Do you find it challenging to get a good night’s sleep? Well, you are not alone. Insomnia is a bothersome and common sleep disorder. About 10 % to 15 % of all adults in the US have this disorder. Insomnia, if not treated, can have repercussions on both physical and mental well-being. Though there are many conventional therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and medications available to treat insomnia, cannabidiol or CBD is fast emerging as an effective alternative treatment for insomnia.
The Research behind CBD and Insomnia
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Though the research delving into the efficacy of CBD in treating insomnia is still in its infancy, some studies have shown promise. A 2012 review study unearthed a potential link between an increased dose of CBD and therapeutic effects for sleep disorders, anxiety, and epilepsy.
CBD might play a role in controlling cortisol levels, a stress hormone that increases wakefulness and prevents a good night’s sleep. As per a 2019 study, people who consumed 300 to 600 mg of CBD oil had lower cortisol levels. This suggests that CBD might have a sedating effect that lowered cortisol levels.
Besides, independent entities like Herbonaut offer a balanced science-based discussion on the potential benefits and risks of cannabis and its hybrids. Moreover, Herbonaut reviewed a good amount of CBD products for sleep to help the users find the best products according to their preferences.
CBD Products and Insomnia
Hemp-based products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal at the federal level but prohibited in some states in the US. On the other hand, marijuana-derived CBD products are legal in some states but banned at the Federal level. Moreover, you should know that the FDA does not approve non-prescription CBD products.
Unlike THC, CBD does not alter your cognitive state as it is a non-psychoactive compound. You can consume CBD products in the form of capsules, gummies, creams, and even drinks.
Cannabis Strains Useful in Insomnia
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CBD-rich strains are a popular choice to help induce sleep. Due to the relaxing effects of CBD, they can be helpful sleeping aids.
The following strains might be an excellent choice to relieve sleep problems.
- Special Sauce: This dazzling strain is characterized by purple-tinged hair and shiny trichomes, with a mix of cinnamon, citrus, sweet cream, and herby smells. This strain contains +20% CBD and 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
- Magic Bullet: This CBD-rich strain has a powerful calming effect and has around 18% CBD out of 20% cannabinoids. The THC levels are negligible in this strain.
- Remedy: A cross between Cannatonic and Afghan Skunk comprises 13 % CBD and less than 1 % THC.
However, you must check the THC content before using a strain to induce sleep. Too much THC might cause anxiety in some people. Hence it’s best to take help from an expert before choosing a cannabis strain to treat your sleeping issues.
Ways in which CBD could help Insomnia
To get optimal know-how about how CBD can treat sleeplessness, below are few ways CBD can fight insomnia.
1.Stress Reduction
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Stress leads to high cortisol levels. This can lead to wakefulness leading to sleeplessness. Chronic stress can bring upon several ailments like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, leading you to experience shorter sleep cycles. CBD oil can come to your rescue as studies suggest that CBD oil can help in lowering cortisol levels, thereby reducing stress levels and improving your sleep quality.
2.Pain Relief
Historically, Marijuana and other CBD products have long been used for pain reduction. The body’s endocannabinoid system or ECS is responsible for regulating appetite, pain, and sleep.CBD can imitate these endocannabinoids by attaching and interacting with the receptors in the brain and the immune system. So, it makes sense that cannabinoid dosing might help with sleep issues.
CBD in the form of CBD oil can reduce inflammation while enhancing neurotransmitter relays. This ultimately helps improve sleep quality and relieve pain.
3.Helps Achieve Homeostasis
You might be surprised to know that CBD products, especially CBD oil, helps in the regulation of the body processes. As mentioned in the previous section, the body has an endocannabinoid system. This system helps regulate bodily activities, leading to a state of homeostasis. The endocannabinoid system also protects you from brain and nerve disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Such conditions can interfere with sleep and lead to insomnia and other health complications. In fact, neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease are correlated with insomnia. Adding CBD to the treatment protocol of such ailments can improve sleep quality.
4.Manage Mood Disorders
Stress and depression are common triggers for insomnia. Neurotransmitters regulate how and what you feel. Antidepressants balance these neurotransmitters. It is worthwhile to note that CBD mimics anti-depressant qualities.
Moreover, it has been established by a 2009 study that any drop in the body’s endocannabinoid levels is related to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. As explained earlier, CBD can imitate these endocannabinoids. So, it is natural to infer that CBD can alleviate stress and depression therein treating insomnia.
Looking Ahead
Though the use of cannabis for sleeping disorders is increasing in the United States, the ongoing research regarding its safety and efficacy is still in its infancy. Moreover, there are a plethora of behavioral interventions that you can employ to promote sound sleep. Though CBD holds promise in treating sleeping disorders, it should be judiciously used as part of a holistic treatment plan initiated under the supervision of a certified healthcare professional.
