CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis flower. Cannabis has a long, complex history as a medicinal plant, with its therapeutic qualities now being researched worldwide. One area of interest is the connection between CBD and sleep.
Many people struggle with sleep issues. Approximately 70 million Americans, or 30-35% of adults, experience sleep disorders. With the rise in CBD's popularity, some individuals have found that its relaxing effects can help with sleep.
CBD is commonly used to combat insomnia, but does it actually make you sleepy? While scientific and anecdotal evidence supports CBD's ability to improve sleep, the compound itself doesn't cause drowsiness.
Understanding CBD and Its Mechanism
CBD products come in various forms, such as CBD oils, hemp oils, CBD capsules, topical CBD creams, and CBD edibles. Regardless of the form, CBD interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS has cannabinoid receptors, specifically CB1 and CB2, which interact with CBD and THC to distribute natural compounds throughout the body. CB1 receptors are located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found around organs and support muscular, cardiovascular, and immune function.
The relationship between the ECS and CBD helps alleviate stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia.
Does CBD Make You Sleepy?
CBD has been shown to improve sleep cycles without causing sedative effects like THC. While THC induces a high, CBD relaxes you without impairing cognitive functions. Studies suggest that CBD addresses the root cause of sleep issues, such as sleep anxiety.
Causes of Sleep Problems
Insomnia can result from various factors, from difficulty falling asleep to waking up in the middle of the night. Sleep problems are linked to health issues like high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, and anxiety disorders. However, stress and anxiety are the most common causes. Taking CBD daily can relax the body via the ECS, making it easier to fall asleep.
How Does CBD Make You Feel?
While CBD doesn't sedate, it does produce a noticeable relaxation effect by interacting with the ECS to promote homeostasis and reduce stress. Stress is often a reaction to everyday situations, and a chronically stressed brain can lead to health issues, including sleep disorders.
Managing Stress with CBD
A healthy brain differentiates between minor and serious stressors, but chronic stress can disrupt this balance, leading to harmful patterns and health concerns. People often turn to alcohol, overeating, or medication to cope, which offers only temporary relief.
CBD and Stress Relief
The ECS helps alleviate stress by improving cognitive function and reducing the negative stress response. This leads to a healthier way of handling stress, improving daily stress levels and preventing future stress.
CBD Dosage for Sleep
CBD oil products come in various doses. For beginners, a lower dose like 10 mg taken one hour before bed might suffice. You can adjust the dose as needed. Look for pure CBD, not hemp oil, as CBD is a more effective sleep aid.
CBD with THC
Some CBD sleep products combine CBD and THC. While THC is psychoactive, the combination can encourage better sleep for some. However, CBD alone is sufficient for most people. You can choose from various forms, including:
- CBD vape cartridges
- CBD capsules or tablets
- CBD topicals (creams and gels)
- CBD hemp oil
- CBD edibles like gummies and cookies
Conclusion
CBD offers numerous health benefits, including improved sleep. It doesn't make you sleepy but helps alleviate stress and anxiety through the ECS. Instead of tossing and turning, try CBD for a better night's sleep.
References
- Cannabis and the Controlled Substances Act. (2017, December 14). Retrieved February 21, 2019, from https://www.capimpactca.com/2017/10/cannabis-controlled-substances-act/
- Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139-154. doi:10.1089/can.2016.0034
- Johnson-Sasso, C. P., Tompkins, C., Kao, D. P., & Walker, L. A. (n.d.). Marijuana use and short-term outcomes in patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction. Retrieved from https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0199705
- Neuropathic Pain Causes, Treatment, and Medication. (n.d.). Retrieved February 21, 2019, from https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/neuropathic-pain#1
- Skogar, O., & Lökk, J. (2016). Pain management in patients with Parkinson's disease: Challenges and solutions. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, Volume 9, 469-479. doi:10.2147/jmdh.s105857