A lot is known about the benefits of CBD (also called cannabidiol), but CBD and insomnia - does it really work? Research and practical examples prove the undoubted benefits of CBD oil for sleep and the nervous system, but everything should be discussed from the beginning.
Note: This and other articles on Hemp's blog are for informational purposes only. According to the directive of the European Commission, cannabidiol is classified as a 'new food', therefore CBD products should not be used as a food supplement in Lithuania.
In this article, we discuss changes in people's sleep and its implications for health, what ingredients lead to poor quality sleep, how CBD helps suppress sleep disorders, and we share tips that improve the effects of CBD on sleep.
Sleep changes and significance for our health
Scientists and doctors say that sleep today is far from what it used to be. Here, based on research, XX century. in the early days, the average person slept about 9 hours a day. Meanwhile the average sleep today ranges between 6.8 and 7.5 hours, but a large number of people admit that they cannot get enough sleep.
Lack of sleep is far more serious than fatigue and sleepiness: a constant lack of rest causes long-term damage to emotional and physical health. Doctors find that people who sleep less than 8 hours a night are more likely to report stress symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and anger. Not only that, constant lack of sleep increases the risk of such dangerous diseases as diabetes, depression, and cardiovascular disorders.
What factors determine sleep and its quality?
The human body functions 24 hours a day according to a natural, innate circadian rhythm. It can be compared to a 24/7 clock that is responsible for physical activity, sleepiness, mental, social behavior. Circadian rhythm is directly related to relaxation and sleep quality. Here are the factors that have a negative impact on him:
- Artificial light. Certain cells in the eye process light from the environment and reset our circadian rhythm. When these cells are exposed to artificial light, such as from a computer screen, the body's internal clock can become confused. The modern rhythm of life means that we are constantly exposed to artificial light during the dark hours of the day. This disrupts the natural circadian rhythm and has detrimental effects on sleep and overall health. In order to fall asleep, it is advised to significantly limit the time in front of the computer, TV or smartphone screen, not to use these devices before going to bed.
- This is a fairly normal part of life and an aspect of many people's daily lives, but constant stress and tension negatively affects the emotional state and the nervous system. Stress often makes it difficult to both fall asleep and get a good night's sleep.
- Excess caffeine is an obvious culprit for insomnia. It is a stimulant substance that, with frequent use, distorts the circadian rhythm, affecting the duration and quality of sleep.
- Sleep disorders, insomnia can occur due to certain health problems, such as mental/emotional health disorders (depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome, etc.) Also diabetes, heart/vascular diseases and other chronic diseases, inflammation.
- Another cause of insomnia can be the use of certain prescription drugs. Sometimes their active substances interact with sleep processes and cause difficulties when trying to fall asleep.
- Other reasons. It happens that circadian rhythm disorders develop for other reasons, such as changes in sleeping habits, travel or work. Also due to the aging processes of the body.
CBD for Insomnia: Positive Benefits of Cannabidiol
Cannabis products have been used to improve sleep for thousands of years, but only in recent decades have doctors and scientists realized how this plant affects our sleep processes.
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The effects of cannabis are linked to the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in each of our bodies. This concept is essential to understanding the effects CBD can have on sleep. It is a complex neurochemical network in the body that regulates various bodily functions, including emotions, pain, and sleep. Although the body naturally secretes endocannabinoid molecules, exogenous sources of cannabinoids such as CBD can have a positive effect on the body.
The part of our brain called the hypothalamus has a rich network of nerve cells and performs signal transmission and secretion functions. The hypothalamus is responsible for various important processes in the body. It also helps to regulate emotional state, stress, body temperature and synchronization of sleep processes.
CBD oil can help people with insomnia. Insomnia is often caused by an overactive stress reaction. Acting through the endocannabinoid system, CBD reaches the hypothalamus and suppresses stress hormones, harmonizing the rhythm of sleep and wakefulness. It helps to get rid of sleep disorders and provides a better quality of sleep. For this reason, it can be said that CBD really helps with insomnia.
CBD for Insomnia and Circadian Rhythm Regulation
Circadian rhythm disorders, characterized by an unbalanced sleep-wake cycle, occur when the body's internal clock is out of sync with signals from the environment. CBD can help with insomnia, balance the natural circadian rhythm and improve sleep quality. Cannabidiol interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system and ensures that the body goes through all the normal phases of sleep without unnecessary interruptions.
A few tips to help enhance the effects of CBD on sleep
- Take CBD oil an hour before bedtime. After using CBD oil, it usually takes about ten minutes before you start to feel the positive effects. For some people it may take even longer, so it is recommended to take CBD an hour before bed to help you start to wind down and get rid of the tension of the day. Also, make sure the screen is turned offa couple of hours before bed. Relax in the last part of the evening. Instead of the computer screen, take a walk, read a book, choose moderate lighting. Read more about CBD and when is the best time to use CBD oil in this article.
- Choose full-spectrum CBD oil. Cannabidiol is a great sleep aid, but for maximum and safe effects, be careful what type of oil you choose. Several types of CBD products are available to buyers in Lithuania: broad-spectrum, full-spectrum oils and CBD isolate. If you are trying cannabidiol for the first time, it is recommended to choose full-spectrum CBD oil. It contains terpenes and other beneficial substances that help relieve pain, strengthen immunity, and improve the functioning of the nervous system. In this way, full-spectrum CBD oil will further improve your rest and well-being after waking up.
Obviously: CBD can help with insomnia and CBD consumption can have a positive effect on our sleep. True, in order to have the best result and to enjoy the lasting effect, it is necessary to choose certified, high-quality CBD products and use them daily.
Regular use of CBD oil for insomnia really works - it helps regulate the sleep rhythm and ensures more effective rest.
