Can You Take CBD and Melatonin Together?

By: Katelyn Manuel

PUBLISHED: November 6, 2024 UPDATED: November 21, 2024

An R&R 1000mg organic full-spectrum tincture placed on a white floor

If you struggle to get a good night's sleep, we understand how miserable it can feel. According to the National Council of Aging, over 33% of Americans do not get the requisite 7-9 hours of sleep in a 24-hour day.

As such, millions of people use sleep aids like melatonin and CBD to help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. But can you take CBD and melatonin together? Is it safe and effective, or are there potential risks and side effects to consider?

This article explores the mechanics of combining CBD and melatonin for sleep. You'll learn what each substance does, how they interact, and what science says about using them in tandem.

Key Takeaways

CBD and melatonin work differently to improve sleep. Melatonin regulates the sleep-wake cycle, while CBD helps reduce anxiety and pain and promotes relaxation.
Taking CBD and melatonin together is generally safe. However, CBD can affect how the body processes some drugs.
Long-term reliance on melatonin can disrupt its natural production, and frequent CBD use can lead to dependence. These supplements are best used as short-term solutions for occasional sleep issues.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally in the pineal gland, a small gland in the center of the brain. It helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, also known as your circadian rhythm.

Melatonin levels rise in the evening as it gets dark, signaling your body that it is time to sleep. When it starts to get lighter in the morning, its levels drop to help you wake up and feel alert.

Role in Circadian Rhythm

The circadian rhythm is the body's internal 24-hour clock that controls when you feel sleepy and awake. It is influenced by external cues like light and darkness, as well as internal factors like your melatonin levels.

When your circadian rhythm is disrupted, such as from jet lag or shift work, it can be hard to fall asleep and wake up at the right times. For most people, supplementing with melatonin helps reset their circadian rhythm and improve sleep quality.

Natural Sources of Melatonin

Although the body naturally produces melatonin, you can also get it from certain foods, like tart cherries and tart cherry juice, Goji berries, eggs, milk, fish, nuts, and seeds.

Eating these foods regularly boosts your natural melatonin production. However, the amount of melatonin in foods is much lower than what you'll find in supplements.

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis. Unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won't get you "high."

CBD interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that helps regulate various functions like sleep, mood, pain, and appetite. When you take CBD, it binds to these receptors and influences their activity, potentially providing a range of therapeutic benefits.

One of CBD's most promising research areas is its potential to improve sleep. Studies suggest that CBD may help reduce anxiety, relieve pain, and promote relaxation—factors that contribute to better sleep.

CBD may also directly impact sleep by interacting with receptors in the brain that govern the sleep-wake cycle. By modulating these receptors, CBD could help regulate sleep patterns and improve the quality and duration of sleep.

Additionally, CBD has been shown to reduce symptoms of REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), a condition characterized by vivid, often frightening dreams and physical movements during sleep. By reducing these symptoms, CBD may help people with RBD get more restful sleep.

While more research is needed to fully understand how CBD affects sleep, many people report positive results from using CBD as a natural sleep aid.

Can You Take CBD and Melatonin Together Safely?

The short answer is yes; you can safely take CBD and melatonin together. These natural sleep aids work in different ways, and there is no known risk of negative interactions if you take them simultaneously.

Interaction Between CBD and Melatonin

CBD and melatonin do not appear to interact directly with each other in the body. Melatonin works by binding to specific receptors in the brain to regulate sleep-wake cycles. CBD, on the other hand, interacts with the ECS to help maintain balance in the body.

Some studies suggest that CBD may increase natural melatonin production by interacting with CB1 receptors in the pineal gland. This means that taking CBD with melatonin may enhance the sleep-promoting effects of both substances.

Additionally, CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety and pain, two common causes of sleep disturbances. By addressing these underlying issues, CBD may make it easier for melatonin to work its magic and help you drift off easily to dreamland.

Possible Side Effects and Precautions

While taking CBD and melatonin together is generally safe, there are a few potential side effects to keep in mind:

Drowsiness: CBD and melatonin can cause drowsiness, so taking them together may increase this effect. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the combination affects you.
Dosage: Start with the lowest effective dose of each substance. Taking too much melatonin can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle, while high doses of CBD may cause side effects like dry mouth or diarrhea.
Drug interactions: CBD may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or antidepressants. If you take any prescription drugs, talk to your doctor before adding CBD to your routine.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Although CBD and melatonin are natural, it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen. This is especially important if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medications that could interact with CBD or melatonin.

