Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, is a chemical component derived from the hemp plant. It is now widely used as a natural remedy for various illnesses like anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and sleeplessness. CBD is not intoxicating, so it doesn’t provide a “high” or affect the user’s mood. Instead, it engages the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which controls many physiological functions, including sleep.
For our general health and well-being, sleep is essential. It enables our body to regenerate, strengthens memory, and enhances cognitive function. Regrettably, sleep disorders are pervasive globally, affecting tens of millions of people in the United States alone. Insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy are typical sleep disorders. A person with these illnesses may have daytime weariness, irritability, and difficulties concentrating, all of which substantially negatively influence their quality of life.
CBD has become a potentially effective substitute for sedatives and other common sleep remedies. Many studies have demonstrated that CBD for sleep is effective since it can lengthen and increase sleep quality. Below, we investigate how CBD works as a sleep aid.
CBD Helps Alleviate Anxiety
Insomnia and other sleep disorders are frequently brought on by stress and anxiety. In those with anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns, CBD has been shown to lower anxiety and stress levels.
Cortisol production is decreased due to CBD’s interaction with the ECS, which controls anxiety and stress reactions. Therefore, when you use CBD for sleep, you may fall asleep faster because of reduced stress and anxiety levels.
Circadian Rhythm Regulation
The body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, controls the sleep-wake cycle. Insomnia and sleep apnea are two sleep problems that can result from disruptions in this cycle. By interacting with the ECS, which manages the synthesis of hormones that control the circadian rhythm, CBD has been found to affect the sleep-wake cycle.
One study discovered that CBD helped patients with insomnia get more sleep overall, suggesting that it could control the sleep-wake cycle.
Improved REM Sleep
The critical stage of sleep, known as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, is essential for memory consolidation and cognitive function. It has been discovered that CBD increases REM sleep in those with sleep disorders, suggesting that it may help memory and cognitive function. However, you should know that getting too much REM sleep might cause nightmares and other sleep problems.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Sleep quality and duration can be severely impacted by pain and inflammation. In patients with chronic pain diseases like arthritis and multiple sclerosis, CBD has been reported to lower pain and inflammation. CBD can facilitate a person’s ability to fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer by lowering pain and inflammation.
When using a CBD sleep aid, it is a good idea to consider the consumption method. For instance, when using capsules or gummies, you may need to consume the cannabidiol up to an hour before bedtime. The effects become noticeable more quickly when you vape CBD or consume it sublingually.
CBD for Sleep: Things to Consider
CBD is also offered in various forms, including oils, gummies, capsules, vape products, and topicals. The amount used and mode of consumption may vary based on the individual’s needs and preferences. Before using CBD for sleep, you should always speak to a doctor, especially if you take other medications or have underlying medical issues.
With few adverse effects, CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated. Nonetheless, a few people could have minor side effects like dry mouth, sleepiness, and dizziness. It’s also important to ensure you’re consuming CBD products of the highest caliber, free of impurities, and whose purity and potency have been independently verified.
Final Thoughts on How CBD Works as a Sleep Aid
CBD has demonstrated tremendous potential as a natural sleep aid. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, lowering anxiety and stress, regulating the sleep-wake cycle, reducing pain and inflammation, and increasing REM sleep.
Despite the need for additional research to completely understand its effects, CBD has emerged as a promising substitute for conventional sleep aids, providing a secure and efficient treatment for those who struggle with sleep disorders.
Yet, before using CBD for sleep, it’s important to speak with a medical expert, especially if you’re taking other medications or have underlying medical issues. When used carefully and under correct supervision, CBD may help increase the quantity and quality of sleep, enabling people to awaken feeling revived and renewed.