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Research into CBD for pain is ongoing, but there are promising results. Based on potency, type, and some testing, we chose some of the best CBD gummies for pain.
Healthline has sole editorial control over this article. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. The information in this article is intended to be general in nature. It’s not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional.
Few natural substances have garnered as much attention as cannabidiol (CBD). People are turning to it for pain relief, among other things. But can it really help?
Keep reading for a look at the research, plus our top picks for the best CBD gummies for pain.
passes tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA
We also considered:
our own experiences — some of the gummies in this article have been tested and reviewed by someone who received the products for free, though all opinions are our own
the company’s certifications and manufacturing processes
product potency
overall ingredients
indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
CBD’s potential to ease inflammation, anxiety, stress, and more has catapulted it into the limelight. But despite ongoing research, the degree to which it relieves pain remains a question mark.
Studies are often limited by factors such as small sample sizes, the involvement of diverse pain conditions, or the inclusion of THC, adding layers of complexity to the findings.
For example, a 2021 survey of people attending pain management clinics found that about 60% of respondents said CBD helped with pain, but more than 60% of the products they used contained THC.
In an 8-week study of 97 people with chronic pain who had been using opioids for at least a year, CBD softgels showed promise, allowing more than half the participants to reduce or completely stop their opioid use. And 9 in 10 participants reported reduced pain and better sleep.
Although the CBD capsules used in the 8-week study contained 0.5 milligrams (mg) of THC, this level falls well below the 1–2.5-mg threshold for a microdose, so it’s unlikely to have had a significant impact.
While CBD oil and gummies have gained popularity as a pain remedy, their effectiveness lacks a clear scientific consensus. Nevertheless, if you’re curious about trying CBD, high potency gummies might offer a more noticeable effect.
It’s advisable to introduce CBD gradually, either by starting with lower dose products or by dividing higher dose products into halves or quarters so that you can gauge your reaction.
Currently, the only FDA-approved CBD product is prescription Epidiolex, an epilepsy medication. Over-the-counter CBD products are not FDA approved, and the quality of these products can vary.
Even though CBD offers numerous potential benefits, research is still evolving. If you want to try CBD, it’s essential to choose a high quality product and be aware of possible side effects. Individual reactions may vary, particularly at higher doses.
There is no solid clinical evidence pointing to one specific format of CBD for pain. Effectiveness varies by type of pain and individual responses.
There are three primary ways to take CBD for pain:
Orally: You take gummies, capsules, or edibles by mouth. This method allows for systemic effects suitable for generalized pain or conditions such as arthritis.
Sublingually: You place CBD tinctures or oils under your tongue for absorption directly into your bloodstream. This method provides faster relief than oral consumption and may ease various types of pain.
Topical creams, balms, or patches: You apply these directly to your skin over the painful area. This method is ideal for localized pain, such as muscle soreness or joint pain.
Ultimately, the best method of CBD for pain management depends on your specific pain condition, preferences, and individual response. You may need to experiment to find the best dosage and method for you.
In some studies, CBD appears highly effective as a pain-relief option, but there’s no definitive conclusion on its ability to relieve pain consistently.
Pain is a highly subjective experience, and individual responses to CBD can differ significantly. Some people may find relief, while others may not.
CBD holds potential to ease discomfort for some, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. You should approach CBD with realistic expectations and seek professional advice when considering it as part of your pain management strategy.
You may benefit from CBD if you’re living with arthritis, as there’s evidence to support its use.
A 2022 study of 428 people with arthritis found that CBD use was associated with significant improvements in pain, with 8 in 10 respondents reporting pain relief. CBD also showed positive effects on physical function, sleep quality, and reduction of other medications, including anti-inflammatories, acetaminophen, and opioids.
Considering the positive outcomes of this study, CBD might be worth exploring as a complementary approach to managing your arthritis symptoms.
When it comes to choosing the best gummies for pain relief, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. What works effectively for one person may not have the same impact on another.
Ultimately, the best gummy for you may depend on your specific type of pain, your preferences, and how your body reacts to CBD. But we are fans of gummies by CBDfx, Cornbread Hemp, Nuleaf Naturals, and R&R Medicinals
There’s no concrete evidence that CBD can definitively ease pain, but various studies have highlighted its potential.
If you’re living with chronic pain, it might be worth asking your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional whether CBD gummies or other products could be a beneficial addition to your pain management approach.
Always keep in mind that when purchasing CBD, it’s essential to choose reputable brands that offer high quality products. The ones we’ve featured here are an excellent starting point.
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 legal at the federal level. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them illegal at the federal level. Some states have legalized CBD, so 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.
Last medically reviewed on March 26, 2024
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