Moreover, a doctor can help you determine the appropriate dose and timing for taking CBD and melatonin based on your needs and health history. They can also monitor you for potential side effects or interactions and adjust your treatment plan.

If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any concerns about taking CBD and melatonin together, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can provide personalized guidance to help you get restful sleep.

Benefits of Combining CBD and Melatonin for Sleep

Yellow CBD oil drops into a tincture bottle against a white wall

CBD and melatonin can each improve sleep independently, so combining them may offer even greater benefits. Here's how CBD and melatonin can help you get the restful sleep you need.

Complementary Effects on Sleep Quality

CBD and melatonin work in different but complementary ways to promote better sleep. Taken together, they can tackle sleep issues from multiple angles. Melatonin can help you establish a consistent sleep schedule, while CBD can calm the mind and body, making it easier to drift off and stay asleep through the night.

Addressing Multiple Sleep Issues Simultaneously

Many people struggle with more than one sleep issue at a time. For example, you might have trouble falling asleep due to anxiety or wake up frequently throughout the night because of chronic pain. Taking CBD and melatonin together can address both issues simultaneously.

Fewer Side Effects than Prescription Sleep Aids

Prescription sleep medications like Ambien or Lunesta can be effective, but you also risk side effects like dizziness, headache, and daytime drowsiness. They can also be addictive, making it difficult to stop taking them over time.

In contrast, CBD and melatonin are generally well-tolerated. Melatonin is a natural hormone, so taking it as a supplement is unlikely to cause harm. CBD is also safe, with the most common side effects (e.g., dry mouth or drowsiness) being mild.

Therefore, combining CBD and melatonin is an excellent way to improve sleep without relying on prescription medications. Of course, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medications.

How to Take CBD and Melatonin Together for Optimal Results

When combining CBD and melatonin, it's vital to take the correct dose to maximize their complementary effects. Some experimentation may be necessary to determine what works best for you.

Determining the Right Dosage

Start with the lowest recommended dose of each supplement. For melatonin, this is usually 0.5-5mg taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. With CBD, a good starting point is 10-20mg, but some people may need up to 100-200mg for optimal effects.

We recommend first taking CBD and melatonin separately to gauge your response to each compound. Once you've found your ideal dose of each, you can start taking them together.

Our CBD Sleep Gummies can help you enjoy all the crucial health benefits of consistently getting good sleep, including reduced stress, improved mood, and the ability to think more clearly.∗

Instead of melatonin, we have fortified them with Ashwagandha and L-theanine to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality. Our industry-leading cannabinoid formula featuring full-spectrum CBD and CBN eases pain and stress to promote more restful, restorative sleep.∗

Timing and Frequency of Doses

The time you take your CBD and melatonin doses can significantly impact their effectiveness. Ideally, they should be taken about an hour before bedtime to give them time to kick in.

Consistency is key when using CBD and melatonin. Taking these products each night helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improve overall sleep quality. However, avoid taking melatonin long-term, as this can disrupt its natural production. Use it for a few weeks at a time, then take a break to let your body reset.

Choosing High-Quality CBD and Melatonin Supplements

Choose high-quality CBD and melatonin supplements from reputable brands to ensure safety and effectiveness. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency, with results readily available upon request.

For melatonin, choose supplements that provide doses in the recommended range (0.5-5mg) without unnecessary fillers or additives. With CBD, select products that use organic, sustainably grown hemp and clean extraction methods like CO2 extraction.

Also, note that full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD may offer substantial benefits than isolates due to the entourage effect of multiple cannabinoids working together.

Are There Downsides to Taking CBD with Melatonin?

While taking CBD and melatonin together is generally safe, there are a few potential downsides to consider.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

CBD may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs. It can affect how your body metabolizes these medications, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness.

Melatonin can also interact with some medications, including blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and diabetes drugs. If you take prescription medications, talk to your doctor before adding CBD or melatonin to your routine.

Risk of Dependence or Tolerance Development

While CBD and melatonin are not considered habit-forming like some prescription sleep aids, there is still a risk of developing dependence or tolerance over time. If you take CBD and melatonin every night for long, you may start to rely on them to fall asleep, making it harder to sleep without them.

