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Cannabidiol (CBD) may be beneficial for treating pain and inflammation. CBD is a compound from the cannabis plant and comes in both topical and edible forms.
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A quick look at the best CBD products for inflammation
Best softgels: R&R Medicinals THC-Free CBD Softgels | Skip to review
R&R Medicinals THC-Free CBD Softgels
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Best gummies: CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies | Skip to review
CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies
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Best oil: Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Tincture | Skip to review
Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Tincture
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Best cream: Receptra CBD Serious Relief + Arnica Cream | Skip to review
Receptra CBD Serious Relief + Arnica Cream
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Best roll-on: Level Select CBD Sports Roll-On | Skip to review
Level Select CBD Sports Roll-On
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Cannabis is a plant that has been in use for more than 4,000 years. There are a few different kinds of cannabis, including Cannabis sativa.
4,000 years
Although research on CBD is still in its early stages, people are increasingly using it as an alternative treatment for various health conditions, including inflammation.
inflammation
Does CBD reduce inflammation?
Some research suggests that CBD can ease inflammation and results show CBD as a promising anti-inflammatory treatment.
research
Cannabis sativa contains more than 400 different chemical compounds. Two of the best-known are THC and CBD. THC is the cannabinoid that leads to the “high” feeling many people associate with cannabis. CBD does not provide these same effects.
400
Learn more about CBD and THC.
Learn more about CBD and THC.
Research suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may be beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis, as it affects certain cell viability. It may also have a synergetic effect on rheumatoid arthritis medication.
Research
A 2020 research review suggests CBD’s properties can provide antioxidative effects because of CBD’s specific molecular structure. Therefore, it may have anti-inflammatory benefits for conditions that can result from oxidative stress.
2020 research review
A 2023 study concludes that CBD can reduce inflammation following intense physical exercise in comparison to a placebo.
2023 study
Most studies have not reviewed the long-term effects of CBD, and researchers need to conduct more studies with human participants. However, experts believe the research results may have therapeutic implications.
One 2020 study found that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help with the following conditions:
2020 study
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease
general pain
inflammatory conditions
metabolic disorders
metabolic disorders
cardiovascular diseases
How to use CBD for inflammation
CBD comes in many forms. Some people may find that edible CBD products, such as gummies and oral oils, work better for them. Others may find topical CBD, such as creams and massage oils, easier to use.
gummies
How individuals take or apply CBD will depend on its form.
Manufacturers of CBD oil often include a dropper with their product. This means a person can easily measure out the appropriate dose.
A person uses this dropper to place a few drops under the tongue. They should aim to hold these drops under the tongue for around 30–60 seconds. This method of ingesting CBD oil is known as sublingual consumption.
Research from 2021 into sublingual CBD oils in the United Kingdom states that they can reduce pain and improve sleep quality.
Research from 2021
Topical CBD products can help provide more targeted pain relief to specific areas of the body. They come in many forms, including creams, roll-ons, oils, and gels.
A person applies a small amount of the product to the painful area and massages it in. How much someone should apply will vary between products, and they need to follow the guidance on the product label.
A 2022 review concludes that topical CBD products can have anti-inflammatory effects.
2022 review
Most CBD gummy manufacturers recommend taking 1–2 gummies daily. However, a person needs to take guidance from the product label as recommended doses vary.
There is limited research into CBD gummies and their effects on pain or inflammation. However, people may find gummies to be a convenient and more subtle way of taking CBD.
A person takes CBD capsules by swallowing them whole with water. They need to refer to the product label for dosage instructions. Additionally, they need to pay attention to whether the manufacturer recommends taking the capsules with or without food.
There is limited research into CBD capsules and their effects on pain and inflammation.
The best CBD products for inflammation
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.
R&R Medicinals THC-Free CBD Softgels
CBD type broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency 30 mg per softgel
COA: available online
available online
$55.00 AT R&R MEDICINALS
*Price may vary.
