No need to take a chill pill with these CBD oils for relaxing and boosting your mood (2023)

Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for insider tips and product reviews from our shopping experts

Sign up for our free IndyBest email

CBD oil is not a panacea, but you’d be forgiven for thinking it was. Because over the past 50 years, thousands of studies have demonstrated the immense and widespread therapeutic value of this cannabis-derived molecule.

This is in part down to the unique interaction CBD (or cannabidiol) has with the endocannabinoid system – a major physiological system which regulates all bodily processes, from sleep, to pain transmission to mood. But this just one of many ways CBD can support the body, and this molecule is only one of over 140 other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids which are also present in some whole plant and raw CBD oils.

While there are hundreds of CBD products available, they are not made equal. Choosing a high-quality product will help you find the results you seek (which hopefully this list will help with), as will taking it the right way.

Consistency is key – you can’t expect to take CBD oil once or twice and have your life transformed. This is a daily supplement, to ideally take two-three times a day, to support your body in regaining equilibrium. Start by taking a few drops each time. Hold the oil under your tongue for at least two minutes to aid absorption.

To further enhance the effects, take directly after eating fatty food (as CBD oil is fat soluble) or after brushing your teeth (which boosts blood flow to the mouth). Gradually build up the amount you take, drop by drop, until you find a dose that helps you feel great.

Read more:

  • 11 best CBD and hemp skincare products to have on your radar
  • 9 best probiotic and prebiotic supplements to improve gut health
  • What supplements should I take? An expert buying guide

How we tested

Well over 100 products have been tested over the course of a year, on 10 people with varying conditions and symptoms, including menopausal symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, arthritis and chronic fatigue.

Each person has tested a large number of CBD oils, comparing every bottle in a journal. When one really stands out, a second bottle was then tested on another individual with the same health or well-being concern. The “winners”’ were picked out of the products that tested well on both.

The best CBD oils for 2022 are:

  • Best overall – Ardoa Amber 42: £69.99, Ardoamarket.co.uk
  • Best for anxiety – Mindful Extracts 500mg: £36.99, Mindfulextracts.co.uk
  • Best for sleep – Dreem Distillery CBD night drops: £160, Dreemdistillery.co.uk
  • Best budget buy – Sweet Pink whole plant 5% CBD oil: £35, Sweetpinkcbd.co.uk
  • Best for stress – Diablo CBD oil 1000mg 10%: £56, Cbdiablo.co.uk
  • Best for arthritis – Bud & Tender premium 10% CBD oil: £80, Budandtender.com
  • Best for long covid – Hempen cold pressed CBD oil: £36, Hempen.co.uk
  • Best for energy – Lady A morning tincture: £60, Ladya.health
  • Best for PTSD – Amma Life boost 10%: £59.99, Ammalife.co.uk
  • Best for menstruation – Potyque CBD oil 10%: £75, Potyque.com
  • Best for wellbeing – Voice of Nature synergy raw 5%: £34.99, Voiceofnature.co.uk
  • Best for menopause – The Good Level CBD oil 4% 1200mg: £49.99, Thegoodlevel.com
  • Best for taste – Cheerful Buddha naturally flavoured CBD drops 10%: £34.99, Cheerfulbuddha.co.uk
  • Best for mood – Charlotte’s Web 600mg (6%) organic full spectrum CBD oil: £49.99, Savagecabbage.co.uk
  • Best for feeling calm – iCBD global ichill XL: £99, Icbdglobal.com

Ardoa Amber 42

Best: Overall

Rating: 10/10

This brand has a wide range of products to choose from, and every single one tested exceptionally well. But this oil was consistently voted the winner for sleep, anxiety, depression, PTSD, arthritis and menopausal symptoms. The Amber 42 (available with and without a very low, legal limit of THC) was a great pick overall, vastly improving sleep quality, hot flashes and arthritis pain in a matter of days. And we also like that there are a variety of formulations to choose from that have been made to suit different needs.

