Although research is still in progress, several studies have suggested that CBD may treat insomnia and improve a patient’s sleep quality.
Many people today have trouble getting a decent night’s sleep, maybe due to their job schedule or altered sleeping habits brought on by their drugs. Most of the time, it takes hours before you can even fall asleep as you struggle in bed and roll around. However, if you’ve heard about CBD and its potential health advantages, you’ve either tried it or are at least considering it. Although studies are currently being conducted to prove the health advantages of CBD, some scientific evidence based on animal studies suggests that CBD may be used to treat ailments like anxiety and psychotic illnesses, promote sleep, and ease joint and muscular problems. However, have you tried CBD for sleep issues, and if so, how did it work for you? Here’s what you should know.
WHAT IS CBD
One of the key cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant is cannabidiol, often known as CBD. The body’s endocannabinoid system is affected by cannabinoids in a way that aids in maintaining balance and stability. In contrast to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive; therefore, it will not cause you to feel “high.” It can benefit people with epilepsy and chronic pain by reducing seizures and alleviating pain.
CBD AND SLEEP; THE ROLE OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
Van Drunen & Eckel-Mahan (2021) found that the endocannabinoid system is important for sustaining several bodily processes, including mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythm regulation. These cannabinoid receptors are found in the brain and central nervous systems. CB1 and CB2 are identified as the two main receptors. These cells attract cannabinoids, which then exert a variety of actions. Passie et al. (2012) found that CBD can bind with particular receptors, possibly changing the sleep cycle about how they might affect sleep. Moltke & Hindocha (2021) revealed that CBD might lessen anxiety and pain, which can hinder getting a good night’s sleep. It’s also conceivable that sleep quality may increase by minimizing specific symptoms.
WHAT RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT CBD AND SLEEP
According to Zhornitsky & Potvin (2012), a CBD dosage of 160 mg lengthened sleep periods compared to a placebo. The study above also suggested that all dosages of CBD, including placebo, 5 mg of the anti-insomnia drug nitrazepam, and 40, 80, and 160 mg of CBD, helped patients sleep better. Stress hormone cortisol normally peaks in the morning, although insomniacs may have elevated hormone levels in their blood. According to Hirotsu et al. (2015), high cortisol levels at night are linked to more night waking, even if you don’t have insomnia. Zhornitsky & Potvin (2012) discovered that taking 300 or 600 mg of CBD oil reduced cortisol levels more dramatically in one investigation of the effects of CBD. These findings imply that CBD influences cortisol release and may have sedative effects.
According toShannon (2019), 103 people with anxiety or poor sleep quality were included. The researchers above examined the effects of CBD mixed with other prescribed drugs. The research found that the dosages of CBD varied from 25 to 175 mg. According to the study above, the most effective dosage for treating anxiety was 25 mg, while greater dosages were needed to treat sleep problems. Fusar-Poli et al. (2020) found that 66.7 percent of participants reported improved sleep, while 25% reported worsening sleep when using CBD. At the second visit, the study above found that 26.8% of subjects experienced decreased sleep, while 56.1% reported improved sleep.
The study’s findings suggested that while CBD might temporarily promote sleep, the benefits may not last.
HOW TO USE CBD FOR YOUR SLEEP
There are several ways to consume CBD products. It is available in various forms, such as vape concentrates, oils and tinctures, tablets, and edibles like gummies. It is safe to say vaping CBD allows you to absorb it faster than with other methods. Vaping CBD hasn’t received much research, and vaping, in general, may be dangerous for your respiratory system. Several variables will affect how much CBD you use and when you take it; how the CBD functions will depend on your weight, unique body chemistry, and the type of sleeping issues you experience. What functions for some individuals might not function for others.
According to Taylor et al. (2018), the individuals received daily doses of 25 mg to 1,500 mg of CBD. It is advised to begin with a modest dose and gradually raise it until you discover the optimal level. Many individuals don’t perceive a change when they take CBD for anxiety and sleep. The study above found that it took the participants around a month to observe a difference. Be patient and remember that you probably won’t see effects immediately.
WHEN TO CONSULT A DOCTOR
Older folks and those suffering from severe psychological conditions experience insomnia. Avoid self-medication and consult a doctor if you have trouble falling asleep. Possible symptoms include:
- difficulty falling and staying asleep
- bad sleep quality
Depending on the type of sleep disorder, the optimum course of treatment may involve integrating medication and behavioral therapy. Consult a physician if you believe you are taking too many sleep aids or have ill effects from a sedative.
CONCLUSION
Doctors frequently advise behavioral adjustments to treat insomnia, sometimes in conjunction with prescription medications. Although there hasn’t been much research on the effects of CBD over the long term, it seems generally harmless. Doctors aren’t sure if CBD helps patients sleep, but there is some evidence that it could help them sleep longer. While further research is required, it’s possible that using CBD will lessen your insomnia symptoms and improve the quality of your sleep. However, if you’re having trouble sleeping, you should first see a doctor and discover the possible causes and solutions.
REFERENCES
De Jong, S., Van Donkersgoed, R. J. M., Timmerman, M. E., Aan Het Rot, M., Wunderink, L., Arends, J., … & Pijnenborg, G. H. M. (2019). Metacognitive Reflection And Insight Therapy (Merit) For Patients With Schizophrenia. Psychological Medicine, 49(2), 303-313.
Fusar-Poli, L., Cavone, V., Tinacci, S., Concas, I., Petralia, A., Signorelli, M. S., … & Aguglia, E. (2020). Cannabinoids For People With Asd: A Systematic Review Of Published And Ongoing Studies. Brain Sciences, 10(9), 572.
Hirotsu, C., Tufik, S., & Andersen, M. (2015). Interactions Between Sleep, Stress, And Metabolism: From Physiological To Pathological Conditions. Sleep Science, 8(3), 143-152.
Moltke, J., & Hindocha, C. (2021). Reasons For Cannabidiol Use: A Cross-Sectional Study Of Cbd Users, Focusing On Self-Perceived Stress
Passie, T., Emrich, H. M., Karst, M., Brandt, S. D., & Halpern, J. H. (2012). Mitigation Of Post‐Traumatic Stress Symptoms By Cannabis Resin: A Review Of The Clinical And Neurobiological Evidence. Drug Testing And Analysis, 4(7-8), 649-659.
Shannon, S. (2019). Cannabidiol In Anxiety And Sleep: A Large Case Series. The Permanente Journal, 23. Zhornitsky, S., & Potvin, S. (2012). Cannabidiol In Humans—The Quest For Therapeutic Targets. Pharmaceuticals, 5(5), 529-552.
Taylor, L., Gidal, B., Blakey, G., Tayo, B., & Morrison, G. (2018). A Phase I, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Single Ascending Dose, Multiple Dose, And Food Effect Trial Of The Safety, Tolerability And Pharmacokinetics Of Highly Purified Cannabidiol In Healthy Subjects. Cns Drugs, 32(11), 1053-1067.
