Should You Take Hemp Oil Before Bed for Better Sleep?

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Sleep Foundation, as many as 70% of Americans report not sleeping the recommended number of hours. In the search for natural remedies, many turn to supplements, but the question remains: should you take hemp oil before bed? This guide breaks down the science behind hemp oil, distinguishing it from CBD oil, and examines its potential role in your nightly routine.

Quick Summary

Hemp oil, derived from hemp seeds, is a nutritional supplement rich in fatty acids but lacks significant CBD content. Its calming effects are indirect, stemming from overall wellness benefits, unlike CBD oil which directly influences the body's endocannabinoid system. Efficacy depends on product type and individual factors.

Key Points

Hemp Seed Oil is Not CBD Oil: Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds and offers nutritional benefits, whereas CBD oil comes from the plant's flowers and stalks and contains therapeutic compounds.
Hemp Oil's Indirect Sleep Support: Pure hemp seed oil does not directly make you tired; instead, its omega fatty acids and vitamins support overall wellness, which can promote a more relaxed state.
CBD Oil is the Potential Sleep Aid: Products containing CBD, derived from hemp, are what may have more direct effects on sleep by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system.
Check Labels Carefully: A product labeled simply as 'hemp oil' might not contain any therapeutic levels of CBD. Look for products specifically labeled 'CBD oil' or 'full-spectrum hemp extract'.
Consult a Professional: Always speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.
Combine with Good Sleep Hygiene: No supplement is a magic bullet. Incorporating hemp oil or CBD oil should be paired with good sleep habits for the best results.

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil: The Critical Distinction

Understanding the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil is the most crucial step in determining if you should take hemp oil before bed. Though both come from the same Cannabis Sativa plant, they are derived from different parts and offer distinct benefits. Hemp seed oil is pressed from the seeds and is known for its nutritional profile, which includes omega fatty acids, while CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, stalks, and flowers and contains cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD). This difference is paramount, as CBD is the compound most directly associated with sedative and anxiety-reducing effects.

The Role of Hemp Seed Oil's Nutrients

Hemp seed oil, without meaningful levels of CBD, does not directly induce sleepiness. Instead, its potential benefits for sleep are indirect and arise from its rich nutritional content. The oil contains an excellent balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which play a role in regulating various bodily functions, including mood and the sleep-wake cycle. A healthy intake of these essential fatty acids can support overall brain health and function, which can, in turn, contribute to a more relaxed state conducive to sleep. Additionally, hemp seeds and their derivatives can contain magnesium, a mineral known for its sleep-supporting properties. A magnesium deficiency is known to interfere with sleep, so incorporating hemp-derived products could help address this.

How CBD Affects Sleep

In contrast, CBD oil is the substance that shows more direct potential as a sleep aid. Research suggests that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate sleep patterns. By influencing the ECS, CBD may help with issues that disrupt sleep, such as anxiety and pain. Studies on CBD for sleep have shown promising results, particularly in participants dealing with anxiety. A 2019 study, for instance, noted improved sleep quality in a significant portion of participants with sleep or anxiety disorders who took CBD. However, the effects can vary, with some individuals experiencing more stimulating effects and others finding it more sedative.

The Importance of a Full-Spectrum Product

Many products labeled as "hemp oil" may actually contain a blend of hemp seed oil and CBD oil, or may be a full-spectrum hemp extract. A full-spectrum product contains not only CBD but also other cannabinoids and terpenes that work together in what is known as the "entourage effect". This synergy can increase the overall therapeutic efficacy and may provide more comprehensive support for relaxation and sleep. When choosing a product, it is vital to check the label and third-party lab reports to confirm the actual cannabinoid content, as some poorly regulated products may not contain what is advertised.

Practical Considerations for Taking Hemp Oil Before Bed

To maximize any potential benefits, timing and consistency are key. For those using a product with a significant CBD content for sleep, taking it approximately 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime is often recommended. Starting with a lower amount and gradually increasing it allows you to gauge how your body responds. Combining hemp oil or CBD oil with a robust sleep hygiene routine, including a cool, dark room and avoiding electronics, will likely amplify any positive effects.

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil for Sleep: A Comparison


Feature	Hemp Seed Oil	CBD Oil (Full-Spectrum)
Source	Seeds of the hemp plant	Leaves, stalks, and flowers of the hemp plant
Cannabinoid Content	Very low to none	Contains significant levels of CBD, and potentially other cannabinoids like THC and CBN
Primary Benefits	Nutritional support (Omega fatty acids, vitamins)	Potential therapeutic benefits for anxiety, pain, and sleep
Mechanism for Sleep	Indirectly, through relaxation from overall wellness improvements	Directly interacts with the endocannabinoid system to regulate sleep
Cost	Generally more affordable	Typically more expensive due to complex extraction
Effect on Sleep	Not a direct sleep aid; supports body function	May promote relaxation and reduce factors that hinder sleep

Conclusion

For those asking "should you take hemp oil before bed?", the answer depends on the specific product. If you're using pure hemp seed oil, the effects will be indirect, offering nutritional support that may contribute to better sleep as part of a healthy lifestyle. If you're seeking a more direct impact on sleep onset and quality, a full-spectrum hemp oil containing CBD is the better option, given its ability to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. In either case, combining supplementation with good sleep hygiene and consulting a doctor, especially if on other medications, is the most responsible approach to improving your rest.

Note: It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, have a liver condition, or are on blood-thinning medication. For more information on CBD's effects, see the Sleep Foundation's resources on CBD and sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hemp oil, or hemp seed oil, is extracted from the seeds and is prized for its nutritional value, including omega fatty acids. CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks and contains cannabinoids like CBD, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system.

No, hemp seed oil itself does not directly induce sleepiness, as it contains only trace amounts of cannabinoids. Its potential benefit for sleep is indirect, resulting from its rich nutritional profile supporting overall wellness and relaxation.

For products containing a meaningful level of CBD, it is generally recommended to take them approximately 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime to allow the effects to begin. Consistent use can also be beneficial.

Hemp oil derived from seeds is generally considered safe. However, for products with CBD, while generally well-tolerated, it is best to consult a healthcare professional, especially for long-term daily use or if you are on other medications.

Yes, especially if the product contains CBD. CBD can interact with certain medications by affecting how the liver processes them. It is critical to speak with your doctor or a pharmacist before combining hemp-derived products with other prescriptions.

For products containing CBD, there is no standardized amount for sleep, and individual needs vary. Experts often recommend starting with a low amount and gradually increasing it to find what works best for your body.

Look for products that are organic, cold-pressed, and come with third-party lab reports confirming their cannabinoid content and purity. Reputable brands will be transparent about their sourcing and testing.