Do CBD Gummies to Quit Smoking Work?

We all recognize that smoking cigarettes is a habit we're better off without, and many are looking for nicotine-free ways to help them quit. Cannabidiol (CBD), or any cannabis product, isn't going to address nicotine addiction directly, but it might help make withdrawal symptoms like irritability, stress, and mood swings much easier to cope with.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at how CBD could support your wellness goal of quitting smoking by supporting the endocannabinoid system to make the dreaded nicotine withdrawals more manageable. We'll also highlight the top CBD gummies on the market today, notable for their flavor varieties, potency options, and quality ingredients to help you get started on this journey.

Can CBD Help You Stop Smoking?

The research on CBD and nicotine addiction isn't well established, so we can't make conclusive statements that CBD oil or gummies are going to be the best method for curbing your nicotine cravings once and for all. Still, there is early research to suggest that the endocannabinoid system may be involved in nicotine addiction.

In a small study, cigarette smokers were given CBD through an inhaler, while others got a placebo for just a week. They were instructed to use the inhaler anytime a craving struck. The CBD group ended up smoking about 40% less than before [1].

This is a positive change, but it can also be attributed to the act of reaching for an inhaler instead of a cigarette which could have introduced a new routine or distraction that helped to reduce smoking or that the psychological effect of using something perceived as "treatment" motivated participants to cut down on smoking. Whatever the case, we're excited to see more research evaluating the effectiveness of CBD in aiding in smoking cessation.

Outside of these research settings, many people are finding success with CBD products in helping them quit smoking. This might have to do a lot with how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates our mood, appetite, and stress levels.

In another interesting piece of research, smokers who hadn't had a cigarette overnight were given a very potent dose of 800 mg of CBD orally. Compared to the group given a placebo, the CBD-takers found smoking cues — like the sight or smell of a cigarette — less attention-grabbing and less enjoyable [2].

Even though CBD didn't seem to affect their craving for tobacco or feelings of withdrawal and didn't cause any noticeable side effects, reducing the appeal of smoking cues is a big deal. It suggests CBD could help change how smokers perceive cigarettes, making it a helpful companion for those looking to quit.

While these studies are promising, CBD products aren't an FDA-approved shortcut to quitting smoking. But that doesn't mean we should completely ignore the anecdotal accounts of people who have had luck with CBD gummies and quit smoking cigarettes.

The Best CBD Gummies to Quit Smoking

These products aren't advertised or specifically designed to reduce nicotine cravings or help people quit smoking, but they are among the top-rated CBD gummies on the market. They are produced by reputable brands with a track record for quality control, third-party lab testing, and clean ingredients.

1. Neurogan CBD Gummy Squares
2. FOCL CBD Gummies
3. Charlotte's Web Calm CBD Gummies
4. Joy Organics CBD Gummies
5. Green Roads Relax Bears

Neurogan CBD Gummy Squares

We're all about combining quality and potency to offer the best full spectrum CBD gummies experience, but for those who want a THC-free option, these also come in broad spectrum CBD.

The potency levels — 45 MG, 90 MG, and 120 MG — mean that each Wild Berry flavored square caters to different potency needs, but they do lean on the stronger end of CBD gummy options on the market, but at a great value with the cost per mg of CBD ranging from $0.02 to $0.04.

While our gummies aren't specifically made to aid in quitting smoking, the higher potency levels may be a good option for those looking to manage stress and support sleep — two common challenges when cutting down on nicotine.

• Cost: $
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD, THC-Free Broad Spectrum CBD
• CBD potency: 45 MG, 90 MG,120 MG
• Flavor: Wild Berry
• Count: 30 gummies per bottle
• Price per mg: $0.02–$0.04

FOCL CBD Gummies

The FOCL Full Spectrum CBD gummies promise quality and a splash of fruity flavors to please every palate. These are mid-range prices for a moderate (25 mg) potency gummy that comes to $0.07 per mg of CBD.

The 25 MG CBD potency is particularly suited for beginners or those who prefer a more controlled approach to their CBD intake.

This moderate dosage allows users the flexibility to start with a single gummy and, if needed, increase their dose to two gummies for a stronger effect. Increasing the dosage means the gummies will be consumed more quickly, and given the higher price point, this could add up over time.

• Cost: $$
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD
• CBD potency: 25 MG
• Flavor: Sour Watermelon, Tropical Punch, Mandarin Orange
• Count: 30 gummies per bottle
• Price per mg: $0.07

Charlotte's Web Calm CBD Gummies

Charlotte's Web Calm Gummies prioritizes peace of mind, infusing 10 mg of full spectrum CBD with 75 mg of lemon balm, known for its calming effects.

It has a gentle 10 mg potency, making it ideal for new CBD users or those sensitive to CBD's calming effects that can make them feel sleepy throughout the day.

The 90-count bottle, priced at $56.99, delivers excellent value and provides a total of 900 mg of CBD. This makes it an economical choice for regular use out of the three options Charlotte's Web offers, especially for those integrating CBD into their daily wellness routine.

In the context of quitting smoking, addressing stress is a critical component of a balanced strategy.

For many people, quitting cigarette smoking is a big challenge, causing much anxiety and stressful moments. Charlotte's Web Calm CBD Gummies could provide a natural way to enhance your resilience against stress, potentially making it easier to resist cravings and stay on your path to quitting.

By helping to maintain a sense of calm and reducing stress, these gummies could indirectly support your smoking cessation efforts, complementing other strategies you're using to break free from nicotine

• Cost: $$
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD
• CBD potency: 10 MG
• Flavor: Lemon Lime
• Count: 30, 60, 90 gummies per bottle
• Price per mg: $0.06-$0.10

Joy Organics THC-Free CBD Gummies

Joy Organics THC-free CBD gummies are made with broad spectrum hemp extract and certified organic ingredients with a dosage of 25 mg per gummy.

Broad spectrum CBD gummies are ideal for people looking for a THC-free experience but still want to take advantage of the entourage effect, which suggests that CBD works better in combination with other cannabis plant compounds rather than on its own.

Opting for a broad spectrum product like Joy Organics ensures you're getting a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, potentially amplifying the health benefits.

This can be particularly appealing for those quitting smoking, as the entourage effect may help in managing the multifaceted aspects of nicotine withdrawal, such as stress and feelings of anxiousness, without introducing THC into their system.

• Cost: $$
• Extract Type: Broad Spectrum CBD
• CBD potency: 25 MG
• Flavor: Strawberry Lemonade
• Count: 30 gummies per bottle
• Price per mg: $0.05

Green Roads Relax Bears

The Green Roads Relax Bears is the only CBD isolate option on our list, and it turns out to be the most expensive option when we break down the cost per mg of CBD in one bottle.

That being said, Green Roads is a long-standing, dependable CBD brand on the market, thanks in part to its delightful flavor variations and commitment to quality ingredients and manufacturing processes.

Each gummy delivers a low potency of 10 mg of CBD, making them suitable for those new to CBD or preferring a milder effect. Despite the lower potency, some might find these isolate gummies less potent than full spectrum options like Charlotte's Web 10 mg Calm Gummies due to the absence of the entourage effect, where multiple cannabinoids work together to enhance the overall effect.

• Cost: $$$
• Extract Type: CBD Isolate
• CBD potency: 10 MG
• Flavor: Blue Raspberry, Lemon, Cherry, Green Apple and Orange
• Count: 30 gummies per bottle
• Price per mg: $0.12

Best Quit-Smoking Gummies Alternatives

When it comes to kicking the smoking habit, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a tried-and-tested route many have found success with.

While we've explored CBD gummies as a supportive tool in managing the stress associated with quitting smoking, NRT is more of a direct method to address nicotine cravings.