Each of these soft gels contains 30 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. They are flavor-free and use organic ingredients, including hemp extract and MCT from coconut.
The company recommends taking 1–2 soft gels per day with food. R&R states that this product may aid relaxation and comfort as well as heal pain.
A person takes these soft gels orally, meaning this may help with pain in multiple areas as the positive effects will travel around the body.
Each batch of this product is third-party tested, and the company uses a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-registered facility.
Subscriptions and savings
R&R offers free shipping on orders over $60.
Alternatively, people can opt to subscribe and save. People can choose to have delivery every 30, 60, or 90 days. Choosing this option provides free shipping and 20% off the price of each product.
contains organic ingredients
suitable for people wishing to take CBD on the go
contains coconut oil
not suitable for people who dislike natural hemp flavor
contains organic ingredients
suitable for people wishing to take CBD on the go
contains coconut oil
not suitable for people who dislike natural hemp flavor
Count: 34 softgels
Available flavors: Unflavored
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 60 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Veteran-Founded
Count: 34 softgels
Available flavors: Unflavored
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 60 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Veteran-Founded
CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies
CBD type broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg per gummy
COA: available online
available online
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$54.99 AT CBDFX
*Price may vary.
These broad-spectrum gummies are solvent-free, which means the manufacturers extract CBD without using chemicals such as propane and butane.
broad-spectrum
The gummies contain organic hemp, tapioca syrup, and cane sugar. It is also cruelty-free and vegan, and CBDfx states it makes this product in the United States.
Each serving of two gummies contains 50 to 100 milligrams (mg) of CBD, depending on whether a person chooses the 1,500-mg or 3,000-mg bottle.
These gummies may provide a convenient pain-relief option. Taking gummies for pain means a person can control when to take them, and they can do this subtly if they wish.
Read our CBDfx review and discover other best CBD gummies.
CBDfx review
best CBD gummies
Subscriptions and savings
CBDfx does not currently offer a subscribe and save feature.
However, it does offer free shipping on orders of $75 and over. People can also use third-party companies such as Sezzle and Klarna to spread the cost of eligible purchases.
“The gummy itself is really soft. I let one gummy sit on my tongue for a second to “melt” a bit. It doesn’t taste like candy. It’s more like having a gummy vitamin.
“On the first day I had a total of 2 gummies spaced 5 hours apart, at night. On the second day of testing I had 1 gummy in the evening. And on the third day I had a total of 4 gummies. The third day is when I felt some physical sensation that I might attribute to the gummies — like tingling in my scalp or head, and it’s this fairly mild reaction that makes me think this is an accessible option for someone new to CBD.
“Each night I slept through the whole night. Up to this point I had been waking up in the middle of the night and I haven’t been taking anything with cannabinoids in it before.
“I think this is a good product for someone that’s totally new to CBD. I felt little-to-no immediate physical affects. It did seem to change my ability to stay asleep, for the better, but even if this doesn’t happen for someone else they likely won’t feel off or strange while having them.”
— Candice Abellon, editor
“The gummy itself is really soft. I let one gummy sit on my tongue for a second to “melt” a bit. It doesn’t taste like candy. It’s more like having a gummy vitamin.
“On the first day I had a total of 2 gummies spaced 5 hours apart, at night. On the second day of testing I had 1 gummy in the evening. And on the third day I had a total of 4 gummies. The third day is when I felt some physical sensation that I might attribute to the gummies — like tingling in my scalp or head, and it’s this fairly mild reaction that makes me think this is an accessible option for someone new to CBD.
“Each night I slept through the whole night. Up to this point I had been waking up in the middle of the night and I haven’t been taking anything with cannabinoids in it before.
“I think this is a good product for someone that’s totally new to CBD. I felt little-to-no immediate physical affects. It did seem to change my ability to stay asleep, for the better, but even if this doesn’t happen for someone else they likely won’t feel off or strange while having them.”
