CBD has become very popular nowadays. And it continues to rise significantly in 2022 as more and more people are using CBD for many conditions and ailments. This article focuses on how CBD helps with sleep and insomnia.
Sleep is essential, but not many get as much sleep as they need. Insomnia can make you regularly feel exhausted. Same do other sleep problems. If you are one of those having these challenges, you’ve probably tried many sleep aids. However, they don’t leave you feeling any better. So, you might want to try CBD as a natural alternative. We look at whether CBD works for sleep, any possible side effects, and many more.
CBDHere is a Quick Breakdown
The cannabis plants contain many compounds, amongst which is CBD. These compounds, called cannabinoids, have various therapeutic benefits. They are used in treating a range of conditions, from sleep problems to pain and inflammation.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a popular cannabinoid. It’s one of the most active ingredients most abundantly found in the cannabis hemp plant. CBD is non-intoxicating, so it will not cause any feeling of high. This trait is one of the reasons it appeals to many people.
The other popular compound in cannabis is THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol. It’s the compound that gives the euphoric high in cannabis. Most times, people use CBD and THC together. It’s believed that CBD can counteract THC’s mind-altering effects.
Does CBD Help with Sleep & Insomnia?
Research suggests that CBD has the ability to improve overall sleep quality. It can reduce insomnia and other sleep difficulties. Preliminary research suggests CBD can help with several sleep disorders, including insomnia, REM sleep behaviour disorder, and excessive daytime sleepiness disorder. Not only that, preliminary research suggests CBD can also help patients improve sleep and reduce anxiety.
CBD relieves anxiety and stress levels, which can help in improving sleep. Also, it has analgesic effects. Studies show people with chronic pain experience better sleep in addition to pain relief with CBD.
Several small, controlled studies show CBD can improve sleep. For example, this study involved a 10-year-old with post-traumatic stress disorder and poor sleep. She was treated with 25mg of CBD administered during bedtime.
Also, she took an additional 6 to 12 mg of CBD via a sublingual spray during the day. The daytime CBD was for anxiety. The researchers noticed an improvement in sleep quantity and quality over five months.
Although plenty of studies suggest CBD may improve sleep, further research is needed. Some of these studies are inconclusive, while others involve a small population size. So more research is essential, as it will also help determine the dose of CBD that works for sleep and insomnia.
How Does It Work?
Researchers have made a lot of progress in recent years trying to understand how CBD works. Undoubtedly, there is still more to learn on how CBD produces its effects.
What we know is CBD interacts with receptors in the brain and other body parts. It also interacts with proteins and cells. This interaction causes a change in hormonal activities and that of neurotransmitters.
Our body has an endocannabinoid system that produces its own cannabinoids. It’s responsible for regulating many bodily processes.
CBD interacts with this system and its receptors. As a result, there is a change in body functions, such as appetite, mood, and pain perception.
Is CBD Considered Safe?
Generally, studies show that CBD is well-tolerated healthy individuals. However, some possible side effects can occur. These include dry mouth, drowsiness, sleepiness, changes in appetite, and diarrhea.
CBD can interact with some medications you may be taking. So, please speak with your healthcare provider before taking it.
CBD is legal in all 50 states. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized the use of CBD products as long as they’re hemp-derived. Hemp is a type of cannabis with a low amount of THC. And CBD products are legal so long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC.
Which CBD Products Should You Pick for Sleep?
There are different ways to take CBD for sleep. Because there are tons of products to choose from, here are the best CBD products to pick.
You can take CBD in a chewable form, such as CBD gummies. They contain a precise concentration of CBD in milligrams. Many reputed brands produce special CBD gummies for sleep which are different from regular ones. You can take these chewable gummies right before going to bed. Some of them even include additional ingredients like melatonin for additional sleeping benefits.
CBD oil is the best option if you’re trying to get the quickest effects from CBD. They come in many different concentrations. You can take them sublingually placing drops under your tongue. which can directly enter your bloodstream and provide the effects you desire.
Pills and capsules are another way to use CBD for sleep. Like CBD gummies, they come pre-dosed and allow for more precise dosing. Also, brands can include other botanical ingredients for more benefits.
Where to buy CBD Products for Sleep?
CBD products are available online and at brick & mortar stores. When it comes to getting the best deal and convenience, shopping online is your best bet. Also, you have access to a wide selection of products.
Avoid companies that make unfounded health claims about their products. Also, stay away from brands with a history of mislabelling CBD products. Before you buy CBD, check out brands that carry out third-party tests.
Conclusion
Insomnia and other sleep difficulties impact every area of your life. It can affect your immune functions, cognition, and work output. Many studies suggest there could be benefits to using CBD as a sleep aid. There is also anecdotal evidence to suggest CBD may be an option to help you sleep better.
There are several ways to use CBD for sleep. It comes in different forms including, oils and tinctures, gummies, and capsules.
Overall, CBD is a safe substance. But there may be negative interactions between CBD and any medication you are taking. So before using CBD, it’s best to consult with your doctor.