What to Know About Types of CBD: A Guide

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Read more about our vetting process.
The types of CBD people can buy online include isolate, broad- and full-spectrum gummies, oils, and topicals. We break down how each CBD type differs and list products for people to consider.
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A quick look at the best CBD product types
Best medium-strength CBD oil: CBDistillery Ahhh Distilled Full Spectrum CBD Oil, 500 mg | Skip to review
CBDistillery Ahhh Distilled Full Spectrum CBD Oil, 500 mg
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Best organic CBD oil: NuLeaf Naturals CBD Oil | Skip to review
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Oil
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Best CBD salve: Joy Organics CBD Salve | Skip to review
Joy Organics CBD Salve
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Best all-purpose CBD cream: Spruce Topical CBD Cream | Skip to review
Spruce Topical CBD Cream
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Best organic hemp gummies: CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies | Skip to review
CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies
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Best full-spectrum gummies: Cornbread Hemp Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies | Skip to review
Cornbread Hemp Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies
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Best capsules without THC: Medterra Daily Relief Capsules | Skip to review
Medterra Daily Relief Capsules
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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
Types of CBD
CBD is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a “high.”
Learn more about the differences between CBD and THC.
the differences between CBD and THC
Companies that manufacture CBD products use different methods to extract the compound from the plant. The varying diffusions result in a range of CBD types.
There are three types of CBD, containing different compounds and concentrations:
Full-spectrum: Includes all parts of the cannabis plant. Full-spectrum products contain less than 0.3% THC.
Full-spectrum
0.3% THC
Broad-spectrum: This contains most of the cannabis plant compounds. Unlike full-spectrum, broad-spectrum products contain trace amounts of THC.
broad-spectrum
Isolates: Only contain CBD, with no other cannabinoids or THC. Products that contain isolate CBD may not produce effects as strong as full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD products.
isolate CBD
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that a person may need to consider the potential risks before using CBD for any reason. For example, there is a lack of research on the use of CBD for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and this group may wish to avoid THC.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Federal law allows people to take CBD containing less than 0.3% THC. However, not all states allow brands to sell CBD. A person could check their local laws before buying or taking CBD.
The FDA does not regulate any other claims of benefits. It states that some CBD brands may make misleading claims about the use of their products. The FDA can investigate health claims and safety concerns, and people can use caution before ordering any type of CBD.
The FDA has only approved the use of one CBD product for treatment purposes. In 2018, it approved Epidiolex to treat seizures in three different conditions. A person needs a valid prescription from a doctor to get Epidiolex.
FDA
Epidiolex
A person could look for independently tested products. Some companies provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA), which shows the results of third-party testing of the products’ ingredients, dosage, and purity.
People can also consider the dose of CBD in their chosen product. Those new to CBD can start with a small dose and work up, never exceeding the product’s recommended dosage.
Brands will also use different types of CBD, including isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum. Each of these will contain different amounts of THC. However, full-spectrum may produce stronger effects than CBD isolate due to the entourage effect.
entourage effect
Read our guide to buying CBD.
Read our guide to buying CBD.
Scientists do not know much about the long-term safety of using CBD products. The FDA warns that current data points to potential risks with taking CBD, which it is still investigating.
FDA
However, a 2020 review of studies found that study participants generally tolerated CBD with minimal side effects. The authors also noted that potency and doses varied significantly between studies, making it difficult to determine the effective dose for conditions.
2020 review of studies
Side effects noted in different studies included:
tiredness
changes in weight or appetite
diarrhea
diarrhea
CBD may provide several health benefits. According to 2020 research, CBD may help with:
2020 research
chronic pain
anxiety
anxiety
sleep and insomnia
inflammation
multiple sclerosis (MS)
multiple sclerosis (MS)
nausea and vomiting
nausea
resistant pediatric epilepsy
It is important to note that CBD is not a reliable treatment or cure for any of the above conditions. Research into CBD benefits and risks is ongoing.
Learn more about the potential benefits of CBD.
potential benefits of CBD
CBD terminology
The table below summarises common terms when discussing CBD:
over 120
limonene
Read more about terminology and other important CBD information here.
terminology and other important CBD information here
Forms of CBD products
CBD products come in several forms. The main types of CBD products include:
oils
oils
gummies
gummies
topicals, such as creams and lotions, ointments, and balms
topicals
creams and lotions
ointments
balms
CBD is also available in many other forms, including capsules and pills, vaping liquid, mist sprays, and more. Some companies also produce CBD products for pets.
capsules and pills
Learn more about the different types of products available to buy online below.
CBD oils
CBD oil manufacturers often direct users to place it under the tongue and then swallow. The dose, potency, and price can vary depending on the brand. Dosing can start as low as 5 or 10 milligrams (mg).
Learn about the best CBD oils.
the best CBD oils
CBDistillery Ahhh Distilled Full Spectrum CBD Oil, 500 mg

