The medical use of cannabis has gained widespread acceptance as more jurisdictions legalize the substance. Numerous people use cannabis for inflammation, pain, and other issues. Recently, people who have difficulty falling or staying asleep have begun exploring the use of marijuana for sleep.
Cannabis has shown the potential to improve sleep quality. As a result, many people are gravitating towards using weed for insomnia. Even so, the benefits of weed for sleep depend on several factors. These include the type of cannabis strain you use and the dosage. Consequently, there are several aspects to consider about cannabis and sleep before settling on it as a remedy for sleep deprivation.
The Efficacy of Cannabis for Sleep
Although research on the relationship between cannabis and sleep is currently limited, anecdotal data and preliminary studies indicate that weed may help with sleep. Numerous users have reported that consuming cannabis strains rich in CBD and THC results in more restful sleep.
Some investigations have found that cannabis can expedite sleep onset, prolong total sleep time, and decrease nocturnal awakenings. However, other research posits that long-term cannabis use for sleep may lead to dependence and diminished sleep quality. As with any treatment, individual responses can vary, necessitating further research to understand the connection between cannabis and sleep comprehensively.
Mechanisms of Cannabis as a Sleep Aid
Cannabis comprises over 100 distinct cannabinoids, with THC and CBD being the most renowned and extensively studied. These compounds interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to induce various effects. The ECS handles various physiological processes, including sleep regulation.
THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for cannabis’s “high,” exhibits sedative effects that can induce relaxation and drowsiness. Using THC for sleep can help with sleep latency. It can also enhance slow-wave sleep, which is the deep, restorative phase of the sleep cycle.
On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive and has demonstrated calming and anti-anxiety properties. It may assist individuals in relaxing before bedtime and alleviating the stress and anxiety that can impede sleep onset.
Optimal Cannabis Strains for Sleep Problems
When choosing a cannabis strain to address sleep problems, considering the THC and CBD content is crucial. Fortunately, most medical dispensary supplies, such as cannabis packaging, contain information about the strain and effects of the products they house. Therefore, if you want to find out if a particular CBD product can help you with sleeping issues, all you have to do is to check the CBD packaging. Here are a few marijuana strains famous for their sleep-enhancing properties:
Granddaddy Purple
This Indica-dominant strain features a high THC content and is renowned for its relaxing effects. It may facilitate relaxation and ease sleep onset.
Harlequin
Harlequin is a high-CBD, Sativa-dominant strain that can alleviate anxiety and stress without the psychoactive properties of THC. For this reason, it’s suitable for people who want better quality sleep without morning grogginess.
Northern Lights
Another Indica-dominant strain, Northern Lights has a high THC content and is acclaimed for its sedative effects. It may be particularly beneficial for individuals with difficulty maintaining sleep throughout the night.
ACDC
A high-CBD, low-THC strain, ACDC can foster relaxation without eliciting a psychoactive high, potentially making it an ideal option for cannabis beginners or those sensitive to THC.
The Bottom Line
Apart from using weed for pain, many people have begun exploring the potential of cannabis as a sleeping aid. The cannabinoid content of various strains can impact sleep differentially, necessitating careful strain selection. However, always consult a healthcare professional before experimenting with cannabis as a sleep aid. Similarly, consider initiating treatment with a low dose while closely monitoring your response to minimize potential side effects.
