CBD hemp products for sleep

Best CBD Products for Sleep

These CBD oils, vapes, gummies, and capsules will help you fall into a deep sleep at night.

ProductCBDPrice
Papa & Barkley Oil900mg$59
NuLeaf Naturals Oil225mg$27
Medterra Oil2000mg$99
Mineral Oil1500mg$160
Prismatic Plant Oil300mg$70
Bloom Farms Vape250mg$45
Wildflower Vape150mg$29
Green Roads Gummies750mg$49
Five CBD Gummies750mg$39
Papa & Barkley Capsules900mg$59
cbdMD Capsules1000mg$75

Not all CBD products are perfect for sleep. Some are more effective than others. You need to find the right delivery method, as well as strength and potency, for the desired results. No use purchasing weak CBD products and not benefiting from them. 

  • We specifically recommend hemp-derived CBD vape pens, CBD gummies, and CBD oil products for sleep, ideally with melatonin infusion.
  • The correct cannabinoid and terpene profile is also key. Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabinol (CBN), and Cannabigerol (CBG) + linalool, myrcene, and caryophyllene is the ultimate combo.
  • Make sure the product carries a full-spectrum or broad-spectrum extract as well. Isolates aren’t very useful for sleep.
  • High THC content also helps. Marijuana-derived CBD products with 8-12% THC are clear winners if you can get your hands on them at a local dispensary. 

Of the hemp-derived CBD products available online, we’ve tested dozens of options and recommend the best ones below. Read our selection criteria below for more info and guidance.

Best CBD Oils for Sleep

CBD oils are fantastic for sleep. They are absorbed into the body via oral or sublingual administration. Melatonin infused CBD oils are ideal but not a strict requirement for sleep. We recommend full-spectrum oils with CBD, CBN, and CBG alongside sedative terpenes. A 500-1000mg tincture is great for beginners and 1500-2000mg potency for experienced users.

Onset: 20-45 minutes; Duration: 4-6 hours


Papa Barkley CBD oil for sleep

Papa & Barkley

RELEAF DROPS

Full Spectrum: CBD, THC (<0.3%)

$59.99 (900mg CBD)

Visit Papa & Barkley

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • CBD: 900mg (30mg/serving)
  • THC: <0.3%
  • Whole Plant extraction
  • Lab report

NuLeaf Naturals

DELTA 8 THC OIL

Full Spectrum Delta-8 THC

$26.99 (225mg Delta 8)

Visit NuLeaf Naturals

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • Delta-8: 225mg (15mg/serving)
  • THC: <0.3%
  • Whole Plant extraction
  • Lab report

Medterra CBD tincture with CBN

Medterra

CANNABINOID TINCTURE

Broad Spectrum: CBD + CBG, CBN, CBC, CBDV

$99 (2000mg CBD)

Visit Medterra

Details
  • Broad Spectrum
  • CBD: 2000mg (66mg/serving)
  • Contains: CBG, CBN, CBC, CBDV
  • THC-free
  • Natural terpenes
  • CO2 extraction
  • Lab report

Mineral full-spectrum CBD CBN oil

Mineral

SLEEP

Full Spectrum: CBD, THC (<0.3%) + CBN

$160 (1500mg CBD)

Visit Mineral Health

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • CBD: 1500mg (50mg/serving)
  • Contains: CBN
  • THC: <0.3%
  • Terpenes: Myrcene, Terpinolene, Linalool
  • Whole Plant extraction
  • Lab report

Prismatic Plants sleep CBD oil

Prismatic Plants

GOOD NIGHT

Full Spectrum: CBD, THC (<0.3%) + CBN

$70 (300mg CBD)

Visit Prismatic Plants

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • CBD: 300mg (10mg/serving)
  • CBN: 10mg (0.3mg/serving)
  • THC: <0.3%
  • Terpenes: Linalool, Myrcene, Caryophyllene
  • CO2 extraction

Best CBD Vapes for Sleep

Vaping CBD provides immediate sleep-inducing effects. You’ll notice the soothing qualities of CBD (alongside other cannabinoids and terpenes) as soon as you inhale. CBD pens, like the ones listed below, are suitable for every CBD user, especially if you’re a beginner. Each one comes pre-packaged and ready to use. All options carry roughly 300 puffs worth of CBD vape oil to help you get a better night’s sleep.

