CBD and Sleep: Does CBD Work as a Sleep Aid?
The subject of CBD and sleep has been gaining a lot of attention in the last few years. Many people report that this substance helped them bring their circadian rhythms back into balance. On the other hand, there is not enough scientific evidence to support those reports.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the cannabis plant that has already shown much potential in helping people with various health issues. But does CBD work as a sleep aid? The answer is not clear-cut.
For example, CBD may help reduce anxiety and stress, both of which are responsible for how well you sleep. However, is this enough to say that CBD shows the potential to regulate sleep cycles or support overall sleep quality?
Below, we’ll discuss CBD in more detail, including its benefits, potential risks, impact on sleep, and more. Read on and see if CBD may be an effective sleep aid for you.
How Does CBD Work, Exactly?
If you check any CBD guide, you’ll learn that CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for maintaining various physiological processes, including appetite, pain, and immune function.
When taken, CBD binds to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate the body’s response to different stimuli. It includes reducing inflammation and stress levels, both of which can interfere with sleep.
What the Research Says
A large part of the current popularity of CBD can be attributed to numerous studies investigating its effects on health issues. While research into CBD’s effects on sleep is still limited, some studies have shown promising results.
One study showed that 160 mg of CBD increased sleep duration. More precisely, CBD helped level out cortisol — a hormone commonly associated with stress, but also with regulating sleep cycles. Cortisol peaks in the morning and then gradually declines in the evening to help us fall asleep.
Other studies found that CBD may help reduce the causes of insomnia, such as anxiety and pain. Taking CBD was linked to improved sleep quality, with participants reporting feeling more rested the next day.
Potential Risks of Taking CBD
Although CBD is generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with taking it. CBD is known to interact with certain medications, so speaking to your doctor before adding it to your routine is essential.
Additionally, too much CBD can lead to unwanted side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, and irritability. Those can make it difficult for some people to fall asleep or stay asleep. With standard dosage, however, those side effects should not last longer than a few hours.
Taking CBD for Sleep
With the abundance of CBD products on the market, it can be challenging to know what works best for sleep. With that, there are many ways to take CBD, the most notable being capsules, oils, edibles, and topicals.
- CBD capsules — Capsules are relatively easy to administer. All you need to do is swallow them with water. They offer a precise dosage and are very convenient.
- CBD oil — It is a more versatile option. Typically, you put a few drops of oil under your tongue and hold it there for a minute or two before swallowing. You can also mix it with your food or beverages.
- CBD edibles — Edibles are tasty and fun to take, but they take longer to kick in. Conversely, they tend to provide a more even and longer-lasting effect.
- CBD topicals — These are usually lotions, salves, or balms that you can apply directly to the skin. They are best for targeting localized pain or inflammation.
It’s also important to note that CBD affects everyone differently. Finding the right product and dosage may take some trial and error.
For best results, start with a low dose and wait a few hours to see how your body responds. You can then gradually increase the amount if needed.
Finally, it’s essential to know that CBD shouldn’t be used as a substitute for good sleep hygiene habits. Establishing good sleep habits, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine late in the day, can help improve overall sleep quality.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, CBD can be an effective sleep aid for some people. It has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety, which are two leading causes of insomnia. Additionally, CBD can help regulate sleep cycles and improve overall sleep quality.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that more research is needed to understand how CBD affects sleep. Additionally, CBD cannot replace good sleep hygiene habits, so make sure to practice those as well.
If you’re considering taking CBD for sleep, speak to your doctor first. They can help you determine the best product and dosage for your specific needs. From there, you can adjust your routine as needed and enjoy the benefits of a good night’s rest.
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