The 11 Best CBD Oils for Anxiety, According to a Registered Dietitian

CBDistillery Relief + Relax is the best CBD oil for anxiety relief.

By Staci Gulbin, MS, MEd, RD
Updated on January 26, 2023

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Courtesy of Merchants

The best CBD oils for anxiety can help to relieve the weight of daily stressors and improve your ability to relax. Although research on cannabidiol (CBD) oil is still ongoing, some studies have found that this natural oil, derived from the Cannabis sativa or indica plants, can help calm your mind without the psychoactive effects found in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

CBD oils can provide wellness benefits, like improved sleep. There are a variety of CBD oils available, including roll-on products for topical use as well as oils you can drop under your tongue or mix into your food. Some CBD oils also contain other ingredients, such as essential oils.

We reviewed the best CBD oils for anxiety so you'll know the best brands and products to test out, including our best overall pick from CBDistillery.

Best CBD oils for anxiety of 2023

Best Overall: CBDistillery Relief + Relax CBD Oil

CBD oil
CBDistillery
Buy It, $35

Key Specs

  • Price: $35 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Full-spectrum
  • Potency: 17, 33, or 83 milligrams of CBD per 1 milliliter serving

Why We Chose It

The CBDistillery Relief + Relax Full-Spectrum CBD Oil products get high marks for customer experience and how effective the products are. They come from a reputable manufacturer and are well-received in terms of cost and value.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The CBD oil is easy to use and available in three different strengths.

Cons: The full-spectrum product contains trace amounts of THC, which may still show up on a drug test.

Overview

If you're new to CBD oil, CBDistillery has a great product that'll help you unwind. The Relief + Relax full-spectrum formula contains natural components of the hemp plant—including less than 0.3% THC—which work together to provide an enhanced wellness effect. Fractionated coconut MCT oil and non-GMO hemp sourced using natural farming practices make up the ingredient list, and the third-party lab-tested product has an ISO 9001:2015 certification. If you decide that this CBD oil isn't right for you, CBDistillery offers a 60-day money-back guarantee. If you do like it, you can consider signing up for a subscription to save 30% (and get free shipping).

One customer commented: "I've tried several different CBD oils & this CBDdistillery is one of the best qualities overall of effectiveness & mild pleasant taste. Well worth it!"

Best THC-Free: Medterra CBD Isolate Oil

Medterra No THC CBD
medterracbd.com
Buy It, $35

Key Specs

  • Price: $40 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: CBD isolate
  • Potency: 16, 33, and 100 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

The Medterra CBD isolate products come in a range of strengths to offer more dosing options. They also score high marks for product purity.

Pros & Cons

Pros: These isolate drops are easy to administer sublingually (under the tongue) for daytime stress relief or at night to improve sleep.

Cons: The isolate is unflavored, so people trying it for the first time may need to adjust to its natural taste and smell.

Overview

Medterra offers a THC-free organically grown non-GMO CBD oil that is made using the CO2 extraction process, which filters out any unnatural substances to create a potent and pure product. Third-party testing ensures the CBD oil remains free of contaminants. This formula also contains organic coconut-derived MCT oil. Discounts are available (30% off, plus free shipping) if you sign up for a subscription.

A customer review says: "This CBD oil trumps all the rest ...]if I ever do feel uneasy, I take this CBD and literally in minutes I start feeling much better ... It's a miracle in a bottle!"

Best for Sleep: Charlotte's Web Original Formula CBD Oil

CBD Oil
Charlotte's Web
Buy It, $120

Key Specs

  • Price: $120 for 100 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Full-spectrum
  • Potency: 50 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

This full-spectrum CBD oil is made through a labor-intensive process that delivers the highest quality products. Some people even use it to help their pets sleep, too, despite the fact that Charlotte's Web offers a separate pet formula.

Pros & Cons

Pros: It's easy to administer and users consistently report success with anxiety symptom relief and stress reduction, leading to better sleep.

