Key Takeaways:
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CBD is used by many people as it may help to calm the mind, reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.
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CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and with 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, both involved in regulating mood and sleep.
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The Food Standards Agency classifies CBD as a novel food and advises healthy adults to take no more than 10mg a day.
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Some find that it settles the mental noise enough to concentrate, which may be useful during intensive study periods.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a cannabinoid and is extracted from the hemp plant, a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant cultivated to contain very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. THC is a controlled cannabinoid that’s responsible for the high of using cannabis products.
CBD, on the other hand, is non-intoxicating, and many people describe a sense of calm when using it. Some people find it helps to improve focus and concentration, which can be helpful when studying.
Here’s all you need to know about CBD for studying, how it works and the legalities of CBD in the UK.
Can CBD actually improve focus for studying?
CBD may help to indirectly improve focus by helping to reduce anxiety and supporting better sleep. So let’s discuss how it works in more detail.
How CBD works in the body
CBD is the subject of much research, as shown in the Journal of Cannabis Research. It’s thought to affect the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate key functions, including mood and the sleep-wake cycle.
The endocannabinoid system explained
The endocannabinoid system is a network of cells, receptors and enzymes that runs from the brain throughout the body. Only relatively recently discovered (in the 1990s), it’s thought to help the body maintain homeostasis, or balance. It plays a role in regulating everything from sleep cycles and appetite to inflammation, pain perception and mood.
The body produces compounds called endocannabinoids that interact with receptors of the ECS, the most well-understood of which are the CB1 and CB2 receptors. When endocannabinoids interact with ECS receptors, actions are triggered, such as the release of hormones that support a better mood or signal bedtime.
Endocannabinoids, however, are depleted, and it takes time for the body to make more. CBD is thought to help prevent or slow down the depletion of the naturally occurring endocannabinoids.
In terms of focus, CBD supports the ECS's ongoing work, regulating mood, appetite and sleep patterns, thereby also supporting better concentration when we’re better rested and have a stable mood.
In addition, CBD may support the work of another chemical called anandamide, according to studies published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. Anandamide is known as the “bliss molecule”. It interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS, and supports better emotional balance, reduced anxiety and pain and improved memory. CBD slows the breakdown of anandamide, allowing its effects to last longer and resulting in improved mood, memory and concentration.
Serotonin, stress and sleep pathways
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, stress, appetite and sleep. It promotes calm, which may help reduce exam stress and support productivity, focus and concentration.
The serotonin pathway is separate from the ECS, but the two systems interact. CBD is thought to bind to 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, which may stimulate a calming response and helping the body better cope with stress and anxiety. This again promotes a virtuous cycle of reduced stress and anxiety, leading to better sleep, which in turn improves mental clarity and cognitive function.
What the research says about CBD, memory and attention
The research so far is in the early stages but promising:
Blood flow to the hippocampus and memory
The most cited study here comes from University College London, published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2020. Fifteen healthy volunteers with little or no history of cannabis use were given either a single 600mg oral dose of CBD or a placebo. Brain blood flow was measured using an MRI technique called arterial spin labelling.
CBD significantly increased blood flow to the hippocampus, the region central to working memory. Blood flow also rose in the orbitofrontal cortex, which is involved in planning and decision making.
Two caveats matter. The study found no difference in memory task performance between CBD and placebo, so the increased blood flow did not translate into better recall or faster learning. And 600mg is sixty times the FSA recommended daily intake, far beyond anything you would get from a consumer CBD product.
Cognitive performance and mental clarity
To date, scientific studies show that CBD “does not significantly enhance or impair general neurocognitive performance in healthy adults”.
But as mentioned above, it can increase blood flow to important areas of the brain, leading researchers to theorise that CBD can support better cognitive function and mental clarity.
Where the evidence is still limited
So far, studies on CBD for focus have been small-scale, so more large-scale studies are needed to definitively prove that it can support better learning and focus.
Why focus slips in the first place
If you’re noticing your ability to focus is slipping, you’re not alone. Poor concentration and focus are common, and there are many reasons for this.
