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Many people consider CBD for sleep, and a wide range of products is available online. Some evidence suggests that CBD may help with sleep-related issues, but research is limited overall.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder affecting around
This article discusses the research behind cannabidiol (CBD) and sleep. It also explores several CBD products that may help people get a better night’s sleep.
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
- Best full-spectrum capsules: Cornbread Full Spectrum CBD Capsules | Skip to review
- Best CBD bath bomb: Joy Organics CBD Bath Bombs | Skip to review
- Best isolate CBD oil: Medterra Isolate CBD oil | Skip to review
- Best for a blend of cannabinoids: 3Chi’s CBD Sleep Oil 1,000 mg Skip to review
- Best for daily use: Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum Sleep Tincture | Skip to review
- Best for cooling: Aspen Green Cooling Cream | Skip to review
- Best starter gummies:Charlotte’s Web CBD Gummies: Daily Wellness | Skip to review
While research into the effects of CBD on sleep is relatively new, early indications show promise.
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- pain
- anxiety
- depression
These problems can affect a person’s sleep.
CBD may also help manage levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol, which
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The researchers note that these high CBD doses may be cost-prohibitive. They also note several study limitations, including the lack of a control group and that many participants were taking psychiatric medications that may have affected the results.
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high quality, clearly labeled ingredients. There should be confirmation that they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the CBD dosage and THC content.
- Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a dosage and how to take it.
- Third-party labs: MNT chooses products that must undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) after receiving its third-party lab results.
Below are seven of the best options a person can order online.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
A note on CBD and melatonin
Medical News Today does not feature CBD products that contain melatonin. Melatonin products do not have FDA approval, and there is very limited research into how CBD may interact with added ingredients such as melatonin, vitamins, or minerals. There are also
In April 2023, researchers published a
The products in this article have passed Medical News Today‘s strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Below, we compare each product on price, CBD dose, and more.
| Price | Volume | Type of CBD | CBD dose | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cornbread | $55.99 | 750 mg per bottle | full-spectrum | 25 mg per capsule |
| Joy Organics | $19.95 | four bath bombs | broad-spectrum | 25 mg per bath bomb |
| Medterra | $39.99–$199.99 | 30 or 60 ml bottle | isolate | 16 – 100 mg per 1 ml serving |
| 3Chi | $79.99 | 30 mL per bottle | broad-spectrum | 33.3 mg/mL |
| Lazarus Naturals | $40–$120 | 30 or 120 mL | full-spectrum | 30–60 mg/1–2 mL dose |
| Aspen Green | $84.99 | 60 mL per jar | full-spectrum | 1,000 mg per jar |
| Charlotte’s Web | $44.99 | 60 gummies | full-spectrum | 15 mg per two gummies |
When talking about CBD, people may use unfamiliar words or terms. The below table details some common CBD terminology.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CBD | A compound within the C. sativa plant that does not create the high sensation individuals commonly associate with cannabis use. |
| THC | A compound in the C. sativa plant. It is the psychoactive compound that creates the high sensation from cannabis use. |
| Full-spectrum | A full-spectrum product will contain all of the natural compounds in the cannabis plant, including THC. However, THC levels must be no more than 0.3% to comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on full-spectrum CBD products. |
| Broad-spectrum | Broad-spectrum products contain natural compounds of the cannabis plant. However, while manufacturers remove all or most of the THC in broad-spectrum CBD, it may still be present in trace amounts. |
| CBD isolate | This is the purest form of CBD and should contain 0% THC. |
| Cannabinoids | The compounds within the cannabis plant, of which there are |
| Terpenes | Another compound of the C. sativa plant, terpenes typically give plants their specific aromas. Some terpenes, such as limonene, may have specific health benefits. |
| Certificate of analysis (COA) | Reputable manufacturers of CBD products should ensure a COA is available for inspection. A COA provides information on the third-party testing that independent labs conduct on a particular product. Sometimes, products have a scannable smartphone code directing people to the COA online. |
Read more about terminology and other important CBD information here.
Individuals looking to purchase CBD products may want to consider the following factors:
- THC levels: People who receive regular blood tests may want to choose CBD isolate or CBD products that do not contain traceable THC levels.
- Cost: Some CBD products can be expensive, with costs often depending on CBD dose and the volume of product. People should consider how regularly they will use their chosen product to ensure it is cost-effective.
- Formulation: Some people may prefer a lotion or cream they can massage into their skin, while others may prefer gummies or oils that they can take orally.
- Reputation: Brand reputation and third-party testing are essential to reduce safety risks. These risks may include compound strengths that do not match those on the label or the formulation being contaminated with toxic minerals. People should only choose products from companies with strict testing regimens using third-party labs with public certifications.
While some people may find that CBD relieves insomnia, not everyone will experience the same results.
Other natural ways to help with insomnia include:
- Improving sleep hygiene: Improving sleep habits
may help people with short-term insomnia. Helpful tips include:- going to bed at the same time each night and setting the alarm for the same time each morning
- ensuring a relaxing and comfortable sleep environment that is cool, dark, and quiet
- removing electronic devices from the bedroom
- avoiding consuming large meals or caffeine before bedtime
- being physically active during the day
- Natural supplements: People can take melatonin to
help with sleep issues. The body produces this hormone naturally to help prepare the brain for sleep. People should speak with a doctor before trying melatonin. - Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a talking therapy that may help those with chronic insomnia.
Most adults need at least
A person who experiences insomnia may wish to consider natural sleep aids before inquiring about prescription medication.
The British National Health Service (NHS) recommends people with insomnia see a doctor if they experience any of the following:
- sleeping difficulties lasting several months
- persistent insomnia despite attempts to maintain a regular sleep schedule
- insomnia that causes difficulty with daily functioning
People who experience side effects from CBD products should stop taking the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about CBD for sleep.
What CBD actually works for sleep?
There is limited research into CBD and sleep. However, recent research suggests that medium-high dosages of CBD may benefit sleep.
How much CBD do I need to take for sleep?
One 2022 review suggests that short-term use of medium-high dosages of CBD may be beneficial for insomnia. However, further scientific research is necessary to determine the effect of CBD on sleep, and products containing THC may have a negative effect on slow-wave sleep, which is a state of deep sleep.
People should never exceed the recommended dosage on a product’s packaging. It is also advisable to start with a low dose and work up until a person gets their desired effect.
When is the best time to take CBD oil when taking for insomnia?
Insomnia raises cortisol levels at night, which keeps a person awake.
Is CBD better than melatonin for sleep?
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It’s important that a person speaks with a doctor before trying melatonin or CBD for sleep.
Is it good to take CBD for sleep?
Research from 2019 suggests that clinical trials have shown CBD to improve sleep, although many studies focus on the effects of CBD on other health problems.
However, research is limited. Scientists are still working to fully understand how effective CBD can be for sleep.
Insomnia is the medical term for difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing quality sleep. It is a common condition that can present as acute or chronic.
Treatment for insomnia typically involves lifestyle changes to help improve sleep hygiene. In some cases, doctors may also recommend psychological therapies or prescription medication.
Research suggests that CBD has relaxing properties that may benefit people with insomnia. When choosing a CBD product, people may want to consider several factors, including the CBD’s type, strength, and source, as well as the cost of the final product.