Best CBD Gummies for Pain: 4 Options If You Don’t Like Topicals

The Fast Facts

• Topical products are often preferred for aches, yet our CBD evaluators discovered several gummies that helped with head and neck discomfort and fibromyalgia-related pain.
• A 2021 review  shows mixed findings on CBD’s pain-relieving abilities: some trials suggest it may ease pain from cancer, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy, while others report only modest benefits. Overall, broader research across varied populations is still required.
• Our budget-friendly choice is Medterra Max Relief CBD Gummies, and one tester gave high marks to CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies for pain relief.

A quick look at the best CBD gummies for pain relief

Few natural compounds have attracted as much attention as cannabidiol (CBD). Many people turn to it for easing pain, among other reasons. But does it actually work?

Read on for a summary of the evidence and our selections for top CBD gummies aimed at pain relief.

HealthEH’s picks of the best CBD gummies for pain relief

Best when you need moderate relief

Cornbread Hemp Full-Spectrum CBD Gummies

• CBD type:full-spectrum
• CBD potency:25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg per gummy
• COA:available online 
• Price per mg:$0.03, $0.05, or $0.07 per mg

Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 30% off.

Cornbread Hemp makes its gummies from U.S.-grown hemp that’s USDA organic certified.

These are full-spectrum gummies, so they retain many plant constituents, including trace tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can create psychoactive effects. A 2022 review notes that THC can have sedative properties that some people report help with sleep.

Research indicates that combining CBD with THC can be helpful  for pain in some cases. There are prescription medications with synthetic THC that clinicians sometimes use off-label for pain relief. Still, more studies are needed to be certain.

The brand uses flower-only extracts rather than stalk and stem, resulting in gummies rich in cannabinoids and terpenes.

Some users may detect a subtle botanical flavor beneath the sweetness. That characteristic could make them more effective for some people. Most of our testers still found these gummies pleasant and sweet.

Flavors include Peach and Watermelon, and strengths go up to 100 mg of CBD per gummy. Each gummy may contain up to about 4 mg of THC, so newcomers might try a half gummy first to assess tolerance.

Cornbread Hemp provides discounts for veterans and other eligible customers through VerifyPass.

What our tester says

Tester Heather Riesebeck evaluated these gummies for pain relief.

She specifically wanted to know whether the gummies eased fibromyalgia-related body aches. On mild pain days, the gummies helped her symptoms. On days with moderate to severe pain, she still needed a heating pad and conventional pain medication.

She reported, “I noticed less back and body pain when lying down toward the end of the night, and it was easier to relax and get comfortable. I wouldn’t say these gummies were as powerful as an OTC pain reliever, but they felt like a plausible everyday alternative.”

She appreciated that the gummies felt natural enough for regular use.

“I don’t like taking OTC pain meds daily, so these CBD gummies were a helpful substitute,” she added.

Heather valued the organic ingredients and absence of preservatives. She noted the peach gummies had a natural, mild flavor compared to other products that often have an off-putting taste, smell, or texture. “The flavoring comes from real organic peaches, and I definitely noticed the difference. I wish more peach gummies tasted like this.”

Pros & cons

• tester found them helpful for mild pain
• USDA organic
• multiple flavors available
• several potency choices

• contain THC, which may be undesirable for some

Product details

• Count :30 gummies per jar
• Available flavors :Organic Berry, Organic Peach, Organic Watermelon
• Third-party tested :yes
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free shipping

A beneficial option without THC

CBDfx Mixed Berry CBD Gummies

• CBD type:broad-spectrum
• CBD potency:25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg per gummy
• COA:available online 
• Price per mg:$0.02 to $0.04 per mg

Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 20% off.

CBDfx makes these gummies with broad-spectrum CBD (most cannabis compounds preserved but without psychoactive THC). They’re Mixed Berry flavored and crafted with natural ingredients, free of artificial sweeteners and high-fructose corn syrup — features that appeal to health-minded users.

Because they’re broad spectrum, these gummies include CBD and other supportive compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which may provide an entourage effect—multiple components acting together to support balance.

Each gummy is 25 mg, allowing you to fine-tune dosing. A serving size is 2 gummies, though beginners may start with one.