Onset: 10 minutes; Duration: 3-6 hours


Bloom Farms CBN vape pen for sleep

Bloom Farms

DREAM CBN VAPOR PEN

Broad Spectrum: CBD + CBN

$45 (250mg CBD)

Visit Bloom Farms

Details
  • Broad Spectrum
  • CBD: 250mg (300 puffs)
  • CBN: 50mg
  • THC-free
  • Whole Plant extraction
  • Lab report

Wildflower Dream CBD vaporizer for sleep

Wildflower

DREAM CBD VAPORIZER

Broad Spectrum: CBD, THC-free

$29.99 (150mg CBD)

Visit Wildflower

Details
  • Broad Spectrum
  • CBD: 150mg
  • THC-free
  • CO2 extraction

Best CBD Gummies for Sleep

CBD gummies are a fun, fruity, and delicious way of consuming CBD for sleep and sleep-related issues. Not the most effective method for immediate sleep relief but if you’re after a small, gradual CBD dose right before bed, CBD gummies are a sure-fire winner. Dose wisely — 2-3 gummies are sufficient for rest, relaxation, and sleep.

Onset: 1-2 hours; Duration: 4-8 hours


Green Roads Sleepy CBD gummies

Green Roads

SLEEPY ZS CBD GUMMIES

Broad Spectrum: CBD

$49.99 (750mg CBD)

Visit Green Roads

Details
  • Broad Spectrum
  • CBD: 750mg (25mg/serving)
  • THC-free
  • CO2 extraction
  • Lab report

Five CBD gummies with melatonin

Five CBD

SLEEP GUMMIES

Full Spectrum: CBD, THC (<0.3%) + CBN, CBC

$39.99 (750mg CBD)

Visit Five CBD

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • CBD: 750mg (25mg/serving)
  • Contains: CBN, CBC
  • THC: <0.3%
  • CO2 extraction
  • Lab report

Best CBD Capsules for Sleep

CBD pills and capsules are a decent remedy for sleep and sleep-related issues. Slow-absorbing and long-lasting. You’ll feel the effects for hours. Perfect before and during sleep. Not the go-to choice if you want immediate results but effective over a longer period of time. High-strength CBD capsules are the best option for sleep issues. Dose wisely — 1-2 capsules are sufficient an hour or two before bed.

Onset: 1-2 hours; Duration: 4-8 hours


Papa Barkley CBD capsules for sleep

Papa & Barkley

Releaf Capsules

Full Spectrum: CBD, THC (<0.3%)

Best if you want potency and quality. Most authentic cannabis taste.

$59.99 (900mg CBD)

Visit Papa & Barkley

Details
  • Full Spectrum
  • CBD: 900mg (30mg/serving)
  • THC: <0.3%
  • Whole Plant extraction
  • Lab report

cbdMD CBD PM sleep capsules

cbdMD

CBD PM SOFTGEL CAPSULES

Broad Spectrum: CBD + CBN, CBG

Best if you want potency and quality. Most authentic cannabis taste.

$75.99 (1000mg CBD)

Visit cbdMD

Details
  • Broad Spectrum
  • CBD: 1000mg (16.7mg/capsule)
  • Contains: CBN, CBG
  • THC-free
  • CO2 extraction
  • Lab report

The science of CBD and sleep

CBD sleep edible gummies

According to the CDC, about 70 Million Americans (more than the population of the UK) suffer from chronic sleep problems. The causes can range from anxiety and insomnia to physical discomfort and neurological symptoms. 

Sleep can be helpful or harmful to your health, depending on whether you’re getting enough or not. 

Insomniacs, for example, tend to have difficulty falling asleep and generally suffer from disturbed sleep, causing cognitive impairment and decreased motor functions during the day. 

Sufferers of chronic depression, on the other hand, are more likely to sleep for extended periods in the morning and not enough at night, resulting in an inconsistent sleep cycle. 

Thankfully, CBD may help counteract the signs and symptoms of sleep-related issues and insomnia.  

