If you cannot achieve adequate sleep or rest and you are burning the midnight oil with worry, maybe a part of you is looking for natural solutions to help you sleep better. Cannabis is getting popular regarding sleep, and for a good reason; there are passionate users who insist cannabis helps them get to sleep faster and sleep longer. But how does it work?
Many aspects of cannabis have an impact on your biology that can help you relax and sleep. If you experience stress, anxiety, acute or chronic insomnia, or just want to use cannabis for sleep, understanding how cannabis works and can work for sleep will help you make better decisions. In this article, they provide overall summaries of the evidence and tips to help you more effectively use cannabis for sleep; over time, you will have the ability to apply concepts for practical effect.
THC and Its Role in Sleep Induction
The main psychoactive component in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can exert sedating effects and shorten the time it takes to fall asleep by inducing relaxation in the mind and body. For individuals with racing thoughts or mild anxiety, THC can produce relaxation and encourage quicker sleep onset. That said, higher doses may interfere with the phase of sleep associated with REM, and therefore, it is important to balance THC use.
CBD and its Ability to Provide Deep Sleep
Cannabidiol (CBD), in contrast to THC, is non-psychoactive and is often praised for its calming effects without a “high.” CBD helps extend the deep sleep stage’s duration and promote wake time. This may be especially beneficial for individuals whose sleep problems are related to chronic pain or anxiety. CBD interacts with receptors related to stress and inflammation and may lead to a more restful and restorative night of sleep.
Interactions Between Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System
Cannabis affects sleep by engaging with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, which is responsible for regulating mood, stress, pain, and sleep. Cannabinoids interact with ECS receptors to help maintain homeostasis. When THC or CBD stimulate these receptors, an overactive mind can be quieted, pain signals can be reduced, and sleepiness can be encouraged—thereby acting as natural support for sleep in those who struggle to find it.
Indica vs. Sativa: The Best Strain For Sleep
Indica strains are usually considered a more sedative and body-relaxing strain in comparison to energizing sativas. This is why many individuals utilize indica or Indica-dominant hybrids as sleep supports. Indicas usually provide soothing effects, relaxing the body and making it easier to rest. As opposed to indica, sativa may be a good option during the daytime, potentially to increase mental stimulation, which can be detrimental to sleep.
Terpenes That Help You Relax and Sleep
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that exist in cannabis and contribute to its effects. Some terpenes, such as myrcene, linalool, or caryophyllene, are relaxing and sleep-inducing. Myrcene is known for its muscle-relaxing properties. Linalool—also found in lavender—can help assuage anxiety as well. If you want to increase cannabis’s sedative properties for better and more natural sleep, consider strains that are high in one or more of these terpenes.
The Importance of Timing Your Dose
Timing is everything when consuming cannabis to aid sleep. Taking cannabis too far before bed can leave enough time for the effects can diminish before key sleep. Coming to find an effect when too close to bed can leave you groggy and tired after sleep. Experts recommend dosing cannabis 30-60 minutes before planned sleep to allow the workings to occur at a time that can allow for better sleep. This is especially true because it can sync with other sleep preparation processes your body may engage in.
Potential Side Effects to Consider
Although cannabis helps facilitate sleep for many, there are potential downsides to consider. Using cannabis regularly, especially high-THC cannabis, can lead to tolerance and dependency and potentially change the architecture of sleep itself over time. Some people report being groggy or experiencing vivid dreams when they stop using cannabis. It is important to know your body and how to address your insomnia when considering cannabis use and to also know and promote your overall health by using cannabis only for short-term issues or as part of a balanced sleep routine.
Select the Right Cannabis for Better Sleep
With so many cannabis options, including edibles, tinctures, vape pens and flowers, there are many ways to support your sleep. Look for a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio or a product specifically referred to as a nighttime product. Do your research and take time to find the best cannabis products online, which include third-party lab testing, dosage, and specification to strains of cannabis that are marketed for sleep and relaxation.
Summary
Cannabis is a very useful tool for helping promote better sleep in anyone who suffers from insomnia, nighttime worry, or discomfort. There are many ways in which cannabis promotes a restful night: the sedating effects of THC, the calming effects of CBD, and calming sleep-specific terpenes can all play a role in your sleep.
However, like all sleep aids, finding the right strain or dosage and timing for the product that works for you is paramount. Be mindful, and as always, when using a product for sleep, start low, pay close attention to how your body responds, and consult a healthcare provider when necessary. When used mindfully with an understanding of high-quality cannabis products, cannabis may help you get the restful and restorative sleep you have been searching for.
