Have you heard of CBD tablets or CBD supplements and want to see what the fuss is about? Perhaps you’re searching for an alternative to CBD oil? Let us introduce you to the wonderful world of CBD supplements!
Read our guide to discover 9 of the best CBD capsules / CBD oil alternatives out there, with real customer reviews to help you decide if they could be for you!
- What are CBD tablets?
- Types of CBD supplements
Glossary of CBD terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | The amount of a substance that reaches the bloodstream and becomes available to the body to use. |
| Broad-spectrum | A CBD product that contains more than one cannabinoid – but doesn’t contain all of them – can be classed as broad-spectrum. For example, a CBD product which has had the THC removed would be considered broad-spectrum. |
| Cannabis | A broad term used for a group of hemp plants, which are used to make fibers, food supplements and recreational drugs. Some cannabis plants have high levels of THC, which are usually used for recreational drugs. You may have heard these referred to as marijuana, skunk, weed, pot, etc. Others are very low in THC, can are used to make fibers, clothes, CBD products and more. |
| Cannabis oil | While CBD oil is legal and widely available in the UK, cannabis oil is currently illegal in the UK. It’s usually made from cannabis plants high in THC, rather than the ones low in THC that are used for CBD products. This is similar for cannabis tablets. |
| Cannabidiol (CBD) | CBD, also known as cannabidiol is a non-intoxicating substance found in hemp plants. |
| Cannabigerol (CBG) | CBG, also known as cannabigerol is another type of cannabinoid. |
| CB1 receptors | A type of cannabinoid receptor, which is part of our natural endocannabinoid system. |
| CB2 receptors | Another type of cannabinoid receptor, which is part of our natural endocannabinoid system. |
| Endocannabinoid system | All people and animals have this biological system. It helps to keep us ‘in balance’ by regulating sleep, appetite, pain, mood, memory and inflammation. It’s very complex and made up on CB1 and CB2 receptors, which interact with cannabinoids. |
| Full spectrum | A full-spectrum cannabis / hemp oil will contain all of the naturally occurring cannabinoids. Unlike a broad-spectrum oil that will only contain a select few. |
| Hemp | Hemp is a cannabis plant strain that’s grown specifically low in THC and high in CBD. This is why it is used to make CBD products, as well as making paper, rope, textiles, fuel and hemp seed oil. |
| Hemp seed oil | Hemp oil is produced by pressing the seed of the hemp plant. |
| Psychoactive | Psychoactive is a term for something acting on the central nervous to alter brain function. This can cause changes in perception, behavior, and mood. |
| Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) | THC is the most well-known cannabinoid from the cannabis plant. It is associated with the ‘high’ feeling associated with smoking marijuana recreationally. |
Firstly, what are CBD tablets?
CBD tablets / capsules are simply an easy-to-take alternative to your regular CBD oil. They contain the same extracted CBD (cannabidiol) from hemp plant flowers and leaves as CBD oil does.
You can choose from small doses (5mg per serving) to large doses (50mg) per serving, depending on how strong you would like it. However, we always recommend starting with a smaller dose you can build on over time.
People usually go for CBD tablets and other alternative supplements over CBD oil because they don’t like the taste of it or enjoy the convenience of them, e.g. taking them at work, after the gym and travelling.
Summary
- CBD tablets are a convenient way to take CBD
- They contain the same CBD extracted from cannabis / hemp plants
Is CBD legal?
Yes, CBD is legal in the UK.
It is often confused with the marijuana that some people smoke, as they are both obtained from hemp plant. But marijuana is illegal, and CBD isn’t.
This is because CBD products contain very little of the psychoactive THC compound found in marijuana – the one’s that give people the associated feeling of intoxication.
Hemp cultivated for CBD oil and other products has been bred to be high in CBD and low in THC. As the THC is only present in trace amounts (or even non-existent in some products), it allows you to enjoy all the benefits of CBD without the side effects of THC.
Summary
- CBD is legal in the UK
- Products must pass safety tests and contain acceptable traces of / no THC
Is CBD safe to use?
Yes! Here at H&B, we wouldn’t sell something that is likely to cause you harm. The World Health Organisation’s 2018 Critical Review Report on CBD reports that CBD is generally well tolerated and has a good safety profile
All of our CBD products are below the maximum dose recommended by the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) in 2020.
What is the best CBD dosage?
If this is your first-time trying CBD, it’s recommended that you start with a small dose of a lower potency product. When you’ve got used to it, you can increase it bit by bit over a period of time if you want to, until you find the best dosage for you.
Common dosages of CBD:
- 5mg
- 10mg
- 15mg
- 20mg
- 50mg
Never exceed the daily allowance stated on product labels.