Cannabinoids and sleep

Cannabidiol (CBD) alongside other cannabinoids such as cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol CBG (with terpenes) have shown a wealth of evidence to support sleep and potentially counteract sleep-related symptoms including:


How we choose the best CBD for sleep

When we purchase CBD products for sleep, we don’t just buy them blindly. We have a reasonably strict set of rules and product testing methods we look for before recommending a product, which includes:

  • USA Grown Hemp
  • Lab-Tested (COA)
  • Full-Spectrum CBD Oil (Not Hemp)
  • Terpenes
  • Cannabinoids (CBN, CBG)
  • Extraction Method (CO2, Ethanol)
  • Melatonin (Helpful)

1. Is the product full-spectrum?

For those out of the CBD terminology loop, a full-spectrum product refers to the hemp extract used in it. 

All full-spectrum products have a full range of plant cannabinoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is included in this but only in trace amounts (<0.3%) — not enough to cause a high or “stoned feeling”. 

The reason we prefer full-spectrum hemp extracts is they’re arguably superior to other extract types.

2. Does the CBD product contain other ingredients for sleep?

The second thing we look for is whether or not the CBD product contains any other sleep-inducing ingredients. 

Melatonin, for example, is the perfect additional ingredient in CBD products to help you sleep. You commonly find melatonin infused in CBD oils, capsules, and gummies. You generally won’t find it in topical products, unless it’s a transdermal patch. 

3. Does the CBD product contain higher percentages of other cannabinoids for sleep?

One of the biggest trends right now in the CBD industry is cannabinoid blends, often as a 1:1 ratio. For instance, 1:1 CBD + CBG products with an equal percentage of both cannabinoids have become more popular. 

We really like these types of products, simply because they’re unique with equally unique benefits. 

4. Does the product contain sleep-promoting terpenes?

Terpenes are product enhancers. They not only give your product excellent aromatic qualities but they also provide your body with an extra holistic boost alongside cannabinoids and other plant compounds.

The sedative terpenes we look for include:

  • Caryophyllene – known for anti-anxiety, anti-stress, and anti-insomnia qualities
  • Myrcene – known as a stress-reliever and sedative
  • Linalool – known for stress and anxiety reduction

How to choose an effective delivery method for sleep

CBD oil, vape pen, softgel capsules, and gummies

Below is a list of effective CBD delivery methods for helping you fall asleep. CBD tinctures and vapes are the two most effective delivery methods for sleep but there are other options to consider as well.

A. CBD Oils

CBD oils are the most common way of delivering CBD into your body besides CBD capsules and gummies. 

CBD oils are great for convenience and for sleep, especially if you purchase one with melatonin infused into it. If you don’t choose a melatonin-infused CBD oil, we recommend going for something stronger than 250-500mg – perhaps a 1000-1500mg option. 

Regardless, we still believe the best CBD oils for sleep are ones with melatonin.  

Time it takes to work: Sublingually (under your tongue) can work within 20-45 minutes. If taken orally without sublingual application, effects may start to work anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes depending on how well your body metabolizes the oil. 

How long effects last: Effects of CBD oil can last between 4-6 hours depending on dose and strength. 

How to use CBD oils: There are two primary ways to consume CBD oils. The first and most common is sublingually. You hold it under your tongue for 10-20 seconds and then swallow. The theory is the oil (and CBD) penetrates below into the bloodstream via the tongue’s soft tissue, resulting in quicker results. You can also swallow it without sublingual application. This isn’t advised if you want quicker results. 

Pros:

  • Easy to consume
  • Thousands of product options to choose from
  • Sublingual application quick and effective for sleep — increased absorption and bioavailability

Cons:

  • Naturally-flavored CBD oil can be strong and pungent tasting

B. CBD Vapes

Arguably the best CBD delivery system if you want immediate results. Vaping CBD is known to work within 10 minutes. This is a perfect choice right before bed. 

The downside is everyone enjoys inhaling a substance (CBD vape juice or otherwise). Many prefer swallowing CBD capsules or chewing on CBD gummies over vaping a sometimes harsh liquid form of CBD. 

Either way, the best CBD vape products for sleep and sleep-related issues may produce some impressive results. 

Time it takes to work: Vaping CBD works almost immediately (approximately 10-15 minutes maximum). 

