Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including anxiety, pain, and sleep disorders. Suffering from insomnia can be detrimental to your physical and mental health and can affect your daily life. Studies show that CBD can help you drift off more easily, and stay asleep for longer. And with a range of products to choose from like CBD oils, capsules, gummies and even relaxing CBD tea UK, there’s something for everyone. Below, we will explore the relationship between CBD and sleep and whether it can indeed improve your sleep quality.
What is CBD?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids that make up the plant’s chemical composition. Unlike THC, another cannabinoid found in the plant, CBD does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD is usually extracted from hemp, a type of cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. It is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topical creams.
How does CBD affect sleep?
CBD may help improve sleep by addressing the underlying causes of sleep disturbances, such as anxiety and pain. One study found that CBD improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety in a group of patients with anxiety and sleep disorders.
Another study showed that CBD increased sleep time and reduced the number of night-time awakenings in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The researchers suggested that CBD’s effects on sleep were due to its ability to improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
CBD may also affect the sleep cycle by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate various physiological processes, including sleep. CBD may interact with the ECS by increasing the levels of anandamide, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
What are the benefits of using CBD for sleep?
CBD may offer several benefits for people struggling with sleep disorders, including:
- Reducing anxiety: Anxiety is a common cause of sleep disturbances, and CBD’s anxiolytic properties may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, leading to better sleep quality.
- Relieving pain: Chronic pain can make it challenging to fall and stay asleep. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve pain and discomfort, leading to improved sleep.
- Promoting relaxation: CBD’s ability to promote relaxation may help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, leading to improved sleep quality.
How to use CBD for sleep?
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, gummies, and topical creams. The best form of CBD for sleep may depend on the individual’s preferences and needs. For example, oils and capsules may be more convenient for people who prefer a more discrete option, while gummies may be more appealing to those who enjoy the taste.
When using CBD for sleep, it is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved. It is also crucial to use high-quality CBD products from reputable brands to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
Although more research is needed to fully understand CBD’s effects on sleep, preliminary findings suggest that it may help improve sleep quality by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. CBD may offer several benefits for people struggling with sleep disorders, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and promoting relaxation. However, CBD can cause side effects and interact with certain medications, so it is essential to ensure it’s safe for you to take by discussing this with your doctor.