Summary
- You can get CBD products in different doses, from low to high
- You should always start off with a low dose and never exceed the dose on product labels
Types of CBD supplements
There are lots of different CBD supplements out there, including:
- CBD oil
- CBD tablets / capsules
- CBD sprays
- CBD chocolate
- CBD coffee
- CBD lozenges
- CBD gummies
- CBD food enhancers
- CBD beauty enhancers
- CBD muscle balm
- CBD serums
- CBD moisturising creams
- CBD pens
- CBD drinks
- CBD tea
In this guide, we will focus on CBD tablets, capsules, and other popular alternatives to CBD oil.
Shop CBD
9 of the best CBD supplements
Whether you’re looking for CBD softgel capsules or tablets, take your pick from the 9 best CBD capsules UK has to offer here.
How did we pick?
We’ve split up these CBD products into 3 mini buyers guides:
- Shop by CBD dosage
- Shop by function
- Shop popular CBD oiland CBD tablet alternatives
Shop by CBD Dosage
If you're new to CBD, we suggest you start off with a CBD supplement that has a low dosage.
1. The best low-dose CBD supplement
Love Hemp CBD Capsules
If you want to dip your toe into the world of CBD supplements, these CBD capsules by Love Hemp could be a great way to start.
Each capsule contains 5mg of premium, water-soluble CBD-rich hemp extract that is highly bioavailable and ready for the body to put to use.
Key benefits:
- Low flexible dosage of 5mg per capsule (recommended serving is 2 capsules)
- Made with premium CBD-rich hemp extract
- Water-soluble CBD for optimum bioavailability
- Contains a full spectrum of terpenes, flavonoids and phytonutrients
- 100% THC free
- Vegan and gluten free
2. The best medium-dose CBD capsules
Jacob Hooy CBD 20mg
Tried a few CBD products already and know what you’re dealing with? These 20mg CBD capsules for Jacob Hooy could be worth giving a go.
Each gastric acid-resistant capsule contains 20mg of high-quality CBD oil, and you only have to take one easy-to-swallow capsule a day.
Key benefits:
- 20mg of premium CBD per capsule
- Gastric acid-resistant capsule makes it more bioavailable
- Easy to swallow
- Suitable for vegans
3. The best high-dose CBD oral capsules
Reakiro CBD Gel 1500mg
For those who live life on the go – these highly potent Reakiro CBD Gel Capsules make taking CBD simple and easy.
Each capsule contains 50mg of premium-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil. They get absorbed into the bloodstream via your digestive system – for a gradual release of CBD.
Key benefits:
- Contains 50mg of full-spectrum, premium-quality CBD
- Quick, easy and convenient alternative to CBD oil
- Slow and gradual release of CBD
- Gluten free
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
What our customers say:
Mac007 – Finally a traceable product – 5/5 stars
“I did a lot of research on this company before buying and I was so pleased to see how much quality they have in the processing and extensive lab reports on the website. I am super pleased to with the product and packing. Priced well I think also.”
Willy – Where has this been? – 5/5 stars
“A truly exceptional product. Something that I have truly been looking for years.”
Shop CBD
Shop CBD by function
These are for you if you want to take CBD that hasadded benefits.
4. The best CBD supplement with added vitamins for mental performance
Naturopathica CBD+ Mind
Enjoy a harmonious combination of high-quality CBD + micronutrients Vitamin B5 to support healthy mental performance with these CBD+ Mind capsules by Naturopathica.
The super-concentrated, full-spectrum CBD in these capsules is a premium quality, and you also get to enjoy the mind-supporting benefits of:
- Taurine
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B5
- Ginseng
Key benefits:
- Each capsule contains 5mg of super-concentrated, full-spectrum CBD
- Added micronutrients: taurine, ginseng and vitamins B2 and B5 have been added to support healthy normal mental performance
- Simply take one before bed each day
What our customers have to say:
JamieP – CBD tablets – 5/5 stars
“Good, start the day with helps keep things at bay.”
Ms Galbraith – It does exactly what it says on the tin!! – 5/5 stars
“I've been taking CBD Mind for two months now and it's given me a positive lift and new lease of life. I was not sure about the hype of CBD, but it definitely has made a difference...."
5. The best CBD supplement for cartilage function
Naturopathica CBD + Turmeric
Try thiscombo of premium CBD, turmeric and vitamin C, with the latter contributing to normal collagen formation to support normal cartilagefunction.
Only the best super-concentrated, full spectrum CBD is used in these capsules in a 5mg dosage.
Key benefits:
- Each capsule contains 5mg of super-concentrated, full spectrum CBD
- Extra ingredients: these capsules also contain curcumin (from turmeric) and vitamin C to support bone and joint health
- Just take one before bed each day
What our customers have to say:
Ashla – Good product – 5/5 stars
“On second bottle of these. I like them because the capsule form is much more convenient to take and do believe they are helping although the effects are subtle, I combine with higher dose of vitamin C.”