How long effects last: Effects of vaping CBD oil last between 3-6 hours depending on dose and strength. 

How to use CBD vape products (CBD vape juice, etc): You cannot consume vape juice or vape oil orally without a vape pen or vape rig. You’ll need to purchase this separately, which can add to the cost (only short-term). Once you have your vape pen or vape rig, you simply put the CBD vape juice or oil into the tank and inhale.

Pros:

  • Immediate results — takes around 10 minutes to kick in
  • Amazing for sleep-related issues — it provides immediate relief (in higher doses). 

Cons:

  • You need additional equipment to use CBD vape juice e.g. vape pens, vape rig, etc
  • Not everyone enjoys the inhalation method — can be off-putting
  • Vaping CBD doesn’t produce the same last results as, say, CBD capsules 

C. CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are a fantastic choice if you want a slow-releasing dose of CBD before you sleep. We recommend consuming 1-2 capsules two hours before bed to allow the CBD to properly metabolize in your system. This will give your body enough time to get the sleep-inducing qualities of CBD floating around your body.

We also recommend finding a CBD capsule product with a full-spectrum extract. The trace THC will work well in conjunction with CBD and the other cannabinoids and terpenoids. 

The best CBD capsules for sleep typically have melatonin infused in them. This will really kickstart your sleep. 

Time it takes to work: CBD capsules don’t work immediately. They have to pass through your digestive system before entering your bloodstream. Allow 1-2 hours for the CBD to kick in. 

How long effects last: Effects can last anywhere between 4-8 hours depending on dose and strength.

How to use CBD capsules: Just pop one or two in your mouth and chase it down with water.

Pros:

  • Slow acting — ideal for a gradual dose of CBD overnight and into the morning
  • Easy to use, easy to consume
  • Flavorless and odorless

Cons:

  • Slow-acting — not ideal if you want immediate results
  • Some capsules/softgels use animal ingredients — not suitable for vegans

D. CBD Topicals & Patches

CBD topicals aren’t an optimal choice for sleep. They’re better for surface layer skin complaints, as well as joint and muscle tightness and inflammation. 

If you don’t like the idea of consuming a CBD product orally, sublingually, or via inhalation for sleep, you’re not out of luck. 

You can purchase CBD transdermal patches designed to penetrate the skin’s layers and enter into the bloodstream. Some even have melatonin infused in them. See our recommendations for the best CBD patches to help you pick the right product.

Time it takes to work: Almost immediately for skincare (within 15 minutes) but longer for muscles and joints (20-40 minutes). Transdermal patches may take 30 minutes to work. 

How long effects last: 2-5 hours (depending on the strength).

How to use CBD topicals and patches: Apply topicals and transdermal patches to dry, clean skin. Apply topicals liberally to the affected area. Apply transdermal patches to the affected area and wait for the CBD to kick in.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • If your sleep problems are caused by skin complaints, a CBD-infused topical may soothe the skin enough for you to fall asleep.
  • Although CBD topicals aren’t designed to penetrate into the bloodstream, they’re useful against tired, aching joints and muscles.

Cons:

  • Can be pricier than regular oils, especially if they’re designed for skincare
  • CBD transdermal patches are quite effective for sleep-related problems. Designed to penetrate your skin’s layers and enter into the bloodstream.
  • CBD topicals won’t penetrate the bloodstream. Not hugely effective if the cause of your insomnia is caused by neurological pain, for example. 

E. CBD Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are relatively useless for insomnia in terms of delivering CBD into your body. However, they’re not completely useless overall. 

Bathtime is meant for relaxation, something insomniacs and people with sleep issues tend to have trouble with. A CBD bath bomb in a warm bath right before bed might just be the thing you need, even if the relief is temporary. A relaxed body is often a relaxed mind. 

For the best CBD bath bomb, we recommend one with lavender infused in it.

Time it takes to work: Almost immediately for skin (within 15 minutes) but longer for muscles and joints (20-40 minutes).

How long effects last: 2-5 hours (depending on the strength).

How to use CBD bath bombs: Put them in the bath, wait five minutes, and soak yourself in its CBD glory.