What our tester says

We had two testers try these gummies. The first, Candice Abellon, described the Mixed Berry scent and flavor as somewhat medicinal or like an artificially sweetened vitamin. “It smells like a fruity vitamin or candy, and the taste dissipated shortly after swallowing.”

Our second tester, Kristin Currin-Sheehan, evaluated them for fibromyalgia, occipital neuralgia, and myofascial pain syndrome. Over a decade, she’s experienced migraines, pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms across her neck and upper back. “I’ve tried muscle relaxers, OTC meds, creams, lidocaine patches, Voltaren, Botox, and migraine meds … with limited success.”

Kristin appreciated that these gummies eased her pain enough to remain productive during the day. “They smoothed out pain waves without clouding my thinking, unlike full-spectrum THC products or some prescription muscle relaxers and migraine drugs.”

She began with one gummy daily and increased to one every 4–6 hours as needed. Texture and taste weren’t her favorite — she likened the flavor to medicinal syrup — but she found them effective, affordable, and well-packaged overall.

Pros & cons

• testers found them useful for neck and shoulder pain
• good value
• vegan
• appealing flavor
• broad-spectrum advantages

• only one flavor option

Product details

• Count :60 gummies per bottle
• Available flavors :Mixed Berry
• Third-party tested :yes
• Returns :returns within 60 days
• Shipping :free shipping on subscriptions and orders over $99

An affordable gummy for pain relief

Medterra Max Relief CBD Gummies

• CBD type:full-spectrum
• CBD potency:25 mg per gummy
• COA:available online 
• Price per mg:$0.06 or $0.08 per mg

Use code “health35” for 35% off.

These full-spectrum gummies are priced competitively while using quality ingredients and delivering noticeable effects.

Medterra markets them as capable of easing discomfort, and our tester found that claim accurate.

Each gummy has 25 mg of CBD and about 2 mg of THC. The brand recommends taking one gummy as needed and waiting an hour to assess effects before taking another.

Medterra formulates these vegan gummies from U.S.-grown hemp and organic components. They’re free of gluten and GMOs.

Learn more about Medterra’s product lineup.

What our tester says

Rita Mauceri tested Medterra’s gummies and found them helpful. “My experience with Medterra Max Relief was entirely positive. They helped me wind down after busy or stressful days and were pleasant to take.”

While she didn’t think the flavor was exceptional, Rita liked the texture and aroma. “The scent is herbal with a faint lemon note. The Citrus flavor seemed a bit artificial but not unpleasant and left no aftertaste. The texture is very pleasant and easy to chew.”

She recommends these gummies for people seeking a higher-potency full-spectrum option. “For someone experienced with CBD looking for stronger effects, Medterra is a solid pick. I’d choose them again for a heavier-duty gummy.”

Pros & cons

• tester praised their effectiveness
• budget-friendly
• vegan and gluten-free

• only one flavor

Product details

• Count :20, 40, or 60 gummies per bottle
• Third-party tested :yes
• Returns :returns within 30 days
• Shipping :free on orders over $75

Best if you also need help feeling sleepy

R&R Multifunctional CBD Gummies

• CBD type:full-spectrum
• CBD potency:30 mg per gummy, 60 mg per gummy, 90 mg per gummy
• COA:available online 
• Price per mg:$0.06

HealthEH’s review

R&R’s gummies come in three strengths: 30 mg, 60 mg, and 90 mg. Each is made with USDA organic hemp and contains trace THC (under 0.3%).

The brand positions these gummies as multipurpose—aimed at easing pain, stress, and sleep issues—making them a flexible option for people seeking overall support. Customer reviews on their site often echo claims of reduced pain and improved relaxation.

They come in a mix of flavors in each jar, including:

• Palisade Peach
• Granny Apple Smith
• Alpine Strawberry

What our tester says

Tester Jamie Elmer tried the 60 mg R&R gummies mainly to address anxiety and sleep rather than pain.

“The first two nights I didn’t notice much when taking them about an hour before bed. On the final night I took them three hours before sleep; after about 90 minutes I felt strong drowsiness and my eyes wanted to close. They helped me fall asleep sooner and more easily.

“I continued taking them 2–3 hours before bed; the drowsiness tapered slightly over time but remained useful.”