Mindful Extracts 500mg

Best: For anxiety

Rating: 10/10

This is a truly amazing CBD oil. We had a miriad of testers trial this oil and each found that the gentle, patchouli-like flavour dramatically reduced stress, anxiety and migraines in a wonderfully uplifting way. More specifically, one tester, who suffers from dementia after an ischemic stroke, even found that a large dose of the 2,000mg oil helped them to stand up, walk across the room and have a semi-lucid conversation within 10 minutes of taking it. While we can’t claim that everyone who uses this oil will get the same results, our range of testers really reaped the benefits.

(Video) Why Full-Spectrum CBD Oil is So Expensive | So Expensive

Dreem Distillery CBD night drops

Best: For sleep

Rating: 9/10

We tested a number of CBD oils that were great for sleep, but testers came back time and again reporting that this one “knocked them out” – not only helping them fall asleep faster, but stay asleep too. Even one tester with PTSD-induced sleep disturbances found this to be effective. The lovely, delicate earthy mint flavour makes it a pleasure to take too. It loses a point for price, because it’s undoubtedly an expensive option but it does work very well.

Sweet Pink whole plant 5% CBD oil

Best: For budget

Rating: 9/10

Although this oil is low in price it is incredibly high in quality. As a whole plant oil, you’re getting cannabis as nature intended (but with naturally legal limits of THC, which won’t get you high). It is slightly harsh to take, but this is usually the way with this type of top-level oil and it’s definitely worth it – our testers found it was great for a wide range of needs, from anxiety to sleep. Furthermore, by purchasing this oil you’re directly supporting the founder’s daughter’s life-saving medical cannabis prescription.

Diablo CBD oil 1000mg 10%

Best: For stress

Rating: 9/10

This raw, full spectrum CBD oil is a great example of a CBD product that enables you to take advantage of the entourage effect – all parts of the hemp plant working together in synergy to deliver the very best therapeutic benefit. It’s organic and contains CBDa, which is the molecule shown in recent studies to potentially prevent the transmission of Covid.

This isn’t a fluffy wellbeing product though – it’s quite strong in flavour and harsh to take, but the results are worth it. Our testers found this oil to be particularly effective for combatting stress, both acute and chronic. A couple of testers found this oil was so good it actually managed to stop a panic attack in its tracks.

(Video) Does CBD Improve Mental Health?

Unfortunately this CBD oil is out of stock at the moment, but you can sign up for the brand’s newsletter or follow its social media channels for any updates. And, its 5 per cent CBD oil is still available (£36, Cbdiablo.co.uk) if you prefer to give that one a go instead.

Bud & Tender premium 10% CBD oil

Best: For arthritis

Rating: 9/10

This is a CBD oil you can use with absolute confidence, thanks to the incredibly thorough lab reports it has made available. All CBD products must have been third party tested, but usually, go for the very basic cannabinoid content – some only check for CBD and THC. This brand on the other hand has tested for a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, as well as heavy metals and mycotoxins. It’s made the reports available for all customers to see, which can help you make a more informed decision. The reports show this has a nice level of CBG, as well as CBD, which might be why our testers found this to be so great for reducing the pain and inflammation of arthritis, which improved the longer they used it.

Hempen cold pressed CBD oil

Best: For long covid

Rating: 9/10

A fantastic oil made by a company with a cause. This brand really understands the hemp plant and spearheads campaigns to promote sustainable, authentic, ethical production of both hemp and CBD products in the UK. And it shows.

As an organic, cold-pressed, raw oil, this is another product that showcases the brilliance of the whole plant, with a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids present. Our testers found this to be very effective for promoting better sleep, feeling less anxious and depressed and for managing the symptoms of long covid.

Lady A morning tincture

Best: For energy

Rating: 9/10

Did you know that CBD oil can help promote higher energy levels, as well as relax you? One study in fact dubbed it a “wake-promoting agent”, making it potentially very useful for people who are after a pick-me-up. This sweet, citrusy blend looks, feels and tastes like a luxury option. But it has also been chosen by the Medical Cannabis Clinicians Society as a product it suggests prescribing doctors should recommend as an over the counter alternative to a cannabis (or cannabinoid) prescription. Our testers found the oil helped them wake up and stay focused throughout the day, with one even finding they could forgo their morning coffee after using the oil capsules.

