Why Sleep Matters
Sleep issues are affecting more people than ever. According to the Sleep/Wake Research Centre at Massey University, around one in three New Zealanders report not getting enough sleep¹. The rise in disrupted sleep, insomnia, and poor sleep quality since the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the problem worse².
Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil may offer a plant-based option to support better rest. At Cannabis Clinic, sleep is one of the top three reasons patients seek support. Our doctors have helped thousands of Kiwis improve their sleep through individualised treatment plans.
Sleep plays a critical role in regulating immune function, cognitive performance, mood, and overall wellbeing. When disrupted, it can affect everything from concentration to chronic health. For those with sleep disorders, cannabis-based treatments may help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and support deeper, more restorative sleep – often without the grogginess caused by some pharmaceutical sleep aids³.
How Cannabis Affects Sleep
Medicinal cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system – a network of receptors that help regulate stress, pain, mood, and sleep cycles⁴. While more research is still needed, early studies and clinical observations suggest that both CBD and THC may contribute to better sleep in different ways.
CBD
- A non-psychoactive cannabinoid (does not produce a “high”)
- May reduce anxiety, stress, and pain that in turn disrupts sleep⁵
- Can support calm without daytime drowsiness
- May reduce REM-related disturbances such as nightmares
- Shown in some studies to improve sleep quality in people with anxiety or chronic conditions⁶
THC
- A psychoactive cannabinoid with directly sedative properties
- May reduce the time it takes to fall asleep
- Associated with deeper slow-wave sleep⁷
- Often reduces REM sleep, which may be helpful for those with PTSD or nightmares
Important: THC can cause impairment. We recommend allowing at least 10 hours before driving or operating machinery after using an oral/ingested form of THC such as a THC oil, or 6 hours after using vaporised THC flower. While unlikely, if you are still feeling impaired then do not drive or operate machinery until safe to do so.
THC vs CBD for Sleep
| Cannabinoid | Benefits | Use Timing |
| CBD | Reduces anxiety, supports calm | Morning and/or evening, or as advised by your doctor |
| THC | Sedative, promotes deeper sleep | 60-90 minutes before bed, or as advised by your doctor |
For many patients, a combination approach works best, starting with CBD oil and adding a small amount of THC before bedtime for extra relaxation and depth of sleep.
Which Product Can Help Me?
There’s no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to sleep support. Your sleep needs and health history are unique. That’s why a consultation with an experienced cannabis doctor is important to determine the best product, dosage, and timing.
Most patients start with:
- CBD oil in the evening to support calm
- THC added at night if further relaxation or sleep support is needed
- Dosing typically starts 60-90 minutes before bedtime
Our team can help you explore these options and adjust over time based on your results.
Book a Sleep Consultation
If you’re struggling with poor sleep, our experienced doctors are here to help. Whether you’re managing stress, chronic insomnia, pain, or anxiety, we can support you with a tailored treatment plan using medicinal cannabis.
Disclaimer
Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in New Zealand. This article is for educational purposes only and does not suggest that cannabis can treat or cure any medical condition. Always consult your doctor before starting or changing any treatment.
References
- Paine, S., et al. (2005). Prevalence and consequences of insomnia in New Zealand: disparities between Maori and non‐Maori. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, 29(1), 22–28.
- Altena, E., et al. (2020). Dealing with sleep problems during home confinement due to the COVID‐19 outbreak: Practical recommendations from a task force of the European CBT‐I Academy. Journal of Sleep Research, 29(4).
- Babson, K.A., et al. (2017). Cannabis, cannabinoids, and sleep: a review of the literature. Current Psychiatry Reports, 19(4), 23.
- Russo, E.B. (2016). Beyond cannabis: plants and the endocannabinoid system. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 37(7), 594–605.
- Shannon, S., et al. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: a large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23.
- Chagas, M. H. N., et al. (2014). Cannabidiol can improve complex sleep-related behaviours associated with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Parkinson’s disease patients: a case series. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(5), 564–566.
- Murillo-Rodriguez, E., et al. (2008). The role of the CB1 receptor in the regulation of sleep. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry, 32(6), 1420–1427.
Disclaimer: Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider.