How CBD Can Help Improve Sleep: A Natural Solution for Sleep Disorders
If you have difficulty getting a good night’s sleep you are far from alone. Millions of North Americans suffer from sleep disorders including insomnia.
Chances are that you are following the same basic pattern as the majority – you take some type of sleep aid regularly such as a sleeping pill or you have tried one of many other types of treatment.
You may already be aware of the fact that CBD tinctures and CBD edibles are an effective alternative to sleeping pills or other forms of sleep aids.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Sleep Disorders: Cause and Common Types
- The Benefits Of CBD For Sleep Disorders
- CBD And Sleep
- The Difference Between CBD And THC
- Why CBD Works
- The Risk Factors
- The Hidden Benefits of CBD
- How CBD Becomes The Right Choice For You
- There Are Many Formulations To Choose From
- CBD Helps To Solve Sleep Issues
- 6 Tips for Using CBD Safely for Better Sleep
Understanding Sleep Disorders: Cause and Common Types
Sleep disorders are always present, yet a very common problem among different populations all over the world, which disrupts the natural cycle of sleep activity. The problem of falling asleep staying asleep, or getting refreshing sleep, is common among individuals. Though it can happen to everyone during their lifetime, having chronic sleep disorders contributes definitely to problems in one’s quality of life. They are also related in common to physical and psychological conditions.
Some of the very common sleep disorders include:
- Insomnia: Insomnia is now generally considered the most prevalent sleep disorder, characterized by difficulty in initiating sleep or remaining asleep. It may be short-term, lasting for days to weeks, or it could be chronic and function for months or even years.
- Sleep Apnea: This disorder occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to frequent waking and poor-quality rest. It’s often linked to snoring and can increase the risk of other health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease.
- Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, often leading to an irresistible urge to move them, especially at night. This disrupts the ability to fall or stay asleep.
- Narcolepsy: A neurological disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks, narcolepsy makes it difficult for people to maintain a normal sleep-wake cycle.
- Circadian Rhythm Disorders: These disorders disrupt the body’s internal clock, leading to irregular sleep patterns. Jet lag and shift work sleep disorder are common examples.
Several factors can contribute to the development of sleep disorders, including stress, anxiety, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions. Left untreated, these disorders can lead to fatigue, cognitive impairment, mood swings, and a decline in overall health.
Given the limitations and side effects of traditional medications for these conditions, many individuals are exploring natural treatments. This is where CBD comes into the picture. But before diving into how CBD can help, it’s essential to understand what CBD is and how it works in the body to support sleep.
The Benefits Of CBD For Sleep Disorders
There are several good reasons why CBD products are popular with individuals with sleeping disorders. Not only is there plenty of research to support this claim, but many users of CBD products can also agree that it works.
CBD And Sleep
If you have ever smoked marijuana you know that the THC contained in it has a calming effect. Well, CBD, which comes from the very same plant, also has calming properties minus the high.
Researchers have conducted studies that have concluded that CBD as a treatment for sleep disorders is successful as it works to relax the mind and body with no side effects.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system which runs through the entire body. Because CBD triggers stimulus in the CBD1 and CBD2 receptors, it helps to regulate the various functions of the body. One such benefit is how CBD will ease anxiety through interaction with these receptors. When your body is not stressed, it can relax and this promotes sleep.
The Difference Between CBD And THC
The best-known of the many cannabinoids is THC. It is the one that is responsible for all of the effects you would normally associate with cannabis. They include the ‘high’ along with sleepiness and hunger. The high comes from the fact that THC happens to be psychoactive. CBD, on the other hand, has many of the same qualities as it comes from the same plant.
However, CBD is also a cannabinoid but it contains far less of a concentration of THC. As a result, CBD use will not produce the high but will provide the calming effect that will help in reducing anxiety, nervousness, and stress and will promote sleep as a result. Studies have shown that if you suffer from insomnia, CBD can help relax you so you can get some sleep.
Why CBD Works
The general belief is that since CBD is a great treatment for pain management, due to the anti-inflammation properties it contains, it helps relax the body as it recovers from pain.
Those who suffer from chronic pain have found that using CBD tinctures has assisted in reducing the irritation so that they can fall asleep without pain keeping them awake at night.
As CBD has been proven through research to combat various forms of mental illness – including anxiety – by calming the mind, it is easier to fall asleep.
