Are you one of the millions who spend their nights tossing and turning in an attempt to sleep, yet find themselves counting sheep only to end up staring blankly at the ceiling during the middle of the night? If this describes you, rest assured; sleep disorders affect millions around the globe. But there may be an effective solution: CBD derived from cannabis plants is rapidly gaining recognition for its therapeutic qualities as a potential aid to sleep.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD), commonly referred to as one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, is one of over 100 compounds called cannabinoids which don't produce psychoactive effects such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) but instead has numerous medicinal applications which could provide relief in pain relief, anxiety reduction and improved sleep quality. CBD has gained much recognition due to these potential health advantages - perhaps more than THC! Rather, its reputation comes due to potential medical applications including pain relief from reduction anxiety reduction as well as improving quality sleep!
CBD oil is produced by extracting CBD from cannabis plants and diluting it with carrier oils such as coconut or hemp seed oil to form CBD oil, which can then be taken directly or added to food/beverages or applied topically for consumption.
CBD for Sleep: Explaining the Science
Research into CBD for sleep may still be in its infancy, yet early results are encouraging. A Journal of Clinical Pharmacology study concluded that CBD could increase overall sleeping hours. Another Permanente Journal article suggested CBD could also be used as a treatment option for insomnia.
So how does CBD help improve sleep? According to experts, CBD works by binding itself to receptors in the brain which control our daily wake/sleep cycles - part of the endocannabinoid system which regulates various bodily functions including sleep. By engaging with these receptors directly, CBD may promote more consistent REM cycles for an easier sleeping environment.
Additionally, CBD may help with other conditions that interfere with sleep such as anxiety and chronic pain; both have been implicated as causes for poor restfulness and CBD has shown to provide potential relief in both cases.
How to Use CBD for Sleep: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you are considering using CBD for sleep, here are a few important points to keep in mind.
Dosage
Finding your ideal dosage of CBD depends on a number of factors, including body weight, condition being treated and concentration in product used. It is always wise to begin slowly by starting with 20mg daily then gradually increase by five mg each week until reaching optimal dose.
Timing
Some individuals find that taking CBD just prior to bedtime works best for them, while others might prefer earlier in the day. Experiment and see which time works for you best as everyone's bodies vary and what works for one may not work for another.
Product Type
CBD comes in various forms, from oils to capsules, gummies and even tea. Select the one that best fits your lifestyle and preferences - for instance if the taste of CBD oil doesn't appeal, try switching over to capsules or gummies instead.
Before starting any supplement regimen, including CBD, it's a wise idea to consult your healthcare provider first. This is particularly important if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can CBD help with sleep?
While CBD is generally safe, its use may cause side effects like dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. As with all medications it may interact with, so before beginning CBD therapy it's wise to consult your physician first.
How long will CBD take to work for sleep?
The effects of CBD may differ from person to person. Some individuals may notice its effects within 15-30 minutes while others may take several hours before realizing any difference in their sleeping. It should be noted that for optimal results, taking CBD for several weeks consistently is recommended in order to experience its full effects.
Can I use CBD while also taking medications?
Because CBD may interact with other medications, it's wise to discuss any plans to begin taking CBD with your healthcare provider before doing so. This is especially important if taking medications with "grapefruit warnings", since both may interfere with enzymes essential for drug metabolism.
Will CBD Make Me Feel "High"
No, CBD is not psychoactive; thus it will not produce an intoxicating feeling like THC does, leading to feelings of euphoria.
Conclusion
While more research needs to be conducted, CBD shows great potential as a natural remedy for improving sleep. If you suffer from insomnia or simply desire a better night's rest, give CBD a try; just consult a healthcare professional first before beginning any new supplement regime, such as CBD. We wish you restful nights and brighter days ahead!
Note: This article should only be taken as informational and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of healthcare professionals prior to beginning any new supplements or treatments.