— Candice Abellon, editor
people can adjust the dose higher or lower for maximum wellness
vegan (unlike many gummies)
available in different strength options
according to some reviews, the gummies have an unpleasant smell
broad-spectrum gummies do not contain THC, which some people may prefer
people can adjust the dose higher or lower for maximum wellness
vegan (unlike many gummies)
available in different strength options
according to some reviews, the gummies have an unpleasant smell
broad-spectrum gummies do not contain THC, which some people may prefer
Count: 60 gummies per bottle
Available flavors: Mixed Berry
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Count: 60 gummies per bottle
Available flavors: Mixed Berry
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Tincture
CBD type full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency 1,500 mg per 30-mL bottle, 6,000 mg per 120-mL bottle
COA: available on product page
available on product page
$39.99 AT CBD.CO
*Price may vary.
This high potency oral oil contains full-spectrum CBD. It comes in various bottle sizes and contains 50 mg of CBD per milliliter (mL) of oil.
It also contains coconut. If a person has an allergy to coconut or if a doctor has stated that they cannot eat grapefruit, an individual needs to check with a doctor before using this product.
grapefruit
This product is vegan and free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The company sources all ingredients from the United States.
Full-spectrum products contain up to 0.3% THC. While it is unlikely that will make people fail a drug test, it is possible, so this product may be unsuitable for those who undergo regular drug testing.
drug testing
Lazarus Naturals recommends that people take 1 mL (50 mg) as needed or as a healthcare professional directs. The company states that the product takes up to 2 hours to take effect, and some people may need to adjust their dose accordingly.
Lazarus Naturals does not specify that the product is for pain relief. However, various customer reviews mention experiencing relief from arthritis and headache pain after taking the project.
Read our review of Lazarus Naturals and discover other best full-spectrum CBD oils.
review of Lazarus Naturals
best full-spectrum CBD oils
Subscriptions and savings
All of Lazarus Natural’s products over $25 are eligible for payment with Sezzle, which allows people to split the cost over several interest-free payments.
Additionally, the company offers up to 60% off each product for veterans, people on long-term disability, and low income households. To access this assistance program, people will need to log in to their account and apply by filling out a form.
“Lazarus Naturals’ packaging is very clean and clear. They’ve got a QR code to be able to see the test results for the specific batch your product came from, and straightforward instructions for first-time users.
“I started with the recommended dose for beginners (50 mg), but found that 100 mg allowed me to fall asleep quickly.
“You don’t notice the oily texture when you take it sublingually, and it absorbs fairly quickly, which also means the earthy taste/smell dissipate fairly quickly. I wouldn’t say it tasted good, but it’s not unpleasant.
“I was able to drift off quickly when I took the CBD, and didn’t wake up groggy the next morning. Taking it (in smaller doses) during the day also helped me stop jumping from worry to worry, but focus on the one task in front of me.
“I also tried Lazarus’ Chocolate Mint full-spectrum high-potency CBD tincture, which had the same positive effects, though tasted slightly better than the unflavored (I still wouldn’t say it tasted good, though).”
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content PM
“Lazarus Naturals’ packaging is very clean and clear. They’ve got a QR code to be able to see the test results for the specific batch your product came from, and straightforward instructions for first-time users.
“I started with the recommended dose for beginners (50 mg), but found that 100 mg allowed me to fall asleep quickly.
“You don’t notice the oily texture when you take it sublingually, and it absorbs fairly quickly, which also means the earthy taste/smell dissipate fairly quickly. I wouldn’t say it tasted good, but it’s not unpleasant.
“I was able to drift off quickly when I took the CBD, and didn’t wake up groggy the next morning. Taking it (in smaller doses) during the day also helped me stop jumping from worry to worry, but focus on the one task in front of me.