Amma Life boost 10%

Best: For PTSD

Rating: 9/10

Our testers with PTSD felt as though this oil “stopped the cascade in its tracks and provided much-needed respite from symptoms”. While a few others on this list also had this effect, the Amma Life boost oil did so in a way that was described as extremely comforting and warm. It may seem unusual to speak about a supplement that can be so different in this quite emotional way, but the effects of this high level of CBD product can be very nuanced, as our testers noticed throughout.

(Video) I tried CBD OIL for one year for my ANXIETY - This is what happened.

Potyque CBD oil 10%

Best: For menstruation

Rating: 10/10

Cramps, depression, mood swings, breakouts… periods can come with all sorts of unpleasantness. But CBD oil can help keep your hormones on a more even keel. When taken throughout the month (not just during menstruation, it’s key to have CBD accumulated in your system before you start your period) Potyque reduced all nasty symptoms. Two testers, who usually get very bad PMT and pains, found that after taking the oil for a month they were barely noticeable.

Voice of Nature synergy raw 5%

Best: For wellbeing

Rating: 9/10

Wellbeing scores for all testers dramatically improved with daily use of this oil, with all noting that they felt far happier in general, less easily stressed and wer able to handle stress better when it did occur. As with all CBD oils, the benefits became more and more noticeable the longer the oil was used. The only downside to this oil is the flavour, as it is a very strong hemp taste. But that’s the price you pay for a great whole plant product.

The Good Level CBD oil 4% 1200mg

Best: For menopause

Rating: 9/10

For a change, this CBD product uses olive oil as a carrier oil, rather than the usual hemp or MCT. As for the benefits, they were found to be widespread by our testers. One found this actually relieved some mild symptoms of Omicron, another felt it was very helpful for stress and PTSD, while a number of others reported that it helped tremendously with challenging menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood disturbances and brain fog. Perhaps welcome news for many now that there’s an HRT shortage in the UK.

(Video) Take a Chill Pill with Amanda Fogel

Cheerful Buddha naturally flavoured CBD drops 10%

Best: For taste

Rating: 8/10

As well as being a very decent CBD oil, which tested well for general stress and wellbeing, this one also has the most incredible chocolate-hazelnut flavour. If you fancy a novel way of using your CBD, it makes a delicious addition to hot chocolate (although, it’s not water soluble so it doesn’t mix in!). As an extra perk, our testers found they craved sugary treats much less when taking this oil, as their sweet tooth felt satisfied after taking their dose, despite being sugar free and naturally flavoured.

Charlotte’s Web 600mg (6%) organic full spectrum CBD oil

Best: For mood

Rating: 10/10

This brand famously created the first medical CBD oil for a young girl, Charlotte Figi, whose plight famously brought the life-saving benefits of cannabis to the world. Today, it supplies a range of over the counter products which are, as you might imagine, very, very good. Our testers found this one was amazing for anxiety, depression and focus, and noticed that with ongoing use, their mood was vastly improved.

iCBD global ichill XL

Best: For feeling calm

Rating: 9/10

This high strength whole plant oil has been blended with apricot kernel, turmeric, black pepper, lemon, lime, and strawberry seed oils. And these extra ingredients not only make for a very pleasant taste, but also offer enhanced bioavailability (the amount that actually gets to work in your body) and additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Our testers found that after using this oil they felt calmer within 10 minutes, even when they had been feeling very upset or worked up beforehand.

The verdict: CBD oils

Overall, the winner has to be Ardoa – not just for the product featured here, but for the entire range. It was consistently voted best for everything, by everyone. For a cheaper option that also excels, Mindful Extracts takes the win. A delicate flavour, affordable price and astonishing results.