Cons: The product is pricier than many CBD oils on the market.

Overview

Charlotte's Web takes pride in the fact that it makes its CBD oil in small batches using alcohol extraction. Available in natural olive oil and mint chocolate flavors, this CBD tincture is a whole plant extract that includes compounds like phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential fatty acids for additional wellness benefits. The additive- and dye-free formula is processed from hemp grown in Colorado and certified by the U.S. Hemp Authority. Subscriptions are available and get you a savings of 20%.

One customer said: "Purchased this product several times and have tried other brands but [Charlotte's Web] is the best. I feel safe with it and the taste is good. I prefer Charlotte's Web over any other."

Best Variety: Joy Organics Tranquil Mint Organic CBD Oil

CBD oil
Joy Organics
Buy It, $45

Key Specs

  • Price: $45 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 15, 30, 45, or 75 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

The Joy Tranquil Mint oil is pure, simple, and straightforward, with only three ingredients in the broad-spectrum product.

Pros & Cons

Pros: This CBD oil gets high marks for product quality but it's also reviewed well for customer service and experience.

Cons: While there's no THC in the product, the CBD oil tincture will cause you to feel relaxed for four to six hours. The company says it won't make you drowsy, but you may want to know that before using it at work, school, or in other public settings.

Overview

If you prefer a THC-free CBD oil, then this formula from Joy Organics may be the product for you. The USDA-certified organic CBD oil contains organic peppermint essential oil, organic extra-virgin olive oil, and organic broad-spectrum hemp extract. Manufactured in America and third-party tested, this vegan-friendly premium grade product comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can also sign up for a subscription to save 20% (choose delivery every two, four, six, eight, or 12 weeks).

One customer review says: "The product has been a game changer for me...already notice the difference in my sleep and mood ... The quality of the product was key for me and this company and vision align with this. I also experienced wonderful customer service and attention to my needs."

Best Organic: NuLeaf Naturals Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil

CBD oil
NuLeaf Naturals
Buy It, $30

Key Specs

  • Price: $49 for 15 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Full-spectrum
  • Potency: 30 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

NuLeaf products are made without harsh chemicals, and they're ideal for adding to food or beverages in order to get your dosage easily.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The company offers users a coaching support program designed to help them target the right dosage, if they haven't arrived at one within a few weeks of trying.

Cons: Dosages with this full-spectrum tincture aren't as precise as those found in gummies or capsules. It works faster when administered under the tongue, but it can be more difficult to measure. It's also pricier than other brands.

Overview

NuLeaf Naturals offers a full-spectrum formula in a range of CBD concentrations to try. The ingredient list includes organic virgin hemp seed oil, which is made through a unique process known as CO2 extraction that yields a potent blend without any harsh chemical solvents. You can add this CBD oil product to food and drinks for easy consumption. Although this product is costly (it comes in a smaller bottle than other options), you can subscribe to save 20% on your purchases.

One customer said: "I have never once been disappointed with their world class service or the quality of their product. It is organic with no additives or flavorings, and they mail promptly. I could not be more satisfied with the service or product."

Best Vegan Option: Spruce Full-Spectrum Lab Grade CBD Oil

CBD oil
Spruce
Buy It, $89

Key Specs

  • Price: $89 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Full-spectrum
  • Potency: 25 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

This CBD oil is a safe choice for people seeking a vegan and gluten-free product without additives.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The Spruce product gets high marks for stress and anxiety relief, and for helping people to sleep or even focus better during meditation.

Cons: This is a full-spectrum CBD oil, so trace amounts of THC could mean it would show up on a drug test.

Overview

Spruce offers a full-spectrum formula that is gluten-free, pesticide-free, and vegan with no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. The organic hemp seed oil product is third-party tested and provides a relaxing effect. If you prefer a higher concentration, Spruce also has a Max Potency formula, which contains 80 milligrams of CBD per dropper-full. Like other sellers, Spruce has a subscription plan that saves 15% per order, plus gives you free shipping.