Additionally, if you take melatonin consistently for more than a few weeks, you may develop tolerance. This means you may need higher doses to achieve the same sleep-promoting benefits, disrupting your natural melatonin production.

What Is the Best Way to Combine CBD and Melatonin for Sleep?

If you are looking for a convenient and effective way to combine CBD and melatonin for sleep, our Multifunctional CBD Softgels may be the perfect solution.

Designed to provide much longer-lasting, time-release effects, these Softgels are ideal for keeping cool, calm, and collected. They are formulated to offer deep, uninterrupted periods of sleep every night.∗

So, if you want to sleep more quickly and stay asleep the whole night or combat pain or stress throughout your day without repeatedly dosing, these are the perfect options.

You can also try our Multifunctional CBD Tinctures for faster results. These Tinctures are available in three potency levels to deliver the desired results. What’s more, they are ideal for people who are taste-sensitive.∗

You can use these products with your melatonin supplement to achieve faster and better results.

Is Taking CBD and Melatonin Together Right for You?

Whether to take CBD and melatonin together for sleep depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider as you evaluate your options:

Assess Your Sleep Issues and Goals

First, consider the specific sleep issues you're dealing with and what you hope to achieve by taking CBD and melatonin.

Are you struggling to fall asleep at night due to racing thoughts or anxiety? Do you wake up frequently throughout the night because of pain or discomfort? Or are you simply looking to establish a consistent sleep schedule and improve the overall quality of your rest?

Identifying your primary sleep concerns can help determine whether CBD and melatonin are a good fit. This combination may be particularly beneficial if you have trouble falling and staying asleep. However, if your sleep issues are mild or intermittent, you may find relief with just one supplement.

Weighing the Potential Benefits and Risks

Next, consider the potential benefits and risks of taking CBD and melatonin together. As discussed earlier, combining these supplements can offer complementary effects on sleep quality, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

However, there are some potential downsides. For example, CBD may interact with certain medications. There is also a risk of developing dependence or tolerance if you take melatonin every night for an extended period.

Resources for Improving Sleep

Combining CBD and melatonin offers a multifaceted approach to sleep improvement, addressing issues like anxiety, pain, and disrupted sleep-wake cycles. Learn how this pairing can help you achieve a restful night's sleep.

Curious about how CBN impacts sleep quality? This guide explores another natural option to enhance your sleep.

Struggling with pain-related sleep disruptions? Read how CBD helps muscle pain to understand its role in reducing discomfort and promoting relaxation.

These resources provide valuable insights to guide your wellness journey. Have questions? Reach out—we’re here to help!

Final Thoughts

Combining CBD and melatonin with lifestyle changes offers a holistic approach to better sleep. However, optimizing your sleep hygiene and addressing underlying issues like stress or pain may even eliminate the need for supplements.

Ultimately, whether to take CBD and melatonin together is a personal choice that should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. By evaluating your needs, weighing the potential benefits and risks, and exploring all options, you can find the sleep solution that works best for you.

At R&R CBD, we offer high-quality CBD products to help you achieve restful sleep and wake up refreshed. Check out our collection of sleep products and make an order today.

Can You Take CBD and Melatonin Together: Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does it Take for CBD and Melatonin to Work?

The time it takes for CBD and melatonin to work varies depending on the individual and the method of consumption. Generally, melatonin can start working within 30 minutes to an hour, while CBD may take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour to take effect.

How Long Do CBD and Melatonin Last?

The effects of CBD and melatonin can last for several hours, typically between 4 to 6 hours. However, this duration can differ based on dosage, individual metabolism, and the type of product used.

How Often Can You Take CBD and Melatonin Together?

You can take CBD and melatonin together once daily, especially if you’re using them as part of a nighttime routine to support sleep.

Is CBD or Melatonin Better for Anxiety?

CBD and melatonin serve different purposes when it comes to anxiety. Melatonin is primarily used for regulating sleep patterns, while CBD is favored for its potential to reduce anxiety symptoms.

Which one is better for anxiety depends on whether the primary issue is related to sleep disruption or anxiety itself. In most cases, combining both provides a balanced solution for managing stress and improving sleep.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take Melatonin with CBD?

The best time to take melatonin with CBD is 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. This allows both supplements to start working as you prepare for sleep, helping you relax and fall asleep more easily.