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 500 mg per 30-mL bottle
Use code “healthline” for 20% off sitewide or choose the subscription option for 20% off the first 2 subscription orders and 25% off the 3rd order.
$45.00 AT CBDISTILLERY
*Price may vary.

This CBDistillery oil contains a medium-strength dose of 17 mg of CBD oil per 1 milliliter (mL) serving. This moderate dosage may make it suitable for new CBD users, and the brand itself states it chose this dose so buyers could be flexible with their dosage.

Plus, this CBD oil is suitable for vegans, and the company states it uses non-GMO ingredients in the formula, which only contains CBD and fractionated coconut oil, also called MCT oil.

However, this is not a flavored oil, which may not suit people who dislike the natural taste of CBD oils.

“[I took this CBD products] as-needed for anxiety and stress, and for soreness caused by physical activity.
“I really liked this product! This tincture has a general calming effect that I found very peaceful, and was excellent at relieving physical tension and soreness. But as an experienced user of CBD, I felt like I had to increase the dosage to get the intended effect. The cannabis taste in the oil did not bother me, but I could see how some people would not like it.
“This is definitely a good product for people who are new to CBD and want to try a full-spectrum offering.”
— Connor Rice, Healthline Copy Editor
 
“[I took this CBD products] as-needed for anxiety and stress, and for soreness caused by physical activity.
“I really liked this product! This tincture has a general calming effect that I found very peaceful, and was excellent at relieving physical tension and soreness. But as an experienced user of CBD, I felt like I had to increase the dosage to get the intended effect. The cannabis taste in the oil did not bother me, but I could see how some people would not like it.
“This is definitely a good product for people who are new to CBD and want to try a full-spectrum offering.”
— Connor Rice, Healthline Copy Editor
 
suitable for CBD beginners
medium-strength dose might suit those looking for more noticeable effects
vegan formula
more expensive per mg in comparison to some competitors
unflavored oil may not suit everyone
suitable for CBD beginners
medium-strength dose might suit those looking for more noticeable effects
vegan formula
more expensive per mg in comparison to some competitors
unflavored oil may not suit everyone
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
COA: available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
NuLeaf Naturals CBD Oil

Type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
Potency: 300–6,000 mg per 30-mL bottle
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$19.00 AT NULEAF NATURALS
*Price may vary.

This oil from NuLeaf Naturals is available in four strengths ranging from 900 to 6,000 mg CBD per bottle. These higher doses will not be suitable for beginners, but they may be suitable for people experienced with CBD and those looking for more noticeable effects from their oil.

NuLeaf’s organic oil contains full-spectrum CBD, offering a range of other cannabinoids alongside CBD and giving the potential for the entourage effect.
The brand states it uses an advanced extraction method to ensure its products contain the complete range of cannabinoids, terpenes, phytonutrients, and oils.

“I recently had a chronic pain issue in my left shoulder stemming from a nagging rotator cuff injury sustained while surfing. I was in pain every day, and it affected my quality of life, relatively speaking. The pain altered my sleep for the worse. I could not swim or surf — my daily form of exercise – affecting my mood.

“Before my doctor referred me to a new type of physical therapy (proprioceptive-deep tendon reflex therapy), this CBD helped relieve pain and made me feel relaxed and content.

“CBD is not a miracle cure, but it helped relax my muscles and block pain signals. I take CBD after I surf and am feeling rejuvenated.”