Voucher codes

For the latest health and wellness offers, try the link below:

  • MyProtein discounts codes
  • Nespresso discount codes

Give yourself a post-exercise boost with the best vegan protein powders

(Video) ("How to Use CBD Oil") to Manage Pain and Anxiety

FAQs

Which CBD oil is best for relaxing? ›

Healthline's picks of the 8 best CBD products for stress
  • Charlotte's Web CBD Oil. ...
  • Papa & Barkley Releaf Body Oil. ...
  • Joy Organics Tranquil Mint Organic Broad-Spectrum CBD Tincture. ...
  • Wonderfeel Daytime CBD Extra Strength. ...
  • Spruce Lab Grade CBD Oil. ...
  • Cornbread Hemp Full Spectrum CBD Gummies. ...
  • cbdMD Tropical CBD Gummies.

Does CBD calm anxiety immediately? ›

The effects of orally administered CBD, such as oils, edibles, or capsules, begin working within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Smoking or vaping CBD oil or cannabis buds results in more immediate effects. People can use oral CBD products to relieve anxiety throughout the day.

How long does it take for CBD oil to work for relaxation? ›

If you need relief from stress, anxiety, depression or have sleep related problems, then you may benefit most from CBD oils or capsules. You should feel the effects within 30 minutes. Try using a balm or lotion if you are looking for relief from physical pain.

What type of CBD is most effective? ›

Choose the right spectrum: For many people, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products are better than CBD isolate products because they may promote the entourage effect, which could make the CBD work better.

How much CBD is enough relax? ›

A 2019 study investigating CBD for anxiety found that 300 to 600 milligrams reduced anxiety symptoms. However, that study was limited to 57 adult males. "For generalized anxiety or sleep disorders, 25 to 75 milligrams per day is recommended, while for PTSD, 33 to 50 milligrams per day is recommended.

Does CBD make you lose weight? ›

CBD oil is an increasingly popular cannabis product that is often marketed for weight loss. However, current research does not show a clear effect on weight. Though some studies indicate that CBD may boost metabolism while reducing body fat and appetite, others show an increase in appetite.

What does CBD do to you? ›

Health uses and effects of CBD

That can feel a bit like a high, though it's not intoxicating. Research suggests CBD is beneficial for relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. It might also ease inflammation and pain . Some people with a history of epilepsy may find relief from seizures when using CBD.

Why does CBD stop anxiety? ›

Activating neural receptors

As well as interacting with the 5-HT1a receptor, CBD activates CB1 receptors located in the brain's amygdala. When these receptors are blocked anxiety can increase, making CBD a promising anxiolytic.

Does CBD help with arthritis? ›

Under the guidance of a medical professional, CBD may be helpful in temporarily relieving inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. CBD should not be used as a substitute for disease-modifying treatments or lifestyle modifications recommended by a doctor.

What are cons of taking CBD? ›

Side effects of CBD include nausea, fatigue and irritability, according to Harvard Health Publishing. CBD can also negatively interact with coumadin/warfarin and grapefruit juice. Again, it is crucial to speak with your doctor before starting and CBD products.

Can you drive on CBD oil? ›

A 2020 study published in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association found no evidence that CBD is not safe for driving. However, the compound impacts people differently, so it's not recommended to drive the first time you take it. This is true for any type of supplement or medicine you consume.

Is CBD good for joint pain? ›

Using CBD products, like CBD oil, can help some people manage chronic joint pain. It may be a viable alternative to other substances used to manage pain, like opioids or immunosuppressants.

How can you tell good CBD? ›

Understanding third-party testing of CBD products
  1. Labeling accuracy. First, double-check that the CBD and THC concentrations on the COA match what's stated on the product label. ...
  2. Cannabinoid profile. If your product is full- or broad-spectrum, look for a list of cannabinoids and other compounds. ...
  3. Additional lab charts.

Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain? ›

CBD may help to reduce pain by acting on a variety of biological processes in the body. CBD has been shown to work as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic. CBD may also reduce the anxiety that people living with chronic pain often experience.

Does CBD help high blood pressure? ›

Some research studies indicate that CBD products may help with lowering blood pressure. A 2020 study found that CBD may have vasodilatory effects in human and rat arteries. The authors suggest that CBD may improve flow because it widens blood vessels.

Which is better CBD oil or gummies? ›

If you're looking for a fixed-dose per serving and a bit longer-lasting effects, CBD gummies may be a better option. On the other hand, if you aim for dosage precision and higher bioavailability, you may consider choosing CBD oil as your go-to product type.

