New Research Suggests CBD and CBN May Support Sleep Better Than THC

Adrea Efre at the University of South Florida College of Nursing led a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing research on cannabinoids for sleep issues. The results were published in the Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and suggest that CBD and CBN may be more effective than THC for improving sleep quality.

The study involved reviewing 4,600 studies and narrowing the selection to 18 that met strict scientific criteria. Seven of the 18 studies were then subjected to a detailed statistical analysis. THC, CBD, CBN, and their combinations in products such as capsules, tinctures, and oils were evaluated.

The studies found that CBD and CBN consistently delivered the strongest sleep-related benefits compared to formulations containing THC, which delivered mixed results. The CBD and CBN doses were linked to the most reliable improvements in sleep quality and duration.

According to Efre,

“CBD and CBN consistently demonstrated the most promising results. CBD doses ranging from 50 to 300 milligrams and CBN doses ranging from 20 to 100 milligrams were associated with the most consistent improvements in sleep quality and duration. Lower-dose CBD products, particularly those containing less than 50 milligrams, generally showed little benefit unless combined with CBN.”

Many CBD products for sleep are currently sold at much lower CBD doses than 50 milligrams. The research results challenge the generally held belief that lower CBD amounts are effective and that THC is the best cannabinoid for improving sleep. Consumers assume product claims are based on scientific evidence when, in reality, they do not contain sufficient amounts of effective cannabinoids, let alone the most effective ones for sleep. Consumers rely on marketing claims, anecdotal evidence, and social media discussions to form opinions.

THC is sedating, so it has been the cannabinoid dominating cannabis sleep products. The study authors say that THC may have a role in sleep management, but the evidence does not support its status as the primary sleep-promoting cannabinoid. Almost one-quarter of Americans are now taking cannabis to promote sleep. The reasons vary. They may want to avoid prescription sleep medications, or behavioral sleep therapies may be inaccessible to them.

The authors called for longer-term and larger clinical trials. However, they believe the current evidence is strong enough to challenge the conventional belief that THC must be in the most effective sleep product. They want future discussions about sleep and cannabis to be evidence-based. The researchers also remind consumers to consult their physician before taking a cannabinoid product. Though cannabinoids are well-tolerated when properly dosed and monitored, they can interact with some medications.

The conclusion is that future sleep therapies incorporating cannabis may focus less on whether cannabis works and more on determining which cannabinoids and cannabinoid combinations work best. The evidence reported indicates that much remains to be learned about cannabinoids and their effects.