1. Nicorette Coated Ice Mint Lozenge: Unlike a gummy, this lozenge dissolves slowly in your mouth, releasing nicotine that is absorbed through the lining of your mouth directly into your bloodstream. This process is designed to provide a gradual relief from cravings, making it easier to resist the urge to light up. The ice mint flavor is a refreshing taste, which can also help combat the oral fixation many smokers struggle with.
2. Habitrol Nicotine Gum: This method allows for a more controlled intake of nicotine, letting you manage cravings more actively by chewing more when the urge to smoke is stronger. Nicotine gums are a classic option for those who prefer the act of chewing to help distract from the cravings while also addressing the physical dependency on nicotine. The act of chewing itself can be a helpful way to deal with the habitual aspect of smoking, providing a physical action that replaces reaching for a cigarette.

Both these options work by supplying your body with nicotine in controlled, gradually decreasing doses, reducing dependence without the harsh withdrawal symptoms that often accompany quitting smoking cold turkey. They allow your body and mind to adapt to lower levels of nicotine, easing the transition away from cigarettes. While they offer a more direct approach to nicotine replacement compared to CBD gummies, choosing the right method depends on your personal preference, smoking habits, and how your body responds to nicotine reduction.

How Many Gummies Should I Take to Stop Smoking

CBD products aren't designed to address smoking cessation, so how many gummies you should take might come down to experimentation to find the level of effects you're looking for from CBD.

You should first look at the dosage of CBD per gummy. For example, the Neurogan CBD gummies starts at 45 mg of CBD per square, which is a higher dose. If you were to reach this same level with Green Roads Relax Bears, you'd need to take 4.5 gummies.

For those new to CBD products, start low, go slow, and find your sweet spot. A 10 mg gummy might be the right dose to help you reach that calm zone, but as your experience with CBD grows, you may find that you need 25 mg, or for those who want something stronger 45 mg and higher options with Neurogan might be the best ecomonical choice.

Are CBD Gummies the Same as Nicotine Gummies?

CBD gummies and nicotine gummies (or more commonly, nicotine lozenges and gums, as nicotine is rarely found in "gummy" form) serve very different purposes and function through distinct mechanisms in the body.

CBD gummies interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating a wide range of functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, and stress. Unlike nicotine, CBD does not create a physical dependence or a "high" feeling. Instead, it's sought after for its potential calming effects.

The Pros of CBD Gummies to Quit Smoking:

• on-addictive: CBD does not lead to physical dependence.
• Broad Health Benefits: Potential to offer relief from stress and poor sleep, which can all be triggers for smoking.

Cons of CBD Gummies to Quit Smoking:

• Indirect Aid for Quitting Smoking: CBD does not address nicotine addiction directly. Its effectiveness in quitting smoking may vary widely from person to person.
• Regulation and Quality Concerns: The market is flooded with CBD products, and not all are created equal, which is why it's important to shop from reputable brands.

Nicotine replacement products, like gums and lozenges, provide the body with a measured dose of nicotine without the harmful tar and chemicals found in cigarettes. This helps to satisfy nicotine cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to reduce nicotine intake until you can quit entirely gradually.

Pros of Nicotine Patches Lozenges, and Gums:

• Directly Addresses Nicotine Dependence: By supplying nicotine in controlled amounts, these products help manage withdrawal symptoms directly.
• Structured Quitting Programs: Often used as part of a structured program that gradually reduces nicotine dependency over time.
• Accessibility: Widely available and endorsed as a quitting aid by health organizations.

Cons of Nicotine Patches, Lozenges, and Gums:

• Potential for Dependence: While they help in quitting smoking, there's a risk of becoming dependent on the nicotine gum or lozenge itself.
• Cost: Long-term use can become expensive.
• Limited Health Benefits: Primarily focused on addressing nicotine addiction and may not offer broader health benefits.

