Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most misunderstood and underutilized benefits of cannabis. Scientists and researchers are discovering dozens of potential uses for CBD. From intense diseases, to simple sleeplessness – CBD has a wide range of practical purposes. But one of the most notable uses is for helping people sleep better.
Don’t sleep on the problem here…
The CDC reports over ¼ of people in the United States don’t get enough sleep. Studies indicate that general insomnia and sleeplessness may be more important than we previously suspected.
Your body requires “good sleep” to help recover from diseases and stay healthy. Therefore, people not getting enough sleep, are more likely to get sick. Which can lead to devastating cycle of restlessness and recovery.
Additionally, overall stress levels and anxiety can make sleeping problems even worse. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) claims anxiety disorders increase sleep abnormalities and the likeliness for insomnia.
In sum, sleep is a key ingredient to stay happy and healthy. And CBD is a great option to make sure you are getting the best sleep you can.
How CBD helps you sleep
CBD interacts with your body through a system of receptors called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Specific receptors are responsible for the chemical balances of your body.
One of these receptors is known as CB1. According to recent research from the Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience; activation of CB1 has a dramatic effect on sleep stability. This means that once you fall asleep; you’re more likely to stay asleep. Which is critical for REM and NREM sleep cycles.
Remember, CBD is non-psychoactive. Meaning, it doesn’t get you “high” like THC does. It simply has physiological effects on your body. (Check out our article on the differences between CBD vs THC to learn more)
Essentially CBD helps “regulate” your body to stay at optimum levels of chemical balance. Your mood, your hormones, your appetite, and even just general cognitive function all rely on healthy balances of chemicals within your body. Too much, or not enough, of something and you start to feel “off” or sick or irritable.
How CBD helps you stay awake and alert
Wait, I thought we were talking about CBD for falling asleep?
We are – but remember CBD is about bringing you physiological balance. In order to have healthy sleep habits, you need to be active throughout the day. In small doses, CBD actually helps balance cortisone levels and reduce daytime fatigue/sleepiness according to the research “Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep” from University of Pennsylvania.
In turn, this increases the chances of you having better full night’s sleep at the end of the day. And you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Sleeping pills are designed to knock you out for hours. And that’s it. There is minimal consideration for the lingering effects fatigue and drowsiness. So many of these products may help you fall asleep; but they leave you drowsy and tired the entire day.
CBD is a more natural alternative to “sleeping pills”
Unlike pharmaceutical sleeping pills, CBD is an all-natural product optimized to keep you feeling your best both while you’re asleep AND while you’re awake. Plus it is safe.
Many pharmaceuticals have a long list of potential side-effects and sleeping pills aren’t excluded from this problem.
Traditional sleeping pills like Ambien or Lunesta have alarming side-effects:
- Headaches, migraines
- Drowsiness
- Sleep-walking, sleep-eating, sleep-driving
- Allergies
- Digestive issues
- Dependency/withdrawal
- Cancer or death
Traditional sleeping pills simply aren’t worth the risk. Pharmaceutical companies are willing to risk your life for the sake of recurring revenue. Be careful of who that prescription is truly benefitting.
The best CBD products for sleep or insomnia
Hopefully you understand and appreciate the fact that CBD products are one of your best options for better sleep. Now the next step is determining what CBD product is best for you. There are a wide range of product types to choose from depending on your preference:
CBD Capsules
CBD capsules are one of the most simple and effective options. You consume capsules orally the same way you would take a vitamin or any other pill. Depending on dosage, you’ll likely only need 1-2 capsules per use. Effects will initiate within 30-60 minutes.
CBD Tinctures
CBD tinctures are 100% liquid and typically consumed with an “eyedropper” like tool. Tinctures are usually extremely effective and efficient. Most tinctures will remind you of sipping down some medicine. However; the effects are almost immediate. You’ll feel effects within 10-15 minutes
CBD Topicals (patches, lotions, creams)
CBD topical products are another interesting option to utilize CBD. Although these products are typically used for location-specific treatment (like a knee injury) they can be equally effective for sleep/insomnia. The extended slow-release effect of CBD patches may be really useful for long days/nights when you can’t be bothered by dosages and reminders.
Try using CBD in combination with natural/safe products
We are confident in the effects of CBD and how it will help you sleep. But that’s no reason to forget the modern marvels of medical science.
Here are some other products you can try in combination with CBD to help you stay healthy and sleep better.
- Melatonin
- 5-HTP
- L-Tryptophan
These products are all-natural like CBD and typically work well in combination.
Try any SeedScience CBD product on its own first. Then if you still need some more support, try adding one of these options for the best balance possible.
