What is the best CBD (cannabidiol) regimen for improving sleep quality?

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Last updated: June 4, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

The best CBD regimen for improving sleep quality is not clearly established due to limited direct evidence, but a reasonable approach based on available data is to start with a low dose of 10-15mg of CBD oil orally 30-60 minutes before bedtime and adjust as needed. When considering the use of CBD for sleep, it's essential to understand the mechanisms by which CBD may influence sleep quality, such as reducing anxiety and pain, and interacting with receptors involved in sleep-wake cycles 1. The precise mechanism of CBD's action, including its potential to increase endocannabinoid signaling and enhance adenosine signaling, suggests it could have a beneficial effect on sleep 1. However, the clinical effects of cannabis and CBD can vary greatly depending on the quantity consumed, chronicity of use, and individual response 1.

Key Considerations for CBD Use in Sleep Improvement

  • Start with a low dose (around 10-15mg) and gradually increase as needed and under medical supervision.
  • Consider full-spectrum CBD products, which may be more effective due to the entourage effect, where multiple cannabinoids work together.
  • Consistency is crucial; use CBD daily for at least two weeks to evaluate its effectiveness.
  • Combine CBD with good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
  • Be aware of potential interactions with other medications, especially those metabolized by the liver, and consult with a healthcare provider before starting CBD.

Potential Enhancers of CBD's Sleep Benefits

  • Small amounts of CBN (another cannabinoid) in CBD products may enhance sleep benefits.
  • Terpenes like myrcene and linalool found in some CBD products could also contribute to improved sleep quality.

Given the current state of evidence, a cautious and individualized approach to using CBD for sleep improvement is recommended, prioritizing low doses and careful monitoring of effects. As research into CBD and sleep continues, more specific guidelines may emerge, but for now, consultation with a healthcare provider is advised to navigate the potential benefits and risks of CBD use for sleep 1.

From the Research

Best CBD Regimen for Improving Sleep Quality

The ideal CBD regimen for improving sleep quality is still being researched, but some studies provide insight into the potential benefits of CBD for sleep.

  • A study published in 2024 2 found that chronic use of a low dose of CBD (15mg) is safe and could improve sleep quality, although the effects do not exceed that of 5mg melatonin.
  • Another study from 2023 3 discovered that eight weeks of daily 50mg CBD supplementation improves sleep quality and immune cell cytotoxicity in healthy, younger adults.
  • A 2023 study 4 also found that medicinal cannabis oil containing 10mg/ml THC and 15mg/ml CBD improves sleep in adults with insomnia, with 60% of participants no longer classified as clinical insomniacs after the 2-week intervention period.

CBD Formulations and Sleep

Research on CBD formulations and their effects on sleep is ongoing.

  • The 2024 study 2 found no significant differences in effect between 15mg CBD isolate and formulations containing 15mg CBD and 15mg cannabinol (CBN), alone or in combination with 5mg cannabichromene (CBC).
  • A 2025 study 5 warned of a potential drug-drug interaction between CBN and melatonin, which could increase the apparent oral bioavailability of melatonin.
  • A 2017 review 6 suggested that CBD may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of insomnia, while delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may decrease sleep latency but could impair sleep quality long-term.

Dosage and Duration

The optimal dosage and duration of CBD treatment for sleep improvement are not yet established.

  • The 2023 study 3 used a daily dose of 50mg CBD for eight weeks, while the 2024 study 2 used a daily dose of 15mg CBD for four weeks.
  • The 2023 study 4 used a medicinal cannabis oil containing 10mg/ml THC and 15mg/ml CBD, titrated 0.2-1.5ml/day for two weeks.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.