CBD has become a staple in the wellness routines of millions across the United States. From oils and gummies to creams and capsules, cannabidiol (CBD) is now more accessible than ever. But as consumers look for convenient places to purchase their favorite CBD products, a common question arises: Can you buy CBD at Walgreens?
At West Country Herb, we understand the importance of clarity, quality, and accessibility when it comes to CBD. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether Walgreens carries CBD, what types of products you can find there, how they compare to online alternatives, and why shopping with trusted CBD retailers is often the smarter choice.
The Growing Presence of CBD in Retail Chains
Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC on a federal level, the availability of CBD products in mainstream retail has grown rapidly. Major chains like CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens responded by adding CBD items to their shelves, particularly in states where CBD laws are more relaxed.
Walgreens, one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, has joined this trend—but with some important limitations.
So, Can You Buy CBD at Walgreens?
Yes, you can buy CBD at Walgreens, but the selection is limited, and availability varies by location. In 2019, Walgreens announced that it would begin selling CBD-infused topicals in select stores. These products include creams, balms, lotions, roll-ons, and patches designed for localized pain relief or skincare.
However, CBD oils, gummies, capsules, vape products, and ingestible forms are not sold at Walgreens due to current FDA regulations and internal policy restrictions.
What CBD Products Are Available at Walgreens?
Only topical CBD products are offered at Walgreens, and they are typically located in the pain relief, skincare, or supplement sections. Brands may vary, but most offerings fall into these categories:
- CBD-infused pain creams
- Cooling gels with CBD
- CBD roll-on sticks
- Muscle and joint balms
- CBD patches
These products are designed for external use only and do not deliver the systemic benefits that come with orally ingested CBD oils or capsules.
Why Walgreens Limits CBD Products
Walgreens follows FDA guidelines closely. While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD, the FDA still prohibits the addition of CBD to food and dietary supplements. As a result, national chains like Walgreens only offer topical products, avoiding oils and edibles that could invite regulatory scrutiny.
Additionally, Walgreens takes a cautious approach to avoid selling ingestible CBD that hasn’t been evaluated for safety and consistency. This makes the chain a safe, but limited, option for consumers who want only surface-level relief.
Which Walgreens Stores Carry CBD?
CBD availability at Walgreens is not nationwide. The chain launched CBD products in roughly 1,500 stores across a select group of states. These states were chosen based on their more relaxed stance on hemp and cannabinoid-based products.
As of now, you can find CBD topicals at Walgreens locations in states such as:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Oregon
- New Mexico
- Kentucky
- Vermont
- South Carolina
- Indiana
- Tennessee
However, availability can change, and not every store in these states may stock CBD products. If you’re looking for CBD at your local Walgreens, it’s best to call ahead or check online for product availability.
How Walgreens CBD Products Compare to West Country Herb
If you’re serious about using CBD for overall wellness, Walgreens’ limited product selection may not provide what you’re looking for. At West Country Herb, we offer a wider variety of CBD formats, strengths, and formulations—all backed by third-party lab testing and transparency.
Product Variety
Walgreens:
- Limited to topicals only
- Few brand choices
- No ingestible CBD
West Country Herb:
- Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate products
- Oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, topicals, and more
- Daytime, nighttime, and targeted-use formulas
Quality and Transparency
Walgreens:
- May not provide lab results on product packaging
- Limited information about hemp sourcing
- Products designed for general retail, not wellness-focused users
West Country Herb:
- Every batch is third-party tested for purity and potency
- Clear lab reports available online
- Products made from organically grown hemp
- Detailed usage and dosage information provided
Shopping Experience
Walgreens:
- In-person convenience
- Store staff may have limited CBD knowledge
- Minimal guidance on dosage or benefits
West Country Herb:
- Online shopping from the comfort of home
- Expert customer service
- Educational resources and personalized recommendations
Should You Buy CBD at Walgreens?
Walgreens may be convenient if you’re looking for a topical product for pain relief or skincare, and you live in one of the select states where it’s available. But if you want a more comprehensive CBD wellness experience—including oils for stress, gummies for sleep, or capsules for balance—specialized CBD retailers like West Country Herb are the better choice.
When choosing where to buy your CBD, consider:
- Why you’re using CBD (e.g., sleep, anxiety, pain)
- What form you prefer (topical, edible, oil, etc.)
- How much product knowledge and support you want
- Product testing and safety standards
Walgreens offers convenience, but West Country Herb delivers quality, variety, and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Walgreens sell CBD oil or gummies?
No. Walgreens currently only sells CBD topicals such as creams, roll-ons, and patches. Oils, gummies, and ingestibles are not sold due to FDA restrictions.
Can I get CBD capsules at Walgreens?
No. Walgreens does not sell any ingestible forms of CBD, including capsules or softgels.
Is the CBD at Walgreens the same as what’s online?
Not necessarily. Walgreens offers limited brands and may not carry full-spectrum or high-potency products. Online retailers like West Country Herb offer a broader selection and more transparency.
Do I need a prescription to buy CBD at Walgreens?
No. All CBD products sold at Walgreens are over-the-counter and do not require a prescription.
Are Walgreens CBD products safe?
Generally, yes—but always look for lab-tested products. West Country Herb ensures that all products are independently tested for safety and effectiveness.
Can I return CBD products to Walgreens?
Return policies may vary by store and product. Check with your local Walgreens before purchasing.
Is CBD cheaper at Walgreens?
Prices vary, but the cost per milligram of CBD is often higher in retail stores due to limited product variety and lower potency options.
Is it better to buy CBD online?
Yes, if you want access to more choices, higher potency options, lab-tested products, and detailed product information. West Country Herb is designed for informed wellness seekers who prioritize quality.
Final Thoughts: Can You Buy CBD at Walgreens?
Yes—you can buy CBD topicals at Walgreens, but that’s where the selection ends. The chain offers limited options, only in certain states, and focuses on surface-level wellness solutions like pain relief creams. If you’re looking for ingestible CBD products like oils, gummies, or capsules, Walgreens won’t have what you need.
At West Country Herb, we make high-quality CBD accessible to everyone. Whether you’re new to CBD or a longtime user, we offer premium, lab-tested products you can trust—delivered discreetly to your door. With full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate formulas available, our inventory supports wellness from head to toe.
Skip the store aisles and explore trusted, tested CBD products at West Country Herb—your source for premium CBD without compromise.