A customer review says: "The flavor is delicious, the packaging is lovely and the impact this has made on my life is tremendous. I can't sing the praises of this product to my family and friends enough!"

Best Full-Spectrum: Cornbread Hemp Distilled USDA Organic CBD Oil

CBD oil
Cornbread
Buy It, $40

Key Specs

  • Price: $40 for 15 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Full-spectrum
  • Potency: 25 or 50 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

Cornbread products are manufactured by using a distilling process for added purity and potency. They're made using just the hemp flower, without stems and other parts of the plant.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Cornbread CBD oil comes at an affordable price, with no preservatives or additives. That also means no flavoring, for those who prefer the natural taste and smell of the CBD oil.

Cons: The full-spectrum product contains trace amounts of THC, which may show up on a drug test.

Overview

This unique CBD oil product uses the whole flower of the hemp plant to create an earthy full-spectrum formula. Made from USDA-certified organic hemp extract and MCT coconut oil, this product is vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, third-party lab-tested, and GMP-certified—indicating high-quality safety and purity standards. The formula doesn't contain any preservatives or fillers, meaning it provides a great flavor on its own. Subscribe to get 25% off.

One customer said: "I am very satisfied with this product ... it has a quiet calming effect, with no unwanted side effects. The packaging is above expectation, with a sealed code for those who question authenticity. Orders are quickly fulfilled."

Strongest Potency: cbdMD Premium CBD Oil

cbdMD CBD oil
cbdMD.com
Buy It, $30

Key Specs

  • Price: $90 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 10, 25, 50, 100, 166.5, or 250 millgrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

The cbdMD brand is one of the best in the business, and the quality of this THC-free product was no different than others the company offers. Its potency is strong, with a warning label for the potential to cause drowsiness.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The broad-spectrum CBD oil is versatile. It works quickly when dropped under the tongue, or you can mix it into your favorite beverages or recipes.

Cons: The cbdMD products are well-regarded but they're pricier than some other CBD oils on the market.

Overview

This gluten-free and vegan CBD oil uses broad-spectrum hemp extract to provide calming effects without THC. To increase palatability, the oil comes in berry, orange, and mint flavors as well as natural. The hemp is sourced in the U.S., third-party tested, and GMP-certified to ensure purity and potency. It is expensive, so if you think you'll buy cbdMD products regularly, you might consider the subscription plan. It gets you free shipping and a 25% discount on all orders, and you can reschedule, hold, or cancel anytime.

One customer review says, "I have been taking the CBD Oil Drops for years. I love [cbdMD] products. The drops helped to change my stress level at work."

Best for Daytime: Wonderfeel Daytime CBD Extra Strength

Wonderfeel CBD Oil
wonderfeel.co
Buy It, $75

Key Specs

  • Price: $75 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 22.5 milligrams of CBD per 0.5 milliliter

Why We Chose It

With Wonderfeel, it's not just about the stress relief. The daytime formula is designed to improve your productivity with ingredients to calm your mind and help you stay focused on the task at hand.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The CBD oil is THC-free with a blend that includes terpinolene and other natural compounds.

Cons: Some people complain about the taste of the product, which may take some getting used to. Or, you may want to mask the taste when using the oil.

Overview

Wonderfeel's daytime tincture is designed to keep your mind calm and focused throughout the day. Made with organically grown hemp extract, each 30 ml bottle contains 1,350 milligrams of broad-spectrum CBD, or 22.5 milligrams in each serving. This doctor-formulated CBD oil is entirely sourced in the U.S. and third-party lab tested to ensure quality and potency. Unlike many other sellers, Wonderfeel does not have a subscription option.

One customer said: "Does exactly what it says. Use it during stressful work days and it calms me down with zero side effects."