Stress, anxiety and mental chatter
Studying for exams or focusing on results, interviews and future job prospects can be stress-inducing. This mental load can overcrowd our thoughts and lead to brain fog and anxiety caused by a rise in the stress hormone cortisol.
We then start to worry that we haven’t done enough, and we end up in a vicious cycle of stress, worry and mental fatigue. None of which is helpful for a clear mind to focus on the study we need to get done.
Poor sleep and mental fatigue
In the same way, stress, anxiety and a busy mind can play havoc with our sleep. Poor sleep quality can lead to heightened mental fatigue, scuppering our plans to stay focused on study or work.
Digital distraction and multitasking
We live in a constantly connected world, our smartphones endlessly pinging with notifications that demand our attention and distract us. We might think that picking up our phones to check an email or text while trying to focus is harmless.
But this and other forms of multitasking, such as doing household chores or making lunch while studying and working, actually make us less productive.
CBD compared with caffeine and nootropics
Caffeine is a stimulant and can therefore help boost energy levels and help you stay focused. However, it can also cause jitters and increase anxiety, which can interrupt focused study sessions. CBD doesn’t cause jitters, but it takes longer to take effect than a strong cup of coffee. However, the effects are smoother and more gradual.
Nootropics are supplements, such as choline and L‑theanine, that boost memory and brain function and help with staying focused. There’s a lack of research on how well they support concentration, and they can cause jitteriness, headaches and disrupted sleep.
Choosing a CBD format for focus
There are three forms of CBD:
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Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including low or trace levels of THC, as well as terpenes and flavonoids, plant compounds responsible for the aromas and colours of plants. Full-spectrum CBD use is legal in the UK (as long as the entire container of products contains 1mg or less of controlled cannabinoids). The THC level is so low, it won't cause a high. However, long-term use could mean that THC builds up in your system and could potentially be picked up on a drug test.
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Broad-spectrum CBD contains terpenes and flavonoids and has had the THC removed.
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CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD and contains nothing but CBD. It’s the best option if you’re concerned about THC or drug testing.
There are various ways of taking CBD, whichever form you decide to use:
Oils and tinctures
CBD oil is a sublingual product, which means it's designed to be taken under the tongue. It comes in a dropper bottle, so you can easily drop the CBD oil under your tongue and hold it there for a few minutes before swallowing. It enters the bloodstream directly, bypassing the digestive system and therefore works more quickly, within 15-30 minutes, than edible CBD products.
Capsules
CBD capsules are easy to dose, tasteless and convenient. They take longer to work, sometimes up to around two hours, than CBD oil as they need to be digested and broken down by liver enzymes called cytochrome P450 before entering the bloodstream.
Gummies and edibles
CBD gummies and other edibles, such as chocolate bars and sweets, come in a range of flavours and are an enjoyable way of consuming pre-dosed CBD. They, too, need to pass through the digestive system and liver before entering the bloodstream, and take around 30 minutes to 2 hours to have an effect.
CBD drinks
CBD drinks are hydrating, convenient and easy to digest. If you’re using CBD for studying, having a CBD drink on your desk is a simple way to consume CBD. They take around 30 minutes to two hours to start working.
How to take CBD for focus
If you’re using CBD for focus, it’s best to take it during the day when you’re studying. That way, it can see you through the day. If you struggle to sleep and you think that’s your main reason for struggling with concentration, try taking it in the evening as part of your bedtime wind-down routine to support better sleep. Here’s a guide on how much CBD to take.
Lifestyle habits that support focus alongside CBD
As well as using CBD for focus and mental clarity, think about the following lifestyle habits to also support concentration:
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Make healthy dietary choices, prioritising fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and wholegrains over ultra-processed foods high in salt, saturated fat and sugar.
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Make time for exercise. It doesn’t have to be vigorous; a half-hour walk at lunchtime is enough to refresh your mind.
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Try practising mindfulness; there are many online resources and apps that offer free guided meditations.
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Make to-do lists and focus on one thing at a time, rather than multitasking.
