Cannabis is proving to be the go-to choice for Americans looking to get a good night’s sleep, surpassing traditional options like prescription sleep aids and alcohol. According to a new poll conducted by The Harris Poll for Green Thumb Industries, about 16% of U.S. adults aged 21 and older say they use cannabis as a sleep aid. This preference places cannabis ahead of prescription pills (12%) and alcohol (11%) but still behind over-the-counter sleep aids (19%) and supplements (26%).
Sleep Troubles Are Widespread
Nearly 8 in 10 Americans (79%) report struggling with sleep disturbances. The poll, which surveyed 2,019 adults in June 2024, revealed that 58% of respondents rely on at least one substance to help them sleep. Cannabis emerged as a popular choice, reflecting a broader trend of consumers moving away from pharmaceuticals and alcohol toward plant-based alternatives.
The survey also distinguished between cannabis products and CBD-based options. While 16% of participants said they used cannabis, another 10% reported using CBD products, sometimes combined with melatonin.
Who’s Using Cannabis for Sleep?
The demographics of cannabis users reveal intriguing patterns:
- Gender Differences: Men were slightly more likely than women to use cannabis for sleep (18% vs. 15%). Men aged 35–44 led usage rates, while among women, the highest use was in the 21–34 age group.
- Income Trends: People with household incomes below $50,000 reported the highest cannabis use for sleep (23%), whereas higher-income groups leaned toward supplements and over-the-counter aids.
- Parenting Factor: Parents, especially those with children under 18, were more likely to use cannabis for sleep. Around 20% of parents reported cannabis use, compared to 14% of non-parents.
- Regional Variation: Cannabis as a sleep aid was most popular in the West (20%) and Northeast (19%) and least common in the South (13%) and Midwest (14%).
These findings suggest that cannabis appeals to a wide range of users, with notable differences based on age, income, and location.
Cannabis Edibles Gain Popularity
Edibles are increasingly favoured by consumers seeking relaxation and better sleep. Among respondents who use cannabis-infused edibles, 25% said relaxation was their primary reason, while 21% cited sleep improvement. Other common motivations included managing stress (17%), alleviating pain (15%), and recreational use (11%).
Green Thumb Industries, the company behind the “incredibles” edibles line, highlighted the connection between their products and improved sleep. Ben Kovler, Green Thumb’s founder and CEO, said, “More Americans are choosing cannabis for relaxation, sleep, and overall well-being.”
The company’s Snoozzzeberry line includes gummies and chocolate bars infused with cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG. These products aim to cater to the growing demand for natural sleep aids.
Cannabis and Sleep Research
Cannabis users have long reported better sleep quality, and recent studies back these claims. For instance, older medical marijuana patients and individuals with fibromyalgia have noted significant improvements in sleep patterns. A separate study by AARP revealed that cannabis use among older Americans nearly doubled in the past three years, with sleep improvement frequently cited as a key benefit.
The Green Thumb poll aligns with other research that underscores the appeal of cannabis for relaxation and sleep. For example:
- An industry-backed study last year found oral CBD solutions effectively treated anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality without serious side effects.
- A study published in spring 2023 showed that cannabis use before bed had minimal effects on next-day performance, cognitive function, or mood.
Shift Toward Cannabis Reflects Broader Trends
The poll highlights a shift in attitudes toward cannabis, with more Americans viewing it as a safer and more effective alternative to traditional sleep aids. While prescription pills and alcohol still have their place, the growing popularity of cannabis products signals a broader cultural acceptance of marijuana for wellness purposes.
With a margin of error of ±2.5 percentage points, the poll provides a snapshot of evolving preferences in sleep aids. It also raises questions about the long-term implications of cannabis use on health and society, as the substance becomes more widely accepted and regulated.