Pros:

  • Useful for surface layer complaints — skincare especially
  • Great for bathtime relaxation. The soothing CBD on your skin alongside the powerful aromas are useful 
  • Might be useful for tired, aching joints and muscles (similar to regular CBD topicals)

Cons:

  • Won’t penetrate past the skin’s surface — doesn’t penetrate down to the bloodstream
  • Can be quite expensive — generally more expensive than regular CBD topicals

How much CBD should you take for sleep?

If you’re a beginner, we suggest consuming 2-3 drops of 250-500mg full-spectrum CBD oil or 1-2 15mg full-spectrum CBD capsules an hour or two before bed. 

If you’re someone with a little more to love on them (weight wise), we recommend a slightly higher dose or strength. Instead of starting with a 250mg, maybe go for a 500mg. Take 2-3 drops and see how you get on.

If you struggle with chronic sleep issues, 750-1000mg at a 1ml dropper dose (of 30ml bottle) would probably be needed. Experienced CBD users (especially with insomnia) go for a 1000mg. Always work up to the larger dose.  

When should you take CBD for sleep?

We recommend taking CBD an hour or two before you normally go to bed. This gives you some time for the CBD to start working efficiently in your body. If you’re taking CBD with melatonin, we still recommend taking it an hour or two before bed.

Don’t take melatonin products if you have to drive or operate heavy machinery. It’s a natural sleep hormone and will make you extremely drowsy. 

What if you don’t feel the sleepy effects?

Give it time to kick in and enter your bloodstream. It can take 20 mins to 90 mins.

You also have the choice to go up a strength or two. A 250mg CBD oil, for instance, might not be enough. Therefore, we suggest a 500–750mg CBD oil instead. 

Be sure to keep the oil in your mouth (under your tongue) for at least 90 seconds too. You need it to enter your bloodstream – and not be totally destroyed by the hydrochloric acid in your stomach.

If for whatever reason you still can’t sleep, vaping CBD or dabbing high-CBD concentrates is very effective. Both delivery methods hit your bloodstream quickly. 

In fact, CBD concentrates typically have 90%+ CBD in them. They’re very powerful. One hit and you’ll be relaxed and asleep in no time (we hope!).


How much do good quality CBD products cost on average? 

The cost of good quality CBD products depends on a number of factors:

  • Strength/potency 
  • Extract type
  • Bottle/container size
  • Ingredients used
  • Where the hemp is sourced

Most premium CBD companies will price their CBD products slightly higher (but not always). Some premium CBD companies will price lower. It all depends on the company. 

The prices of CBD oils can vary. Cheap CBD oils can cost anywhere between $0.05–$0.07 per mg of CBD. These oils are typically poor quality. For CBD oils that are well-crafted, third-party tested, and full of beneficial ingredients, you’ll be spending anywhere between $0.17–$0.22 per mg of CBD.

CBD Tinctures

CheapPer mg of CBD: $0.05 – $0.09 
AveragePer mg of CBD: $0.10 – $0.17
ExpensivePer mg of CBD: $0.17 – $0.22 or above

CBD Gummies/Edibles

CheapPer mg of CBD: $0.09– $0.12
AveragePer mg of CBD: $0.13 – $0.20
ExpensivePer mg of CBD: $0.21 or above

CBD Capsules

CheapPer mg of CBD: $0.07 – $0.10
AveragePer mg of CBD: $0.12 – $0.20
ExpensivePer mg of CBD: $0.21 or above

CBD Vape Oils

CheapPer mg of CBD: $0.05 – $0.12
AveragePer mg of CBD: $0.13 – $0.20
ExpensivePer mg of CBD: $0.21 or above

CBD Topicals

CheapPer mg of CBD: $0.09 – $0.20
AveragePer mg of CBD: $0.21 – £0.25
ExpensivePer mg of CBD: $0.30 or above

Why choose a higher quality CBD product? 

Purity is the most obvious answer. The best CBD products include organic, non-GMO hemp. Negligible amounts of contaminants (pesticides, herbicides, etc) should be in or on the hemp during or after harvest. If there are contaminants at high levels, they can cause sickness and ill-health. Not conducive to sleep.  