Jamie also liked that the available doses were relatively large and cost-effective.

“The doses are higher than many other gummies I’ve tried, so you get more CBD for your money. With the cannabinoids and terpenes included, you also get the entourage effect. Flavor-wise, I’d pay more for gummies this tasty compared with ones that taste heavily of CBD/THC.”

She praised the taste.

“These multi-flavored gummy rings were among the best-tasting CBD gummies I’ve sampled. The bottle has green apple, strawberry, and peach rings with a light sour dusting, and you wouldn’t guess they contain CBD if you tried them blind.”

Jamie also liked the packaging and personalized touches from the company.

Pros & cons

• three potency options
• assortment of flavors in one jar
• USDA organic

• only one type of product option

Product details

• Count :30 per bottle
• Third-party tested :yes
• Returns :refund within 60 days
• Shipping :free shipping on orders of $60 or more

Veteran-Founded

How the best CBD gummies for pain compare

How we chose the best CBD gummies for pain relief

We selected the top CBD gummies for pain using standards we believe signal safety, quality, and transparency. Read more about how we evaluate products and brands.

Our vetting includes:

• product formulation, ingredients, and overall quality
• third-party certifications and lab results
• brand reputation and business practices
• accuracy of marketing claims

We’ve been testing CBD gummies since 2022 after they pass our initial screening. From that pool, we narrowed picks based on positive user feedback specific to pain relief.

We recruit testers who live with chronic pain to provide authentic feedback on efficacy, side effects, duration of effect, and comparisons to other pain treatments.

Our Medical Standards and Insights team has researched and vetted thousands of products and services. We fact-check claims, review ingredients, and investigate brand practices before highlighting products here.

To compile this list, we considered all gummies that met our vetting criteria, then personally tested several to finalize our selections.

What to look for in CBD gummies for pain management

Third-party lab reports remove much uncertainty when picking high-quality CBD gummies, says Dominique Fontaine, an integrative nurse specialist and medical cannabis consultant.

“Tests for cannabinoids, terpenes, and contaminants provide important safety information,” she says. Before you buy, check for a certificate of analysis (COA) and certifications like Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Choose manufacturers that clearly list dosages and usage directions so you know how many gummies to take for pain. “Look for weight and concentration details or alternative dosing metrics like drops, ounces, or grams,” Fontaine recommends.

Packaging should include nutritional information for edibles, including cannabinoid content and sugar levels.

It’s also helpful if brands provide storage guidance and manufacturing or expiration dates so you can judge freshness and spoilage risk.

Do CBD gummies really relieve pain?

CBD’s possible effects on inflammation, anxiety, and stress have driven interest in its use for pain. But despite growing research, the evidence for pain relief is still inconclusive.

There’s limited direct research comparing gummies to other CBD formats for pain.

Many studies have constraints such as small sample sizes, mixed pain conditions, or inclusion of THC, which complicates interpretation.

For instance, a 2021 survey  of pain-clinic patients found roughly 60% reported some pain relief from CBD products, but over 60% of the products they used contained THC.

In an 8-week trial with 97 chronic pain patients on long-term opioids, CBD softgels helped more than half reduce or stop opioid use, and 90% reported decreased pain and better sleep.

The softgels included a very small THC dose (0.5 mg), which is below microdosing ranges and unlikely to be the main factor.

While gummies and tinctures are popular for pain, a clear scientific consensus is lacking. High-potency gummies may be more likely to produce noticeable effects for some people.

It’s wise to introduce CBD gradually—start with low-dose products or split higher-dose gummies into halves or quarters to evaluate tolerance.

How long do CBD gummies take to start working?

Testers reported gummies began to work in as little as 15 minutes to up to 1 hour.

When eaten, CBD goes through the digestive tract and is processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream, Fontaine explains. Absorption speed depends on factors like:

• your general health
• where you are in your digestion cycle
• metabolic rate
• amount consumed
• concurrent medications
• the specific type of CBD

Fontaine advises thinking about how quickly you need relief when choosing a route of administration—gummies, tinctures, or others—which can vary in onset from minutes to over an hour.

Start low and titrate up to find your therapeutic dose, and consider consulting a qualified healthcare professional if you’re combining CBD with other treatments.