Best for Nighttime: Naternal Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil

CBD OIL
Naternal
Buy It, $30

Key Specs

  • Price: $30 for 30 milliliters
  • Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 20, 40, or 80 milligrams of CBD per milliliter

Why We Chose It

This Naternal blend is a potent but THC-free product, designed to improve sleep for people who may want an alternative to harsher sedatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Naternal says there's research to support the use of this and other CBD products as sleep aids, and makes it available to consumers.

Cons: There isn't a lot of consumer feedback on Naternal, so it's hard to know what kind of experience people are having with its products or customer service.

Overview

Naternal's broad-spectrum CBD oil tincture combines naturally occurring CBD extracts with cannabinoids and terpenes to create a THC-free formula. The all-natural, locally sourced product is cruelty-free and lab-tested for safety and purity standards. The company partners with farmers in North Carolina to produce high-quality products out of its state-of-the-art cannabis manufacturing facility. This product is already less expensive than many others on the list, and you can subscribe to save even more (15%).

One customer said: "Amazing product, I have recommended it to my family and friends as well!! Allows me to calm my brain down at night time so that I can relax enough to go to sleep."

Best for Travel: Liweli Cherry Stress Melts

Liweli Stress Melts
Buy It, $25

Key Specs

  • Price: $25 for 16 melts
  • Type of CBD: Broad-spectrum
  • Potency: 20 milligrams of CBD per melt

Why We Chose It

With these Liweli melts, it's hard to overlook the convenience and cost of the travel-sized CBD chewable and its fun flavor.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Users say these handy stress melts are versatile. They can be used on the go and on their own, or you can use them in conjunction with your other CBD products.

Cons: The ingredient list includes sweeteners and additives like sorbitol and mannitol, so they may not be for everyone. If you're thinking of trying them, check the ingredients list to be sure.

Overview

Liweli Cherry Stress Melts are tasty chewable tablets that deliver 20 milligrams of calming broad spectrum CBD per chew. They contain 8 calories per chew and less sugar than a stick of gum, and are made with organically grown hemp extract from North Carolina farms. These THC-free CBD stress melts are great for travel or taking with you to help relieve stress while on-the-go. Sign up for a subscription and you'll save 20% per order.

One customer said: "I tried these CBD Melts to try and reduce stress so I could reduce my insomnia. From the first night, I felt relaxed and better able to fall asleep. My mind wasn’t racing and my neck and shoulders were relaxed and not stiff from tension."

Final verdict

CBDistillery's Relief + Relax full-spectrum formula integrates CBD oil with other natural plant proteins, minerals, and vitamins to offer relief for stress and anxiety without high levels of THC.

You can begin with the low-potency 17-milligram dose of cannabidiol, a moderate dose that is verified through third-party testing. From there, you can adjust the dosage to what seems right for you, or try a stronger concentration with more CBD per dose.

The science on CBD and anxiety

The current research on CBD and anxiety is in its early stages but has shown some promising results. For example, a 2019 retrospective case study looked at the effects of CBD on sleep and anxiety. It found that CBD helped to reduce the anxiety scores of nearly 80% of the adults in the study after just one month of daily treatment using 25 milligrams of CBD oil in capsule form.

Another 2019 study looked at the impact of CBD oil versus a placebo in treating social anxiety disorder. Results showed that over a four-week period, 300-milligram daily doses of CBD oil significantly reduced social anxiety disorder symptoms measured using the Fear of Negative Evaluation Questionnaire and the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale.

Furthermore, a 2019 literature review looked at the results of eight studies on the effects of CBD on anxiety. It concluded that in daily doses ranging from 6 to 400 milligrams, CBD shows promise as an effective alternative therapy for reducing anxiety symptoms.

So, how does it work? CBD inhibits the inactivation of anandamide, which is a neurotransmitter in the body's endocannabinoid system. This leads to activity on the CB1 receptor and, along with serotonin activity (or "feel-good" hormone receptors), helps reduce symptoms of anxiety.