— Nick Balboa, Healthline writer

“I recently had a chronic pain issue in my left shoulder stemming from a nagging rotator cuff injury sustained while surfing. I was in pain every day, and it affected my quality of life, relatively speaking. The pain altered my sleep for the worse. I could not swim or surf — my daily form of exercise – affecting my mood.

“Before my doctor referred me to a new type of physical therapy (proprioceptive-deep tendon reflex therapy), this CBD helped relieve pain and made me feel relaxed and content.

“CBD is not a miracle cure, but it helped relax my muscles and block pain signals. I take CBD after I surf and am feeling rejuvenated.”

— Nick Balboa, Healthline writer

four choices of strength
uses organic hemp
subscription option available, which would save a person 20%
the higher strengths can be very expensive
no flavor choices
a person must spend $74 to get free shipping
four choices of strength
uses organic hemp
subscription option available, which would save a person 20%
the higher strengths can be very expensive
no flavor choices
a person must spend $74 to get free shipping
Quantity: 0.17–3.38 fl oz (5–100 mL)
Available flavors: Unflavored
COA: available on product page
available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
Quantity: 0.17–3.38 fl oz (5–100 mL)
Available flavors: Unflavored
COA: available on product page
available on product page
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $74
CBD topicals
Topicals are products that a person applies to the skin. Examples include CBD-infused creams, ointments, lotions, balms, and tinctures.
Potency varies between products. With most topical products, a person needs to rub the product into the desired area, and brands often claim they can help relieve pain and muscle soreness.
Topical CBD products also often include carrier oils and other ingredients in the formula. People with sensitive skin and those concerned about allergic reactions should read ingredient lists carefully.
Learn more about CBD topicals.
about CBD topicals
Joy Organics CBD Salve

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 500 mg per 1-oz container, 1,000 mg per 2-oz container
Available scents: Lavender Eucalyptus
Use code “healthcbd” for 20% off.
$54.95 AT JOY ORGANICS
*Price may vary.

Joy Organics offers several CBD products, including an organic CBD salve for topical use. The company claims it can help with dried and cracked skin and provides targeted relief to the muscles and joints.
The ingredients include lavender and eucalyptus oil.
lavender
eucalyptus

Joy Organics states its salve is THC-free, carbon-neutral, cruelty-free, and organic.

A person can purchase a single container or sign up for a subscription service, saving a person 20%. Joy Organics also offers a 100% money-back guarantee.

Joy Organics offers a subscription service, saving a person 20% on each order
there are two strength choices
it is USDA-certified organic
fragrance may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
Joy Organics offers a subscription service, saving a person 20% on each order
there are two strength choices
it is USDA-certified organic
fragrance may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 90 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $50
Spruce Topical CBD Cream

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 300 mg per 2-fl oz container
$39.00 AT SPRUCE
*Price may vary.

Spruce offers a topical CBD cream that a person can apply to the troublesome areas of the skin. Each container contains 300 mg of CBD. Spruce claims the ingredients are natural, using only plant-derived scents such as bergamot and coconut.

While Spruce does not specify the benefits this cream can have, customers report that this cream helped relieve joint pain.

customers state it can help reduce joint pain
there is a subscription option where a person can save 15% on each order
does not contain added fragrance, so may be more suitable for those with sensitive skin
the brand does not specify the benefits of this cream
it comes in one strength
customers state it can help reduce joint pain
there is a subscription option where a person can save 15% on each order
does not contain added fragrance, so may be more suitable for those with sensitive skin
the brand does not specify the benefits of this cream
it comes in one strength
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping
CBD gummies and capsules
Gummies contain an edible form of CBD and are available in different shapes, flavors, potencies, and prices. Lower doses tend to start around 5 mg. Capsules involve an individual swallowing the capsule containing CBD.
People interested in using gummies and capsules can start at lower doses and work up to larger doses. However, they should avoid exceeding the recommended dosage for their chosen product.
Since the FDA does not regulate CBD gummies or capsules, a person should use caution when selecting and consuming edible products.
Learn more about hemp and CBD gummies.
hemp and CBD gummies
CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies

CBD type: broad-spectrum
broad-spectrum
CBD potency: 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg per gummy
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.
$54.99 AT CBDFX
*Price may vary.

