CBD for Sleep Disorders 101
Forget counting sheep, try CBD to fall asleep fast.
CBD can aid in sleep disorders by interacting with your body’s internal clock. It also contains myrcenes, an ingredient used in many natural sleep aids. CBD has also been known to help with anxiety, which may be a cause one to not be able to sleep.
Common Types of Sleep Disorders
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep affects mood, energy, and overall health.
- Sleep Apnea: This serious condition causes breathing to stop and start during sleep, leading to poor quality rest and increased risk of heart disease.
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): An uncontrollable urge to move your legs, often accompanied by discomfort, can make it hard to sleep.
- Narcolepsy: Characterized by sudden sleep attacks during the day, this condition disrupts daily activities and can be dangerous.
Research suggests CBD can improve sleep. In a 2019 study published in The Permanente Journal, 67% of participants reported better sleep within a month of CBD use. Many other studies also highlight CBD’s effectiveness in enhancing sleep quality and duration.
Clinical Studies on CBD and Sleep
In clinical settings, CBD has shown promise for specific sleep disorders:
- Insomnia: CBD may increase total sleep time and reduce sleep latency, helping users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Patients with Parkinson’s disease showed reduced symptoms after CBD treatment, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
These studies indicate that CBD can address symptoms and potentially target underlying causes of sleep disturbances.
CBD vs. Traditional Sleep Aids
Traditional sleep medications often lead to side effects like dependency, dizziness, and morning grogginess. CBD, a natural alternative, is non-habit forming and works with the body’s systems rather than overpowering them.
Benefits of Using CBD for Sleep
- Natural Solution: CBD aligns with holistic health approaches.
- Anxiety Reduction: CBD calms the mind, addressing one of the root causes of sleep issues.
- Pain Relief: Its anti-inflammatory properties may relieve chronic pain that disrupts sleep.
Potential Side Effects of CBD
While generally well-tolerated, CBD may cause mild side effects like dry mouth, changes in appetite, or fatigue. These effects are usually temporary and diminish with regular use.
Dosage Recommendations for Sleep Disorders
Finding the right dosage is key to experiencing CBD’s benefits.
- Guidelines for Dosage:
- Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with 10–20 mg of CBD about an hour before bedtime.
- Monitor Your Response: Keep a sleep journal to track improvements and side effects.
- Consult a Professional: A healthcare provider can offer guidance, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Incorporating CBD into Your Sleep Routine
Making CBD a part of your nightly routine can enhance its effectiveness.
- Tips for Integration:
- Set a Schedule: Take CBD at the same time each night for consistency.
- Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Dim lights, turn off screens, and let CBD work with your environment.
- Mindful Practices: Combine CBD with relaxation techniques like meditation or gentle stretching.
CBD and Anxiety: The Link to Better Sleep
Anxiety and sleep are closely linked. By interacting with serotonin receptors, CBD may regulate mood, promote calm, and ease mental burdens that disrupt sleep, creating a path toward better rest.
