According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in three adults in the U.S. do not get enough sleep on a regular basis. Some people may resort to sleeping pills or other medications to help them fall asleep or stay asleep, but these may have unwanted side effects or become less effective over time.
Some people are turning to natural alternatives like CBD to improve their sleep. But can it really help you sleep? How does it work, and what dosage should you take?
What is CBD and How Does it Work?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. CBD is not intoxicating, meaning it does not cause a “high” like THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis. CBD can be derived from hemp or from non-hemp varieties of cannabis, or even manufactured in a laboratory. It has various potential health benefits, such as relieving pain, inflammation, anxiety and seizures.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex system of molecules, receptors and enzymes that regulates various functions in the body. These include mood, pain, inflammation, memory and appetite. The ECS produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids, which bind to cannabinoid receptors (e.g. CB1, CB2 receptor groups) located throughout the body.
CBD interacts with the ECS in different ways. Unlike THC, CBD does not directly bind to cannabinoid receptors. Instead, CBD has several indirect effects on the ECS. How can CBD help you sleep better?
CBD for Stress and Anxiety Relief
A Cosmopolitan UK writer tried CBD oil for her own sleep disturbances and found it helped her relax. She wrote “The first night I took CBD oil, I felt a wave of calm wash over me as soon as it hit my bloodstream. My racing thoughts slowed down and my muscles relaxed. I felt like I was drifting into a peaceful slumber.”
“The next morning, I woke up feeling refreshed and energized. I couldn’t believe it. For the first time in years, I had slept through the night without any interruptions or nightmares. I continued taking CBD oil every night for a month and noticed a significant improvement in my sleep quality and mood.”
“I felt more alert during the day and less stressed at night. My insomnia was gone. CBD oil changed my life for the better. It helped me overcome my sleep issues and enjoy restful nights again.”
Alleviating Leg Cramps
Some wellness experts recommend using CBD bath bombs to soothe leg cramps before bedtime. One way to prevent or relieve leg cramps is to soak in a warm bath with CBD bath bombs. CBD stands for cannabidiol, a compound derived from cannabis or hemp plants that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It does this without getting you high or causing addiction.
CBD bath bombs are fizzy balls that dissolve in water and release CBD, along with other ingredients like essential oils, salts and herbs. CBD bath bombs may help soothe leg cramps by relaxing the muscles, improving blood circulation and easing tension. They can also moisturize the skin, reduce stress and promote sleep quality.
How to Use CBD for Sleep Safely and Effectively
CBD, like terpenes, is a natural compound that may have some benefits for sleep quality. CBD may help reduce anxiety, pain and inflammation, which are common causes of insomnia. CBD may also promote normal circadian rhythms, which govern the body’s internal clock that controls when we feel sleepy or alert.
However, CBD is not a magic bullet for sleep problems. CBD may have different effects on different people depending on their individual factors such as genetics, metabolism and dosage range in use. CBD may also interact with some medications or supplements that affect sleep. Therefore, it’s important to consult with your doctor before using it for sleep.
CBD is generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, it can cause some mild side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness or changes in appetite. CBD may also affect drug tests if it contains traces of THC, given it’s a psychoactive compound that is deemed a controlled substance by the DEA.
Tips When Trying CBD for Sleep
- Start with a low dose of CBD (10-25 mg) and gradually increase it until you find your optimal level.
- Choose a high-quality product that has been tested by a third-party lab for purity and potency.
- Experiment with different forms of CBD (oil, capsule, gummy, etc.) and find what works best for you.
- Consult your doctor before using CBD if you have any medical conditions or take any medications
- Avoid products that contain additives, artificial flavors or synthetic cannabinoids.
CBD may be a helpful option for some people who struggle with sleep issues, but it is not a substitute for good sleep practices. These include sticking to a regular bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, limiting screen time at night and creating a comfortable sleeping environment.
