and other cannabinoids like THC. This becomes a crucial consideration if your employment requires drug testing.
Look for a CBD brand that uses hemp grown in the United States. Certification from the U.S. Hemp Authority indicates that the company follows high standards. Whether you prefer organic hemp or industrial hemp is a matter of choice.
CBD Concentration
After deciding which type of CBD is right for you, the next step is to determine how much CBD is in the product. CBD gummies come in a wide range of concentrations, from as low as 5 milligrams of CBD per gummy to over 200 milligrams of CBD per serving.
When reading the label, pay attention to the serving size, as some brands don’t clearly state on the front of the bottle whether the amount of CBD is measured per gummy or per multi-gummy serving. Also, there is a difference between the amount of extract vs. the amount of CBD per milligram.
Third-Party Testing
The most reputable CBD companies send their products to independent, third-party labs for testing. You should be able to find those lab results on the brand’s website, though some companies print QR codes on their product labels which you can scan to view results.
Additional Ingredients
Avoid gummies that contain artificial colors or flavors. Natural sweeteners like organic cane sugar are preferable to artificial sweeteners and things like high-fructose corn syrup. Some formulas contain additional ingredients that provide other health benefits, like melatonin for sleep.
Recommended CBD Gummies Dosage For Pain
Scientific research into the effects of CBD and other cannabinoid compounds is still somewhat limited, so dosing recommendations have not yet been established or standardized. Generally speaking, it’s best to start consuming CBD gummies at a low dose to see how your body responds to it. You can increase the dosage slowly if needed, until you find the amount that works for you.
Keep in mind that the amount of CBD per gummy may vary from brand to brand. It’s also wise to consider the type of CBD used in the product. For example, CBD isolate dosage might be higher than full-spectrum products that contain THC and other cannabinoids.
Also, everyone is different as to how their brain’s endocannabinoid receptor system[13] deals with CBD products. This means it may take time to know how fast — or slow — to go when you’re searching for the right dose. On top of that, the gummies stay the same, but you change: What may be the perfect dose for you now may not be in six months, and what doesn’t work for you now may be perfect later.
Where Can I Buy CBD Gummies For Pain?
There are many options for buying CBD gummies, but you’ll find the largest selection when shopping online. The CBD market is vast, so it’s important to choose a brand wisely.
Look for a brand that has a strong reputation for product quality, customer service, and integrity. You can determine a brand’s trustworthiness by checking its BBB profile for complaints and by reading customer reviews on third-party websites like Trustpilot.
Final Thought
While validated research regarding the effectiveness of CBD for pain is limited, CBD shows promise as a natural alternative to opioids and other prescription pain medications. We always recommend consulting a medical professional before taking CBD products to determine whether they’re the right choice for you and, if so, what dosage is best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Maybe. Some research suggests CBD may offer anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits which may help with pain management.
It depends. If you want to experience the full range of phytochemicals derived from the hemp plant, take full-spectrum gummies. If you don’t want to consume THC, a broad-spectrum product might be best. This may have employment or legal implications.
It depends. Your ideal dosage may depend on your weight and individual body chemistry as well as the type and severity of your pain. Also, the ideal dose doesn’t stay perfect forever because you change over time.
Maybe. Gummies have a low risk for side effects which are typically mild and may include diarrhea, weight changes, drowsiness, and changes in appetite. Also, you may invite unwelcome employment scrutiny or repercussions with products that contain any THC.
It depends. The higher the concentration of CBD, the higher the cost. Check the dosage as well — some gummies are formulated for two gummies per serving instead of one.
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- Mlost, J., Bryk, M. and Starowicz, K. (2020). Cannabidiol for Pain Treatment: Focus on Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, [online] 21(22), p.8870. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21228870.
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- Mücke, M., Phillips, T., Radbruch, L., Petzke, F. and Häuser, W. (2018). Cannabis-based medicines for chronic neuropathic pain in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, [online] 2020(7). doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd012182.pub2.
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Written by:
Kate Barrington, Health Expert
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