This product contains organic broad-spectrum hemp, natural flavors, and an antioxidant ingredient called tomato lycopene. The gummies are gluten-free and suitable for vegans.
ingredient

These gummies come in a mixed berry flavor. A person can choose between three strengths: 1,500 mg, 3,000 mg, or 6,000 mg of CBD per pot. In the 1,500 mg pot, there is 25 mg of CBD in each gummy. In the 3,000 mg pot, each gummy contains 50 mg of CBD. In the 6,000 mg pot, each gummy contains 100 mg of CBD.
These potencies will only be suitable for people experienced with CBD and those looking for noticeable effects.
People can subscribe and save 25% off their order and get free shipping. People who subscribe can schedule deliveries every 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks.

it is suitable for vegans
the stronger dose may suit people wanting noticeable effects
there is only one flavor option available
these gummies may not be suitable for beginners
it is suitable for vegans
the stronger dose may suit people wanting noticeable effects
there is only one flavor option available
these gummies may not be suitable for beginners
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 60 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Cornbread Hemp Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies

CBD type: full-spectrum
full-spectrum
CBD potency: 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg per gummy
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 30% off.
$39.99 AT CORNBREAD HEMP
*Price may vary.

These full-spectrum gummies contain 20 mg, 25 mg, or 50 mg of CBD per gummy. The gummies are available in three flavors: berry, watermelon, or peach. They include up to 2 mg of THC, which may not suit everyone.
Cornbread uses hemp from Kentucky. The other ingredients the company uses are plant-based, including apple, strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry. It also includes ginger and beetroot.

“I took one 50 mg CBD gummy about 15 to 20 minutes before bed, to help me sleep.
“The mixed berry taste was extremely potent, almost overwhelmingly so, though not overly artificial. It did taste a bit jarring when I took it before bed and then brushed my teeth — however, it did a great job of masking the CBD taste, which was great.
“The scent is hard to describe, but mostly just “sweet.” However, unlike the taste, it doesn’t linger, so was neither a bonus or a detractor for me.
“These CBD gummies are probably the most effective sleep aid I’ve taken — better than other forms of CBD or other gummies from different companies. They don’t leave me groggy in the morning like melatonin does, and within 15 to 20 minutes I can feel them working. They really help me relax and drift — and stay — asleep. I’ve been having troubles staying asleep all night, but the nights I take these gummies are the nights where I have the best chance of quality sleep. And if I do wake up, their effects seem to linger long enough that I’m still able to fall back asleep fairly quickly. I received these products for free to test, but I think they’re the only ones I’ll actually purchase on my own after I use up my sample — even if they’re more expensive than melatonin or other options, the results are worth it.
“I would absolutely recommend these gummies to anyone who wants to use CBD for sleep. The 50 mg gummies are a perfect potency, at least for me, to encourage a deep, restful sleep.
“Anyone wanting to use CBD for sleep, who is fine with full spectrum products that contain some THC, and who doesn’t really want to *taste* the CBD when ingesting.”
— Laramy Applekamp, Content Project Manager
“I took one 50 mg CBD gummy about 15 to 20 minutes before bed, to help me sleep.
“The mixed berry taste was extremely potent, almost overwhelmingly so, though not overly artificial. It did taste a bit jarring when I took it before bed and then brushed my teeth — however, it did a great job of masking the CBD taste, which was great.
“The scent is hard to describe, but mostly just “sweet.” However, unlike the taste, it doesn’t linger, so was neither a bonus or a detractor for me.
“These CBD gummies are probably the most effective sleep aid I’ve taken — better than other forms of CBD or other gummies from different companies. They don’t leave me groggy in the morning like melatonin does, and within 15 to 20 minutes I can feel them working. They really help me relax and drift — and stay — asleep. I’ve been having troubles staying asleep all night, but the nights I take these gummies are the nights where I have the best chance of quality sleep. And if I do wake up, their effects seem to linger long enough that I’m still able to fall back asleep fairly quickly. I received these products for free to test, but I think they’re the only ones I’ll actually purchase on my own after I use up my sample — even if they’re more expensive than melatonin or other options, the results are worth it.
“I would absolutely recommend these gummies to anyone who wants to use CBD for sleep. The 50 mg gummies are a perfect potency, at least for me, to encourage a deep, restful sleep.
“Anyone wanting to use CBD for sleep, who is fine with full spectrum products that contain some THC, and who doesn’t really want to *taste* the CBD when ingesting.”
— Laramy Applekamp, Content Project Manager
the brand uses natural, plant-based, and organic ingredients
a subscription option is available, saving a person 20%
three flavor choices
not available in higher doses for more experienced CBD users
some customer reviews mention poor customer service from Cornbread Hemp
the THC content may not suit everyone
the brand uses natural, plant-based, and organic ingredients
a subscription option is available, saving a person 20%
three flavor choices
not available in higher doses for more experienced CBD users
some customer reviews mention poor customer service from Cornbread Hemp
the THC content may not suit everyone
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75
Medterra Daily Relief Capsules