“I also tried Lazarus’ Chocolate Mint full-spectrum high-potency CBD tincture, which had the same positive effects, though tasted slightly better than the unflavored (I still wouldn’t say it tasted good, though).”
— Laramy Applekamp, Healthline Content PM
suitable for vegans
high potency may be more suitable for people who are experienced with CBD
people can easily adjust the dose with the included measuring dropper
may be too potent for newer users
not suitable for people with a coconut allergy, as it contains coconut oil
suitable for vegans
high potency may be more suitable for people who are experienced with CBD
people can easily adjust the dose with the included measuring dropper
may be too potent for newer users
not suitable for people with a coconut allergy, as it contains coconut oil
Available flavors: Classic, Chocolate Mint, Strawberry Lemonade
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Available flavors: Classic, Chocolate Mint, Strawberry Lemonade
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 15 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Receptra CBD Serious Relief + Arnica Cream
CBD type full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency 800 mg per 2.5-oz jar
COA: available on product page
SHOP NOW AT RECEPTRA
Receptra recommends this full-spectrum CBD cream to ease aches and pains in muscles and joints. People can rub a small amount on affected areas as required.
It is available in two sizes: a 2.5-oz (70-g) pot, which contains 800 mg of CBD, or a 1.25-oz (35-g) pot, which contains 400 mg of CBD.
A 0% THC version of the 1.25-oz pot is also available. A 2-oz (56-g) version is available for people who prefer a stick applicator containing 640 mg of CBD.
Ingredients include coconut oil, mango butter, jojoba oil, arnica oil, and camphor. The company claims that the arnica and jojoba oil may help reduce inflammation and swelling.
jojoba oil
camphor
This cream also contains jasmine and ylang-ylang for a gentle fragrance.
Read our roundup of the best CBD creams here.
Read our roundup of the best CBD creams here.
Subscriptions and savings
Receptra does not currently offer subscriptions.
Veterans can receive 50% off all products. Receptra also provides a reward points scheme for returning customers and a referral program that gives both parties $20 to spend at Receptra.
customer reviews state it helps relieve aches and pains
provides targeted relief for the body
organic ingredients
unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
not suitable for vegans as it contains beeswax
customer reviews state it helps relieve aches and pains
provides targeted relief for the body
organic ingredients
unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
not suitable for vegans as it contains beeswax
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Level Select CBD Sports Roll-On
CBD type broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency 1,200 mg per 2.5-oz container, 1,800 mg per 2.5-oz container
COA: available online
available online
Use code “HEALTH40” for 40% off.
$40.00 AT LEVEL SELECT CBD
*Price may vary.
This roll-on contains broad-spectrum CBD, cooling menthol, and a mint scent. It is free from THC.
Level Select offers this roll-on in two versions: The LVL 2 version contains 1,200 mg of CBD per 2.5-oz (70-g) stick. This provides around 48 mg of CBD per roll. The LVL 3 version is more concentrated and contains 1,800 mg of CBD per 2.5-oz stick, providing around 72 mg of CBD per roll.
It is a hands-free massaging roller that may suit people who have a busy schedule and are always on the go. It can also provide targeted pain relief to specific areas of the body.
According to the company, it does not leave a messy residue and absorbs quickly.
Subscriptions and savings
People can opt to subscribe and save to gain up to 35% off each purchase. People can choose to receive this product every 1, 2, or 3 months.
suitable for use on the go
does not have a greasy residue
menthol may help ease aches and pains
some people found the menthol irritated their skin
suitable for use on the go
does not have a greasy residue
menthol may help ease aches and pains
some people found the menthol irritated their skin
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
CBD for inflammation comparison
The following table compares the products in this article on form, type, potency, and more.
R&R Medicinals
CBDfx
Lazarus Naturals
Receptra
Level Select
How we chose CBD products
We selected these CBD products for inflammation based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
As a part of our vetting process, we consider:
the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
any third-party certifications
the company’s reputation and business practices
any lab test results
marketing claims
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more.