Rather than having a racing mind to keep you awake, a relaxed mind gently leads to a reduction in fear, tension, and any other matter that the brain and imagination conjure up. When the mind is relaxed, sleep comes easy.
The Risk Factors
In comparison to other sleep disorder treatments, CBD has few risks. In addition to being all-natural, CBD does not have any significant side effects.
It also will not interact negatively with any other drug or medication that is already in your system. It is also far cheaper than ongoing sleep disorder treatment that could go on for several months and years.
The Hidden Benefits of CBD
As a treatment for sleep disorders, CBD tinctures are a good method to use. As CBD oil contains anti-anxiety properties it works to calm and relax tension within the body and mind.
It will have a positive impact on mood which means it can be an effective tool used to combat depression. Both of these properties work together to help you to defeat any sleeping disorder.
In other words, CBD has a three-pronged approach to insomnia or sleep issues. It works to relax the tension and stresses in the body by relaxing it.
CBD is an anti-inflammatory that reduces pain and swelling which can keep you awake. It also works to regulate your mood with a positive boost. All three of these things can assist anyone who has difficulty sleeping at night.
How CBD Becomes The Right Choice For You
If you are fed up with over-the-counter and prescription sleeping pills or aids, CBD could be your solution. If you have tried various relaxation techniques such as yoga and breathing exercises with marginal success, CBD may be the answer. For a good night’s sleep that comes naturally from an all-natural product that does not have adverse side effects, try CBD.
Studies have pointed to CBD oil as the best solution to solving any type of difficulty related to not being able to fall asleep.
It is also an effective remedy to help calm you down in circumstances where you may feel nervous or tension of some kind. An example is a job interview or meeting someone new. CBD will relax you and remove those fears.
There Are Many Formulations To Choose From
It is important to note that while CBD is available in different formulations – with more or less THC in the mixture – you may have to try more than one particular CBD tincture until you find the one that gives you the best results.
No two individuals will have the same results and this is why it is important to visit a professional supply store to find the right one for you.
CBD Helps To Solve Sleep Issues
Insomnia and other disorders can rob you of sleep affecting your performance and ability to work, understand, and function with others. CBD can restore your life by helping you to get enough sleep each night.
6 Tips for Using CBD Safely for Better Sleep
If you’re considering using CBD as a natural aid for sleep disorders, it’s essential to follow a few guidelines to ensure safe and effective use. While CBD is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to approach it with caution, especially if you’re new to this remedy or have underlying health conditions. Here are some useful tips for incorporating CBD into your sleep routine:
1. Start with a Low Dose
When trying CBD for sleep, begin with a low dose to see how your body reacts. Everyone’s body is different, and the optimal dose can vary based on factors like body weight, metabolism, and the severity of your sleep disorder. Starting small will help you gauge how well CBD works for you, and you can gradually increase the dosage until you achieve the desired effects.
2. Choose the Right Product
CBD is available in a variety of forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals. For sleep-related issues, products like CBD oils or tinctures are commonly recommended due to their quick absorption when placed under the tongue. CBD edibles like gummies can also be effective but may take longer to work as they need to pass through the digestive system first. Experiment with different forms to find what works best for your needs and lifestyle.
3. Pay Attention to Timing
Timing is important when using CBD for sleep. To maximize its benefits, consider taking CBD about 30 minutes to an hour before your intended bedtime. This allows your body enough time to absorb the compound and start feeling its calming effects, helping you fall asleep more easily.
4. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Before incorporating CBD into your sleep routine, consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you’re currently taking medications or have any medical conditions. Although CBD is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or antidepressants. Your healthcare provider can guide you on safe usage and help avoid any potential complications.
5. Use High-Quality CBD
Ensure that the CBD products you purchase are from reputable sources. Look for brands that provide third-party lab testing results, confirming the purity and potency of their products. High-quality CBD products are less likely to contain harmful additives or inaccurate dosage labels, ensuring a safer and more effective experience.
6. Track Your Sleep Patterns
To assess how well CBD is working for your sleep disorder, it’s helpful to track your sleep patterns. You can use a sleep journal or a mobile app to monitor how long it takes you to fall asleep, how often you wake up during the night, and how rested you feel in the morning. Tracking your progress will help you determine if adjustments to your dosage or product type are necessary.
About The Author:
Sarah Black is a Veterinary candidate with a strong background in medicine and biology. Owner of dogsora.com. The medical director of the Lahey Clinic Multiple Sclerosis Center in Lexington. MA Co-director of neurology research for the Lahey Clinic.