CBD type: isolate
isolate
CBD potency: 25 mg per capsule, 50 mg per capsule
Use code “health20” for 20% off.
$49.99 AT MEDTERRA
*Price may vary.

These CBD isolate capsules contain up to 25, 50, or 100 mg of CBD per serving. A serving size is one capsule per day, but a person can increase the dose gradually if needed. They should not exceed the recommended dose.
Medterra writes the capsules are easy to swallow.

These gel capsules contain CBD isolate, meaning they are completely free from THC. This is ideal for people who want to avoid THC for any reason. The other ingredients include MCT coconut oil and beef gelatin, making these capsules unsuitable for vegetarians, vegans, and people with a coconut allergy.

The company’s hemp has a U.S. Hemp Authority certification and is non-GMO.

Learn more about Medterra.
Learn more about Medterra.

it is free from THC
three doses are available
U.S. Hemp Authority certification
gelatin makes this product unsuitable for vegans
isolate product means a person will not experience the entourage effect
it is free from THC
three doses are available
U.S. Hemp Authority certification
gelatin makes this product unsuitable for vegans
isolate product means a person will not experience the entourage effect
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75 in the United States
COA: available online
available online
Third-party tested: yes
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping on orders over $75 in the United States
Comparing CBD products
The following table compares the CBD products in this article on type, price, strength, and more.
CBDistillery
NuLeaf Naturals
Joy Organics
Spruce
CBDfx
Cornbread Hemp
Medterra
How we chose
We selected these CBD products 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 here.
Learn more here
Frequently asked questions about types of CBD
The three different types of CBD are full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum includes all parts of the cannabis plant, and products contain less than 0.3% of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD includes most of the cannabis plant but not all. It only contains trace amounts of THC. CBD isolate only contains CBD, with no other added cannabinoids. It does not contain any THC.
The three different types of CBD are full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum includes all parts of the cannabis plant, and products contain less than 0.3% of THC. Broad-spectrum CBD includes most of the cannabis plant but not all. It only contains trace amounts of THC. CBD isolate only contains CBD, with no other added cannabinoids. It does not contain any THC.
Full-spectrum CBD is likely to have the strongest effects, and higher doses will have more noticeable effects than low doses.
Full-spectrum CBD is likely to have the strongest effects, and higher doses will have more noticeable effects than low doses.
The type of CBD that is best for a person will vary depending on their needs. The main things to consider when choosing a CBD product include type of CBD, such as full-spectrum or broad-spectrum, form, such as gummies or oils, THC content, and strength.
People could consider what they are using CBD for and decide what type of CBD product would be best for that purpose. For example, if a person has pain in a specific area, they may benefit most from choosing a topical product for targeted pain relief rather than a gummy which will affect the whole body instead of a specific area.
The type of CBD that is best for a person will vary depending on their needs. The main things to consider when choosing a CBD product include type of CBD, such as full-spectrum or broad-spectrum, form, such as gummies or oils, THC content, and strength.
People could consider what they are using CBD for and decide what type of CBD product would be best for that purpose. For example, if a person has pain in a specific area, they may benefit most from choosing a topical product for targeted pain relief rather than a gummy which will affect the whole body instead of a specific area.
Summary
The CBD types include isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum varieties. Different product forms are available, including topicals, oils, gummies, and more. People can consider the CBD type, strength, and THC content when buying CBD products.
The CBD industry is not regulated, so people must use caution when selecting the CBD product they want. People considering CBD products for treating health conditions can speak with a doctor for advice and recommendations.