The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) has been recognized as the body’s primary homeostatic regulator and has been shown to influence the sleep-wake cycle and other circadian rhythms. The effects of CBD for sleep and insomnia have been observed through interactions with CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in the brain, immune system, metabolic tissues, and peripheral nervous system. CBD has increasingly been considered a safer alternative to prescription medications for sleep disorders.
In 2016, $3.38 billion was spent by Americans on sedatives, over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids, hypnotics, and herbal remedies. Alarmingly, a rising trend in deaths—10,000 annually—has been attributed to the consumption of hypnotics. The use of opioids in combination with hypnotics has been identified as especially dangerous, particularly when used with alcohol. Many of these substances have been linked to addiction, liver toxicity, and respiratory depression.
Understanding Sleep Disorders and Insomnia
Sleep disorders have been ranked as the most reported medical complaints in the U.S. A healthy adult is recommended to get 8–9 hours of sleep, yet over 60% of Americans suffer from sleep-related conditions such as:
- Insomnia: The inability to fall or stay asleep
- Sleep apnea: Disrupted breathing during sleep
- Parasomnias: Abnormal behaviors such as nightmares or sleepwalking
Consequences of sleep deprivation have been linked to chronic inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, impaired cognition, hallucinations, and depression.
Sleep has been classified as essential for immunity, tissue repair, memory processing, and metabolic regulation. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, toxins that build up in the brain while awake are removed during sleep.
How CBD Affects Sleep and Insomnia
The causes of poor sleep have been identified as:
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD
- Chronic pain or neurological conditions
- Environmental factors such as noise or frequent travel
- Medication side effects
- Overconsumption of caffeine
In a 2019 clinical study, 72 adults were administered 25 mg of CBD per day in capsule form. After a month:
- 66.7% reported improved sleep
- 79.2% noted reduced anxiety
Another study conducted on Parkinson’s patients experiencing REM Behavior Disorder (RBD) demonstrated that nighttime disturbances were reduced and sleep quality was improved with higher doses of CBD.
For individuals with PTSD, a twice-daily dose of 5 mg of smoked cannabis extract led to improved sleep and fewer nightmares. Concerns regarding addiction have been addressed—CBD has been confirmed to be non-psychoactive and non-addictive.
The ECS is believed to assist in forgetting traumatic memories. When this system malfunctions, cannabinoids like CBD have been used to help patients reprocess emotional trauma and regain balance.
Though the mechanism remains unclear, CBD has been reported to improve both sleep quality and alertness, depending on how it is used.
How to Use CBD for Sleep
The “entourage effect”—where multiple cannabis compounds work synergistically—has been observed when broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD extracts are used.
Common administration methods include:
- Vaping (for quick relief)
- Capsules and pills
- Oils and tinctures
- Edibles such as gummies
Clinical trials have used doses ranging from 25 mg to 1500 mg per day. It is advised that a low dose is started and gradually increased to achieve optimal results.
Best CBD Products for Sleep (Passive Voice Form)
The following products have been recommended for their quality and effectiveness:
- Charlotte’s Web – Maximum Strength CBD Oil & Gummies
- Joy Organics – Lavender CBD Bath Bombs
- Calm by Wellness – CBD Sleep Oil Tincture
- Spruce Rest – CBN + CBD Oil
- Fab CBD – Full Spectrum Oil
- CBDistillery – Sleep Tincture & PM Gummies
- Prima – Sleep Tight Softgels
Additional Sleep Support Tips
In addition to CBD use, the following natural methods have been suggested:
- Exercise (preferably two hours before bed)
- Sleep-enhancing herbs: Valerian, Passionflower, Lemon Balm
- Aromatherapy: Lavender oil has been shown to aid certain sleep disorders
- Sleep routine: A consistent bedtime with calming activities (e.g., warm milk, yoga)
- Healthy sleep environment: Reduce light and noise, avoid screens
- Avoid stimulants: Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine
Final Thought
CBD products such as tinctures, bath bombs, oils, and gummies have been used by individuals seeking relief from anxiety, insomnia, and related disorders. Before incorporating CBD into your sleep routine, a healthcare provider should be consulted, particularly if other medications are being taken.
By choosing high-quality, organic, third-party tested products, the full potential of CBD for sleep and insomnia can be safely experienced.
Read More: CBD For Pain Relief: Potential Benefits