High-quality products should be extracted using an advanced CO2 extraction or whole-plant extraction method. Ethanol is also a good alternative. Both extraction methods ensure clean and safe hemp extracts. Extra purification may be required for both after extraction to get rid of excess impurities. Again, this ensures a clean extract for your product. 

Higher-quality CBD products are always third-party tested by accredited, independent laboratories specializing in cannabis testing. These laboratories will check the number and percentage of cannabinoids and terpenes in the extract, as well as any residual solvents, heavy metals, and mycotoxins. 


Extract types: why they matter for sleep

Marijuana plant

Full-spectrum vs. broad-spectrum vs. isolate

Choosing the best CBD hemp extract type for sleep is vital. You don’t want to buy an isolate for enhanced sleep when you can purchase a superior broad or full-spectrum extract. Let’s look at what each is and what they’re good for. 

IsolateBroad-SpectrumFull-Spectrum
Contains only CBD, no other cannabinoidsContains a “broad” range of cannabinoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds (minus THC)Contains a “full” range of cannabinoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds (including THC)
No entourage effectProduces entourage effect (without THC)Produces entourage effect (with THC)
Not recommended for sleepRecommended for sleepRecommended for sleep and insomnia issues
Flavorless and odorlessPure broad-spectrum extract is slightly earthy and bitterPure full-spectrum hemp extract is bitter, earthy, and pungent

Hemp oil vs. CBD oil

There are many differences between hemp oil and CBD oil. The former is often referred to as “hemp seed oil” while the latter is often referred to as “hemp CBD oil” or “hemp-derived CBD oil”.

Let’s take a look at the differences between the two and what they mean for your sleep. 

Hemp OilCBD Oil
Made from the seeds of hempMade from the stalk, leaves, and flower of the hemp plant 
Contains little to no Cannabidiol (CBD)The amount of Cannabidiol in your CBD oil product depends mostly on the strength. Some products contain 250mg of CBD, while others carry 2500mg. 
Contains no THCContains legal limit of THC (<0.3% federally or <0.5% in some states)
Mostly used for skincare and beauty products due to the high level of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, as well as beneficial antioxidants. Has many uses and many potential health benefits (anxiety, PTSD, pain, inflammation, etc)
Less expensive than CBD oilMore expensive than hemp oil

If the label says “hemp oil” without specifying any extract used, there’s a good chance its hemp oil. CBD oil, on the other hand, will more often than not state the extract used. For example, a full-spectrum CBD oil will have the “full-spectrum” part stamped on the label.

Be sure to buy CBD oil (and avoid “hempseed oil” completely).

Which is better for sleep: CBD oil or hemp oil?

CBD oil for sleep and insomnia is the superior choice. Hands down. The best quality CBD oil contains valuable sleep-inducing cannabinoids and terpenoids. Many CBD products also include melatonin as an additional ingredient alongside CBD (and other cannabinoids) for sleep.  

Hemp oil, on the other hand, contains very little cannabinoid content. You won’t find any additional sleep-inducing ingredients either. Most hemp oil is used in skincare and beauty, not for sleep or insomnia-related symptoms.


Cannabinoids: which ones are effective for sleep?

Generally, a full-spectrum of cannabinoids is most effective for sleep. This is because there are synergistic effects that can enhance their impact when combined.

CBD + CBN + CBG + nerolidol & linalool (terpenes) are seen by some research to be the winning combo.

Individually, they differ as follows:

Cannabidiol (CBD)

CBD can help with sleep issues. One study showed a 160mg dose of pure CBD helped participants fall asleep with relative ease. However, another study showed that between the range of 25–175mg of pure CBD, 25mg was the most effective. 

Either way, CBD is proven to help with sleep and sleep-related problems quite significantly. 

Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is often marketed as a fantastic cannabinoid for sleep. Many companies boast about its sedative qualities. However, there’s not really much evidence to support this aside from an unsubstantial study dating back to the 1970s. 

Combined with THC, it may help but I wouldn’t get your hopes up on it being effective on its own.

Cannibigerol (CBG)

Similar to CBN, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support CBG’s use as a sleep-aid, especially not on its own. In conjunction with other cannabinoids, it might be worthwhile. A 1:1 CBD + CBG is probably your safest bet. 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

THC is effective for sleep. It’s a very powerful sedative in a 15mg+ dosage. It interacts with special receptors in your brain and central nervous system (CNS) to produce this sedative effect. 