Shop CBD
Shop alternative to CBD tablets
If you aren't a fan of tablets or capsules, here are the alternatives perfect for you.
6. The best CBD lozenges
Naturopathica CBD 10mg Citrus Lozenges
CBD + great-tasting citrus flavour come together in these handy CBD lozenges.
You get 10mg of high-quality CBD per lozenge + the micronutrients that can support healthy normal hair, skin and nails, help reduce tiredness and fatigue, and promote normal energy levels:
- Niacin
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
Key benefits:
- Great tasting: these lozenges have a refreshing citrus flavour
- Each lozenge has moderate 10mg of CBD, so you don’t have to take the full dose (2 lozenges) all at once, or at all! You can just stick to one lozenge if it’s enough for you
- They dissolve easily in the mouth and are quickly delivered into your bloodstream
- Each lozenge contains vitamins B1, B6, B12 and C, which help to reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue and support normal energy levels
- They contain zinc, which helps contributes to normal cognitive function and brain health
What our customers have to say:
Kir3sty – Great product – 5/5 stars
“I have tried oils before, but much prefer the lozenge. They are easy to pop in your bag as you can separate each unit from the blister pack easily, they have a lift on each so you can peel them open with little fuss. They taste great too, no earthy taste like the oils, just sweet lemon. I prefer the lozenge as it is easier to monitor dosage especially with the higher %.”
7. The best CBD gummies
Starpowa CBD Gummies 15mg Apple Flavoured
Finally, a vegan CBD supplement that tastes like sweets!
These gorgeous gummies not only taste brilliant, but they also pack an impressive 15mg per gummy (recommended dosage = 2 gummies)
Enjoy them on the go, at work, whilst travelling – wherever you like, no drink or oil pipette necessary.
Key benefits:
- They’re chewy, they’re tasty, just like your favourite sweets, but with a CBD punch
- Each gummy contains 15mg of premium CBD (2 gummies is the recommended dose – but you can just take one!)
- 100%-THC free - third-party testing is conducted on every batch for guaranteed quality and safety
- These gummies are suitable for vegans, contains natural flavours and sweeteners and are free from added sugar
What our customers have to say:
Eloisem174 – Great features – 5/5 stars
“I bought these gummies 2 week ago and wow they are amazing! The package is so good, and they taste soo good! I definitely recommend! Will definitely be getting them again, 10\10”
DFisk – CBD gummies – 5/5 stars
“Lovely taste & they seem to be doing some good. I look forward to taking them every day.”
Looking for more info on CBD gummies? Read:What are the best CBD gummies?
8.The best CBD spray
Love Hemp 400mg CBD Oil Spray Valencian Orange
It’s amazing what a little spritz can do!
This delicious orange-flavoured CBD spray contains a full-spectrum of natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and phytonutrients.
You get 2mg of THC-free CBD per spray carried in premium coconut oil and MCT oil to make it more bioavailable.
Key features:
- Suitable for vegans andvegetarians
- Contains full-spectrum cannabinoids, terpenes, and phytonutrients
- 100% free of THC making it non-psychoactive
What our customers have to say:
JSol - Love hemp - 5/5 stars
"Excellent product! Does what it says, and the taste isn’t bad at all. Good value for money. I’ll happily buy again."
Advice when picking CBD supplements
Choose a CBD product you will enjoy taking, whether that’s pure CBD oil, discrete CBD capsules, a handy CBD spray or some tasty CBD gummies.
Consider starting with a lower dosage, so you can see how it affects you and if you need a lower / higher dose. Remember, it’s easier to build up to a dosage than take too much too fast.
Always make sure you buy from a reputable retailer that you can trust sells safe products with high-quality CBD.
Ultimate guide to CBD
Whether you have heard all about CBD oil and would like to try it for yourself, or you are simply CBD-curious,this guide, explainsall of the different ways you can consume CBD oil, as well as the different benefits for each method.
Ultimate guide to CBD
Shop CBD
Here at H&B, we only sell CBD that meets our highest standards for purity, quality, and safety, as backed by leading trade associations (HFMA & EIHA) and expert laboratories so you can find the CBD you can trust. And in the format, flavour and strength you want too.
The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Last updated: 19 May 2021
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Author: Bhupesh Panchal, Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate
Joined Holland & Barrett: Apr 2019
Masters Degree in Toxicology and BSc Hons in Medical Biochemistry
Bhupesh started his career as a Clinical Toxicologist for Public Health England, advising healthcare professionals all around the country on how to manage clinical cases of adverse exposure to supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, industrial chemicals and agricultural products.
After 7 years in this role and a further year working as a drug safety officer in the pharmaceutical industry, Bhupesh joined Holland &Barrett as a Senior Regulatory Affairs Associate in 2019.
Read more from Bhupesh