CBD for Sleep?

CBD Oil for Better Sleep

In the past few years, people have increasingly turned to CBD and other cannabis derivatives to treat various conditions. Of all the compounds found in these plants, CBD’s health benefits are the most well-known. In this guide, you’ll learn what CBD is, how it affects the body, and how it can help you get a more restful night’s sleep.

CBD and Cannabinoids: What Are They?

Cannabinoids are compounds that are found in cannabis plants; they’re also produced by the human body. These chemicals bind to receptors within the central nervous system, sending important messages throughout the body. Every cannabinoid has different effects, some of which are highly beneficial.

Of all the cannabinoids scientists have discovered, CBD and THC are researched most often. While THC provides the high for which cannabis is known, CBD has no such euphoric effects. Cannabidiol does, however, have the potential to treat several health conditions. Though we know that CBD and other cannabinoids work on certain cells and proteins within the brain, more research is needed to understand how the endocannabinoid system functions.

Sleep and the Body’s Endocannabinoid System

Medical researchers have found that the ECS or endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the regulation of appetite, mood, sleep, and other bodily functions. The ECS consists of a network of receptors within the brain and the central nervous system, with CB2 and CB1 being primary components.

Natural and synthetic cannabinoids attach to these receptors, creating various results. As far as sleep is concerned, however, preliminary research shows that CBD may work with ECS receptors that affect sleep and wake cycles. Furthermore, CBD is known to decrease pain and anxiety, which may lead to more restful sleep and an improvement in other symptoms.

The Lowdown on CBD

Although much more research is needed, some studies have established a positive connection between cannabinoids and sleep. In one study, participants with insomnia received cannabis flower in pipe, joint, and vape form. With an average CBD potency of 5.7%, these products had significant effects on study participants’ sleep quality.

The study’s results showed that certain cannabinoids decrease the severity of insomnia symptoms. Because whole cannabis flower contains multiple cannabinoids, it’s tough to determine which one provided the most relief. In another clinical study, participants completed sleep assessments before receiving CBD capsules. Those with sleep issues took the supplements in the evening, while those with anxiety took them upon awakening.

When participants were re-assessed at the one-month mark, most of them reported decreased anxiety and better sleep. While anxiety scores remained constant throughout the study, sleep scores fluctuated occasionally. The study’s results showed that CBD can help to lessen anxiety and promote sleep, but they also proved that cannabinoids don’t have the same effects on everyone.

Other, more limited studies have proven that CBD oil is a potential sleep aid. For instance, one child with PTSD and insomnia received a 25mg dose of oil at bedtime, as well as a sublingual spray during the day. The child’s sleep quality and quantity improved over the next few months. Though there’s mounting evidence that CBD and other cannabinoids may work to improve a user’s sleep quality, more research is necessary to establish a definitive link.

Different CBD Products May Offer Varying Results

As you may already know, CBD is a derivative of the cannabis plant. However, it’s available in several forms, each with different effects. Cannabidiol may be taken from hemp or marijuana plants, which are both from the Cannabis sativa family. These plants are slightly different, though. By law, hemp plants can only have a THC content of 0.3%, while marijuana plants have much more.

Because CBD oils have varying THC levels, certain products are still illegal in some areas. For instance, in some states, CBD oils can only be sold if they’re stripped of all THC. If a product still contains tetrahydrocannabinol, it can only be sold in jurisdictions with medicinal or recreational cannabis laws. Depending on your state’s laws, you may need a prescription for CBD oil. These laws are always changing, so there’s still hope that these products will become more accessible in the future.

Though most CBD oils are taken sublingually (under the tongue), other products are available. These include the options listed below.

• Edibles. Several types of CBD oil-infused edibles are available, such as cakes, cookies, hard candies, and gummies. These products typically list CBD levels in milligrams.
• Vape cartridges. CBD extracts are often used in vape pens and vaporizer machines. As they’re heated, inhalable vapors are created.
• Tinctures. CBD products also come in tincture form, and it’s easy to medicate by adding a few drops to a favorite beverage.

CBD oils are available in several concentrations. Because scientists are still researching the effects of cannabidiol on sleep, they’re still not sure how much is needed to treat insomnia and other issues. As with other medications and supplements, it’s a matter of trial and error.

The Side Effects of CBD

While evidence shows that most people tolerate CBD well, some report that it leads to mental sedation and fatigue when taken in high doses. In a large study, participants receiving up to 400mg per day saw no ill effects. Further studies are required to determine the long-term disadvantages of CBD use.

In Closing

Because CBD products can be taken in so many ways, there are numerous options to choose from. If you’re like many first-time users, you may not know where to begin. In my online shop, you’ll find some of America’s top-rated CBD products, which are valued for their potency and quality.

While scientific research increasingly supports the proposed health benefits of cannabidiol, more studies are needed to determine CBD’s effects on sleep quality and duration. When used properly and safely, these products may decrease insomnia symptoms and help ease you into a more restful sleep. If you’re finding it hard to sleep at night, though, the best thing to do is to consult a physician to learn more about your condition.