Cannabis For Sleep: Here is What To Know

For centuries, the cannabis plant has been used as a sleep aid. Modern scientific research confirms what humans have known and felt since ancient times: cannabis can relax and induce sedation. Cannabis products make it easier to fall asleep. A recent study showed that cannabis reduces the time required to fall asleep for both people who have sleep problems and those who do not experience any difficulties. Cannabis use was associated with a 30 minute shorter time to fall asleep for people who have difficulty sleeping. A group of people were also included in the study who fell asleep easily. This group of people who were strong sleepers found that cannabis was able to help them fall asleep faster by 15 minutes.

This research is in line with studies showing cannabis reduces the time required to fall asleep and increases time spent deep, slow-wave sleep. THC, one of the primary active ingredients in cannabis, appears to reduce REM sleep time. (More on this component in a moment).

Cannabis has many natural chemicals that can affect your sleep

There are many natural chemical compounds in cannabis that can have an effect on sleep and the sleep cycle. Two main components of cannabis that I will be focusing on today are cannabinoids, and phytones.

Cannabinoids

More than 100 CBD cannabinoids have been identified by scientists in the cannabis plant. Many can be used to treat sleep disorders and other conditions such as anxiety and depression, epilepsy, cancers, seizures, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinsons.

The effects of three well-known cannabinoids on sleep are all known.

CBD

Cannabidiol (or CBD) is a non-mind-altering cannabis oil that promotes relaxation. CBD does not have any psychoactive effects, which means that there is no high from this compound. Scientists believe that CBD is able to counteract or balance the effects of THC, another cannabinoid.

CBD has received a lot of attention because of its ability to lower anxiety, relieve pain, improve mental focus, and increase clarity. CBD products can also reduce daytime sleepiness, and increase alertness. CBD has been shown to reduce anxiety and not affect sleep-wake cycles.

CBN

CBN, also known as cannabidiol or CBD, is a lesser-known cannabinoid. CBN appears to have strong sedative effects that may be amplified when combined with THC. CBN has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. CBN is believed to stimulate appetite according to studies. CBN can be found in older cannabis. This is because THC eventually converts to CBN.

THC

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. The main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis is THC. THC is a compound that can relieve pain and reduce nausea. Research has shown THC products can help you fall asleep. Evidence is emerging that THC may improve sleep. This makes THC an option for treating obstructive sleep disorder.

THC seems to alter the time spent in different stages of sleep. THC was found to decrease REM sleep time and increase slow-wave sleep time.

THC decreases dreaming due to the reduced time in REM. This can be beneficial for people with PTSD, which causes disturbing dreams and nightmares. Regular cannabis use may result in fewer dreams. It is common to have a sudden burst in dreams after stopping using cannabis. This is part of what is known as REM rebound, which is an increase in REM after REM has been suppressed.

When deciding whether or not to use cannabis, it is important to take into account changes in your sleep cycle. For healthy rest and functioning, all sleep cycles are essential. Long-term changes to our nightly sleeping patterns can lead to sleep deprivation.

Terpenes

Cannabinoids are gaining a lot of attention due to their potential benefits in reducing sleep, mood, and pain as well as other health problems. Terpenes play an important role in cannabis' effects, including the ability to influence sleep. The effects of terpenes on the mind and body are still being studied. Scientists believe they can enhance the effects of various cannabinoids and affect the body in a variety of ways.

Terpenes, tiny aromatic molecules found in cannabis, create the smell and taste. Terpenes can be found in many other natural plants, fruits, and flowers. More than 150 terpenes have been identified. Different combinations of terpenes can create distinct tastes and smells. They are also responsible for different effects that different strains of cannabis can have when they are consumed. Science has shown that terpenes can affect energy, mood, sleepiness, alertness, and energy.

 Different cannabis types have different amounts and types of cannabinoids

Before you start taking any supplement, or making any changes to your current medication or supplement regimen, consult your doctor. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. However, it can help you start a conversation with your doctor at your next appointment.

It can be confusing for people who are considering cannabis use to determine the best type of cannabis. There are many varieties of cannabis. How can you choose the right one?

It is important to work with a qualified medical provider and dispensary. This basic knowledge can be used to help you choose the right strain of cannabis for your needs.

These are some key points to remember:

Indica and Sativa are the most popular cannabis strains. You can also find hybrid strains that combine both the Indica and Sativa. Indica is relaxing and promotes sleep. Indica is more invigorating and energizing than sativa.

Some scientists that study cannabis argue that these generalizations about indica or sativa may not be very accurate or useful. They emphasize the importance of cannabinoids' and terpenes' compositions. These experts believe that cannabis can be used for sleep or other conditions. It is better to have a good understanding of the effects and terpenes of cannabis to help you choose the best strain.

To get a good night's sleep, it is important to find a strain with relaxing terpenes and a balanced amount of CBD. Higher levels of THC can cause you to feel tired the next day.

Ask lots of questions and work with your doctor and cannabis dispensary to make informed decisions that you are comfortable with.

Your location can affect how you use cannabis

These days, the state laws that govern cannabis for recreational and medical use are constantly changing. Ten states have legalized recreational cannabis. Michigan became the first state to legalize marijuana. Medical cannabis is legal in 33 states. If you are in New York you can buy cannabis online. But even if cannabis is legal in your state, you should consult your doctor before you use it.

There are many ways to consume cannabis, other than smoking. This obviously has health risks. To avoid the health risks associated with smoking, It is recommended that you use a tincture or vape if you are considering cannabis for sleep.This guide should have provided a good overview of cannabis and its effects on sleep. There is a lot of scientific evidence that cannabis has potent natural chemical compounds. As we learn more about cannabis products and the potential benefits it could have for our health and sleep.