Sleeping Like a Baby: How THC/CBD Can Help You Get the Rest You Need

Do you find yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to fall asleep no matter how tired you are? Do you wake up feeling groggy and unrested, the day ahead looking like an uphill battle? If so, you’re not alone. According to studies, up to 30% of adults suffer from insomnia, a condition where you have trouble falling or staying asleep. Luckily, there are natural remedies that have therapeutic potential as stress and sleep aids like THC and CBD. Both compounds are well documented for their potential aid in sleep . In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of THC/CBD as a sleep aid and how to best approach these compounds in the context of sleep.

What is THC/CBD?

Before we dive into how THC/CBD can help you sleep, let’s first understand what they are. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a psychoactive compound found in marijuana that is the primary chemical responsible for the euphoric high from cannabis. On the other hand, CBD (cannabidiol)- found in hemp varieties of cannabis- is psychoactive without the euphoria and high associated with THC. Both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates everything from sleep to appetite to pain. By interacting with these receptors, THC and CBD, in their own unique ways, can have a range of therapeutic effects.

How THC/CBD Can Help You Sleep

So, how exactly do THC/CBD help you sleep? Research has found that both compounds have the potential to reduce anxiety, a common cause of insomnia. THC, in particular, has been found to have sedative effects, making users feel drowsy and relaxed. Too much THC can lead to grogginess the next day, so it’s important to find the right dosage. CBD, like THC, depends on the dose when considering its impact on sleep. Low to moderate doses of cbd (based on the 5mg/kilo of bodyweight research standard) often provide a calming, yet focused and awakened effect, potentially helping sleep indirectly through overall stress reduction. In higher doses, CBD can make one feel tired, often without the same hangover of too much THC. CBD has also been found to be effective in treating sleep disorders like sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome.

The Best Ways to Take THC/CBD for Sleep

If you’re interested in using THC/CBD as a sleep aid, there are a few different methods to choose from:

• Smoking or Vaping cannabis high in THC or CBD (or both)
  • Quick onset, effects taper off faster; THC levels typically peak at about 10 minutes
  • If someone is hoping to avoid THC because of work related drug testing or personal preference, smoking or vaping CBD is not ideal, because the heat used in the process will convert some CBD to THC
• Edibles and Capsules
  • Onset of effects are delayed; therefore it is advised to take 2-3 hours before sleep
  • Can lead to longer unpleasant effects if the dose is not correct
  • Provide longer-lasting effects
  • Often aided by consuming in or alongside food with a high fat content
• Tinctures
  • Onset of effects are slower than smoking and quicker than edibles; administered sublingually
  • Able to control lower or higher dosage through liquid measured by dropper

Precautions and Risks

While THC/CBD can be helpful in promoting sleep, it’s important to note that they’re not without risks. It’s important to always consult with your doctor before using cannabis as a supplement, particularly if you are using other medications. THC should be approached with the low and slow principle starting with no more than 1-2.5 mg in a 6 hour window, while CBD generally requires higher amounts to be effective (research indicates starting doses of 5mg/kilo of body weight).

Conclusion:
Getting a good night’s rest is crucial for overall health and wellbeing. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available for insomnia, they often come with unwanted side effects. THC/CBD, while not side effect free, offer a more natural and effective option for promoting sleep. By reducing anxiety and inducing relaxation, these compounds can help facilitate a good night’s rest. Just remember to use them responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. Sweet dreams!

– Max Mayr