Safety and side effects of CBD gummies

To date, the only FDA-approved CBD medicine is Epidiolex for certain types of epilepsy. Over-the-counter CBD products aren’t FDA-approved, and product quality can vary.

Even though CBD shows promise for multiple uses, research continues to evolve. If you try CBD gummies, pick reputable products and be mindful of potential side effects, which may differ between individuals and especially at higher doses.

Possible side effects include :

• dry mouth
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• drowsiness
• diarrhea
• nausea
• changes in appetite
• liver enzyme changes

CBD can interact with certain medications and supplements, so consult your doctor before adding it to your regimen, and avoid CBD when pregnant or breastfeeding.

How popular is CBD for pain?

From our 2023 CBD survey of 1,044 respondents:

• 65% are using or would consider using CBD to manage pain
• 56% of respondents under 35 want to use CBD for pain, compared with 76% of those 55 and older

Learn more in our related graphics.

Frequently asked questions about CBD for pain

How much CBD should you take for pain?

Finding the right CBD dose for pain varies by individual. Use these general tips:

• Start low and go slow: Begin with about 20 mg of CBD daily to see how you respond.
• Consider digestion and metabolism: Slower digestion may delay an ingestible’s effect; faster metabolism may shorten onset time.
• Increase gradually: If needed, raise the dose by 5–10 mg every few days while monitoring effects.
• Factor in body weight: A rough guideline is 1–6 mg per 10 pounds of body weight—for example, a 150-pound person might start at 15–25 mg per day.
• Talk with your clinician: Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have medical conditions or take other medications.
• Track and adjust: Keep a log of dose and effects to find your optimal amount.

Individual responses vary, so finding the right dose often requires trial and adjustment.

Which type of CBD is best for pain?

Choice depends on individual needs. The three main types are:

• Full-spectrum CBD: Includes cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace THC; may offer broader effects through the entourage effect.
• Broad-spectrum CBD: Contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but typically no THC.
• CBD isolate: Pure CBD only, with no other cannabinoids or terpenes—useful if you want to avoid THC entirely.

Which is best for pain depends on your goals and how your body reacts; experimentation may be necessary.

What is the strongest over-the-counter CBD?

Some OTC products advertise up to 7,500 mg total CBD, with single doses as high as 300 mg. Such high doses aren’t appropriate for beginners or those sensitive to CBD. Consult a physician before trying high-strength products.

Does CBD help with chronic pain in seniors?

Evidence in older adults is sparse. A 2022 review  noted only about 250 older adults have been included in cannabis research.

Results are mixed: some studies suggest CBD may reduce opioid needs, but many show inconclusive pain benefits. Concerns for older adults include dizziness (raising fall risk) and possible adverse effects at higher doses. Talk to a doctor before use to ensure safety with other medications and to understand potential impacts on driving or balance.

What form of CBD is most effective for pain relief?

Match the form to the pain type: widespread pain may respond better to ingestibles like gummies or oils, while localized aches often benefit more from creams or balms. See our guides for the best gummies, oils, and topical CBD for pain.

What type of CBD is best for arthritis pain?

Research on CBD specifically for arthritis is limited, though some studies show reduced joint pain. For joint pain, topical products like creams and balms may offer targeted relief. Read our roundup of the best CBD creams, oils, and gummies for arthritis.

Takeaway

There isn’t definitive proof that CBD reliably eases pain, but research and user reports suggest potential benefits.

If you have chronic pain, consider discussing with your doctor whether CBD gummies or other formulations might complement your treatment plan.

When buying CBD, prioritize reputable brands that provide high-quality, lab-tested products — the options highlighted here are a helpful place to start. For those also seeking rest, you might consider cbd gummies for sleep as an option to explore.

Is CBD legal? The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act’s definition of marijuana, allowing some hemp-derived CBD products with under 0.3% THC at the federal level. Products with more than 0.3% THC remain federally illegal. State laws vary, so check local regulations, especially when traveling. Also note the FDA hasn’t approved nonprescription CBD products and labeling may be inaccurate.

Healthline retains editorial control over this piece. Product mentions are not manufacturer health claims. This information is general and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider when making treatment decisions.