Learn more.
What to look for in CBD products for inflammation
People may wish to consider the following before purchasing:
Type of CBD: CBD products come in three types: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains up to 0.3% THC, whereas broad-spectrum and CBD isolate contain up to trace amounts of this compound.
Type of product: Some people may prefer to use topical products rather than edibles. On the other hand, edible CBD products may be more convenient to take discreetly and quickly.
Company reputation: People may wish to ensure that the company they purchase from has not been subject to lawsuits or a warning letter from the FDA.
Product safety: People should always ensure that the product they purchase has undergone third-party testing and has a valid and current COA.
Medical advice: People should contact a healthcare professional to ensure that any CBD products will not interact with any medications they are taking.
CBD safety and side effects
A 2020 research review suggests that most people can tolerate CBD. However, this depends on the concentration of CBD in a product.
2020 research review
Possible risks and side effects of CBD use include:
risks and side effects
an increase in the risk of liver damage if a person uses CBD alongside other medications, such as valproate
drowsiness and sleepiness
diarrhea and a decrease in appetite
mood changes and irritability
allergic reactions in some cases
If a person uses CBD alongside other medications, it may affect how those medications work. For instance, a 2019 study found that CBD reduced the effectiveness of steroids in treating inflammation. However, this study was in vitro, meaning it did not take place in a living organism such as humans or animals, and it is not clear how CBD and steroids may work together in humans.
2019 study
People should discuss CBD with a healthcare professional, especially if they take medications.
Frequently asked questions about CBD for inflammation
While CBD can help reduce inflammation, people should not use it instead of any anti-inflammatories a healthcare professional recommends.
While CBD can help reduce inflammation, people should not use it instead of any anti-inflammatories a healthcare professional recommends.
An older research review from 2018 suggests that a full-spectrum CBD product may be more effective than other types in treating inflammation and joint pain.
older research review
However, if a person does not want to use a product that contains THC, they may prefer to purchase broad-spectrum or CBD isolate products.
It is important to note that researchers have not yet discovered the optimal dosing or length of time to take CBD to see its anti-inflammatory effects. More research is necessary.
An older research review from 2018 suggests that a full-spectrum CBD product may be more effective than other types in treating inflammation and joint pain.
older research review
However, if a person does not want to use a product that contains THC, they may prefer to purchase broad-spectrum or CBD isolate products.
It is important to note that researchers have not yet discovered the optimal dosing or length of time to take CBD to see its anti-inflammatory effects. More research is necessary.
CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and starts working within 45 minutes. Ibuprofen, which has the same effects, starts working within 20–30 minutes.
within 45 minutes
within 20–30 minutes
It is important to note that there have been more studies on the effectiveness, short- and long-term side effects, and toxicity of ibuprofen than CBD for inflammation.
CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and starts working within 45 minutes. Ibuprofen, which has the same effects, starts working within 20–30 minutes.
within 45 minutes
within 20–30 minutes
It is important to note that there have been more studies on the effectiveness, short- and long-term side effects, and toxicity of ibuprofen than CBD for inflammation.
Studies have found that CBD may help with inflammation relating to joint pain and arthritis.
Studies
Studies have found that CBD may help with inflammation relating to joint pain and arthritis.
Studies
There is no standard guideline on how much CBD to take for chronic inflammation. People can begin with a lower dose, for example, 10 to 15 mg, and gradually increase it to suit their needs.
There is no standard guideline on how much CBD to take for chronic inflammation. People can begin with a lower dose, for example, 10 to 15 mg, and gradually increase it to suit their needs.
Summary
CBD is a compound from the cannabis plant that may have various health benefits, including fighting inflammation.
Researchers have not yet conducted many long-term studies on how CBD affects human inflammation. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the results may be promising.
Brands such as Lazarus Naturals, R&R Medicinals, and Level Select offer CBD products that may help people manage inflammation.
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