Where to Buy Gummies to Quit Smoking

Finding the right support in the form of gummies — be it CBD for calming support or nicotine for direct craving management — is key. Here's a bit more detail on where you can find these products and what each source offers:

• Amazon: Amazon is a great, convenient marketplace for purchasing nicotine replacement therapy products like gums and lozanges, but make sure you're purchasing them from authentic brands like Nicorette. You won't be able to purchase CBD products on Amazon due to restrictions. Most of the so-called CBD or hemp products on Amazon don't actually contain cannabinoids and instead have hemp oil, which doesn't provide support to the endocannabinoid system.
• Neurogan: We offer a wide range of CBD products on our website from CBD oil, gummies, hemp flower, and pills, and we're best known for our high-quality standards and extremely affordable price points. This is because we produce our products in-house at our GMP-facility and handle shipping ourselves, which means we can pass the savings onto our customers. If you’re new to CBD and unsure about where to start, trying a free sample of CBD gummies can be a delightful and risk-free way to discover their benefits.
• Health Food Stores: Many health food stores also stock up on a variety of CBD products you can obtain immediately at your own convenience. This is great for realizing you've run out of your favorite CBD gummies. However, it does come at a cost as health food stores typically mark up prices higher than what you might find online directly from the brand. This is due to overhead costs associated with brick-and-mortar stores, like rent and staffing. Depending on the store's turn-over rate for CBD products, there's a possibility that the products could sit on the shelves for longer periods, affecting the freshness of the product, so make sure you check the CBD gummy's expiration date.
• Pharmacy: You can find many popular nicotine replacement therapy products at your local pharmacy in a variety of strengths and flavors. What's great about this option is that you can speak with your pharmacist who can guide you on the best methods for smoking cessation. In some cases, your health insurance might be able to cover the cost of these products, making it easier to take advantage of this perk at the pharmacy.

The Takeaway: CBD Gummies to Quit Smoking

CBD might help you quit smoking, but it's not a direct connection we can relate to as there aren't enough clinical studies supporting CBD's use for nicotine addiction. This article is not meant as a substitute for professional medical advice.

With that being said, many people find that CBD gummies help with some aspects of nicotine withdrawal, such as stress and irritability.

This means that while CBD could offer support in managing the discomforts of quitting smoking, it's not a proven method to address nicotine dependence directly.

Throughout this article, we've introduced some of the best CBD gummies available on the market, known for their quality, potency, and customer satisfaction.

These products, alongside traditional nicotine replacement therapies such as gums and lozenges, offer a spectrum of options for those seeking to quit smoking. Each approach has its advantages, from the direct nicotine craving management offered by NRTs to the more holistic, symptom-soothing potential of CBD.

FAQ

Do gummies really help you quit smoking?

Gummies, specifically CBD gummies, are not FDA-approved to help quit smoking. Some people find them helpful for managing withdrawal symptoms like stress and irritability, which can make quitting smoking much more manageable. However, the effectiveness of CBD gummies and other products for this purpose can vary from person to person, and more research is needed in this area.

What is the best supplement to quit smoking?

There is no single "best" supplement approved to quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), such as patches, gums, and lozenges, are proven aids to help people stop smoking and are recommended by health professionals. You can buy them at most local pharmacies and as your pharmacist on advice on ways to integrate them into your routine.

What are nicotine gummies?

There aren't any products officially recognized or approved as "nicotine gummies." Nicotine replacement products commonly come in the form of gums, patches, and lozenges. These products are designed to help manage nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms for those trying to quit smoking.

Resources:

1. Morgan, C. J., Das, R. K., Joye, A., Curran, H. V., & Kamboj, S. K. (2013). Cannabidiol reduces cigarette consumption in tobacco smokers: preliminary findings. Addictive behaviors, 38(9), 2433-2436.
2. Hindocha, C., Freeman, T. P., Grabski, M., Stroud, J. B., Crudgington, H., Davies, A. C., ... & Curran, H. V. (2018). Cannabidiol reverses attentional bias to cigarette cues in a human experimental model of tobacco withdrawal. Addiction, 113(9), 1696-1705.