Be careful with THC, however. It’s known to produce anxiety and nervousness at higher doses. Stick to smaller doses if you’re a beginner.


Terpenes: which ones help you sleep?

There are three primary terpenes that could help with sleep, especially if they’re in a full-spectrum CBD product. Terpenes especially work as sedatives combined with cannabinoids such as CBN, CBG and THC*. 

1. Caryophyllene 

Caryophyllene is responsible for the spicy, peppery aroma found radiating off varieties of cannabis. Often found in relatively high amounts, this terpene is known to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, both beneficial for a restful night’s sleep. 

It isn’t, however, known as a direct sedative. In fact, there’s scope to suggest caryophyllene lessens the sedative effects of alcohol in mice

Works with CBD, CBG and THC.

2. Myrcene 

Myrcene is commonly found varieties of cannabis and has a distinctly earthy, musky aroma similar to cloves. Research shows that myrcene has quite substantial sedative effects when consumed. 

Works with CBD, CBG and THC.

3. Linalool 

Linalool is also commonly found in varieties of cannabis and has a very distinct lavender smell. Very floral and slamming. Often used as in aromatherapy for calming and soothing effects on the mind and body. Studies on linalool for adults with dementia are promising. It acts as a convincing sleep-aid. It also helps lower anxiety and reduces depression symptoms.

Works as a sedative with CBN.


Can CBD help with insomnia?

In many cases, insomnia is caused by other conditions. Anxiety, anxiety-related disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression often result in sleep disturbances and insomnia. CBD is said to help here. Quite substantially. 

In a 2015 review named CBD as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders, the author is optimistic about CBD’s potential anti-anxiety qualities. He notes, 

“Overall, current evidence indicates CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders, with the need for further study of chronic and therapeutic effects in relevant clinical populations”.

With this in mind, there’s scope to suggest that CBD’s potential anti-anxiety and, perhaps, anti-depressant qualities may indirectly help with insomnia symptoms, helping users sleep better without the racing thoughts and excessive worry commonly associated with anxiety disorders. 

Are there any side-effects of using CBD for sleep?

To the best of our knowledge, there are no side-effects of using CBD for sleep.


Where to buy quality CBD: online vs. dispensaries

You can buy CBD products online and at dispensaries. Some of the best CBD oils, CBD capsules, CBD vape liquid, etc, can be found online. 

Online stores typically carry hemp-derived CBD products, while dispensaries stock marijuana-derived medical cannabis/CBD products with higher percentages of THC. You rarely find a medical marijuana dispensary that stocks hemp-derived products.

Not all states have medical marijuana dispensaries for legal reasons. Online stores, on the other hand, deliver to most, if not all states (unless the state in question prohibits CBD possession, etc).

Purchasing cannabis products from dispensaries is nicer if you’re looking for medical or recreational marijuana with high-THC content. You can speak to a budtender and get specific product recommendations for helping you sleep or relieve pain. This makes the purchasing experience much easier, particularly if you’re a beginner. 

If THC is legal in your state* and/or you’re prescribed by a doctor for use, CBN + THC is the most powerful combination for sleep.

We recommend the following high-CBN + high-THC cannabis strains for sleep:

*THC is not recommended unless prescribed by your physician and legally acquired for use.

Where is CBD legal in the U.S.?

CBD is federally legal all across the US; however, CBD’s legal status across individual states vary. 47 states allow some form of CBD (recreational, medicinal, hemp-derived, marijuana-derived, for research, etc). 

Out of these 47 states, marijuana and marijuana-derived CBD for medicinal purposes and 11 states (including Washington D.C.) allow recreational and medicinal marijuana and marijuana-derived CBD.

If you're looking for the best CBD for sleep, and you have access to a cannabis dispensary, we recommend buying CBD products with higher THC content than the ones we've listed in our top ten picks above. If you're not comfortable with consuming too much THC, then go for one of the most potent options from our list – closer to 2000mg of CBD would be recommended, especially if you consistently have trouble falling asleep.