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Turn your phone to aeroplane mode, or turn off notifications for certain parts of the day.
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Practice the Pomodoro technique of time-blocking.
You may notice that all of these things support good overall physical and mental wellbeing, which helps create a virtuous cycle of feeling resilient and mentally prepared to tackle study and exam stress.
What to expect and realistic timelines
The FSA advises healthy adults to take no more than 10mg of CBD a day. Where people do notice something, it tends to be subtle rather than obvious, so give it a couple of weeks of consistent daily use before deciding whether it is doing anything for you.
If your concentration problems are persistent, or anxiety is affecting your day to day life, speak to your GP or your university wellbeing service.
Is CBD legal and safe in the UK?
Yes, CBD is legal in the UK, as long as a CBD product adheres to certain rules and regulations:
UK legal status and FSA novel food rules
The Food Standards Agency classifies CBD as a Novel Food in the UK, and as such, CBD brands must register their products on the FSA’s Novel Foods Register. Also, each product must not contain more than 1mg of controlled cannabinoids such as THC.
The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs says that CBD must be considered a general wellbeing product rather than a medicine. Therefore, CBD brands cannot make any explicit medical claims about their products.
Possible side effects and drug interactions
Reported side effects include dry mouth, diarrhoea, dizziness, drowsiness and reduced appetite. The FSA 10mg figure is driven by concern about cumulative long-term exposure, particularly liver effects, rather than any acute risk from a single higher dose.
CBD may interact with certain medications, including some antidepressants, blood thinners, anti-seizure drugs, and medicines used for heart and thyroid conditions. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking CBD alongside anything prescribed.
Mixing CBD and alcohol has not been well studied. Both can cause drowsiness, so caution is the sensible position, particularly if you are studying the next morning.
Who should avoid CBD?
The FSA advises against CBD for anyone under 18, anyone pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, and anyone taking medication who has not spoken to a medical professional first. Anyone with liver disease should also avoid it. Speak to your doctor if you are unsure.
What to look for in a quality CBD product
Buy from brands that third-party test for purity and strength and publish the Certificate of Analysis to prove it. Check the product appears on the FSA public list, and check the label states the CBD content per serving so you can work out where you sit against the 10mg guidance.
More information and research
University College London (UCL) has led many studies into the effects of CBD. This study found that a single dose of CBD can boost blood flow to the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for working memory and mood. The same study found that CBD may also increase blood flow to the region of the brain responsible for planning and decision-making.
FAQs
Does CBD make you feel drowsy?
CBD can potentially cause drowsiness. Start low, around 10mg per day and monitor how you feel.
Can you take CBD while studying?
Yes, using CBD for focus while studying may help productivity and concentration.
Is CBD legal for students in the UK?
Yes. CBD is legal to buy and use in the UK, students included, as long as the product meets novel food rules and contains no more than 1mg of controlled cannabinoids per container. The FSA advises that nobody under 18 should take CBD, and most retailers sell to over-18s only.
Can you mix CBD with coffee?
Yes, some people find that taking CBD with coffee helps promote a sense of balanced alertness. But coffee can also cause jitters and energy crashes.
Does CBD help with exam anxiety?
Using CBD for studying may help to promote a calmness, which helps you stay focused while studying for exams.
How long before studying should you take CBD?
If you’re using CBD oil, take it around 15 to 30 minutes before you plan to study. CBD gummies and drinks take a little longer to get to work, up to a couple of hours, so keep this in mind. Regular use is key, so try to use CBD each day while you’re studying.
References
Cannabidiol (CBD) guidance. (2020, February 13). GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cannabidiol-cbd-guidance/cannabidiol-cbd-guidance
Crna, R. N. M. (2026, March 20). What makes you unable to concentrate and what can you do about it? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/unable-to-concentrate
Kalcheff-Korn, S. (2026, June 30). Serotonin vs. Endocannabinoids: Why CBD Calms Anxiety. Realm of Caring Foundation. https://realmofcaring.org/serotonin-vs-endocannabinoids-why-cbd-calms-anxiety/
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medications.
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