CBD for burnout: can the hemp plant offer natural support?

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Person eingekuschelt in Decke mit Tee und CBD-Öl auf dem Tisch, warme Atmosphäre, Wellness & Erkältungszeit

The use of CBD for burnout, especially CBD drops, is increasingly becoming the focus of people looking for natural ways to manage the symptoms of chronic stress and emotional exhaustion. Burnout is not a sign of weakness, but a serious reaction to prolonged excessive demands. In this article, we shed light on the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in this context and where its limits lie, based on current findings in 2025 and our philosophy at Herba di Berna.

What actually is burnout?

Burnout is a state of deep emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress – usually in a professional context. The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined burnout in its classification system for diseases (ICD-11) as a syndrome associated with chronic, unresolved workplace stress. In addition to exhaustion, typical symptoms include increasing mental distance from the job and reduced professional performance.

A pipette with CBD oil, which is used for relaxation and to reduce stress symptoms.

The potential of CBD for burnout symptoms

A bottle of the high-quality CBD drops from Herba di Berna against the appearance of stress, which stand for Swiss quality and purity.

It is essential to emphasize: CBD is not a cure for burnout. A lasting improvement always requires dealing with the causes and often professional help. However, CBD for burnout can serve as a supportive measure in everyday life to alleviate certain symptoms and promote general well-being. As reported by Forbes magazine, there is growing scientific evidence that CBD can help alleviate anxiety and stress, two core symptoms of burnout (Forbes, 2019).

Stress regulation and the endocannabinoid system

Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that plays a central role in regulating stress, sleep, mood and pain. Studies suggest that CBD can interact with this system and help balance the body’s stress response. Users often report a feeling of calmness and inner peace.

Promoting restful sleep

Sleep disorders are a common and grueling side effect of burnout. A large case study from 2019 (Shannon et al.) showed that over 79% of participants with anxiety improved in the first month of taking CBD and over 66% improved their sleep quality. Restful sleep is the basis for mental and physical regeneration. Our CBD care products can also be integrated into a relaxing evening ritual. Find out more in our blog: Sleep better with cannabis? The science behind cannabinol (CBN) .

The legal framework in Switzerland

In Switzerland, CBD products are legal as long as their THC content is below 1%. All our products, from CBD oil
to CBD flowers, strictly adhere to these legal requirements, as defined by the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH). It is important to understand that these products are not legally considered medicinal products, but are declared as cosmetics, chemicals or foodstuffs, depending on the product.

The sublingual application of CBD oil for rapid calming in a stressful situation.

What does current research say about CBD for burnout and its symptoms?

The scientific investigation of CBD for burnout has gained momentum in recent years. Of particular note is a randomized clinical trial published in 2021 in the renowned journal JAMA Network Open, often referred to as the“BONSAI study“. Researchers investigated the effect of CBD on 120 healthcare professionals in Brazil who were suffering from extreme stress and burnout symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results were significant (Crippa et al., 2021):

  • The group that received CBD daily showed a significant reduction in emotional exhaustion compared to the control group.
  • Symptoms of anxiety and depression decreased by up to 60% in the CBD group.

Although the authors emphasize that further, larger studies are needed, these results support the growing belief that CBD could be an effective remedy for relieving burnout symptoms.

Our Herba di Berna food for thought on the topic of CBD for burnout

  A nightstand with CBD oil as part of an evening routine for better sleep support.

At Herba di Berna, we see the hemp plant as a holistic companion for a conscious lifestyle. The use of CBD for burnout should not be seen as an isolated “repair measure”, but as part of a comprehensive strategy for self-care. This includes stress management, sufficient exercise, a balanced diet – in which our hemp foods can also play a role – and the creation of conscious breaks in everyday life. Whether it’s vaporizing with a high-quality vape or using CBD hash in a personal ritual – it’s all about consciously turning to your own well-being. Our entire range, including sustainable textiles and practical accessories, reflects this holistic approach.

This holistic view is also the reason why we are in favor of progressive regulation of the entire hemp plant. We are convinced that legalization would massively accelerate and deepen scientific research. As we show in Cannabis legalization Switzerland 2025 – Herba di Berna takes a critical approach we see this as a decisive step forward for science and for users.

CBD bei Burnout FAQ❓➕

Was genau ist CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol, one of over 100 natural compounds from the hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it has no intoxicating effect and does not get you “high”.

Ist die Einnahme von CBD in der Schweiz legal?

Yes, the purchase and consumption of CBD products with a THC content of less than 1% is completely legal in Switzerland for persons of legal age. All Herba di Berna products meet this legal requirement.

Was ist der Unterschied zwischen CBD und THC?

CBD and THC are both cannabinoids from the hemp plant, but have different effects. While THC is responsible for the intoxicating effect of marijuana, CBD has a balancing and non-psychoactive effect.

Wann sollte man bei der Anwendung von CBD vorsichtig sein?

Pregnant women, nursing mothers and people who regularly take medication should seek medical advice before using CBD. CBD can influence the effect of some medications.

Wie kann CBD bei Burnout konkret helfen?

CBD can potentially help restore inner balance by contributing to stress regulation and promoting restful sleep. It acts on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is partly responsible for balancing mood and stress levels.

Macht CBD abhängig oder “high”?

No, CBD has no psychoactive effect and, according to current knowledge, does not lead to physical or psychological dependence. The feeling is rather relaxing and balancing.

Welches CBD-Produkt eignet sich für den Anfang?

CBD oil is often the best choice for beginners, as it can be dosed easily and precisely. It is recommended to start with a low dose and increase it slowly if necessary.

Warum ist Schweizer Qualität bei CBD so wichtig?

Swiss quality stands for strict controls, sustainable cultivation and transparent manufacturing processes. This guarantees a pure, safe and effective product that is free from harmful substances.

CBD for burnout Conclusion: a responsible path to balance

CBD for burnout can be a valuable, natural support on the path to more inner balance. It is not a miracle cure, but a tool provided by nature that can help to alleviate stress symptoms and increase well-being as part of a mindful and healthy lifestyle. The growing number of positive studies reinforces this path and the trust in a manufacturer that lives quality and transparency.

Discover our CBD oil category now and take a step towards balance.

Source list

Crippa, J. A., et al. (2021). Efficacy and Safety of Cannabidiol Plus Standard Care vs Standard Care Alone for the Treatment of Emotional Exhaustion and Burnout Among Frontline Health Care Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Network Open. Source

Shannon, S., et al. (2019). Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal. Source

Pellati, F., et al. (2018). Cannabis Sativa L. and Nonpsychoactive Cannabinoids: Their Chemistry and Role against Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cancer. BioMed Research International. (Review of the anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing effect) Source

Zuardi, A. W., et al. (1993). Effects of ipsapirone and cannabidiol on human experimental anxiety. Journal of Psychopharmacology. (Study on the effect of CBD on cortisol) Source

Moukheiber, Z. (2019). CBD As A Potential Treatment For Anxiety And Depression. Forbes Magazine. Source

World Health Organization (WHO). Burn-out an “occupational phenomenon”: International Classification of Diseases. Source