The effects of CBD on sleep: does cannabidiol help you sleep in case of insomnia?
Sleep is an essential part of maintaining good physical and mental health. However, many people suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders, which can lead to fatigue, irritability, and a host of other health issues. Traditional sleep aids can be habit-forming and have side effects, which is why many people are turning to alternative therapies such as cannabidiol (CBD) or cannabinol (CBN) to improve their sleep.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits for a variety of health conditions, including sleep disorders. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for regulating a wide range of physiological functions, including sleep, mood, appetite, and pain sensation.
One way CBD may improve sleep is by reducing anxiety. Anxiety is a common cause of insomnia and can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties (Bergamaschi et al., 2011) and may help reduce anxiety levels, promoting feelings of calm and relaxation. This can lead to improved sleep quality and increased sleep duration.
CBD may also improve sleep by reducing pain. Pain can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep, and CBD has been shown to have analgesic properties (Russo et al., 2005). CBD may reduce pain by reducing inflammation and interacting with the body’s pain receptors. This may lead to improved sleep quality and increased sleep duration.
CBD may also help improve sleep quality by increasing the time spent in deep sleep. Deep sleep is the most restorative stage of sleep, and CBD has been found to increase the time spent in deep sleep (Crippa et al., 2009). This can lead to better physical and mental restoration and reduced fatigue and irritability.
How to take CBD to sleep better?
A popular form of consumption is oral consumption, which includes CBD capsules or softgels and CBD infusions . Oral consumption is a convenient and easy way to consume CBD, and it allows for accurate dosing. However, the effects of CBD consumed orally may take longer to kick in, and the dosage may need to be adjusted accordingly. Additionally, capsules can be easy to swallow and have no taste, while infusions can have a strong taste that may be unpleasant for some.
Another form of consumption is sublingual consumption, which includes CBD oil drops and sprays. Sublingual consumption allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membrane under the tongue, which can result in a faster onset of effects. It also allows for precise dosing and is convenient, similar to oral consumption.
A third form of consumption is topical consumption, which includes lotions, balms, and creams. Topical consumption is a great option for localized pain or inflammation, as the CBD is absorbed directly into the skin where it is needed. It is less effective for insomnia, but it is still an option for those who find it helpful.
Ultimately, the best form of consumption for sleep will depend on an individual’s personal preferences and needs. It’s important to note that when consuming CBD, you should always start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you’re taking other medications, as CBD can interact with some medications.
It’s important to note that while CBD shows promise as a treatment option for sleep disorders, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks. Additionally, CBD should not be considered a substitute for established treatments or therapies for sleep disorders and should always be used under medical supervision.