Clinical Trial Finds Cannabis Oil Matches Lorazepam for Treating Insomnia, Improves Quality of Life

OG article by Anthony Martinelli

January 21, 2026

A randomized clinical trial in Sleep Medicine: X compared cannabis sativa oil (Deja formula), a traditional Thai herbal remedy (Suk-Sai-Yat), and lorazepam for chronic insomnia in 60 adults aged 40-70 over four weeks. Sleep quality, measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, improved significantly in all groups (from baselines ~12-14 to 5.1-6.6), with no notable differences between treatments, indicating comparable efficacy. Quality of life gains, via EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS, were greater for cannabis oil and herbal groups than lorazepam, suggesting additional benefits. Adverse effects were mild and similar across arms (e.g., palpitations, headache, dizziness), with no serious issues. Researchers concluded cannabis oil is an effective, well-tolerated alternative to benzodiazepines like lorazepam for insomnia, especially for those seeking integrative or natural options. It matches pharmaceutical efficacy while potentially enhancing overall well-being more broadly. This supports cannabis oil as a viable non-benzodiazepine treatment, addressing chronic sleep issues with fewer concerns about dependency or side effects common in traditional sedatives. Further studies could refine dosing and long-term outcomes.