Selecting the absolute best CBD brand out there can be a tall order. With so many options available, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the options and simply grab one at random—but we don’t advise that. The truth is that there really is a hierarchy when it comes to CBD products. Given that you’re probably seeking it out for its therapeutic benefits—remember that most CBD products only have trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), they aren’t going to give you much of a high—you have your work cut out for you. We’ve rounded up seven of the best of the best of 2021—a year when, frankly, you may need it more than ever.
Spruce
What sets Spruce apart? Try this: they use a hemp strain that first arrived in the United States during the War of 1812. “Sourced from a 19th-century plant” has a certain ring to it, don’t you think? The full-spectrum products contain multiple extracts from oils, terpenes, and various cannabinoids, and at least .3% THC. (That’s low, so no, still no high.)
These tinctures are never watered down, making them cleaner and, yes, a little bitter, too. But if you’re a purist and seeking something potent, you won’t find a more suitable option. Choose from a variety of formulas, including moderate and maximum potencies.
Charlotte’s Web
Helmed by a team of seven brothers, Charlotte’s Web needs no introduction to those intimately familiar with CBD. The Stanley family—Josh, Joel, Jesse, Jon, Jordan, Jared, and J. Austin, respectively—knows their stuff. The men are deeply acquainted with the intricacies of CBD development, from the mechanics of testing cannabinoids to the logistics of running a dispensary.
It wasn’t until they encountered young Charlotte, a girl suffering from Dravet syndrome, that things changed. CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent, Sanjay Gupta, hosted a TV special and mentioned how the brothers’ medical marijuana positively impacted Charlotte’s health. Thousands of eager customers connected with them in the weeks that followed, and the brothers, bolstered by new success, named their company in honor of young Charlotte.
Joy Organics
Joy Smith struggled to find a CBD product that met her needs. Sure, there were many, but only a handful helped her find any relief. The lack of quality variety inspired her to develop Joy Organics, known for its meticulously created formulas. Each goes through a stringent testing process before it’s ever sold to the public. The company is also among the first of its kind to offer a range of USDA-certified organic CBD salves and tinctures.
Consumers committed to the planet will appreciate Joy Organics’ eco-conscious efforts, too. They use recyclable materials, aim to source organic materials as much as possible, and employ carbon neutral shipping practices. It’s a well-rounded approach to sustainability, and a core part of what makes the family-owned business such a success in the competitive CBD climate.
Royal CBD
A brand that claims it’s “fit for royalty” has its work cut out for it. Luckily, Royal CBD appears up for the challenge—they really strive to check every box, something that’s evident in their committed business practices. It begins with ingredients that are 100% organic, a key detail since hemp in its purest form can absorb even harmful elements from the soil. At organic hemp farms, soil is regularly tested, so you can be certain of the product’s purity.
Its efficacy is also important, of course, and each product is full-spectrum to ensure the best possible results. Notably, everything is tested at a third-party lab, leaving no question of the ingredients and presence of possible contaminants. So, yes, that kind of process is definitely worthy of royalty.
FAB CBD
Made with organically harvested Colorado plants, full-spectrum FAB CBD oils are formulated with less than .3% THC. Sold in strengths from 300mg to 2400mg, the oils are available in a variety of flavors. Those are compelling characteristics, but it’s the company’s commitment to charitable efforts that’s even more noteworthy.
Giving back is a way of life at FAB CBD, and it’s evident in the many donations they’ve made to worthwhile causes, including the Make-a-Wish Foundation of America and the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce.
Green Roads
As one of the largest privately owned CBD companies in the country, Green Roads carries an extensive range of products ranging from oils to coffees to pet treats. Founded by pharmacist Laura Fuentes, the company is committed to introducing people to the wonders of CBD as it relates to their own personal health and wellbeing needs.
In addition to being the first of its kind founded by a licensed pharmacist, the line contains products free of artificial ingredients. They’re known in particular for their Sweet Tooth Series, including the rather adorable CBD Relax Bears. They’re sweet, they’re sour, and they’re supposed to calm you down so life doesn’t seem so darn overwhelming all the time. Whatever works, right?
Five CBD
Five aims to break barriers with its selection of full-spectrum CBD products that, according to them, contain more “meaningful amounts” of flavonoids, terpenes, and cannabinoids instead of diluted extracts. The name is a reference to the hemp plant itself: each product contains a ratio of 5:1 CBD to minor hemp compounds, ensuring that you get the true full-spectrum experience.
The line includes gummies, gel capsules, tinctures, and chocolates. The latter is a popular choice for newbies who are curious about the effects of CBD but want a familiar taste to ingest alongside it. Available in original and sea salt dark chocolate flavors, the full-spectrum squares contain 50mg CBD plus 2mg of THC each.