   Price Type of CBD Potency (mg of CBD per 1 ml serving)
Best Overall CBDistillery Relief + Relax Full-Spectrum CBD Oil $35 for 30ml Full-spectrum 17, 33, or 83mg
Best THC-Free Medterrra CBD Isolate Oil $40 for 30ml CBD isolate 16, 33, or 100mg
Best for Sleep Charlotte's Web Original Formula CBD Oil $120 for 100ml Full-spectrum 50mg
Best Variety Joy Organics Tranquil Mint Organic CBD Oil $45 for 30ml Broad-spectrum 15, 30, 45, or 75mg
Best Organic NuLeaf Naturals Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil $49 for 15ml Full-spectrum 30mg
Best Vegan Option Spruce Full-Spectrum Lab Grade CBD Oil $89 for 30ml Full-spectrum 25mg
Best Full-Spectrum Cornbread Hemp Distilled USDA Organic CBD Oil $40 for 15ml Full-spectrum 25 or 50mg
Strongest Potency cbdMD Premium CBD Oil $90 for 30ml Broad-spectrum 10, 25, 50, 100, 166.5, or 250mg
Best for Daytime Wonderfeel Daytime CBD Extra Strength $75 for 30ml Broad-spectrum 45mg
Best for Nighttime Naternal Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil $30 for 30ml Broad-spectrum 20, 40, or 80mg
Best for Travel Liweli Cherry Stress Melts $25 for 16 melts Broad-spectrum 20 mg of CBD per melt

Guide to choosing the best CBD oil for anxiety

When looking for a CBD oil to help with anxiety, it's important to do your research. Not all CBD products are alike, so you want to make sure the one you choose best fits your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

  • Type of oil: CBD oil comes in three major types: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and pure CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains natural compounds that work together to produce an "entourage effect," meaning they interact synergistically to enhance the effects of the CBD oil product. Extract from industrial hemp is legal in the U.S. no matter what spectrum you select.
  • Strength: Always check the potency of the CBD oil products you purchase. Read the label for dosages.
  • Route of administration: It can take several hours to feel the effects of CBD oil products when you apply them to skin, but if you place the oil under your tongue or add it to a food or beverage, it typically takes just 30 to 45 minutes to kick in.
  • Third-party lab testing: Look for a certificate of analysis on the bottom of the product box or on the company website. Certifications may include the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification, the ISO 9001 certification, and the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification.

Frequently asked questions

How much CBD should you take for anxiety?

The amount of CBD oil you should take for anxiety depends on your overall health, body size, and whether you've taken it before. If you're new to CBD, start with a small dose, but talk to your healthcare provider before trying a product for the first time. This also will limit the risk of drug interaction, as with CBD and increased levels of the blood thinner Coumadin.

Are there any side effects to CBD oil?

The most common side effects of CBD oil are mild: dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently evaluate CBD oil products like they do dietary supplement products. Talk to your primary care physician or mental health care provider before trying any CBD products.

Can you get high from CBD oil?

No, you don't get high from using CBD oil because the products typically include only trace amounts of THC, which is responsible for these effects. Full-spectrum products deliver less than 0.3% of THC, but it may still show up on a drug test.

How do you use CBD oil?

CBD oil can be taken as a tincture of drops under the tongue, in an oil-filled capsule, or applied to the skin in topical form. Under the tongue drops typically take effect in 30 minutes or less while topicals, gummies, and capsules may take up to two hours.

Methodology

This list was compiled using an in-depth review process that took into account hemp sources, potency, price, independent third-party lab testing, and customer reviews for a number of CBD products.

Preference was given to products that are USDA organic, vegan, and all-natural. A substantial amount of research went into curating this list of CBD oils.

Staci Gulbin, MS, MEd, RD, is a registered dietitian, freelance writer, health editor, and founder of LighttrackNutrition.com. She has been a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration since 2010 and has over a decade of experience in the nutrition and dietetics industry.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice; it is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before consuming or using any of the products mentioned on this site. For additional information read Health.com's editorial standards and guidelines.

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Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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