What is considered a high level of CBD? ›

When looking at a strain's cannabinoid content, it is quite common to find a THC content ranging from around 12 – 25 percent, with anything at 20 or more being considered very strong. This is not the case when it comes to CBD; any CBD content level that is 4 percent or higher is considered a high CBD strain.

Is CBD good for back pain? ›

Studies suggest it may help relieve inflammation, which is often a factor in chronic back pain. CBD is available in many forms; topical creams and gels have shown promising results for inflammation and neuropathy, which may make them a good option for back and neck pain.

Can I take CBD and drink alcohol? ›

CBD and alcohol may amplify each other's effects, and taking both together in high doses may cause sleepiness and sedation. However, many human and animal studies show that CBD protects against alcohol-induced cell damage and reduces blood alcohol concentration and addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

How much CBD do you feel? ›

If your doctor doesn't provide a recommendation, it's best to start with a smaller dosage and gradually increase it. This could mean starting with 20 to 40 mg a day. After a week, increase this amount by 5 mg. Continue this until you feel that it's effectively treating your symptoms.

What are cons of taking CBD? ›

Side effects of CBD include nausea, fatigue and irritability, according to Harvard Health Publishing. CBD can also negatively interact with coumadin/warfarin and grapefruit juice. Again, it is crucial to speak with your doctor before starting and CBD products.

Is Holland and Barrett CBD oil strong enough? ›

YES! Holland & Barrett's Jacob Hooy CBD oil is a quality product. Based on test results from three independent labs, we can confirm that: The product contains the advertised amount of 5% CBD+ and the THC content is below the legal limit.

Does CBD affect your eyes? ›

cannabinoid in marijuana. pressure of the eye (IOP) and risk of glaucoma. (THC) showed CBD spikes the pressure in the eye. Ciliary muscle involved in the flow in and out off fluid, influencing pressure.

Is CBD an antidepressant? ›

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a constituent non-psychotomimetic of Cannabis sativa with great psychiatric potential, including uses as an antidepressant-like and anxiolytic-like compound.

Can CBD make you emotional? ›

While CBD appears to be well-tolerated, that does not mean that it is without side effects. While these may vary depending on the individual, some reported side effects include: Anxiety. Mood changes.

Is CBD oil good for arthritis? ›

One innovation in pain management is the use of cannabidiol, or CBD. While there is no cure for arthritis pain, early studies have shown that CBD can potentially aid in some of the discomfort, anxiety and inflammation associated with the condition.

Can you drink alcohol while taking CBD oil? ›

CBD and alcohol are usually safe to consume together. However, there are some side effects that you should be wary of. Alcohol is known to reduce inhibition — that's why we love (and hate) it so much. While CBD doesn't do that, it helps calm your nerves, which can have a similar effect.

Whats the highest strength CBD oil? ›

Crescent's 9000 mg Max Strength CBD drops are the strongest CBD oil on the market, with 300 mg of CBD per 1 mL dropper.

Videos

1. When You Use CBD Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body
(The List)
2. DOES CBD REALLY DO ANYTHING? Real Doctor Explains Everything You Need Know About Cannabidiol CBD Oil
(Doctor ER)
3. Best CBD Products 2022 🌟 (unsponsored, unbiased!)
(Kristen Brooks)
4. What's all the buzz about CBD oil? | Just The FAQs
(USA TODAY)
5. What you should know before using prescription-free CBD products for pain relief l GMA
(Good Morning America)
6. How Cannabis & CBD Can Change Our Lives - Sit Down With Creator of Fumée Rose
(Tidal Hemp)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Annamae Dooley

Last Updated: 19/09/2023

Views: 6008

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Annamae Dooley

Birthday: 2001-07-26

Address: 9687 Tambra Meadow, Bradleyhaven, TN 53219

Phone: +9316045904039

Job: Future Coordinator

Hobby: Archery, Couponing, Poi, Kite flying, Knitting, Rappelling, Baseball

Introduction: My name is Annamae Dooley, I am a witty, quaint, lovely, clever, rich, sparkling, powerful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.