Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is one of the popular cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD usually interacts with the endocannabinoid system to help the body maintain stability and balance. In the US alone, over 100 million Americans aren’t getting enough sleep, and this is due to several conditions. So, how can CBD help you manage your sleeplessness? Here is an overview of CBD’s effectiveness in managing sleep disorders and safety.
What Causes Sleep Issues?
Sleep disorders usually occur due to a wide range of conditions. According to the National Sleep Foundation in America, it was found that adults between 18 and 54 years usually sleep an average of 6.4 hours per night on weekdays and 7.7 hours on weekends. However, there has been a downward spiral in the last few years due to factors such as:
- Physical pain caused by diseases such as ulcers
- Medical conditions such as asthma
- Environmental conditions such as anxiety, stress, and noise
- Genetics such as narcolepsy
- Medications that interfere with sleep patterns
- Aging
- Work that interferes with the sleep-wake cycle
Is CBD Safe and Effective for Sleep?
You can use CBD to improve the quality of your sleep, including sleep cycles. But what does the research say regarding the effectiveness of this cannabis compound, and is it safe for use?
CBD and Insomnia
If you stay asleep all night or have difficulty falling asleep at night, this could be a sign of insomnia. The effects of insomnia include changing moods, reduced ability to concentrate, and daytime wakefulness. It should be noted that the constant lack of quality sleep can result in anxiety that could further increase sleeplessness.
However, CBD Oil has potent anti-anxiety properties. This makes it effective in reducing the symptoms of insomnia associated with anxiety. Besides that, there is a new pilot study regarding the effectiveness of CBD and THC in easing insomnia.
CBD oil has helped a lot of individuals get better sleep at night. Unfortunately, since the market is flooded with dozens of products, choosing the best CBD oil for sleep can be challenging.
As a result, you’ll need to research several CBD brands to discover the right ones based on the formula, hemp source, pricing, third-party testing, reputation, and other crucial factors.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Disorder
Patients suffering from daytime sleepiness disorder usually struggle to stay awake. CBD has proved to be an effective organic solution in treating this disorder. Initial research studies indicate that CBD is an effective wake-inducing drug. Taking it in recommended methods and doses can affect your wake-sleep cycle.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Patients with Rapid Eye Movement (REM) usually verbalize and make aggressive movements during this behavioral episode. It should be noted that REM is a common disorder in patients with neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Limited reports from research studies indicate that CBD can help patients with Parkinson’s disease manage REM sleep disorders. It can significantly reduce symptoms to only one time per week. However, there is still a need for more research studies.
What Research Says
Preliminary reports indicate that CBD may be effective in supporting good sleep patterns. An investigation compared with a placebo found that 160 mg of CBD can help increase sleep duration.
It should be noted that high cortisol stress hormone levels usually peak in the morning. That’s why most people are usually awake at this time. However, insomnia usually has high cortisol levels at night, leading to sleeplessness and more nighttime awakenings.
Research studies indicate that participants who took 300 – 600mg of CBD oil had significantly low cortisol levels, leading to better sleep patterns.
Side Effects and Safety Concerns
CBD has a good safety profile due to its organic nature. A 2017 review established that CBD was relatively safe to manage many health conditions, including sleep issues. While the side effects are relatively uncommon, different people react to the same compound differently.
- Change in appetite
- Change in weight
- Digestive discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
So far, there are no reports of a serious CBD overdose. However, this means that researchers are even more concerned about the potential of abuse. Currently, information regarding significant complications of CBD is limited.
Reports indicate that those taking high CBD dosage, i.e., 400 mg – 700 mg, can trigger the development of cognitive deficits, especially in people with schizophrenia.
Conclusion
Sleep disorders occur due to a wide range of factors. Some are controllable, while you might have an unlimited influence on some of these triggers. There is no cure for sleep issues, but doctors only prescribe prescription medications. CBD has proved to be an effective remedy in improving the quality and quantity of safe. But even though it generally has a safe profile, it’s important to consume it in the recommended dosage.